cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RFID system optimization for item-level pharmaceutical serialization

A pharmaceutical company facilitated a program to serialize some of their products through the use of RFID tags at the unit-level. However, the system implemented on one of their packaging lines was unreliable. We have developed a laboratory test system that physically simulates the packaging line in order to find a working solution without any interruption to ongoing production. In this paper we discuss the methodical and analytical optimization steps we followed to find a combination of RFID hardware and software parameters which led to acceptable and repeatable performance (>99.5% write/lock/read success rate for a high speed packaging lane) within company requirements and physical limitations. The solution involved modifications of the tag placement, antenna type, reader output power level and low level reader protocol for different Miller modulations compared to the original implementation. Although the solution was first found and tested in a laboratory setting, it was later validated on the actual packaging line in the factory.
Effective Kundsen diffusivities in structures of randomly overlapping fibers

Effective Knudsen diffusion coefficients are presented for fibrous structures consisting of overlapping fibers. The fibers are distributed randomly in d (d=2 or 3) directions with their axes perpendicular to one direction (d=2) or in the three-dimensional space with no preferred orientation (d=3), or they are grouped into d (d=1, 2, or 3) mutually perpendicular bundles of parallel, randomly overlapping fibers. Effective diffusivities are computed using a Monte Carlo simulation scheme to determine the mean square displacement of molecules traveling in the interior of the porous medium for large travel times. Our results show that structures with fibers distributed randomly in d directions have diffusion coefficients identical, within the accuracy of our simulation, to those of d-directional, parallel fiber structures. Effective Knudsen diffusivities are strongly influenced only by the directionality of the fiber structure, with tridirectional or randomly oriented fiber structures presenting lower percolation thresholds (0.04 vs. 0.11) and higher effective diffusivities than bidirectional or random structures with their axes perpendicular to one direction. The tortuosity factor is in general found to decrease with increasing porosity, approaching for each case, as the porosity goes to unity, the corresponding lower bound that is derived using variational principles.
Examination of prehistoric artifacts via fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) techniques using modern environmental stewardship

Abstract Elucidating the specific use and purpose of archaeological specimens such as stone axes and grinding stones can improve the understanding of an area's ecosystem and civilization. Chemical analysis of residues preserved on these tools may provide key information in identifying how the tool was implemented. The arid US Great Basin provides an ideal environment for the preservation of fatty acid residues. We have successfully optimized methods for extraction, methylation, and analysis of fatty acids for use on archaeological specimens. These analyses implement techniques that do not alter artifact integrity, facilitate analyte modification through transesterification to enhance analyte volatility for identification by direct injection GC–MS methods. Method development focused on the use of fatty acids found within the Great Basin of the USA, and has been designed using chemical stewardship to avoid environmental contamination and to protect the health of the analyst. In evaluating analysis methods, five traditional methylation techniques were examined only to prove inadequate for this study. By combining attributes of these methods with extraction goals, a modified single step extraction derivatization method was developed. Using this method we have demonstrated solid relationships between fatty acid ratios and plant/animal types. We have focused on method development and optimization for the detection of these fatty acids. In addition to optimization of instrumental variables we have compared various methylation methods to achieve optimal yields.
STATISTICAL DESCRIPTION OF A PAIRED NUCLEUS WITH THE INCLUSION OF ANGULAR MOMENTUM

Abstract The effect of angular momentum on an excited paired nucleus has been studied. The BCS Hamiltonian, modified to include the z-projection of angular momentum has been diagonalized and expressed in terms of the quasiparticle occupation numbers. The grand partition function and all the relevant thermodynamical functions as well as the level-density expression have been derived for the general case of an arbitrary set of single-particle levels. Furthermore, the formalism has been applied to the uniform model and, whenever possible, analytical expressions have been derived. In particular the zero-temperature angular momentum dependence of the gap parameter, the critical angular momentum as well as the yrast line have been calculated. The critical temperature as a function of angular momentum, which defines the phase transition between paired and unpaired systems, has been calculated. A new effect called the thermally assisted pairing correlation, involving an increase of pairing with increasing temperature has been predicted. The completeness of the formalism as applied to spherical or deformed nuclei has been discussed.
The beryllium content of igneous rocks

Abstract On the average, granitic rocks contain about 3 p.p.m. of Be and rocks of basaltic composition a little less than 1 p.p.m. If silicic and subsilicic rocks are weighted equally, an average value of 2 p.p.m. or less may be assigned as the Be content of the upper lithosphere.
Translocator proteins in the two-partner secretion family have multiple domains.

