cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Queuing Approach to Logistics Systems

This paper deals with tradeoffs and major interactions among the different activities in logistics systems. Specifically, the problem of "interchange-ability" between maintenance and supply, embodied in the question of "subassembly vs. piece-part replacement," is considered. The approach presented consists of a novel method of systems representation: A basic model, which is fundamentally a multistage circular queuing system, is developed for each of the units assemblies, subassemblies, etc. that constitute an equipment system. These elementary systems are then connected together with the pattern of linkage made to correspond to the technological breakdown of the over-all system. An interesting result of this approach is that the important measure of effectiveness for any unit is not only its unavailability probability of stockout, but also the duration of unavailability. Iterative solutions in the case of linear cost functions, a total cost constraint, and the usual exponential assumptions are also presented.
High-spin organocobalt(II) complexes in a thioether coordination environment

A series of electronically and coordinatively unsaturated four-coordinate organocobalt(II) complexes, [PhTt tBu ]Co(R) ([PhTt tBu ] = phenyltris((tert -butylthio)methyl)borate; R = Me, Et, Ph, Bn) have been prepared by reaction of [PhTt tBu ]Cocl with the corresponding R 2 Mg reagent. These high-spin, S = 3/2, complexes have been characterized spectroscopically and several of their structures determined by X-ray diffraction. The R = allyl derivative, [PhTt tBu ]Co(n 3 -allyl), is low spin. Reaction of [PhTt tBu ]Co(R) with CO yielded the acyl adducts [PhTt tBu ]Co(CO)C(O)R when R = Me, Et, Ph. These five-coordinate, low-spin complexes possess square pyramidal stereochemistry with a thioether occupying the apical position. In contrast, [PhTt tBu ]Co(R), R = Bn or allyl, reacted with CO generating the brown cobalt(I) dicarbonyl [PhTt tBu ]Co(CO) 2 . The latter reaction is proposed to proceed via CO-promoted Co-C bond homolysis. The Ni complex [k 2 -PhTt tBu ]Ni(n 3 -allyl) shows no reactivity with CO under similar conditions. Each of the [PhTt tBu ]Co(R) species reacts with NO, generating brown [k 2 -PhTt tBu ]Co(NO) 2 in good yield.
Basal lamina of human seminiferous tubule- its role in material transport. I. In presence of tunica vaginal hydrocele.

Electron microscopy of testicular biopsies obtained from two adult males with tunica vaginal hydrocele revealed some protrusions from the basal lamina to the germinal epithelium in the seminiferous tubule. The protrusions were of three types: some between the spermatogonia and Sertoli cells, some directly within the Sertoli cell cytoplasm and others inside the spermatogonia. The protrusions inside the spermatogonia were only 0.5 mum deep whereas the other types were from 1-11 mum deep. Occasionally some cut off portions of these protrusions were seen inside the ground cytoplasm of the Sertoli cell without an apparent connection with the original stalk. The matrix of the protrusions contained a homogenous component (composed of a fine filamentous element) and granular and membranous components. These components closely resemble the materials found in the basal lamina of the seminiferous tubule. It has been suggested that under mild pathological conditions, i.e., hydrocele, the junctions between the seminiferous tubule epithelium and the basal lamina become somewhat more flexible. As a result, the protrusions become longer and a passage might be formed to allow the flow of raw materials in or out of the seminiferous tubule.
Interactions of Mn with other ions in wheat and soybeans

Abstract A study of Mn interactions was undertaken by growing wheat (Triticum aestivum) and soybeans (Glycine max L. Merr.) in the greenhouse over three soll pH levels (4.8, 5.8 and 6.8) and three Mn levels. Eight southeastern soils were treated with 0, 25 and 50 ppm Mn for wheat and 0, 2.5 and 25 ppm Mn for soybeans and the crops grown for 40 days. Correlation coefficients were computed for plant Mn versus other plant elements including P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, B, Cu, Zn, Al, Mo, Si, Ba and Na for the overall data by crop and by Mn treatment by crop. For wheat and soybeans the Ca‐Mn correlation was consistently negative and significant. The soil pH levels adjusted with Ca(OH)2 account for this correlation and other relationships found were most likely related to the soil pH. For wheat, Fe and B concentrations were positively correlated with the Mn concentrations in the plant. For soybeans, the Mn concentration was positively correlated with P and Zn. As the Mn concentration in the plants decreased due to increa...
Investigation of wire electrical discharge machining of thin cross-sections and compliant mechanisms

The wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) of cross-section with minimum thickness and compliant mechanisms is studied. Effects of EDM process parameters, particularly the spark cycle time and spark on-time on thin cross-section cutting of Nd-Fe-B magnetic material, carbon bipolar plate, and titanium are investigated. An envelope of feasible wire EDM process parameters is generated for the commercially pure titanium. The application of such envelope to select suitable EDM process parameters for micro feature generation is demonstrated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of EDM surface, subsurface, and debris are presented. SEM observations lead to a hypothesis based on the thermal and electrostatic stress induced fracture to explain the limiting factor for wire EDM cutting of thin-sections. Applications of the thin cross-section EDM cutting for manufacture of compliant mechanisms are discussed.
A study of 43 patients with panayiotopoulos syndrome, a common and benign childhood seizure susceptibility.

