cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
General truthfulness characterizations via convex analysis

Abstract We present a model of truthful elicitation which generalizes and extends mechanisms, scoring rules, and a number of related settings that do not qualify as one or the other. Our main result is a characterization theorem, yielding characterizations for all of these settings. This includes a new characterization of scoring rules for non-convex sets of distributions. We combine the characterization theorem with duality to give a simple construction to convert between scoring rules and randomized mechanisms. We also show how a generalization of this characterization gives a new proof of a mechanism design result due to Saks and Yu.
Variable selection with missing data in both covariates and outcomes: Imputation and machine learning:

Variable selection in the presence of both missing covariates and outcomes is an important statistical research topic. Parametric regression are susceptible to misspecification, and as a result are...
Multi-Sound-Source Localization Using Machine Learning for Small Autonomous Unmanned Vehicles with a Self-Rotating Bi-Microphone Array

While vision-based localization techniques have been widely studied for small autonomous unmanned vehicles (SAUVs), sound-source localization capabilities have not been fully enabled for SAUVs. This paper presents two novel approaches for SAUVs to perform three-dimensional (3D) multi-sound-sources localization (MSSL) using only the inter-channel time difference (ICTD) signal generated by a self-rotating bi-microphone array. The proposed two approaches are based on two machine learning techniques viz., Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) and Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithms, respectively, whose performances were tested and compared in both simulations and experiments. The results show that both approaches are capable of correctly identifying the number of sound sources along with their 3D orientations in a reverberant environment.
Durable Immunity to Ricin Toxin Elicited by a Thermostable, Lyophilized Subunit Vaccine.

The development of vaccines against biothreat toxins like ricin (RT) is considered an integral component of the U.S. national security efforts. RiVax is a thermostable, lyophilized RT subunit vaccine adsorbed to aluminum salt adjuvant intended for use by military personnel and first responders. Phase 1 studies indicated that RiVax is safe and immunogenic, while a three-dose intramuscular vaccination regimen in nonhuman primates elicited protection against lethal dose RT challenge by aerosol. Here, we investigated, in a mouse model, the durability of RiVax-induced antibody responses and corresponding immunity to lethal dose RT challenge. Groups of mice were subcutaneously administered 3 or 1 μg of RiVax on days 0 and 21 and challenged with 10× 50% lethal dose (LD50) RT by injection at six different intervals over the course of 12 months. Serum antibody titers and epitope-specific competition assays were determined prior to each challenge. We report that the two-dose, 3-μg regimen conferred near-complete protection against RT challenge on day 35 and complete protection thereafter (challenge days 65, 95, 125, 245, and 365). The two-dose, 3-μg regimen was superior to the 1-μg regimen as revealed by slight differences in survival and morbidity scores (e.g., hypoglycemia, weight loss) on challenge days 35 and 365. In separate experiments, a single 3-μg RiVax vaccination proved only marginally effective at eliciting protective immunity to RT, underscoring the necessity of a prime-boost regimen to achieve full and long-lasting protection against RT. IMPORTANCE Ricin toxin (RT) is a notorious biothreat, as exposure to even trace amounts via injection or inhalation can induce organ failure and death within a matter of hours. In this study, we advance the preclinical testing of a candidate RT vaccine known as RiVax. RiVax is a recombinant nontoxic derivative of RT's enzymatic subunit that has been evaluated for safety in phase I clinical trials and efficacy in a variety of animal models. We demonstrate that two doses of RiVax are sufficient to protect mice from lethal dose RT challenge for up to 1 year. We describe kinetics and other immune parameters of the antibody response to RiVax and discuss how these immune factors may translate to humans.
Composite flavon-Higgs models

We consider a composite Higgs model based on the $SU(6)/Sp(6)$ coset, where an $U(1)$ subgroup of $Sp(6)$ is identified as the flavor symmetry. A complex scalar field $s$, which is a pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone boson of the broken symmetry, carries a flavor charge and plays the role of a flavon field. The $U(1{)}_{F}$ flavor symmetry is then broken by a VEV of the flavon field, which leads to a small parameter and generates the mass hierarchy between the top and bottom quarks. A light flavon below the TeV scale can be naturally introduced, which provides a fully testable model for the origin of flavor hierarchy. A light flavon also leads to substantial flavor changing neutral currents, which are strongly constrained by the flavor experiments. The direct search of additional scalar bosons can also be conducted in HL-LHC and future hadron colliders.
Reinforcement Learning based Distributed Control of Dissipative Networked Systems

We consider the problem of designing distributed controllers to stabilize a class of networked systems, where each subsystem is dissipative and designs a reinforcement learning based local controller to maximize an individual cumulative reward function. We develop an approach that enforces dissipativity conditions on these local controllers at each subsystem to guarantee stability of the entire networked system. The proposed approach is illustrated on a DC microgrid example, where the objective is maintain voltage stability of the network using local distributed controllers at each generation unit.
Minding the Gap between Diversity and Institutional Transformation: Eight Proposals for Enacting Institutional Change

The current generation of college student activism led by racially minoritized students has called for direct actions, tangible outcomes, and greater institutional accountability for creating and s...
Effect of ionic disorder on the principal shock Hugoniot