The two-partner secretion pathway in Gram-negative bacteria consists of a TpsA exoprotein and a cognate TpsB outer membrane translocator protein. Previous work has demonstrated that the TpsB protein forms a β-barrel structure with pore forming activity and facilitates translocation of the TpsA protein across the outer membrane. In this study, we characterized the functional domains of the Haemophilus influenzae HMW1B protein, a TpsB protein that interacts with the H. influenzae HMW1 adhesin. Using c-Myc epitope tag insertions and cysteine substitution mutagenesis, we discovered that HMW1B contains an N-terminal surface-localized domain, an internal periplasmic domain, and a C-terminal membrane anchor. Functional and biochemical analysis of the c-Myc epitope tag insertions and a series of HMW1B deletion constructs demonstrated that the periplasmic domain is required for secretion of HMW1 and that the C-terminal membrane anchor (HMW1B-(234–545)) is capable of oligomerization and pore formation. Similar to our observations with HMW1B, examination of a Bordetella pertussis TpsB protein called FhaC revealed that the C terminus of FhaC (FhaC-(232–585)) is capable of pore formation. We speculate that all TpsB proteins have a modular structure, with a periplasmic domain that interacts with the cognate TpsA protein and with pore forming activity contained within the C terminus.
Direct electrical measurement of the electron g factor in ultra-thin InGaAs/InP single quantum wells

Abstract The Lande g factor has been measured for electrons in ultra-thin InGaAs/InP quantum wells by means of an electrically-detected electron spin resonance (EDESR) technique. These experiments, carried out in a range of applied magnetic fields, allowed direct, unambiguous determination of both the absolute value and sign of the normal component of the electron g factor, g ∥ ( g parallel to the structure growth axis and the magnetic field). We observed a linear magnetic field dependence to the g factor, in agreement with the expression g ∥ ( B , N ) = g ∥ 0 + c ( N + 1 / 2 ) B , where N is the Landau level index.
Strategic advertising: The fat-cat effect and stability

Abstract We use the theory of social situations (TOSS) to examine the stable advertising behavior and pricing. In contrast to the current literature, we show that the incumbent firm need not maintain a hungry-look by under-investing in advertising expenditure in order to deter entry.
Field Cage Evaluation of Predators of the Soybean Looper, Pseudoplusia includens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Approximately 200 specimens of predators representing 16 species were evaluated in field cage tests to determine daily consumption levels of eggs and larvae of the soybean looper, Pseudoplusia includens (Walker). The highest predation rates were recorded for the nabids Reduviolus roseipennis (Reuter), Tropiconabis capsiformis (Germar), and Hoplistoscelis deceptivus (Harris); the green lacewing, Chrysopa rufilabris (Burmeister); and the lygaeids Geocoris punctipes (Say) and Geocoris uliginosus (Say). Consumption of small larvae was largest for the nabids T. capsiformis and H. deceptivus , the lygaeids G. punctipes and G. uliginosus , and the carabid beetle Calleida decora (F.). The pentatomid Stiretrus anchorago (F.) and the reduviid Arilus cristatus (L.) consumed the most medium-sized larvae.
DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF STRAINED ICE. I : EFFECT OF PLASTIC STRAINING

The effect of plastic straining on single crystals of ice was examined. As strain increased plastically, relaxation strength increased linearly as the relaxation time increased.
Preparative separation of isomeric sulfophthalic acids by conventional and pH-zone-refining counter-current chromatography

Abstract Two modes of high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) were applied to separate 3- and 4-sulfophthalic acid from a mixture. Conventional HSCCC was useful for the separation of up to several hundred milligram quantities of these positional isomers, while pH-zone-refining CCC was implemented successfully to separations at the multigram level. The conventional HSCCC separations were performed with a standard J-type HSCCC system that has a superior resolution but a lower level of retention of the stationary phase of the biphasic solvent system used (acidified n-butanol–water). The pH-zone-refining CCC separations were performed with an X-type HSCCC system (a cross-axis system) that has a higher capability for retention of the stationary phase. The purified positional isomers (over 99% pure as determined by HPLC) were characterized by 1H NMR and negative ion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.
Multi-disciplinary perspectives on post-partum depression: An anthropological critique.