Summary: Purpose: To determine prevalence, clinical, EEG features, and prognosis of Panayiotopoulos syndrome and to examine the proposition that clinical manifestations are more important than EEG findings. Methods: We analyzed retrospectively the clinical and EEG records of 1,340 children with one or more focal seizures seen in the last 18 years, supplemented with a prospective study from 1998. Panayiotopoulos syndrome was defined by clinical criteria, mainly ictal emesis, irrespective of EEG findings. Results: We analyzed 43 of 90 patients with Panayiotopoulos syndrome who were seizure free >2 years. Girls predominated. Mean age at first seizure was 5 years. Seizures consisted mainly of autonomic manifestations; ictal emesis was often the first symptom, culminating in vomiting in 86%. Of nonautonomic manifestations, lateral eye deviation was the most common; visual symptoms were exceptional. Impairment of consciousness ensued in all seizures, half of which ended with hemi or generalized convulsions. Nearly 46.5% of cases had at least one seizure >30 min, constituting autonomic status epilepticus. Seizures during sleep (84%) were more common than those in wakefulness. EEG showed occipital spikes in 29 patients. Of the other 14 cases, five had extraoccipital abnormalities or brief generalized discharges, and nine had normal awake and sleep EEG. Prognosis was excellent. All 43 children have been free of seizures for 2 years, 53% having a single seizure, and 47%, an average two to three seizures. Conclusions: Panayiotopoulos syndrome is common and needs wider recognition. EEG shows occipital or extraoccipital abnormalities, is normal in one third of patients, and does not determine clinical manifestations or prognosis, which is excellent despite the high prevalence of lengthy seizures. Key Words: Children—Autonomic s eizures—Epileps y— Prognosis.
Corticotropin-releasing hormone antagonists, astressin B and antalarmin: differing profiles of activity in rhesus monkeys.

The present study compares the activity of two chemically distinct corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) antagonists at the level of the pituitary gland in rhesus monkeys, using exogenous CRH-stimulated increases in adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and cortisol. Of chief interest was whether the CRH-R1-selective pyrrolopyrimidine, antalarmin, shown previously to have activity in the central nervous system (CNS), would differ in its antagonist profile from the CRH-R1- & 2-selective peptide, astressin B, which is unlikely to have access to the CNS following systemic administration. Nine rhesus monkeys (eight male), each with an indwelling venous catheter, were subjects in this study. Astressin B (0.001, 0.003, 0.03, 0.1, and 0.3 mg/kg) or antalarmin (1.0, 3.2, and 10 mg/kg) was administered as an intravenous (i.v.) pretreatment 15 min prior to administration of 1 or 10 μg/kg i.v. CRH. Antalarmin (10 mg/kg) was also administered alone on six occasions and its effects on behavior as well as on ACTH and cortisol levels were measured. Astressin B was assessed following i.v. and intracisternal (i.c.) administration. Astressin B dose-dependently abolished the CRH-stimulated ACTH and cortisol responses, with an antagonist effect lasting in excess of 24 h. Astressin B was approximately 300-times more potent when given i.c. than when it was administered via the i.v. route. By contrast, antalarmin antagonized the effects of CRH on ACTH but not cortisol at 1.0 and 3.2 mg/kg. At a larger dose, antalarmin stimulated ACTH and cortisol release and produced behavioral sedation. These latter effects diminished with repeated administration of antalarmin. The differences between astressin B and antalarmin may be due either to non-CRH receptor-mediated effects of antalarmin or to a complex interaction of antalarmin's effects at both central and peripheral CRH receptors.
Snapping by Foals of Equus caballus

Abstract and Summary Foals were observed to snap to juvenile and adult ponies and, rarely, to other foals in a wide variety of circumstances. There was no difference in the rate of snapping by colts and fillies. Colts snapped to a stallion more often than would be expected if they were snapping randomly to any adult; fillies snapped randomly to either sex. In (mean ± SE) 21 ± 5% of the cases the foal approached the pony to which it snapped. In 24 ± 3% of the cases the foal was approached by the pony to which it snapped, while in 54 ± 6% of the cases the two were in immediate proximity prior to the snapping. No aggression was directed toward the foal in 62 ± 5 % of the cases. Aggression was directed toward the foal before snapping in 31 ± 5% of the cases and after initiation of snapping in 7 ± 1% of the cases. Adults and foals also nosed each other before and after snapping. Mares sometimes responded to snapping by their own foal, usually by exhibiting aggression toward the pony to which the foal had snapped. It was concluded that snapping may have multiple signal functions, depending on context and that it may be a displacement activity of foals and young horses derived from nursing behavior. Zusammenfassung Unter verschiedenen Umstanden schnappten Fohlen (mannliche und weibliche gleich haufig) nach jungen und ausgewachsenen Ponies, selten jedoch nach anderen Fohlen. Mannliche Fohlen schnappten ofter als erwartet nach einem Hengst, weibliche schnappten ohne Unterschied nach beiden Geschlechtern. In 62 ± 5% der Falle war kein aggressives Verhalten gegen das Fohlen gerichtet. Es gab gegenseitiges Nasenreiben zwischen Fohlen und ausgewachsenen Tieren vor und nach dem Schnappen. Wenn das eigene Fohlen nach einem Pony schnappte, zeigten Stuten gelegentlich aggressives Verhalten gegen das Pony. Es scheint, das Schnappen verschiedene Funktionen haben kann, je nach Zusammenhang, und das es sich dabei um eine Ubersprungbewegung von Fohlen und jungen Pferden handelt, die vom Saugeverhalten herstammt.
Optomechanical dark mode