The effect of ionic disorder on the principal Hugoniot is investigated using Multiple Scattering Theory to very high pressure (Gbar). Calculations using molecular dynamics to simulate ionic disorder, are compared to those with a fixed crystal lattice, for both carbon and aluminum. For the range of conditions considered here, we find that ionic disorder is most important at the onset of shell ionization and that at higher pressures, the subtle effect of the ionic environment is overwhelmed by the larger number of ionized electrons with higher thermal energies.
On the dissipation at a shock wave in an elastic bar

Abstract This paper aims to relate the energy dissipated at a shock wave in a nonlinearly elastic bar to the energy in the oscillations in two related dissipationless, dispersive systems. Three, one-dimensional, dynamic impact problems are studied: Problem 1 concerns a nonlinearly elastic bar, Problem 2 a discrete chain of particles, and Problem 3 a continuum with a strain gradient term in the constitutive relation. In the impact problem considered, the free boundary of each initially quiescent body is subjected to a sudden velocity, that is then held constant for all subsequent time. There is energy dissipation at the shock in Problem 1, but Problems 2 and 3 are conservative. Problem 1 is solved analytically, Problem 2 numerically, and an approximate solution to Problem 3 is constructed analytically. The rate of increase of the oscillatory energy in Problems 2 and 3 are calculated and compared with the dissipation rate at the shock in Problem 1. The results indicate that the former is a good qualitative measure of the latter. The quantitative agreement is satisfactory at larger impact speeds but less so at smaller speeds, some possible reasons for which are discussed.
Effects of acute or chronic environmental enrichment on regional Fos protein expression following sucrose cue-reactivity testing in rats

Exposure to environmental enrichment (EE) reduces sucrose seeking by rats with a history of sucrose self-administration. The present experiment examined whether acute or chronic EE also reduces brain Fos levels, a protein marker indicative of neuronal activation. Fos levels were also examined after either 1 or 30 days of forced abstinence to examine whether Fos levels vary with the incubation of sucrose craving. Fos expression was examined in 18 regions and was identified in brain slices using immunohistochemistry. Fos levels were higher in most regions after 30 days of forced abstinence and were decreased in most regions by either acute or chronic EE. Eleven regions had some statistically significant effect and/or interaction of EE or incubation on Fos; the most salient of these are listed here. In the prelimbic cortex, there was an incubation of Fos and EE reduced Fos at both forced abstinence time points. In contrast, in the orbitofrontal cortex, there was no Fos incubation but EE reduced Fos at both forced abstinence time points. An interaction of EE and incubation was observed in the anterior cingulate cortex and nucleus accumbens core and shell where Fos incubated but EE only decreased Fos at the day 30 forced abstinence time point. In contrast, in the dorsolateral striatum Fos incubated, but EE robustly decreased Fos expression at both forced abstinence time points. These differential expression patterns provide rationale for more detailed, site-specific molecular functional studies in how they relate to the ability of EE to reduce sucrose seeking.
Early revision within 1 year after shoulder arthroplasty: patient factors and etiology.

Background The objective of this study is to investigate the patient factors associated with early revision within 1 year after shoulder arthroplasty, including total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), hemiarthroplasty, and reverse TSA, and the cause of failure leading to early revision. Methods Patients who underwent shoulder arthroplasty from 2005 to 2012 were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision procedure codes. Those who underwent revision shoulder arthroplasty were then divided into early ( 1 year) groups. Patients in each of the cohorts were queried for demographic data and etiologic factors for revision arthroplasty. Results A total of 221,381 patients who underwent shoulder arthroplasty were identified, including 115,956 TSAs, 75,208 hemiarthroplasties, and 30,217 reverse TSAs. The patient factors significantly associated with early revision after shoulder arthroplasty regardless of type were age younger than 65 years, smoking, obesity, and morbid obesity. Dislocation was the most common reason for early revision after all types of arthroplasties. Loosening was a more common reason for early revision after TSA compared with both hemiarthroplasty and reverse TSA. Conclusions Several patient factors appear to be associated with early revision after shoulder arthroplasty, including younger age, smoking, obesity, and male sex. The cause of failure leading to early revision varies between late and early revision cases. These findings are important to identify patients preoperatively who may be at risk of early revision after shoulder arthroplasty to allow appropriate patient counseling and risk stratification.
Diamond and Related Materials

One theme of this chapter is hard, wide-bandgap materials. The name for the chapter is thus appropriate as diamond is the hardest material and has a very wide bandgap of 5.45 eV. Because of these properties, applications for most of the materials include coatings for cutting tools or wear resistant surfaces, and semiconductors that can operate at high temperatures. Another theme is that all of the materials in this chapter can be considered emerging technologies. Certainly, the most primitive material in terms of technology is beta carbon nitride, since if it has been produced it is only as small crystallites in an amorphous matrix. Like many new materials, diamond has not lived up to the initial hype that we were forced to put into proposals for competitiveness. However, it is finding a niche in cutting tools and thermal management, and along with the amorphous carbons is now being investigated for flat panel display applications. For most electronic applications, single crystal material is required and this has not been achieved, except for the expensive homoepitaxy of diamond, for either cubic boron nitride or diamond. However, single crystals of desirable forms of SiC became available in the 90’s, and defects in these crystals are being reduced and better electronic are being fabricated. Due to the effort of PASI conference organizers and participants, it is my hope that much more collaborative research on diamond-related and other materials will occur with our neighbors to the North and South.
Man’s best friend: Essential ERBB signaling in canine osteosarcoma as a model for human disease

