cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-efficiency and wideband interlayer grating couplers in multilayer Si/SiO 2 /SiN platform for 3D integration of optical functionalities

We have designed interlayer grating couplers with single/double metallic reflectors for Si/SiO2/SiN multilayer material platform. Out-of-plane diffractive grating couplers separated by 1.6 μm thick buffer SiO2 layer are vertically stacked against each other in Si and SiN layers. Geometrical optimization using genetic algorithm coupled with electromagnetic simulations using two-dimensional (2D) finite element method (FEM) results in coupler designs with high peak coupling efficiency of up to 89% for double- mirror and 64% for single-mirror structures at telecom wavelength. Also, 3-dB bandwidths of 40 nm and 50 nm are theoretically predicted for the two designs, respectively. We have fabricated the grating coupler structure with single mirror. Measured values for insertion loss and 3-dB bandwidth in the fabricated single-mirror coupler confirms the theoretical results. This opens up the possibility of low-loss 3D dense integration of optical functionalities in hybrid material platforms.
A note on Burgess’s estimate

By introducing the Rademacher-Menchov device, we prove “maximal” analogs of principal bounds of character sums. This allows us to present the Burgess method so as to separate the main idea of this method from the technical issues.
Diversity by demand

A three-dimensional approach to counseling services resulted in significant increases in adult learner participation in educational opportunities.
Clinical factors related to brain structure in HIV: The CHARTER study

Despite the widening use of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), neurocognitive impairment remains common among HIV-infected (HIV+) individuals. Associations between HIV-related neuromedical variables and magnetic resonance imaging indices of brain structural integrity may provide insight into the neural bases for these symptoms. A diverse HIV+ sample (n = 251) was studied through the CNS HIV Antiretroviral Therapy Effects Research initiative. Multi-channel image analysis produced volumes of ventricular and sulcal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), cortical and subcortical gray matter, total cerebral white matter, and abnormal white matter. Cross-sectional analyses employed a series of multiple linear regressions to model each structural volume as a function of severity of prior immunosuppression (CD4 nadir), current CD4 count, presence of detectable CSF HIV RNA, and presence of HCV antibodies; secondary analyses examined plasma HIV RNA, estimated duration of HIV infection, and cumulative exposure to ART. Lower CD4 nadir was related to most measures of the structural brain damage. Higher current CD4, unexpectedly, correlated with lower white and subcortical gray and increased CSF. Detectable CSF HIV RNA was related to less total white matter. HCV coinfection was associated with more abnormal white matter. Longer exposure to ART was associated with lower white matter and higher sulcal CSF. HIV neuromedical factors, including lower nadir, higher current CD4 levels, and detectable HIV RNA, were associated with white matter damage and variability in subcortical volumes. Brain structural integrity in HIV likely reflects dynamic effects of current immune status and HIV replication, superimposed on residual effects associated with severe prior immunosuppression.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for staghorn stones: reassessment of our treatment strategy

A total of 48 staghorn stones treated between March and September 1985 with ESWL as a monotherapy revealed a stone-free rate of 61% (follow-up at 8 months). On the basis of these results and the long-term follow-up of these patients (mean follow-up 1.8 years), variables predicting treatment success (freedom from stones and symptoms) and failure were evaluated. Overall stone-burden, architecture of the renal collecting system, stone composition, choice of treatment procedure and patient compliance have been identified as the most important determinants. This study allowed modification of the treatment strategy at UCLA. An additional 94 patients were treated between September 1985 and March 1986 with an individualized approach using ESWL alone, PCN alone, or the combination of both procedures. In this group, 73% of the patients became completely stone-free; the remainder is being followed conservatively.
Dynamic deployment in ad hoc networks accommodating uncertain transmission range

Proposals for optimal network deployment in wireless ad hoc networks generally seek to meet specific performance objectives (e.g., connectivity and coverage), typically assuming known and constant transmission ranges for nodes at different locations and in different directions. In practice transmission range is highly uncertain a priori, even for homogeneous networks. In this paper, we explore physical layer models for estimating node connectivity in planar networks based on connectivity observations available from previously deployed nodes, taking into consideration the lognormal distribution and spatial correlation of signal strength. Then we examine application in deployment problems in which an agent (e.g., a robot) would be responsible for maximizing the probability of connecting all separate sensing nodes given a limited number of wireless routing nodes.Though theoretically the dynamic programming framework is suitable for addressing the deployment problem, it would easily become computational intractable even for a small-sized network. This paper proposes heuristics for the deployment problem involving two steps. We alternatively construct a network tree spreading all the separate sensing nodes, and then determine locations for placing routing nodes based on the constructed tree and available connectivity observations, until either the network is connected or the routing nodes are used up. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the application and performance of the proposed heuristics.
Chymase-dependent generation of angiotensin II from angiotensin-(1-12) in human atrial tissue.