Summary form only given. Thermal mechanical motion hinders the use of a mechanical system in applications such as quantum information processing. A straightforward, but technically challenging, approach to overcome the thermal motion is to cool the mechanical oscillator to its motional ground state. An alternative approach, as proposed recently, is to exploit the use of a mechanically-dark mode, which is a special coherent superposition of two optical modes [1, 2]. The cancellation in the mechanical coupling induced by the superposition decouples the dark mode from the mechanical oscillator. The formation of the dark mode, however, also induces a conversion of the optical field from one optical mode to the other. This type of mechanically-mediated coupling is immune to thermal mechanical motion, providing a promising mechanism for interfacing hybrid quantum systems. Here, we report the experimental demonstration of such a dark mode by coupling two optical modes in a silica resonator to one of its mechanical breathing modes in the regime of weak optomechanical coupling [3].
p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinases inhibit atrial natriuretic peptide mRNA transcription in gp130-mediated hypertrophic ventricular myocytes.

Abstract Objective To understand the role of ANP mRNA transcription regulation in gp130-mediated cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and the involved mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK, also called p42/p44 MAPK) signaling pathway. Methods Isolated neonatal ventricular myocytes were treated with different concentrations of CT-1 (10 −9 , 10 −8 and 10 −7 mol/L). MTT was used to analyze the viability and RT-PCR was used to detect ANP mRNA levels in cardiomyocyte. To inhibit p42/p44 MAPK activity in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes, the cells were pretreated with a specific MEK1 inhibitor. Results CT-1 significantly induced ANP mRNA expression and the viability of cardiomyocytes in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, blocking p42/p44 MAPK activity by the special MEK1 inhibitor upregulated the ANP mRNA. Conclusions p42/p44 MAPK have an important role in suppressing ANP mRNA transcription and cell activity in gp130-mediated hypertrophic ventricular myocytes.
The auditory brainstem response (ABR) is a useful diagnostic tool in the intensive care nursery

SUMMARY: We present normative data on the auditory brainstem response (ABR) derived from 91 premature infants, and illustrate a simple procedure that uses deviations from these norms to differentiate a hearing disorder from a neurological disorder Involving the brainstem. In an infant intensive care unit the procedure identified 11 patients with hearing disorder, 3 with neurological problems, and 3 with both disorders. Serial measurements revealed whether a given infant was developing normally, and, for those with disorders, whether the clinical status was improving or deteriorating. The ABR method, which is noninvasive and performed during natural sleep, provided useful diagnostic Information about every infant tested. SPECULATION: The hard, objective data this new method provides adds a potentially important tool to the neurological armamentarium. Additional research will reveal whether, as we suggest here, Its use accurately predicts where and how much brain and cochlear damage is produced by anoxia, acidosis, trauma, drug regimes and the like, and establish its value as a method for monitoring clinical status – unchanged improving, deteriorating, brain death.
Calcium binding to tubulin

Using flow dialysis, we found two classes of calcium-binding sites on tubulin: high-affinity binding sites (1.56 ± 0.38 per tubulin dimer) with a dissociation constant of (4.86 ± 0.12) · 10−6 M and low-affinity binding sites (5.82 ± 0.50 per tubulin dimer) with a dissociation constant of (6.4 ± 0.4) · 10−5 M. In the presence of 6 · 10−5 M MgSO4, we found 0.64 ± 0.18 calcium-binding sites per tubulin dimer with a dissociation constant of (4.7 ± 0.5) · 10−6 M and 1.2 ± 0.2 sites per dimer with a dissociation constant of (3.5 ± 0.4) · 10−5 M. Under controlled conditions, trypsin and chymotrypsin selectively cleaved α- and β-subunits, respectively, forming major fragments of 35 kDa and 20 kDa from the α-subunit, and major fragments of 31 kDa and 22 kDa from the β-subunit. The high-affinity calcium-binding sites were detecte in the carboxyl-terminal region of each tubulin subunit. Computer analysis of the subunit amino-acid sequences suggested possible locations of the putative calcium=binding sites.
Molecular reorientation during dissociative multiphoton ionization