One negative outcome of the post-partum period is the occurrence of post-partum depression. While the incidence levels are high in the U.S. for the 'Blues' and the 'moderate level depression disorder', the nature of this phenomenon--as a disease and as an illness--remains unclear. It is suggested that an anthropological perspective incorporating symbolic behavior and biological processes may more effectively address the problem than isolated biological and psycho-social research. Theories of etiology based strictly in biological mechanisms have resulted in a treatment bias towards pharmacological intervention; this paper suggests that more attention should be given to the impact of the cultural patterning of the post-partum period, e.g. the structure, organization of the family group and role expectations. A review of the anthropological literature on childbirth provides little evidence for post-partum depression. Our own observations and an examination of the cross-cultural literature have identified common elements in the social structuring of the post-partum period. They include: (1) cultural patterning of a distinct post-partum period; (2) protective measures designed to reflect the vulnerability of the new mother; (3) social seclusion; (4) mandated rest; (5) assistance in tasks from relatives and/or midwife; (6) social recognition of new social status through rituals, gifts or other means. A hypothesis is proposed that a relationship exists between post-partum social organization/mobilization and post-partum depression. The experience of 'depression' in the U.S. may represent a culture bound syndrome resulting from the lack of social structuring of the post-partum events, social recognition of the role transition for the new mother and instrumental support and aid for the new mother.
The Step II Clinical Skills exam.

Beginning with the graduating class of 2005, the United States Medical Licensing Examination now includes a standardized Clinical Skills (CS) exam that all medical students must pass in order to become licensed in the United States. In addition to the traditional component of Step II in which clinical knowledge is tested using a multiple choice format, students must now pass Step IICS, an exam in which they encounter a series of standardized patients (SPs) and are graded on their ability to gather data and communicate with patients. 1,2 The Step IICS exam is administered at 5 national testing centers in Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Houston. The testing session lasts 8 hours with 2 brief breaks. Students encounter 11 or 12 (it is possible that 1 station will be nonscored and used for new case development) SPs who have been trained to present cases that run the gamut of standard complaints and conditions seen in medical practice. Each visit lasts 15 minutes, during which time students are expected to demonstrate their competency in conducting a history and physical exam, collecting sufficient information to develop a preliminary differential diagnosis and a plan for diagnostic workup. After each station, students have an additional 10 minutes to write (by hand or via computer) a patient note that summarizes findings from the history and physical exam, possible diagnoses, and plans for further diagnostic workup. The students’ performance during the interviews is scored by the SP using carefully developed checklists, and physicians read and grade the patient notes. The scoring involves 3 separate subcomponents: 1) Integrated Clinical Encounter, which is a combination of data gathering during the interview and documentation based on the postnote; 2) Communication and Interpersonal Skills, which is based on questioning skills, information sharing skills, and ability to establish rapport as graded by the SP; and 3) Spoken English Proficiency, which is graded by the SP based on the amount of effort needed to understand the speech of the student. Students must pass each of the 3 components to pass the exam. Those who pass will not be told their scores, nor will they receive any additional
Existence of chaos in a one-degree-of-freedom system

A single-degree-of-freedom system with both a linear and a cubic non-linear spring term is examined. The system is shown to exhibit periodic and chaotic motions. The existence of chaos is discussed and possible qualitative explanations for the chaos are examined. It is shown that multiple static equilibria are not a necessary requirement for chaos to occur. Some introductory tutorial material is included in the presentation to assist engineering readers who may be unfamiliar with the subject.
Epitaxial III-V Nanowires on Lattice-Mismatched Substrates by MOCVD