Since angiotensin-(1-12) [Ang-(1-12)] is a non-renin dependent alternate precursor for the generation of cardiac Ang peptides in rat tissue, we investigated the metabolism of Ang-(1-12) by plasma membranes (PM) isolated from human atrial appendage tissue from nine patients undergoing cardiac surgery for primary control of atrial fibrillation (MAZE surgical procedure). PM was incubated with highly purified 125I-Ang-(1-12) at 37°C for 1 h with or without renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors [lisinopril for angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), {"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":{"text":"SCH39370","term_id":"1052735772","term_text":"SCH39370"}}SCH39370 for neprilysin (NEP), MLN-4760 for ACE2 and chymostatin for chymase; 50 µM each]. 125I-Ang peptide fractions were identified by HPLC coupled to an inline γ-detector. In the absence of all RAS inhibitor, 125I-Ang-(1-12) was converted into Ang I (2±2%), Ang II (69±21%), Ang-(1-7) (5±2%), and Ang-(1-4) (2±1%). In the absence of all RAS inhibitor, only 22±10% of 125I-Ang-(1-12) was unmetabolized, whereas, in the presence of the all RAS inhibitors, 98±7% of 125I-Ang-(1-12) remained intact. The relative contribution of selective inhibition of ACE and chymase enzyme showed that 125I-Ang-(1-12) was primarily converted into Ang II (65±18%) by chymase while its hydrolysis into Ang II by ACE was significantly lower or undetectable. The activity of individual enzyme was calculated based on the amount of Ang II formation. These results showed very high chymase-mediated Ang II formation (28±3.1 fmol×min−1×mg−1, n = 9) from 125I-Ang-(1-12) and very low or undetectable Ang II formation by ACE (1.1±0.2 fmol×min−1×mg−1). Paralleling these findings, these tissues showed significant content of chymase protein that by immunocytochemistry were primarily localized in atrial cardiac myocytes. In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time in human cardiac tissue a dominant role of cardiac chymase in the formation of Ang II from Ang-(1-12).
Acute appendicitis in children: comparison of clinical diagnosis with ultrasound and CT imaging.

Background. There is strong evidence that imaging with ultrasound and CT can be of substantial diagnostic value in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children, but there is limited information of the impact of imaging on the management of these patients and its possible effect on surgical findings.¶Objective. We studied the impact of imaging in the management of acute appendicitis, in particular its effect on the rate of negative appendectomies and perforations.¶Patients and methods. We reviewed retrospectively the clinical records and imaging findings of 633 consecutive children and adolescents seen on an emergency basis with clinical suspicion of acute appendicitis. Two hundred seventy patients were operated upon on clinical evidence alone, while 360 were referred for US or CT, and occasionally both, because of doubtful clinical findings.¶Results. Acute appendicitis was found in 237 of those on clinical grounds alone, 68 of whom had perforation and related complications. Thus the rate of negative exploration and the rate of perforation were13 % and 29 %, respectively. One hundred eighty-two patients had preoperative US (sensitivity 74 %, specificity 94 %), 119 had CT (sensitivity 84 %, specificity 99 %), and 59 had both US and CT (sensitivity 75 %, specificity 100 %, but often with interpretation at variance with each other). The rate of negative appendectomy and perforation was 8 % and 23 %, respectively, for US, 5 % and 54 % for CT, and 9 % and 71 % when both examinations were performed. There is no statistical significance between the rates of diagnostic performance of US, CT, or their combination, nor between the negative appendectomy rates of each group, but the rate of perforation was significantly higher when CT was performed, alone or after US.¶Conclusion. The retrospective nature of the study prevents precise definition of the clinical characteristics and selection criteria for diagnostic examinations that may contribute to the management of children with suspected acute appendicitis. It was designed, however, to reflect the diagnostic approach and management of these patients, under the care of many decision makers and interpreters of imaging examinations, prevalent today in most hospital-based clinical practices. It is suggested that imaging increases diagnostic accuracy in difficult cases, but it might be one of the factors increasing the rate of perforations.
A remote system for the routine production of oxygen‐15 radiopharmaceuticals

The details of the construction and operation of a remote, automated system for the production of oxygen-15 labeled radiopharmaceuticals are described. This system routinely provides oxygen-15 labeled oxygen, carbon monoxide, and water directly to the PET imaging facility, in quantities and purities suitable for human studies.
Relationship of social phobia with other psychiatric illness.

Abstract Fifty-seven social phobic patients were studied to identify the comorbidity with other psychiatric illnesses and their temporal relationships. Mood disorders, particularly major depression, was the most common other lifetime diagnosis (70.2%). A large majority (70.2%) suffered from, at least, one other anxiety disorder in their lifetime and, in particular, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia (49.1%). Alcohol (28.1%) and substance (15.8%) abuse or dependence were also common lifetime diagnoses. Social phobia usually predated any episode of mood disorder (81.7%) or any other anxiety disorder (62.7%). Social phobia may predispose individuals to other psychiatric illnesses, in particular major depression.
Boolean Control of Aptamer Binding States

Molecules that perform Boolean calculations can analyze a series of inputs and make a decision to produce or not to produce an output, based on the presence or absence of inputs and a particular formula they encode. We now report that molecular computation performed by deoxyribozyme-based logic gates can be used to control the functional state of aptamers, switching them on or off based on the outcome of such computation.
Mapping of equine cerebellar abiotrophy to ECA2 and identification of a potential causative mutation affecting expression of MUTYH.