The angular distribution of the ion fragments after multiphoton ionization of diatomic molecules shows a pronounced anisotropy. Fragments are detected mainly along the direction of the laser polarization, as is shown for iodine in this paper. We have performed a double-pulse experiment to clarify the underlying mechanism. It shows that the anisotropy cannot be explained in terms of a variation of the ionization rates with the angle between the electric field and the molecular axis. Instead, the anisotropy is caused by the deflection of the ion fragments in the strong field due to the molecular polarizability. Although the molecules are frozen in space on the time scale of the laser pulse, they gain enough angular momentum to affect the trajectories of the fragments. Classical trajectory calculations support this explanation.
Patient and tumor characteristics associated with breast cancer recurrence after complete pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy

Breast cancer patients whose tumors achieve a pathological complete response (pCR) with neoadjuvant chemotherapy have a prognosis which is better than that predicted for the stage of their disease. However, within this subgroup of patients, recurrences have been observed. We sought to examine factors associated with recurrence in a population of breast cancer patients who achieved a pCR with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients with unilateral breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2010 at one comprehensive cancer center. A pCR was defined as no residual invasive cancer in the breast in the surgical specimen following neoadjuvant therapy. Recurrence was defined as visceral or bony reappearance of cancer after completion of all therapy. Of 818 patients who completed neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 144 (17.6 %) had pCR; six with bilateral breast cancer were excluded from further analysis. The mean time to follow-up was 47.2 months. Among the 138 patients with unilateral breast cancer, there were 14 recurrences (10.1 %). Using a binary multiple logistic regression model, examining types of chemotherapy and surgery, race, lymph node assessment, and lymph node status, breast cancer side, triple-negative status, and radiation receipt, only African-American patients (OR: 5.827, 95 % CI: 1.280–26.525; p = 0.023) were more likely to develop distant recurrence. The mean time to recurrence was 31.9 months. In our study, race was the only independent predictor of recurrence after achieving pCR with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The reasons for this observation require further study.
Fibrosis Progression in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver vs Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Paired-Biopsy Studies

Background & Aims Little is known about differences in rates of fibrosis progression between patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) vs nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all studies that assessed paired liver biopsy specimens to estimate the rates of fibrosis progression in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including NAFL and NASH. Methods Through a systematic search of multiple databases and author contact, up to June 2013, we identified studies of adults with NAFLD that collected paired liver biopsy specimens at least 1 year apart. From these, we calculated a pooled-weighted annual fibrosis progression rate (number of stages changed between the 2 biopsy samples) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and identified clinical risk factors associated with progression. Results We identified 11 cohort studies including 411 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD (150 with NAFL and 261 with NASH). At baseline, the distribution of fibrosis for stages 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 was 35.8%, 32.5%, 16.7%, 9.3%, and 5.7%, respectively. Over 2145.5 person-years of follow-up evaluation, 33.6% had fibrosis progression, 43.1% had stable fibrosis, and 22.3% had an improvement in fibrosis stage. The annual fibrosis progression rate in patients with NAFL who had stage 0 fibrosis at baseline was 0.07 stages (95% CI, 0.02–0.11 stages), compared with 0.14 stages in patients with NASH (95% CI, 0.07–0.21 stages). These findings correspond to 1 stage of progression over 14.3 years for patients with NAFL (95% CI, 9.1–50.0 y) and 7.1 years for patients with NASH (95% CI, 4.8–14.3 y). Conclusions Based on a meta-analysis of studies of paired liver biopsy studies, liver fibrosis progresses in patients with NAFL and NASH.
Failure analysis of retrieved cemented total knee prostheses

Abstract Surface wear of articular polyethylene in knee arthroplasty may contribute to failure. A total of 83 retrieved cemented knee prostheses of total condylar, unicondylar and constrained designs with implantation times ranging from 4 to 160 months were available for evaluation. Increasing time in situ correlated with increasing wear score for tibial components but not for femoral components. Polymethylmethacrylate particles were embedded in the articular surface in 43% of all tibial components. Increasing patient weight correlated with decreasing implant survival.
Single spatial mode 2–2.2 µm diode lasers fabricated by selective wet etching

Diffraction limited ? = 2?2.2??m ridge waveguide lasers with continuous wave output power near 100 mW at room temperature were fabricated with a two-step wet etching technique using the interface between the top cladding and waveguide core materials as an etch stopper. The devices did not suffer from lateral current spreading. The second optical mode was suppressed by the low lateral confinement. Experiments showed that reducing the ridge width below 6??m did not affect the device efficiency or the output beam quality but led to an increase of the transparency current density. We speculate that this increase was associated with the mismatch between the wide modal size and the narrow current path in ridge lasers with suppressed lateral current spreading.
Ecdysone 20-hydroxylation and 3-epimerization in larvae of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar L.: tissue distribution and developmental changes.