We experimentally determined critical diameters (CDs) of epitaxial nanowires (NWs) grown on lattice-mismatched substrates by MOCVD. The CD was found to be inversely dependent on lattice mismatch. For InP NWs on Si, quantization effect and narrow linewidth were observed for the micro-photoluminescence (mu-PL) measurement.
Long-term follow-up in newborn screening: A systems approach for improving health outcomes

Background: Newborn screening is a complex system of interrelated multidimensional components singly focused on safeguarding the health of our nation's newborns. The long-term health outcome and well-being of individuals identified by newborn screening represents a meaningful measurement of the performance of the newborn screening system. This assessment of long-term follow-up requires a systems approach that connects stakeholders, processes, and outcomes through the collection, integration, evaluation, and sharing of key data and metrics. Methods: A review of the principles of a systems approach and its application to newborn screening long-term follow-up was performed. Past and current efforts by HRSA/MCHB that address individual components of newborn screening were assessed and utilized to outline lessons learned and suggest next steps. Results: The principle features of a systems approach applied to the creation and utilization of a health information exchange system for the long-term follow up of screen positive patients is defined. The application of this approach is in progress through the HRSA/MCHB's Effective Follow-up in Newborn Screening project. Conclusions: While several elements are in place to realize a systems approach, the authors think that the key is an integrated, multidirectional health information exchange system that functions locally, regionally and nationally, and enables information exchange between private and public health sectors.
Isobaric vapor–liquid equilibria for the binary and ternary mixtures of 2-propanol, water, and 1,3-propanediol at P = 101.3 kPa: Effect of the 1,3-propanediol addition

Abstract Isobaric vapor–liquid equilibrium (VLE) at P = 101.3 kPa have been measured for the ternary system of 2-propanol + water + 1,3-propanediol and its constituent binary systems of 2-propanol + water and 2-propanol + 1,3-propanediol using an equilibrium still with circulation of both vapor and liquid phases. The ternary system of 2-propanol + water + 1,3-propanediol was prepared with three mass fractions (0.10, 0.30, and 0.50) of 1,3-propanediol in the overall liquid mixtures. The equilibrium compositions of mixtures were analyzed by gas–liquid chromatography. The liquid activity coefficients were obtained using the modified Raoult's law. The relative volatilities of 2-propanol to water were also determined. The results showed that the azeotropic point of 2-propanol + water can be eliminated when the mass fraction of 1,3-propanediol in the liquid phase is up to 0.50. Thermodynamic consistency tests were performed for the VLE data of these two binary systems. The new binary and ternary VLE data were successfully correlated with the Wilson, non-random two-liquid (NRTL), and universal quasi-chemical activity coefficient (UNIQUAC) models. The models with their best-fitted interaction parameters of the binary systems were used to predict the ternary VLE data. A comparison of model performances was made by using the criterion of mean deviations in boiling point and in vapor-phase composition.
Segment sizes and liftetimes in Algol 60 programs

The characteristics of the virtual memory requirements of a sample of Algol 60 programs have been measured. Distributions are presented for the sizes of memory requests and for their holding times (lifetimes). The results are presented in terms of Johnston's contour model and a simple abstract machine. They provide new empirical evidence of certain aspects of the construction and behavior of real programs, and some of their implications for the design of virtual memory systems are presented and discussed.
Point defects and cation tracer diffusion in (CoxFe1−x)3−δO4 spinels

Abstract New data consisting of values for the deviation from stoichiometry, δ, and for cation tracer diffusion coefficients, DMe∗ (M Co, Fe, andMn), in (CoxFe−x)3−δO4 have been obtained experimentally. δ and DMe∗ have been measured at 1200°C as a function of oxygen activity, aO2, and at different cationic compositions which cover essentially the entire spinel phase stability region at this temperature. All δ versus aO2 curves measured are S-shaped. From the oxygen activity dependence of the deviation from stoichiometry it is concluded that cation vacancies are the majority point defects at high aO2 while cation interstitials are dominant at low aO2. All DMe∗ versus aO2 plots for different cationic compositions shows a distinct minimum, which indicates that the high temperature diffusion process is governed by cation vacancies at high aO2 and by interstitials at low aO2. By combining information on point defects and cation tracer diffusion, mean mobilities of cations and the action diffusion mechanism in this system are discussed.
Affinity chromatographic purification and comparison of riboflavin-binding proteins from laying hen liver and blood and from egg yolk