Abstract Equine Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA) is a neurological disease found in Arabian horses. CA is characterized by post-natal degeneration of the Purkinje cells of the cerebellum. Signs of CA include ataxia, head tremors, and a lack of balance equilibrium. We have discovered a linkage of the CA phenotype to a microsatellite marker on ECA2 and identified a region of conserved homozygosity spanning approximately 142 kb. Complete sequencing of the four genes in this region identified one SNP found only in Arabian horses, located in exon 4 of TOE1 and approximately 1200 base pairs upstream of MUTYH, adjacent to a possible binding site for the transcription factor GATA2. qPCR analysis of cDNA from the cerebella of affected and unaffected horses suggested that MUTYH expression is down-regulated in affected horses. This SNP may therefore have a function effect on TOE1, or a regulatory effect on MUTYH by negatively affecting the binding affinity of GATA2.
Spider cocoons and their suspension systems as barriers to generalist and specialist predators

This study tests hypotheses regarding spider cocoons and their suspension systems as barriers to generalist and specialist predators. Evidence presented here suggests that the suspension systems ofMecynogea lemniscata andArgiope aurantia cocoons are effective barriers against small generalists such as ants, but fail to stop large generalists such as birds. Cocoon covers were found to be generally ineffective against generalist predators. Various component layers of these cocoons are shown, however, to be an effective barrier against the attack modes of specific predator guilds. Cocoon covers function primarily as barriers to specialists that use active “burrowing” larvae to gain entrance into the cocoon, while the flocculent silk layer is shown to be an effective barrier against specialists which use a long ovipositor to attack cocoons. These findings support suggestions that the primary role of the cocoon is to provide protection from predators and parasites. These results also support a close evolutionary relationship between cocoon architecture and specialized predators.
The maturation of the oöcytes in the isolated abdomen of Leucophaea maderae

Abstract Ovarian development has been induced in abdomens amputated from females of the cockroach, Leucophaea maderae , by implanting corpora allata. Amputation resulted in some sort of deficiency which prevented normal secretion of the corpora allata and growth of the oocytes was much slower than in intact animals. More rapid growth took place when corpora allata were implanted at several intervals. Topical application of an artificial hormone prepared from farnesenic acid also stimulated growth of oocytes which was more uniform than that which took place under the influence of corpora allata.
Challenges in Testing Transgenic and Nontransgenic Cotton Cultivars

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars transgenically enhanced to impart herbicide resistance to either bromoxynil [3,5-dibromo4-hydroxybenzonitrile; BXN (Bayer Advanced, Peoria, IL)] or glyphosate [N-(phosphonomethyl)-glycine; Roundup Ready (Monsanto Co., St. Louis, MO)], andlor Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki [Bt; Bollgard (Monsanto)] mediated resistance to certain lepidopteran insects were planted to 77% of the 2002 U.S. cotton hectarage, yet Official Cultivar Trial (OCT) protocols remain little changed since inception. The presence of transgenic, pest-managing, and nontransgenic cultivars in OCTs poses challenges to provide unbiased cultivar performance because OCTs impose herbicide and insect management regimes appropriate for nontransgenic cultivars. Our objectives were to assess the merits of OCTs to test transgenic and nontransgenic cultivars and to recommend alternatives. Because OCTs levy common pest management on all cultivars, value-added transgenic traits are not demonstrated, cultivar variation in their expression is not shown, and main effects and interaction of cultivar and pest management regime are confounded. Examples of pest management main effects that potentially affect cultivar ranks in OCTs include yield penalties imposed on herbicide-resistant cultivars from routinely used, soil-applied herbicides and yield advantages imparted to Bt cultivars from added insect control of OCT insecticide regimes. One recommendation to more comprehensively test cultivars is to augment OCTs with trials wherein the best performing transgenic and nontransgenic cultivars in OCTs are produced with their respective pest management programs. Such trials simultaneously evaluate cultivars and transgenic traits for yield, fiber quality, and economic returns. Still, bias imposed by nontransgenic pest management regimes in OCTs can only he quantified through trials levying transgenic and OCT-type pest management treatments on transgenic cultivars.
Action of student-resident interaction during a surgical clerkship.