Abstract The potential for ecdysone metabolism was determined for various larval tissues of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar. Homogenates of fat body, midguts, and Malpighian tubules, taken on different days during the second half of the fifth instar, were incubated with [3H]ecdysone, and the products were analyzed by reversed-phase and normal-phase HPLC. All tissues showed conversion to 20-hydroxyecdysone, and midguts also produced 3-epiecdysone. Ecdysone 20-monooxygenase (E20MO) activity in the fat body increased from a low level on day 5 to a peak on day 11, coinciding with the peak in the hemolymph ecdysteroid titer on the penultimate day of the instar. Midguts and Malpighian tubules showed E20MO activity only during the last 3 or 4 days of the instar, with the highest activity also occurring on the penultimate day. For the midguts, the appearance of the E20MO coincided with the transition from larval to pupal tissue. No activity was detected in larval midguts. 3-Epiecdysone formation, however, was mainly found in larval midguts, with only marginal activity detectable in pupal midguts.
Picosecond Raman studies of the optical phonons in the Al x Ga 1 − x As layers of GaAs- Al x Ga 1 − x As multiple-quantum-well structures

Picosecond time-resolved Raman scattering has been used to investigate the properties of the GaAs-like and AlAs-like longitudinal-optical phonons in the ${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$As layers of GaAs-${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$As multiple-quantum-well structures. The experimental results have shown that the phonon lifetimes are the same as in bulk ${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$As and therefore have demonstrated that phonon zone folding caused by the additional periodicity of the lattice has little effect on the lifetimes of these barrier-confined LO phonons. The generation efficiency of these LO phonons in the ${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$As layers of GaAs-${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$As multiple-quantum-well structures has been shown to be the same as in bulk ${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$As.
A detailed kinetic modeling study of aromatics formation in laminar premixed acetylene and ethylene flames

A computational study was performed for the formation and growth of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in laminar premixed acetylene and ethylene flames. A new detailed reaction mechanism describing fuel pyrolysis and oxidation, benzene formation, and PAH mass growth and oxidation is presented and critically tested. It is shown that the reaction model predicts reasonably well the concentration profiles of major and intermediate species and aromatic molecules in a number of acetylene and ethylene flames reported in the literature. It is demonstrated that reactions of n-C4Hx + C2H2 leading to the formation of one-ring aromatics are as important as the propargyl recombination, and hence must be included in kinetic modeling of PAH formation in hydrocarbon flames. It is further demonstrated that the mass growth of PAHs can be accounted for by the previously proposed H-abstraction-C2H2-addiction mechanism.
A comparison of storage optimizatons in automatically-generated attribute evaluators

Attribute grammars are a value-oriented, non-procedural extension to context-free grammars that facilitate the specification of translations whose domain is described by the underlying context-free grammar. Just as parsers for context-free languages can be automatically constructed from a context-free grammar, so can translators, called attribute evaluators, be automatically generated from an attribute grammar. A major obstacle to generating efficient attribute evaluators is that they typically use large amounts of memory to represent the attributed parse tree. In this report we investigate the problem of efficient representation of the attributed parse tree by analyzing and comparing the strategies of two systems that have been used to automatically generate a translator from an attribute grammar: the GAG system developed at the Universitat de Karlsruhe and the LINGUIST-86 system written at Intel Corporation. Our analysis will characterize the two strategies and highlight their respective strengths and weaknesses. Drawing on the insights given by this analysis, we propose a strategy for storage optimization in automatically generated attribute evaluators that not only incorporates the best features of both GAG and LINGUIST-86, but also contains novel features that address aspects of the problem that are handled poorly by both systems.
High speed in-line holocinematography for dispersed-phase dynamics

A holocinematography system based on the copper vapor laser is described where a series of spatially multiplex holograms is recorded in rapid succession (up to 10 kHz).
National science foundation perspectives on the nature of STEM program evaluation

This chapter presents the historical and present perspectives on STEM educational program evaluation of the National Science Foundation (in particular, the Division of Research, Evaluation, and Communication).
Self-assessment of sexual maturity status in children with Crohn's disease

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the validity of self-assessment of sexual maturity status (SMS) in children with Crohn's disease (CD), a pediatric chronic disease that often affects growth and development. Study design: Self-assessment of SMS in 100 children (34 girls) ages 8 to 18 years with CD from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was compared with an independent assessment by one well trained pediatrician, using drawings and written descriptions of Tanner stages of breast, genital, and pubic hair development. Results: Overall, subjects with CD (age, 14.3 ± 2.8 years) had delayed growth status based on height-for-age (HAZ) and weight-for-age Z scores (WAZ). Boys were more growth delayed (HAZ, −0.90 ± 1.1; WAZ, −0.75 ± 1.3) than girls (HAZ, −0.45 ± 1.3; WAZ, −0.20 ± 1.1). Kappa coefficients (κ) showed excellent agreement between child and physician assessment of SMS, ranging from κ = 0.74 to 0.85, depending on sex and SMS component, corresponding to a 79% to 88% agreement. When not in agreement, children tended to overestimate their SMS. Boys who overestimated (n = 8) had significantly higher weight and BMI status than boys who assessed accurately. Conclusions: Self-assessment of SMS was a reliable and valid method in children with CD and is useful in screening for maturational delay in children with chronic disease. (J Pediatr 2002;141:223-9)
Blood changes and fertility derangements following the injection of Candida albicans into the spleen of the experimental animals (occurrence of hypersplenism)