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 47, 2006 4329 Background: Osteosarcoma is the most common bone cancer in humans and dogs. In the US each year osteosarcoma is diagnosed in nearly 1,000 people, predominantly adolescents, in whom it is the third most common cancer overall. The largest breeds of dogs, such as Great Dane and Saint Bernard, are at greatest risk, and 10% of these dogs may develop osteosarcoma. Overall, 8,000 to 10,000 new cases of canine osteosarcoma present in the US annually, and the close biologic similarity between human and canine bone cancers allows the spontaneous disease in pet dogs to serve as a model for human osteosarcoma. Further, biologic observations in either species may provide therapeutic benefit to both. We recently have shown that the ERBB family of receptor tyrosine kinases are constitutively phosphorylated in human osteosarcoma, and that inhibition of ERBB signaling with a small molecule inhibitor induces growth arrest and apoptosis in human osteosarcoma cells. We hypothesized that ERBB signaling would be essential to canine osteosarcoma as well. Methods: The use of the pan-ERBB inhibitor CI-1033 (Pfizer Global Research and Development, Ann Arbor, MI) can be used as a probe to assess the importance of ERBB signaling, and to generate preclinical data regarding the potential therapeutic efficacy of ERBB inhibition. Three canine osteosarcoma lines derived from spontaneous tumors (Abrams, Gray and D17) were cultured in the presence or absence of CI-1033. We examined the expression and phosphorylation of EGFR, Her-2, Her-3 and Her-4 using flow cytometry and western blot, and measured the effect of CI-1033 across a range of concentrations (known to be specific for ERBB) on cell growth over four days of continuous exposure. Results: All three canine osteosarcoma cell lines expressed EGFR, Her-2 and Her-4, similar to our previously reported observations in human osteosarcoma. EGFR and Her-2 were constitutively phosphorylated, and treatment with CI-1033 at concentrations of 1 micromolar or higher reduced phosphorylation. ERBB inhibition caused significant growth arrest and apoptosis at concentrations of 3 micromolar or higher. Discussion: ERBB family receptors are constitutively phosphorylated in canine osteosarcoma, and ERBB signaling is essential for growth and survival of canine osteosarcoma, as it is in the human disease. These observations affirm the biologic propriety of using spontaneous osteosarcoma arising in pet dogs as a model for the human disease, and suggests that both teenagers and dogs with osteosarcoma may benefit from small molecule ERBB inhibitors. Clinical trials in dogs may both aid diseased pets and provide preclinical data for human trials.
Regulation and Administration

This article is a revision of the previous edition article by S. Sterett, volume 19, pp. 12945–12951, © 2001, Elsevier Ltd.
The Biology of Being Frazzled

Under stress, our brain works differently. From our own experiences we know this, but now several lines of research are defining the neurobiology behind these changes. In her commentary, Arnsten summarizes recent work that demonstrates that some kinds of memory become enhanced (such as the image of a gruesome accident), while higher order thinking, mediated by a region of the brain called the prefrontal cortex, becomes impaired.
Comparing Attitudes Toward Ethical Dilemmas in Small Business

Abstract This paper presents a comparative analysis of attitudes between Russian and U.S. undergraduate students on ethical issues in managing Russian small firms engaged in business transactions with U.S. firms. Based on the real life situations, Russian and American respondents were asked to select decision alternatives dealing with ethical dilemmas. Significant differences were found between the two groups. Russians do not recognize significant differences between various alternatives, despite the disparity in the severity of these alternatives for resolving business problems. Russians, compared to Americans, tend to prefer more forceful decision alternatives resorting to business practices that would be considered unethical in the U.S. This is attributable to differences in the countries' history, political, legal, and cultural environment. The transitional nature of the Russian economy affects decision-making and business ethics.
Increasing Accounting Majors and Minors in the Introductory Management Accounting Course: A Business Planning Approach