Background This study is a qualitative assessment of the effect of clinical encounter documentation cards on medical student-surgical resident interaction during the core surgical clerkship, junior medical school year. Methodology The implementation of a clinical encounter documentation card system occurred during academic year 2009–2010. The results were compared with historical control medical student cohorts from antecedent academic years. The perceptions of overall quality of the clerkship and effectiveness of residents as teachers were assessed using a psychometric Likert scale. Results Ninety percent of the medical students and surgical residents “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that the educational value of clinical encounters was enhanced by the documentation card system. Discussion Junior medical students receive a substantial and valuable portion of their formal surgical education from surgical residents. We argue that this documentation card system tangibly increased the educational value of clinical encounters and improved the cognitive, technical, and rhetorical skills of both medical students and surgical residents. Conclusion We submit that this clinical encounter documentation card system: improved each student's educational experience and each resident's teaching ability; provided valuable information about residents as teachers; facilitated more refined assessment of their performance in relationship to the core competencies; provided timely information permitting adjustments of clinical service assignments during each rotation; and “clinical context teaching moments” were perceived as a valuable element of the core surgical clerkship.
SHOOTING METHOD FOR BIFURCATION ANALYSIS OF BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS

Abstract The applications of the shooting method to the bifurcation analysis of boundary value problems are discussed. A new technique for computing the double-zero singularity or the origin of the Hopf bifurcation based on this method is developed. A classical problem from chemical reaction engineering, multiple steady-states and oscillations foi reaction-diffusion in a catalyst slab, is examined to illustrate these techniques and applications.
The sensitivity of smooth and rough gram-negative bacteria to the immune bactericidal reaction.

SummaryRough strains of gram-negative bacteria are not necessarily more sensitive than smooth strains to the bactericidal action of normal serum or C. The resistance of certain smooth strains to C may merely reflect a lack of normal antibody in serum. Other smooth organisms may be refractory to C even when sensitized with homologous antiserum. In such instances, it is believed that the C-sensitive substance may be too far removed or inaccessible to the C enzymes activated by antigen–antibody complexes on the cell surface (6).
c-Met signaling in the development of tumorigenesis and chemoresistance: Potential applications in pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the 4th leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. The majority of patients are candidates only for palliative chemotherapy, which has proven largely ineffective in halting tumor progression. One proposed mechanism of chemoresistance involves signaling via the mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor protein (MET), a previously established pathway critical to cell proliferation and migration. Here, we review the literature to characterize the role of MET in the development of tumorigenesis, metastasis and chemoresistance, highlighting the potential of MET as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer. In this review, we characterize the role of c-Met in the development of tumorigenesis, metastasis and chemoresistance, highlighting the potential of c-Met as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.
Compton scattering sum rules and their saturation

Theoretical features of the many fixed-momentum-transfer dispersive sum rules which can be written for the 26 possible generalized nucleon Compton scattering amplitudes (retarded products of vector currents) are surveyed, and the sum rules are put to experimental test. Theoretical attention is focused on the occurrence of right-signature fixed poles in the angular momentum plane, such as the $j=1$ fixed poles whose couplings are related to electromagnetic form factors by current algebra. Unitarity is used to estimate the sum-rule integrands in terms of data for the photoproduction processes $\ensuremath{\gamma}N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\pi}N$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\Delta}$. Limitations of the data require that the sum rules be cut off at photon lab energy ${E}_{\mathrm{lab}}=1.12$ GeV. The main results are as follows: (a) Reasonable evidence is presented that two-time-component current-algebra sum rules involving the electric and magnetic isovector form factors ${{G}_{E}}^{V}(t)$ and ${{G}_{M}}^{V}(t)$ are correct for small spacelike $\ensuremath{-}t$. If they are also to be correct for $\ensuremath{-}t\ensuremath{\gtrsim}\ensuremath{-}0.6 {(\frac{\mathrm{GeV}}{c})}^{2}$, then the $\ensuremath{\rho}$ Regge pole must choose nonsense at $\ensuremath{\alpha}=0$, and the associated wrong-signature fixed pole there must be multiplicative. A time-space current-algebra sum rule probably fails. (b) The separate isotopic components of the Drell-Hearn sum rule are investigated. Those with $I=0$ exchange in the $t$ channel seem very successful, whereas the $I=1$ exchange sum rule clearly fails. The failure indicates an important contribution of a hitherto unsuspected ${J}^{P}({I}^{G})={1}^{+}({1}^{\ensuremath{-}})$ fixed pole. (c) Detailed results on wrong-signature antialgebra sum rules, on Regge-pole sum rules (FESR's), and on sum rules testing conspiracy are presented.
Cosmological production of black holes.