The injection ofCandida albicans (under experimental conditions used here) into the spleens of Wistar rats and Swiss mice produces profound hematological changes which are similar in rats and mice. After injection of the organisms there was steady lowering of the white cells and of the platelets in mice and in rats. Following splenectomy there was a sharp rise of both platelets and white cells in mice and rats. Mild normocytic, normochromic anemia was observed during the experiment. Following the splenectomy the level of hemoglobin returned to normal in fourteen weeks in the rats and in thirteen weeks in the mice. An increased level of reticulocytes and siderocytes was observed during the experiment. The mean value of the spleen weights in the experimental animals was higher than in the controls. Hyperplasia was the constant histological feature of these spleens. Bone marrow was either normal or hyperplastic. plastic. These changes correspond to the picture known in human pathology as hypersplenism. The injected organisms could still be cultured from the spleen about 4–6 months after operation. Attempts to isolate the injected organisms after 6 months were unsuccessful. The experimental mice showed derangement of fertility. Of the forty females mated with normal males only seven became pregnant. The litters were normal, 7–12 babies. Thirty percent of the young died before one month. Many of them showed growth retardation.
The United Nations Security Council and the Responsibility to Protect: Policy, Process, and Practice

This is the opening chapter of the first entire academic journal issue devoted to the specific role of the UN Security Council in implementing the responsibility to protect. The Security Council’s role in implementing the responsibility to protect is not limited to taking collective action against mass atrocities (pillar three). The Council can also make important contributions to structural and operational prevention of genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity (pillar two). It regularly mandates UN peace operations to support security sector reform and the establishment of effective judicial authorities in post-conflict countries. By doing so, it strengthens the national protection capability of states that typically face a high risk of relapse into mass violence. When the Security Council mandates peace operations to support the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of former combatants it also strengthens the fabric of a post-conflict society. In addition, the Council can conduct preventive diplomacy under Chapter VI of the UN Charter to encourage states to fulfill their responsibility to protect as they confront a crisis. The contributions by the Security Council to the implementation of the responsibility to protect complement the important roles of the General Assembly, the Human Rights Council, the Peacebuilding Commission and other United Nations bodies. All contributions of the Security Council to the implementation of the responsibility to protect have to occur within the scope of the authority granted to the Security Council by the UN Charter.
Effect of acid acceptor concentration on the interfacial polycondensation of nylon 610

The effect of acid acceptor level (sodium hydroxide) in the interfacial polycondensation of nylon 610 has been studied. It was found that increased acceptor levels shifted the curves of intrinsic viscosity versus sebacoyl chloride concentration to the right. It was also found that peak intrinsic viscosity values first decreased and then increased with increasing acid acceptor levels. The experimental results were shown to relate to balance of reactants and character of polycondensation zone.
Correlation of elastographic tissue strain images with mechanically scanned modulus images

Tissue stiffness is generally known to be associated with pathological changes. Elastography, on the other hand, is capable of imaging tissue strain, which may or may not be well correlated with tissue stiffness. Hence a quantitative comparison between the elastographic tissue strain images and the corresponding tissue modulus images needs to be performed to evaluate the usefulness of elastography in imaging tissue stiffness properties. We find that under certain conditions, such a quantitative comparison is feasible. Preliminary results indicate a correlation of at least 0.6 between tissue stiffness maps and strain maps in some typical bovine muscle tissues.
Temperature profile and thermal-spreading resistance for a semi-infinite type-IIa-diamond heat sink

The steady-state temperature profile and thermal-spreading resistance for a uniform heat source on a semi-infinite type IIa-diamond heat sink are calculated. The inverse temperature dependence of the diamond thermal conductivity is taken into account.
An experimental method for the closure of interauricular septal defects in dogs.

Abstract A method is described whereby a defect in the interauricular septum in dogs can be closed.
Two-photon spectroscopy of InAs quantum dot molecules

Optical spectra of InAs quantum dot molecules show clear signatures of 2-photon absorption through sequential and simultaneous transitions. Biexcitons can be spatially direct or indirect, producing 2-photon transitions that are unique to molecules.
Is it ok 2 txt? Reaching out to adolescents about sexual and reproductive health

As the number of adolescents in the population is growing, it is even more important that healthcare practitioners are provided with the tools and resources that can best educate and connect with those patients at risk in this population, particularly with regard to sexual health behaviours. Notoriously, adolescents are difficult to engage in their own healthcare. However, with the advancement of technology and the ubiquitous use of cell phones, emerging studies suggest that there may be benefits to using text messaging within the adolescent health arena to encourage engagement, compliance and improve health knowledge. The use of text messaging has been implemented within adolescent healthcare in multiple ways but studies are needed to evaluate the content of messages, dosage and efficacy of text messaging in improving health outcomes in this population.
Fluorescent analogs of UDP-glucose and their use in characterizing substrate binding by toxin A from Clostridium difficile