Introductory management accounting courses traditionally have emphasized cost accounting topics rather than the critical role that information plays in decision-making. Many accounting educators believe that creatively redesigning the introductory management accounting course may help to reverse recent declines in accounting enrollments. Building upon a recently proposed management accounting education framework and several existing serial case pedagogies, this paper describes a fundamentally different delivery approach for the introductory management course: the Business Planning Model (BPM). The BPM reengineers the managerial principles course in two ways: (1) by replacing cost accounting course content with strategy and risk topics, and (2) by delivering and reinforcing course content using a semester-long business planning simulation. This new approach introduces students to managerial accounting topics as they arise during the preparation of a comprehensive business plan for a start-up enterprise. Although the BPM delivers much of the technical content contained in most introductory managerial courses, the BPM's topical coverage differs from the traditional course in three ways. First, the BPM incorporates a broader business perspective and covers subjects related to business strategy, risk assessment and basic business processes not covered in most textbook-driven introductory courses. This focus is necessary given that business plans must address strategy, market, resource, and implementation issues. Second, the BPM intentionally ignores cost accounting topics more appropriate for accounting majors (e.g. cost allocation, variable and absorption costing, etc.), not the undergraduate business student in general. Finally, the BPM uses basic consumer and retail examples that leverage students? business experiences as customers and front-line, service-oriented employees. These contexts differ from traditional courses that typically rely on large manufacturing firms to illustrate course content. The course unfolds over twelve weeks, with two weeks reserved for student presentations. The delivery of technical material via an alternating series of class mini-lectures, discussions and mini-cases allows students to gain sufficient fundamental knowledge of managerial accounting topics to complete business plan phases in a timely fashion. Additionally, specific business planning issues are emphasized in class each day to motivate topical content and link it to the simulation. Students completing the BPM introductory managerial course report that it: (1) gives them an appreciation for the value of information; (2) provides them with a basic understanding of business processes and the related risks; and (3) is effective in developing certain key business skills, specifically risk assessment, critical thinking, and oral communication skills. Assessment results further suggest that the BPM actually motivates students to study accounting.
Frontiers beyond the hydroxylation paradigm in the diverse chemistry of non-heme Fe(IV)-oxo (ferryl) enzyme intermediates (110.2)

Non-heme-iron (NH-Fe) enzymes activate O2 for an impressive array of biomedically, agriculturally, and environmentally important oxidation reactions. Our past decade's work has characterized iron(IV)-oxo (FeIV=O or ferryl) complexes in the reactions of several such NH-Fe enzymes.1 In five of these enzymes, the ferryl complexes generate substrate radicals by abstracting hydrogen (H•) from aliphatic carbons,2-6 leading to formation of new C-O,2-4 C-Cl/Br,5,6 and C-S bonds.1 Motivated by our success in rationalizing the divergent outcomes of the NH-Fe α-ketoglutarate-dependent aliphatic hydroxylases and halogenases,7 we now seek both to exploit the ferryl manifold for novel, unnatural carbon-functionalization reactions and to explain the structural and mechanistic bases for several other natural reaction types, including 1,3-dehydrogenation of an alcohol to epoxide,8 stereo-inversion of a chiral carbon, and desaturation and cleavage of C-C bonds, that are likely to be initiated by ferryl complexes in other N...
Advanced solar thermal technology - Potential and progress

The advanced thermal power technology program which develops and applies advanced technology for improved solar thermal energy subsystems and components. It is shown that the effort is aimed at systems which can achieve significant energy cost reductions. The paper describes the potential for advanced technology to achieve commercially attractive solar thermal systems and describes some recent developments in advanced heat engines, high temperature receivers, chemical transport, and storage.
Tryptophan Pyrrolase of Liver III. CONJUGATION IN VIVO DURING COFACTOR INDUCTION BY TRYPTOPHAN ANALOGUES

Abstract Tryptophan pyrrolase, measured in an assay where its activity was proportional to its reaction with a specific antiserum, was induced in the liver of adrenalectomized rats by only those tryptophan analogues that also specifically promoted the conjugation of the apotryptophan pyrrolase in vitro and in vivo whether or not these analogues had affinity for the catalytic site of the tryptophan pyrrolase. The apotryptophan pyrrolase induced by hydrocortisone became conjugated upon injection of these analogues, and the elevated level was maintained in vivo as long as sufficient amount of the analogues was present. This action in vivo of the inducers with a site on the enzyme different from the catalytic site was associated with a decreased rate of disappearance of the protein and an increased rate of its synthesis.
Red Blood Cell Transit Time in Man: Theoretical Effects of Capillary Density

These data indicate that through the reduction in exercise time and recruitment of trained subjects, the exercising muscle in the human dynamic knee-extension model can reach even higher work rates, VO2, and Q than previously reported (Andersen & Saltin, 1985; Andersen et al., 1985; Rowell et al., 1986). Despite these high muscle Q, the achievement of high O2 extractions is possible (Richardson et al., 1993). Previously, this was attributed almost exclusively to the elevated WRMAX, and it was therefore concluded that O2 extraction is not limited by the high Q to any greater extent than in conventional two legged cycle ergometry (Richardson et al., 1993). It is now apparent from the analysis of the data in this paper that it is possible that a difference in capillary density between the subjects in the original studies and the present research may have played a role in the increase in O2 extraction with increasing muscle Q. Although, it should be recognized that a) the capillary density necessary to reduce red cell transit time suitably to match the range of measured femoral venous hemoglobin saturation is high (Gayeski et al., 1988), however it is within the measured values for man (Brodal et al., 1977), and b) where comparable, during low WR knee-extensor exercise and whole body VO2MAX, subjects across the studies did not differ. This would be expected if capillary density differed greatly (Brodal et al., 1977). It can therefore be concluded that both the rapid protocol during knee-extensor exercise and the potential increased capillarity of the trained subjects in the present study may have combined to produce the amplified physiologic and WR responses.
Organische Phosphorverbindungen XXXVIII. Darstellung und Eigenschaften von Tris‐(dialkoxyphosphonyl‐methyl)‐, Tris‐(alkoxyphosphinyl‐methyl)‐und Tris‐(oxophosphoranyl‐methyl)‐phosphinsäureestern sowie der entsprechenden Säuren [1]