It is argued that, at a first-order phase transition, false-vacuum bubbles may occasionally collapse to become black holes. If the critical temperature {ital T}{sub {ital c}} is less than a TeV, these black holes, which have a mass proportional to {ital M}{sub Pl}{sup 2}/{ital T}{sub {ital c}}, could survive until today to be the dark matter. Alternatively, evaporation of black holes could give rise to relic particle abundances.
A Gas-poor Planetesimal Capture Model for the Formation of Giant Planet Satellite Systems

Abstract Assuming that an unknown mechanism (e.g., gas turbulence) removes most of the subnebula gas disk in a timescale shorter than that for satellite formation, we develop a model for the formation of regular (and possibly at least some of the irregular) satellites around giant planets in a gas-poor environment. In this model, which follows along the lines of the work of Safronov et al. [1986. Satellites. Univ. of Arizona Press, Tucson, pp. 89–116], heliocentric planetesimals collide within the planet's Hill sphere and generate a circumplanetary disk of prograde and retrograde satellitesimals extending as far out as ∼ R H / 2 . At first, the net angular momentum of this proto-satellite swarm is small, and collisions among satellitesimals leads to loss of mass from the outer disk, and delivers mass to the inner disk (where regular satellites form) in a timescale ≲ 10 5 years . This mass loss may be offset by continued collisional capture of sufficiently small 1 km interlopers resulting from the disruption of planetesimals in the feeding zone of the giant planet. As the planet's feeding zone is cleared in a timescale ≲ 10 5 years, enough angular momentum may be delivered to the proto-satellite swarm to account for the angular momentum of the regular satellites of Jupiter and Saturn. This feeding timescale is also roughly consistent with the independent constraint that the Galilean satellites formed in a timescale of 10 5 – 10 6 years , which may be long enough to accommodate Callisto's partially differentiated state [Anderson et al., 1998. Science 280, 1573; Anderson et al., 2001. Icarus 153, 157–161]. In turn, this formation timescale can be used to provide plausible constraints on the surface density of solids in the satellitesimal disk (excluding satellite embryos ∼ 1 g cm −2 for satellitesimals of size ∼ 1 km ), which yields a total disk mass smaller than the mass of the regular satellites, and means that the satellites must form in several ∼10 collisional cycles. However, much more work will need to be conducted concerning the collisional evolution both of the circumplanetary satellitesimals and of the heliocentric planetesimals following giant planet formation before one can assess the significance of this agreement. Furthermore, for enough mass to be delivered to form the regular satellites in the required timescale one may need to rely on (unproven) mechanisms to replenish the feeding zone of the giant planet. We compare this model to the solids-enhanced minimum mass (SEMM) model of Mosqueira and Estrada [2003a. Icarus 163, 198–231; 2003b. Icarus 163, 232–255], and discuss its main consequences for Cassini observations of the saturnian satellite system.
The assembly factor Atp11p binds to the β-subunit of the mitochondrial F1-ATPase

Atp11p is a protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae required for the assembly of the F1component of the mitochondrial F1F0-ATP synthase. This study presents evidence that Atp11p binds selectively to the β-subunit of F1. Under conditions in which avidin-Sepharose beads specifically adsorbed biotinylated Atp11p from yeast mitochondrial extracts, the F1 β-subunit coprecipitated with the tagged Atp11p protein. Binding interactions between Atp11p and the entire β-subunit of F1 or fragments of the β-subunit were also revealed by a yeast two-hybrid screen: Atp11p bound to a region of the nucleotide-binding domain of the β-subunit located between Gly114 and Leu318. Certain elements of this sequence that would be accessible to Atp11p in the free β-subunit make contact with adjacent α-subunits in the assembled enzyme. This observation suggests that the α-subunits may exchange for bound Atp11p during the process of F1 assembly.
Should Social Network Structure Be Taken into Account in Elections

If the social network structure among the voters in an election is known, how should this be taken into account by the voting rule? In this brief article, I argue, via the maximum likelihood approach to voting, that it is optimal to ignore the social network structure altogether—one person, one vote.
Determination of cross-contamination of the diastereomers ephedrine and pseudoephedrine by high-performance liquid chromatography, thin-layer chromatography and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Abstract A high-performance liquid chromatographic method for separation of the diastereomers ephedrine and pseudoephedrine is described. The method can be used to determine diastereomeric cross-contamination at the 1% level and to detect 0.1% of the contaminant. It employs a phenyl reversed-phase column, mobile phase consisting of 1% acetonitrile in aqueous phosphate buffer and ultraviolet detection at 210 nm. A thin-layer chromatographic separation, using reversed-phase separation plates and borate buffer, was also developed. Carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was also examined as a method for determining diastereomeric cross-contamination. The three methods are compared for sensitivity and selectivity.
Involvement of the NF-κB/Matrix Metalloproteinase Pathway in Cardiac Fibrosis of Mice Lacking Guanylyl Cyclase/Natriuretic Peptide Receptor A

Mice carrying a targeted disruption of the Npr1 gene (coding for guanylyl cyclase/natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPRA)) exhibit increased blood pressure, cardiac hypertrophy, and congestive heart failure, similar to untreated human hypertensive patients. The objective of this study was to determine whether permanent ablation of NPRA signaling in mice alters the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 and pro-inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), leading to myocardial collagen remodeling. Here, we report that expression levels of the MMP-2 and MMP-9 genes were increased by 3-5-fold and that the expression of the TNF-α gene was enhanced by 8-fold in Npr1 homozygous null mutant (Npr1-/-) mouse hearts compared with wild-type (Npr1+/+) control mouse hearts. Myocardial fibrosis, total collagen, and the collagen type I/III ratio (p
Electron transport throughout the DNA base pair