Uridine-5′-diphospho-1-α-d-glucose (UDP-Glc) is a common substrate used by glucosyltransferases, including certain bacterial toxins such as Toxins A and B from Clostridium difficile. Fluorescent analogs of UDP-Glc have been prepared for use in our studies of the clostridial toxins. These compounds are related to the methylanthraniloyl-ATP compounds commonly used to probe the chemistry of ATP-dependent enzymes. The reaction of excess methylisatoic anhydride with UDP-Glc in aqueous solution yields primarily the 2′ and 3′ isomers of methylanthraniloyl-UDP-Glc (MUG). As the 2′ and 3′ isomers readily interconvert, this isomeric mixture was copurified by HPLC away from the other isomeric products, and was characterized by a combination of NMR, fluorescence and mass spectrometric methods. TcdA binds MUG competitively with respect to UDP-Glc with an affinity of 15 ± 2 µm in the absence of Mg2+. There is currently no evidence that the fluorescent substrate analog is turned over by the toxin in either glucosyltransferase or glucosylhydrolase reactions. Using a competition assay, the affinity of UDP-Glc was determined to be 45±10 µm in the absence of Mg2+. The binding of UDP-Glc and Mg2+ are highly coupled with Mg2+ affinities in the range of 90–600 µm, depending on the experimental conditions. These results imply that one of the significant roles of the metal ion might be to stabilize the enzyme–substrate complex prior to initiation of the transferase chemistry.
A review of multilevel theory for ecologic analyses.

This paper reviews multilevel and conventional models for the analysis of ecologic (group, aggregate) data. It emphasizes the non-separability of contextual (group-level) effects and individual-level effects that arises from the multilevel structure of the underlying effects. Contrary to common misperceptions, this problem afflicts ecologic studies in which the sole objective is to estimate contextual effects, as well as studies in which the objective is to estimate individual effects. Multilevel effects also severely complicate causal interpretations of model coefficients.
Control of electric power transmission networks with massive energy storage using economic MPC

The classic approach to generator dispatch in large scale power generation and distribution systems (under regulated markets) is the Unit Commitment (UC) problem. As renewable power sources (that cannot be dispatched) are added to the network many have advocated the additional introduction of massive energy storage facilities. However, the inherent dynamic nature of energy storage suggests an expanded view of the classic UC operating policy. In this work, the notion of Economic Model Predictive Control (EMPC) is investigated as a generalization of the classic UC policy. Of particular interest is the selection of EMPC prediction horizon size and its impact on storage utilization.
A tree search strategy for large-vocabulary continuous speech recognition

We describe a tree search strategy, called the Envelope Search, which is a time-asynchronous search scheme that combines aspects of the A* heuristic search algorithm with those of the time-synchronous Viterbi search algorithm. This search technique is used in the large-vocabulary continuous speech recognition system developed at the IBM Research Center.
Sensitization to anaphylaxis and to some of its pharmacological mediators by blockade of the beta adrenergic receptors.

Abstract Strain differences are described in the hypersensitivity to anaphylaxis, and to some of its pharmacologic mediators, produced by pertussis or blockade of the beta-adrenergic receptors. Thus, pertussis did not produce histamine hypersensitivity in CF 1 but did in CFW mice; in contrast, pertussis produced methacholine hypersensitivity in CF 1 but not in CFW mice. Blockade of beta receptors with dichloroiso-proterenol (DCI), Nethalide, or MJ-1999 sensitized both CFW and CF 1 mice to histamine, but the hypersensitivity was greater in CFW, followed by CF 1 , and finally by nonobese siblings of "obese-hyperglycemic" mice. This relationship was paralleled by that of the natural histamine-sensitivity of the three strains. A bimodal response to histamine was found in untreated CFW mice, but only after beta blockade in CF 1 mice. In general, MJ-1999 was the most and DCI the least potent sensitizer, with Nethalide showing intermediate activity. MJ-1999 produced hypersensitivity to the amines in Hartley, but not in Trapani-Campbell, guinea pigs. Both blocked strains could be sensitized, however, to anaphylaxis. Interventions conceivably resulting in additive blockade of beta or simultaneous stimulation of alpha receptors could break strain resistance to sensitization. Conversely, protection of susceptible strains was obtained through procedures known to protect beta receptors against development of a blockade, or to by-pass or eliminate an already-established blockade. While alpha blockers did not show sensitizing activity, such properties of beta blockers were shown to be unrelated to some of their nonspecific (i.e., histamine-releasing) effects. Likewise, no correlation was found between the antihistaminic-antiserotonin and the protective activities of alpha blockers against pertussis-induced hypersensitivity. These findings were interpreted to mean that the sensitizing activity of the beta adrenergic blocking agents is due to their ability to inhibit the beta pharmacological actions of the adrenergic neurotransmitters or those of their exogenous counterparts.
Legislative Productivity of the U.S. Congress, 1789–2004