Tris-chloromethyl-phosphine oxide, (ClCH2)3 PO(I), is obtained by chlorination of (HOCH2)3PO with PCl5 or (C6H5)3PCl2, and also by oxidation of (CICH2)3PO and (ClCh2)2(CH3)PO. High yields of tris-(dialkyloxyphosphonly-methyl)-phosphine oxides, [RO2(O)PCH2]2PO (II) (RCH3, C2H5, iso-C3H7, n-C4H9, 2- ethyl-hexyl), tris (alkyloxyphosphinyl-methyl)-phosphine oxides, [R2(O)PCH2]3PO(R = C6H5, CH3) are obtained by heating tris-chloromethyl-phosphine oxides, [(RO) (R′) (O)PCH2]3PO (R = C4H9, R′ C6H5) and tris-(oxophosphoranyl-phosphine oxides with phosphites, phosphonites and phosphinites, respectively, at 170–180°C for several hours. Compounds II possess an extraordinarily high absorption capacity. Thus a warm. 2% solution of II (R = C2H5) in benzene solidifies completely on cooling so that no benzene can be poured off. Tris-dihydroxyphosphonyl-methyl)-phosphine oxide, [(HO)2(O)PCH2]3PO, obtained by hydrolysis of II (R C2H5) with refluxing conc. HCl or by thermal decomposition of II (R iso-C3H7) at 190°, titrates in aqueous solution as a hexabasic acid with breaks at pH = 4,4 (three equivalents) and pH = 10,7 (three equivalents). It forms crystalline salts with amines, alkali and alkaline earth metals, and is an excellent chelating agent. The 1H- and 31−P-NMR. spectra of all the compounds prepared are discussed.
Electroconvulsive therapy for epilepsy and major depression.

In this first report of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for the simultaneous treatment of seizures and depressive episodes, the authors discuss the use of ECT in the treatment of complex-partial seizures and major depression in a geriatric patient who refused antidepressant and antiepileptic medication. ECT has numerous anticonvulsant effects, including elevated seizure threshold and decreased seizure duration, which make it a useful adjunctive therapy in epilepsy that is refractory or not amenable to treatment with medication.
Effects of dietary salt on erythrocyte and renal Na,K-ATPase activity in Dahl salt-sensitive and salt-resistant rats

This study was designed to investigate the effects of dietary salt and potassium supplementation on blood pressure and the Na,K-ATPase activity in erythrocytes and renal cortex from Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) and salt-resistant (DR) rats. Rats were fed diets containing low salt (0.4%), high salt (7%) or high salt plus potassium-citrate (K-citrate, 3%) from 5 to 10 weeks of age or from 15 to 20 weeks of age. The systolic blood pressure of DS rats measured by the tail-cuff method was significantly increased by feeding the high salt or high salt plus K-citrate diets compared with rats fed the low salt diet at both ages. The DR rats remained normotensive regardless of the dietary salt level. Supplementation of the high salt diet with K-citrate attenuated elevation of blood pressure in DS rats. The sodium content of red blood cells of DS rats fed the high salt diet was increased whereas that of DR rats fed the same diet remained unchanged. The erythrocyte Na,K-ATPase activity was not altered at 10 weeks of age by dietary salt in both strains of rats. But at 20 weeks of age, the erythrocyte enzyme activity was suppressed in DS rats fed the high salt diet and was significantly lower compared with that in DR rats fed the same diet. The renal cortex microsomal enzyme activity was decreased in both of 10-week and 20-week old DS rats fed the high salt diet. The renal cortex enzyme activity in DR rats was not changed by dietary salt levels and consequently was greater than that of DS rats when fed the high salt diet. The renal cortex Na,K-ATPase activity of DS rats was negatively correlated to blood pressure. These results suggest that the permeability of cell membrane in DS rats is increased when fed the high salt diet and consequent increases in cell sodium concentration together with suppressed Na,K-pump activity are involved in the progressive increase in blood pressure.
Experimental study of laser heat-treated bearing steel

Abstract This work deals with the microstructural features, hardness, case depth, and wear characteristics of laser heat-treated 52100 bearing steel. For this purpose, the steel samples were laser transformation hardened at two scan speeds and were examined and tested for the above characteristics. The results were compared to conventionally quenched and tempered 52100 bearing steel. It was concluded that the laser heat treatment resulted both in improved surface hardness and sliding wear resistance over conventionally quenched and tempered steel. In addition, the material removal mechanism during sliding contact varied from abrasion and delamination to fatigue, depending on the treatment the steel had received previously.
Seeing classes: toward a broadened research agenda for critical qualitative researchers