We present here the results of a semiempirical nonequilibrium Green's function study of the electron transport properties of the adenine–thymine DNA base pair. Current-voltage dependence I(V), conductance spectrum G(V), and transmission coefficients are calculated. The influence of the hydrogen bonds on the resistance of the base pair is discussed. The obtained results are compared with the data for the benzene-1,4-dithiolate molecule. It is shown that although the overall conductance of the DNA base pair is much smaller than in the case of benzene-1,4-dithiolate it exhibits significant conductance at small voltage biases that gives a natural way to construct wires, switches, and diodes using the single DNA molecule. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
On the stability of projected dynamical systems

A class of projected dynamical systems (PDS), whose stationary points solve the corresponding variational inequality problem (VIP), was recently studied by Dupuis and Nagurney (Ref. 1). This paper initiates the study of the stability of such PDS around their stationary points and thus gives rise to the study of the dynamical stability of VIP solutions. Examples are constructed showing that such a study can be quite distinct from the classical stability study for dynamical systems (DS). We give the definition of a regular solution to a VIP and introduce the concept of a minimal face flow induced by a PDS, which is a standard DS of a lower dimension. We then show that, at the regular solutions of the VIP, the local stability of the PDS is essentially the same as that of its minimal face flow. Hence, we reduce the problem, in this case, to one of the classical stability study of DS, a more developed discipline. In a more direct way, we then establish a series of local and global stability results of the PDS, under various conditions of monotonicity.
Analysis of Irrational Transfer Functions for Distributed-Parameter Systems

This paper is intended as an exposition of some approximation techniques on irrational transfer functions which are frequently encountered in control systems. Two algorithms for continued fraction expansion and inversion are established.
A design of an empirical study of the applicability of the technology acceptance model to outsourcing decisions

The outsourcing industry has grown rapidly. Many organizations choose outsourcing as a way to address skills shortages. This study synthesizes factors from prior outsourcing research and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). TAM suggested that perceived usefulness and ease of use mediate the effects of other variables on users' attitudes towards a technology. The model in this study suggests that perceived usefulness and ease of use of outsourcing mediate the effects of the external environment, risk, and prior outsourcing relationships on outsourcing decision-makers. A quantitative instrument is under development and will be used to test the proposed model.
The P-407-induced murine model of dose-controlled hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis: a review of findings to date.

Abstract:We are continuing to both elucidate underlying mechanisms and identify clinical applications for a chemically induced murine model of dose-controlled hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis. This murine model neither utilizes genetically modified mice nor a high-fat, cholate-containing diet, alt
Surgery for Inguinal Hernia in Byzantine Times (A.D. 324–1453): First Scientific Descriptions

The aim of this article is to present the techniques applied by Byzantine physicians for inguinal hernia repair and to note their influence on the development of surgery after that time. A study and analysis of the original texts of the Byzantine medical writers, written in Greek, and containing the now mostly lost knowledge of the ancient Hellenistic and Roman periods, was undertaken. Two Byzantine physicians, Aetius of Amida (6th century A.D.) and Paul of Aegina (7th century A.D.), described two techniques for confrontation of inguinal hernia, namely the surgical removal of the prolapsed peritoneum and the cauterization of the groin. These methods were probably derived from the texts of earlier Greek surgeons to which they added their own keen observations. The study of Byzantine medical and literary texts proves that the surgical techniques for inguinal hernia were practiced in Byzantine times and influenced later Arabian and European surgery, thus constituting significant roots of surgery.
Infrared Optical Grade Germanium

The requirements for high performance thermal imaging electro-optical systems have stimulated the need for concomitant quality of optical materials. One material, germanium, is extensively used in thermal imaging systems and has become the dominant material for the optical components of such systems. Optical grade germanium specifications do not exist in the Government-Industry complex and each lens system designer must independently specify the germanium characteristic and performance requirements. This paper briefly describes several performance characteristics of germanium which are based on a Government-Industry coordinated survey.
Alfalfa Controls Nodulation during the Onset of Rhizobium-induced Cortical Cell Division

The formation of first nodules inhibits subsequent nodulation in younger regions of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) roots by a feedback regulatory mechanism that controls nodule number systemically (G Caetano-Anolles, WD Bauer [1988] Planta 175: 546-557). Following inoculation with wild-type Rhizobium meliloti, almost all infections associated with cortical cell division developed into mature nodules. While the distribution of Rhizobium- induced cell divisions closely paralleled the distribution of first emergent nodules, only 9 to 15% of total cell division foci failed to become functional nodules. Nodule formation was restricted to the primary root when plants were inoculated before lateral root emergence. Excision of these primary root nodules allowed nodules to reappear in lateral roots clustered around the location of the root tip at the time of nodule removal. Apparently, this region regained susceptibility to infection within the first hours after excision of primary nodules and suppression of nodulation was restored a day later probably due to the development of new infection foci. Our results suggest that alfalfa controls nodulation during the onset of cell division in the root cortex and not during infection development as in soybean.
Enhancing commonly used model predictions for constructed wetland performance: as-built design considerations