We measure legislative productivity for the entire history of the U.S. Congress. Current measures of legislative productivity are problematic because they measure productivity for a limited number of decades and because they are based on different aspects of productivity. We provide a methodology for measuring (1) a Legislative Productivity Index (LPI) and (2) a Major Legislation Index (MLI). We use the W-CALC algorithm of Stimson (1999, Public opinion in America: Moods, cycles, and swings. 2nd ed. Boulder, CO: Westview Press) to combine information from previously used indicators of productivity into measures of the LPI and the MLI. We provide examinations of content, convergent, and construct validity. The construct validity model includes potential determinants of legislative productivity. We conclude that the LPI and the MLI are superior measures of productivity than other measures used in the literature.
Magnetic monopoles in SU(N) gauge theories

The potential A(r) ≡ M(r×n)(r−r·n)−1 is a static solution to the classical theory of non-abelian gauge fields coupled to a point magnetic source, for any matrix M in the Lie algebra of the gauge group G. This solution is rotationally invariant if the eigenvalues of M in the adjoint representation of G are quantized in half-integer units, but is stable to small perturbations only if all non-vanishing eigenvalues are ±12. In this paper, for the gauge groups G = SU(N), it is shown which sets of eigenvalues of M are consistent with the group structure, which consistent sets are gauge inequivalent, and which consistent gauge inequivalent sets correspond to stable monopoles. It is found that there are N inequivalent stable monopoles, including the trivial case M = 0. Equivalence here is with respect to non-singular gauge transformations—the symmetry transformations of the classical theory. Singular gauge transformations are, in contrast, not symmetries but they are nevertheless useful for classifying solutions and for relating the above concept of local stability to the global, or topological, stability associated with the Dirac strings. In this context, it is shown that there are N distinct topological classes of monopoles, with the group structure of the center ZN≊Π1(SU(N)/ZN) of SU(N), that each class contains exactly one stable monopole, and that any other monopole in the same class has a strictly larger value of the magnetic charge magnitude trM2. This leads to an interesting physical picture of local stability as a consequence of the minimization of magnetic energy. The paper concludes with some comments on related topics: the empirical absence of magnetic charge, `t Hooft's calculation of magnetic energy, magnetic confinement, and spontaneously broken theories.
Non-Linear Pricing Competition with Private Capacity Information

We study a common agency model with informed principals consisting of two capacity-constrained suppliers and a single retailer. The capacity of each supplier is her private information. Conditioned on their capacities, the suppliers simultaneously and non-cooperatively offer quantity-price schedules to the retailer. Then, the retailer decides on the quantities to purchase from each supplier in order to maximize his own utility. We prove the existence of a (pure strategy) Nash equilibrium for this game. We show that at the equilibrium each (infinitesimal) unit of the supply is assigned a marginal price which is independent of the capacities and depends only on the valuation function of the retailer and the distribution of the capacities. In addition, the supplier with the larger capacity sells all her supply.
Moral Imagination and Systems Thinking

Taking the lead from Susan Wolf's and Linda Emanuel's work on systems thinking, and developing ideas from Moberg's, Seabright's and my work on mental models and moral imagination, in this paper I shall argue that what is often missing in management decision-making is a systems approach. Systems thinking requires conceiving of management dilemmas as arising from within a system with interdependent elements, subsystems, and networks of relationships and patterns of interaction. Taking a systems approach and coupling it with moral imagination, now engaged on the organizational and systemic as well as individual levels of decision-making, I shall conclude, is a methodology that encourages managers and companies to think more imaginatively and to engage in integrating moral decision-making into ordinary business decisions. More importantly this sort of thinking is a means to circumvent what often appear to be intractable problems created by systemic constraints for which no individual appears to be responsible.
Airbag-associated injury producing cyclodialysis cleft and ocular hypotony.

Airbags have gained widespread acceptance as devices that reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with motor vehicle accidents. Recent reports of airbag-associated ocular injury suggest that further refinement in airbag technology may be warranted. The authors describe a patient who had a cyclodialysis cleft and ocular hypotony following injury to the eye from an airbag. Language: en
On the sum of powers of complex numbers

In connection with the distribution of zeros of ζ(s), P. Turan [4] raised and gave a solution of the following problem.
Chromosomal Evolution in Cell Populations

Publisher Summary During a short period, a great deal of information has been accumulated on chromosomes of mammals, especially those of man. Both ascites tumors and tissue culture cells have been used extensively in various types of research. The chapter discusses the changes in chromosomes of cells in vitro and of early stages of carcinogenesis. In the chapter, the basic concept of chromosomes and cancer is reviewed and the relationships between genetic background and carcinogenesis are discussed. Problems concerning cell differentiation, carcinogenesis, and changes occurring in cells in vitro are parts of an entire problem that is the evolution of cell populations. Many trisomic individuals have been found in man, but they do not represent malignant growth. The only correlation between trisomics and cancer is the significantly high incidence of leukemia in mongolism. The diploid rat complement consists of 42 chromosomes of various lengths and centromeric positions. The chapter represents a typical cell taken from a primary culture of a rat embryo. Medium-sized chromosomes are all telocentric or subtelocentric. Metacentric chromosomes in the normal rat karyotype are all small elements.