This paper proposes a research agenda that foregrounds social class in US public schooling. The author suggests that the relative invisibility of social class in academic discourse on schooling limits the value of research in at least three ways: (1) middle‐class academics’ propensity to speak on behalf of the poor and working class limits analysis of class and schooling; (2) the class and gender constraints on the work of teachers has been inadequately theorized, while simultaneously the work of teachers ha been invoked as proxy for deeper social and structural inequalities; and (3) researchers have declined to ‘study up’ power structures within which the work of schools is embedded, limiting our understanding of relationships between schooling and the economy. It is suggested that researchers’ work will make deeper contributions to the reform of schools to the extent that they acknowledge how norms of scholarship sustain their own middle‐class privilege.
Particulate Intermetallic Matrix Composite Made by One-Step Pulsed Laser Deposition

A novel way of producing particulate intermetallic matrix composites based on Nb-Al in one step using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) has been investigated. One unique characteristic, inherent to laser ablation, is the generation of particulates. These particulates condense on the substrate and become part of the film. In some cases, such as in high Tc superconducting or optical films applications, it is believed that the presence of particulates diminishes the quality of the films. In this work, we demonstrate that it can be advantageous in some applications to incorporate these particulates into the films. Nb-Al films were prepared by laser ablation from a Nb3Al target using a 248nm KrF excimer laser at various fluences and substrate temperatures. Transmission (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) were used to characterize the samples. The resultant films consist of a homogeneous matrix with uniformly distributed inclusions. The size of the particles generated by PLD is in the range of a few tens of nanometers to a few microns. EDX shows that the matrix has a composition of Nb7A13 and the particulates contain barely detectable Al. The mechanism of the depletion of Al in the particulates will be discussed. The merit of having a ductile Nb phase embedded in the intermetallic matrix is evident as the cracks generated during TEM sample thinning process propagate in the brittle matrix and finally are arrested at the ductile inclusions.
Pannexin1-Mediated ATP Release Provides Signal Transmission Between Neuro2A Cells

Pannexin1 (Panx1), a protein related to the gap junction proteins of invertebrates, forms nonjunctional channels that open upon depolarization and in response to mechanical stretch and purinergic receptor stimulation. Importantly, ATP can be released through Panx1 channels, providing a possible role for these channels in non-vesicular signal transmission. In this study we expressed exogenous human and mouse Panx1 in the gap junction deficient Neuro2A neuroblastoma cell line and explored the contribution of Panx1 channels to cell–cell communication as sites of ATP release. Electrophysiological (patch clamp) recordings from Panx1 transfected Neuro2A cells revealed membrane conductance that increased beyond 0 mV when applying voltage ramps from −60 to +100 mV; threshold was correlated with extracellular K+, so that at 10 mM K+, channels began to open at −30 mV. Evaluation of cell–cell communication using dual whole cell recordings from cell pairs revealed that activation of Panx1 current in one cell of the pair induced an inward current in the second cell after a latency of 10–20 s. This paracrine response was amplified by an ATPase inhibitor (ARL67156, 100 μM) and was blocked by the ATP-degrading enzyme apyrase (6.7 U/ml), by the P2 receptor antagonist suramin (50 μM) and by the Panx1 channel blocker carbenoxolone. These results provide additional evidence that ATP release through Panx1 channels can mediate nonsynaptic bidirectional intercellular communication. Furthermore, current potentiation by elevated K+ provides a mechanism for enhancement of ATP release under pathological conditions.
Interactions in small systems of coupled Josephson junctions at microwave frequencies

A major factor in the practical utilization of any Josephson device for microwave and higher frequency applications (such as the generation and detection of electromagnetic radiation) is the success with which the junction device can be coupled to an external transmission line. As part of an experimental investigation of the electrodynamics of small arrays of Josephson tunnel junctions, the properties of the coherent radiation emitted both by individual junctions and by coupled junction systems have been studied at frequencies between 2 and 12 GHz. Near 9 GHz, more than 10-9 W of coherent radiation has been detected from a single Pb-Pb oxide-Pb junction coupled via waveguide. The development of thin film devices in which the tunnel junctions form part of a microstrip line have made it feasible to observe directly (in a single device) the radiation emitted both at the fundamental geometrical frequency and at the low order harmonics. The observed temperature dependence of the junction cavity Q indicate the low temperature losses are primarily due to cavity loading of the external transmission line.
Three Dimensional Measurements of Instantaneous Flow Field in Corners With Smooth Surfaces Under a Zero Pressure Gradient

Three dimensional instantaneous velocity data were taken in a turbulent corner flow with smooth walls under a zero pressure gradient. Experiments were carried out in air with a free stream velocity of 13 m/s and an axial Reynolds number of about 10,000,000. The data were collected using a three-component LDV system that was configured in a nearly orthogonal setup. Measurements were made down to a y+ of approximately 5, and should provide a valuable data set in developing models and predictive codes. Data were collected at two axial locations, 0.93 and 1.26 m measured from the virtual origin. The boundary layer thickness was 20.90 mm and 24.91 mm respectively at these locations. At each position, instantaneous velocity profiles were measured at 6.35, 12.7, 20.6, 41.2, 82.3, 121.9, 164.5, 184.8, and 205.1 mm from the corner. The centerline profiles agree well with classical flat plate data. Three mean velocity and six Reynolds stress components have been calculated. The instantaneous velocity field data set is sufficient to compute higher order correlations. The data will be valuable for development of computer codes and models for heat transfer studies in the internal cooling channels of gas turbine blades and turbine end wall flow and heat transfer studies. An analysis of the data is presented. Future studies will concentrate on one smooth and one rough wall corner flow with favorable and adverse pressure gradients to provide a detailed database for corner flows in complex three dimensional flow fields.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Increased efficiency of endocrine procedures performed in an ambulatory operating room