Abstract Successful performance management of constructed wetlands for water treatment requires that mathematical interactions between influent surface water and the water balance be predictable and consistent. Water inflows and outflows, as quantified by a water balance model, form the baseline for pollutant loadings of solutes and nutrients. These flows, coupled with the induced ecological and chemical interactions, affect the design and predictive performance of constructed wetlands as well as the transport and fate of contaminants. The constructed wetland’s water balance was targeted for investigation through the application of a geotechnical field data acquisition. Utilization of the as-built soil profiles and the associated hydraulic conductivity properties were used to quantify the potential influence of soil structure on the design water balance, probable quantitative contributions to the hyporheic zone and predicted effluent concentrations of BOD and ammonia.
Determination of direct current arc plasma current density by hall-effect magnetic probe

A simple and novel method of determining the current density of the cylindrical plasma column of an electric arc, based on the measurement of the self-magnetic field due to the arc drift current, is presented. This is accomplished by means of a miniature Hall-effect magnetic probe traversing the column diametrally at approximately 120 cm/sec. The theory of the Hall probe is briefly sketched and the method of data reduction given. The probing unit was tested on the plasma column of the fluid-transpiration arc. Results of several representative probings are presented showing general conformity to theory of the arc self-magnetic field radial profile. The results indicate the fluid- transpiration arc current density to be remarkably uniform over a large cross section of the column. The perturbative effects of the probe insertion on the plasma are analyzed. The advantages of using Hall probes as against coil-type magnetic probes are examined.
Atmospheric weathering and silica-coated feldspar: analogy with zeolite molecular sieves, granite weathering, soil formation, ornamental slabs, and ceramics.

Feldspar surfaces respond to chemical, biological, and mechanical weathering. The simplest termination is hydroxyl (OH), which interacts with any adsorption layer. Acid leaching of alkalis and aluminum generated a silica-rich, nanometers-thick skin on certain feldspars. Natural K, Na-feldspars develop fragile surfaces as etch pits expand into micrometer honeycombs, possibly colonized by lichens. Most crystals have various irregular coats. Based on surface-catalytic processes in molecular sieve zeolites, I proposed that some natural feldspars lose weakly bonded Al-OH (aluminol) to yield surfaces terminated by strongly bonded Si-OH (silanol). This might explain why some old feldspar-bearing rocks weather slower than predicted from brief laboratory dissolution. Lack of an Al-OH infrared frequency from a feldspar surface is consistent with such a silanol-dominated surface. Raman spectra of altered patches on acid-leached albite correspond with amorphous silica rather than hydroxylated silica–feldspar, but natural feldspar may respond differently. The crystal structure of H-exchanged feldspar provides atomic positions for computer modeling of complex ideas for silica-terminated feldspar surfaces. Natural weathering also depends on swings of temperature and hydration, plus transport of particles, molecules, and ionic complexes by rain and wind. Soil formation might be enhanced by crushing granitic outcrops to generate new Al-rich surfaces favorable for chemical and biological weathering. Ornamental slabs used by architects and monumental masons might last longer by minimizing mechanical abrasion during sawing and polishing and by silicifying the surface. Silica-terminated feldspar might be a promising ceramic surface.
Spatially directed electrosynthesis of semiconductors for photoelectrochemical applications

Abstract It is possible to spatially direct the electrosynthesis of semiconductors on targeted substrates. For example, Se islands on a titanium dioxide surface can serve as chemical templates for the subsequent photoassisted deposition of MSe (M = metal such as Cd, Zn, or Pb) on the oxide surface. The resultant MSe/TiO 2 composites have many useful practical applications. The use of physical templates such as polystyrene spheres or anodized alumina is another strategy to secure spatially directed electrosynthesis of semiconductors. Finally, the combined use of e-beam lithography and electrosynthesis is illustrated. The interesting structures described in this article have applications in solar cells, sensors, environmental remediation, ‘smart’ windows/displays, and the like.
Modelling attacks and challenges to wireless networks

Due to the tremendous potential of MANETs (mobile ad hoc networks) for deployment in commercial and military services, a thorough understanding of network behaviour when exposed to challenges is essential for constructing a resilient and survivable MANET. Therefore, it is vital to have a comprehensive framework that can model it under various network attacks and challenges. The MANET environment has a dynamic and intermittent connectivity resulting from channel fading and mobility of the nodes, which makes it difficult to model the network as well as its challenges. We provide a model to simulate malicious and area-based challenges to wireless networks. In the modelling of malicious attacks, we treat MANETs as time-varying graphs (TVGs) represented as a weighted adjacency matrix, in which the weights refer to the link availability. We evaluate the relations between node significance and weighted centrality metrics. Area-based challenges representative of real-world scenarios are also modelled. Our ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive network challenge model of MANETs and also heterogeneous networks.
Voices of Three Generations: Families and the Declining Health of Older Adults:

The declining health of an older family member impacts family members in many ways. This article describes the effects of coping with the needs of older members among three generations. The systemic effects result in challenges to each generation along physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Discussion focuses on the experiences of the respective generations as they each attempt to voice their needs and negotiate their individual and interpersonal development in the context of the older persons' decline.Multiple theories and intervention strategies, including developmental, narrative, and family systems, will be applied to case material. Helping families to articulate the stress, renegotiate the issues of care, and reframing old patterns of behavior may be crucial to assisting families navigate through this time of life.
An assembly-type supply chain system controlled by kanbans under a just-in-time delivery policy

This research studies the assembly-type supply chain system controlled by kanban mechanism. First, a supply chain system is modeled as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem. A composite formulation of the assembly-type supply chain system is developed by appropriately aggregating the individual branch models as a whole system. The batch size, the number of batches, and the total quantity over one period in the mainline and each branch line are determined. The small size MINLP problems are solved optimally by a branch-and-bound method. For the large size MINLP problems, a heuristic is developed which divides the ATSCS into several small size problems, and then conquers them individually. Next, the kanban operation between two adjacent plants is developed to schedule the loading and unloading, and transportation. Coupled with plant-wide efforts for cost control and management commitment, a logistics system is built for controlling the production as well as the supply chain system, which results in minimizing the total cost of the supply chain system. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the two heuristic procedures and a better solution is obtained for the ATSCS problem.
Repair of single-strand DNA breaks and recovery of chromosomal and chromatid aberrations after treatment of plant seeds with propyl methanesulfonate in vivo

Summary Repair of single-strand breaks of DNA and simultaneous recovery of chromosomal aberrations were studied after treatment of barley seeds with the monofunctional alkylating chemical mutagen, propyl methanesulfonate in vivo. In soaked seeds the diminution of single-strand breaks of DNA induced by PMS was correlated with the decrease of chromosomal aberrations, whereas in dried seeds the repair of DNA breaks was depressed and, in accord with this, the frequency of chromosomal aberrations increased. The prolonged storage of seeds led to a more delayed repair of chromosomal aberrations in dry seeds and a more delayed accelerated repair in soaked seeds.
Detection of the effects of lead exposure by visual evoked response latency

Visual evoked responses were studied in the offspring of mother rats exposed to lead acetate. All measurements were taken by experimenters uninformed regarding treatment assignment. The latency of the P2 component was significantly shorter for the lead-exposed animals than for the control animals. It is suggested that VER latencies may be a sensitive index of subclinical effects of lead on brain, long after discontinuation of lead exposure and when blood levels are normal.
Follicular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Increasing Rate of Diagnosis and Clinical Behavior

Results: There were 233 diagnoses of follicular variants or conventional PTCs that underwent surgery over six years. There were 107 newly diagnosed FVPTCs and 126 CPTCs. The rate of diagnosis of FVPTC increased from 1 case per month early in the study to 2.35 cases over the last two years of the study. The two groups were similar in gender distribution and multifocality. However, FVPTC tumors were smaller (1.20 vs 1.70 cm) (p=0.01) with fewer cases of extrathyroid extension (7% vs 33%) (p<0.01). They were diagnosed in older individuals (46 vs 41.5 years) (p=0.018) and had fewer lymph node metastases (21% vs 55%) (p<0.01).
Identity, Self-Awareness, and Self-Deception: Ethical Implications for Leaders and Organizations

The ability of leaders to be perceived as trustworthy and to develop authentic and effective relationships is largely a function of their personal identities and their self-awareness in understanding and making accommodations for their weaknesses. The research about self-deception confirms that we often practice denial regarding our identities without being fully aware of the ethical duties that we owe to ourselves and to others. This article offers insights about the nature of identity and self-awareness, specifically examining how self-deception can create barriers to self-awareness within both a personal and a business context.
Culture and fertility in the Nepal Himalayas: a test of a hypothesis.

This article tests the hypothesis that in the Nepal Himalayas the Tibetan sociocultural system (fraternal polyandry) reduces aggregate fertility whereas the Hindu system maximizes by early and virtually universal monogamous marriage. It is shown that while fraternal polyandry does reduce aggregate fertility, the hypothesis that it would lead to a substantially lower fertility rate is false because the effects of fraternal polyandry are roughly balanced by the effects of postwidowhood celibacy among the Hindus.
Expectation-based intelligent control

Abstract New dynamics paradigms—negative diffusion and terminal attractors—are introduced to control noise and chaos. The applied control forces are composed of expectations governed by the associated Fokker–Planck and Liouville equations. The approach is expanded to a general concept of intelligent control via expectations. Relevance to control in livings is emphasized and illustrated by neural nets with mirror neurons.