Abstract Background Thyroid and parathyroid procedures historically have been viewed as inpatient procedures. Because of the advancements in surgical techniques, these procedures were transferred from the inpatient operating room (OR) to the outpatient OR at a single academic institution approximately 7 y ago. The goal of this study was to determine whether this change has decreased turnover times and maximized OR utilization. Methods We performed a retrospective review of 707 patients undergoing thyroid (34%) and parathyroid (66%) procedures by a single surgeon at our academic institution between 2005 and 2008. Inpatient and outpatient groups were compared using Student t-test, chi-square test, or the Kruskal–Wallis test where appropriate. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine how patient and hospital factors influenced turnover times. Results Turnover times were significantly lower in the outpatient OR (mean 18 ± 0.7 min) when compared with the inpatient OR (mean 36 ± 1.4 min) (P Conclusions Endocrine procedures performed in the outpatient OR have significantly faster turnover times leading to cost savings and greater OR utilization for hospitals.
Analysis and Experiment on Dynamic Prediction in Magnesium Hydride Hydrolysis as Hydrogen Generator

In this paper, analysis and experimental verification for dynamic modeling of an acid-catalyzed magnesium hydride hydrolysis was used to predict the hydrogen generation yield, rate, and gravimetric hydrogen storage capacity. The result shows that the ratio citric acid to magnesium hydride, the geometric forms of MgH2, and the water handling are crucial to this reaction, while the higher temperatures tend to have faster rates of reactions. Furthermore, the zero-order prediction gives a good result only at a relatively low citric acid to magnesium hydride ratio or low hydrolysis reaction rate. The reaction order is approximately one while the citric acid/magnesium hydride molar ratio remains high or the rate of reaction is high. Finally, considering the geometrical effect on the acid-catalyzed MgH2 hydrolysis, the validated Langmuir equation was used to successfully predict the dynamic hydrogen generation fairly well for most hydrolysis reaction rate.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Food fears in children with food allergies

Abstract Rationale Some children with food allergies (FA) develop food fears that limit food intake and that may cause malnourishment. The purpose was to assess the etiology of food fears with a view to future prevention. Methods Case studies of four children with FA and clinically relevant food fears who received medical nutrition therapy and a referral to a pediatric psychologist, plus follow-up after completion of interventions were reviewed. Results Four children with FA, 1.5 to 7 years of age, were identified with food fears. One had an allergy to a single food, 3 had multiple FA. One had a history of systemic anaphylaxis. Two subjects had co-morbidities: atopic dermatitis and asthma. Two were developmentally delayed and had failure to thrive. All had both parents living at home. All were referred to a pediatric psychologist after completing nutrition intervention. The causes of the feeding fears include: case 1 and 2 – anxiety about next possible allergic reaction; case 3 – fear of cross contamination; case 4 – prior discomfort associated with eating. The psychological therapy used was behavior modification and desensitization programs. Follow-up, 2-9 months after intervention, revealed continued improvement of food fears in all four patients. Conclusion Consumption of foods causing chronic allergic symptoms and/or fear of another unpleasant reaction can cause anxiety leading to food fears. A comprehensive medical team, including a dietitian and psychologist, can provide families the tools needed to avoid the allergen(s), correctly treat a reaction, and address inappropriate anxiety.
Effect of poly-l-ornithine on the attachment of tobacco mosaic virus to tobacco leaves and on the uncoating of viral RNA☆

Abstract Tobacco leaves, rubbed with poly- l -ornithine, then rinsed with water, inoculated with TMV, and again rinsed, retained up to 20 times more virus than leaves prerubbed with water. Uncoating of the RNA of retained virus was 3–5 times greater than normal when leaves were pretreated with polyornithine. In the material rinsed from inoculated leaves, about 5 times more protein was found to be dissociated from virus particles washed from polyornithine-treated leaves than from those removed from water-rubbed leaves. Increases in attachment and uncoating were also observed in leaves which were inoculated directly with virus suspensions containing polyornithine and NaCl. It is suggested that these effects can be explained either by a decrease in the net negative charge of the surface layers of the leaf or by a stimulation of pinocytotic activity of exposed epidermal cells.
Use of misoprostol on an outpatient basis for postdate pregnancy

Objective: Within the obstetric community several studies suggest that cervical ripening and labor induction after 40 weeks gestation leads to improved maternal and neonatal outcomes. The most effective drug regimen to safely promote labor has not been determined. Method: Forty-nine subjects followed in an outpatient obstetrical clinic with pregnancies of at least 40 weeks gestation and an unfavorable Bishop score were assigned randomly to receive oral misoprostol 50 or 25 µg every 3 days for a maximum of three doses. Results: Twenty-three subjects received misoprostol 25 µg and 26 received 50 µg. The mean interval (± standard deviation) from start of cervical ripening to delivery was 2.4 days ±0.3 vs. 3.9 days ±0.7 for the 50 and 25 µg groups (P<0.05). No adverse events were noted. However due to small sample size less frequent adverse events may be missed. Type II errors cannot be excluded. Conclusion: In the prevention of postdate pregnancy outpatients use of oral misoprostol 50 µg appears to result in earlier delivery as compared to 25 µg. (authors)
Psychosocial predictors and consequences of drug use: a developmental perspective within a prospective study.

Abstract In this review of my prospective research program, I focus on several topics related to psychosocial factors associated with drug involvement across several developmental periods of life. In particular, I address the first three decades of life. To illustrate these processes, I use selected findings from my 16-year prospective study of adolescent and adult development that examine drug use, other problem behaviors, and psychosocial risk and protective factors as both antecedents and outcomes of drug involvement. Specifically, I: (1) summarize risk and protective factors along a developmental continuum; (2) describe my prospective study; (3) discuss sex differences; (4) introduce the notion of general deviance; (5) consider several child to adolescent predictors of drug use; (6) examine several adolescent to young adult predictors of drug use; (7) introduce the notion of multiple risk and protective factors; (8) test several young adult consequences of teenage drug use; and finally (9) evaluate se...
The ground state of molecular hydrogen

Abstract The v = 0−0 quadrupole spectrum of H2 has been recorded using a 0.005-cm−1 resolution Fourier transform spectrometer. The rotational lines S(1) through S(5) are observable in the spectra, in the region 587 to 1447 cm−1. The spectral position for S(0) was also obtained from its v = 1-0 ground-state combination difference. The high accuracy of the H2 measurements has permitted a determination of four rotational constants. These are (in cm−1) B0 = 59.33455(6); D0 = 0.045682(4); H0 = 4.854(12) × 10−5; L0 = −5.41(12) × 10−8. The hydrogen line positions will facilitate studies of structure and dynamics in astrophysical objects exhibiting infrared H2 spectra. The absolute accuracy of frequency calibration over wide spectral ranges was verified using 10-μm CO2 and 3.39-μm CH4 laser frequencies. Standard frequencies for 5-μm CO were found to be high by 12 MHz (3.9 × 10−4 cm−1).
Blood sugar responses to epinephrine in the dog in the presence of dual adrenergic blockade.

Abstract The effects of α-adrenergic blockade by phentolamine, β-adrenergic blockade by propranolol, and dual blockade by simultaneous use of these two agents were studied on the blood sugar response to increasing infusion rates of epinephrine in the dog. In control groups without epinephrine infusions, the blocking agents alone produced no important changes in blood sugar. In experimental groups the peak rise in blood sugar was unchanged by phentolamine, was partly blocked by propranolol, and was completely blocked by dual blockade. A possible explanation for this interaction is based on the concept that blood sugar elevations by epinephrine may involve both α- and β-receptors.
The Effects of a Cd81 Null Mutation on Retinal Pigment Epithelium in Mice

The present study examines the effects of Cd81-null mutation on the development of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), specifically cell size and number of cells with multiple nuclei. The outlines of RPE in retinal flat mounts were stained with rhodamine-labeled phalloidin and RPE nuclei with Hoechst stain. The RPE layer was sampled to define the number of cells, the size of the RPE cells and the number of nuclei within the cells. The Cd81-null mutation caused an increase in the number of cells within the RPE layer. The cells were smaller than those in the wild type mice. Furthermore there was an increase in the number of mono-nucleated cells. In the posterior portion of the eye there was a significant increase in the number of multi-nucleated cells. The data indicate that CD81 plays a significant role in the final stages of RPE development, controlling cell number and overall developmental pattern.
NK Cell–Like Behavior of Vα14i NK T Cells during MCMV Infection

Immunity to the murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) is critically dependent on the innate response for initial containment of viral replication, resolution of active infection, and proper induction of the adaptive phase of the anti-viral response. In contrast to NK cells, the Vα14 invariant natural killer T cell response to MCMV has not been examined. We found that Vα14i NK T cells become activated and produce significant levels of IFN-γ, but do not proliferate or produce IL-4 following MCMV infection. In vivo treatment with an anti-CD1d mAb and adoptive transfer of Vα14i NK T cells into MCMV-infected CD1d−/− mice demonstrate that CD1d is dispensable for Vα14i NK T cell activation. In contrast, both IFN-α/β and IL-12 are required for optimal activation. Vα14i NK T cell–derived IFN-γ is partially dependent on IFN-α/β but highly dependent on IL-12. Vα14i NK T cells contribute to the immune response to MCMV and amplify NK cell–derived IFN-γ. Importantly, mortality is increased in CD1d−/− mice in response to high dose MCMV infection when compared to heterozygote littermate controls. Collectively, these findings illustrate the plasticity of Vα14i NK T cells that act as effector T cells during bacterial infection, but have NK cell–like behavior during the innate immune response to MCMV infection.