Abstract 1. 1. Riboflavin-binding proteins have been purified from laying hen liver and blood and egg yolk by affinity chromatography. 2. 2. By most criteria (molecular weight, tight-binding of riboflavin, presence of sialic acid and phosphate groups), the riboflavin-binding proteins from these sources are similar, as has been previously reported. 3. 3. Isoelectric focusing of the riboflavin-binding proteins, however, yields apparent pI values of 3.85 and 3.90 for those from liver and 3.92 and 4.00 for those from yolk. 4. 4. Hence, liver contains an additional riboflavin-binding protein which may be a precursor to that found in plasma and egg yolk.
Optimizing the interval between G-CSF therapy and F-18 FDG PET imaging in children and young adults receiving chemotherapy for sarcoma

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSF) speed recovery from chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression but the marrow stimulation they cause can interfere with interpretation of F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (F-18 FDG PET) exams. To assess the frequency of interfering G-CSF-induced bone marrow activity on FDG PET imaging in children and young adults with Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma and to define an interval between G-CSF administration and FDG PET imaging that limits marrow interference. Blinded, retrospective review of FDG PET exams performed in patients treated with long-acting G-CSF as part of their chemotherapeutic regimen. Exams were subjectively scored by two reviewers (R1 and R2) who assessed the level of marrow uptake of FDG and measured standardized uptake values in the marrow, liver, spleen and blood pool. FDG PET findings were correlated with time since G-CSF administration and with blood cell counts. Thirty-eight FDG PET exams performed in 17 patients were reviewed with 47.4% (18/38) of exams having marrow uptake of FDG sufficient to interfere with image interpretation. Primary predictors of marrow uptake of FDG were patient age (P = 0.0037) and time since G-CSF exposure (P = 0.0028 for subjective marrow uptake of FDG, P = 0.008 [R1] and P = 0.004 [R2] for measured maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax)). The median interval between G-CSF administration and PET imaging in cases with marrow activity considered normal or not likely to interfere was 19.5 days (range: 7–55 days). In pediatric and young adult patients with Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma, an interval of 20 days between administration of the long-acting form of G-CSF and FDG PET imaging should limit interference by stimulated marrow.
Exploratory inspection: a learning model for improving open source software usability

We contend that overcoming the lack of usability expertise within the open source software community will further its competitiveness. Motivated by the unique user-driven model, we propose an exploratory learning method for assisting non-expert users in contributing to open source usability inspection. This method emphasizes providing usability knowledge during usability inspection and explores the impact of the "fading-out/phasing-in" method on the inspection effectiveness. The results of a pilot study we conducted through a Web-based inspection system are provided.
Calculating diffusion in biological systems by random walks with special reference to gaseous diffusion in the lung

Abstract Diffusion may be visualized as the drift of particles of a diffusate moving randomly within a medium; this concept is made quantitative and taken as the basis for the calculation of flows and concentrations of a diffusate in biological systems. In the calculation we trace the paths of individual particles by successive steps, each of which is selected by a random process with appropriate probabilities. The simple-minded view is adopted that this is what is “really” happening in diffusion, and that physically measurable quantities like flux or concentration of diffusate are really averages over many walks, whether those walks be taken by physical molecules or be calculated by a computer. Since we are dealing with random processes in the walks, it is an easy step to introduce randomly selected regions in which the diffusion takes place. The biomedical investigator is often concerned, not with a completely determined system, but with a population of similar systems over which his measurements are averaged. Thus, in the lung there are myriads of alveoli of similar but not identical shapes and sizes, connected by paths that are likewise variable from one part of the lung to another, and it is the average diffusion in many regions that is of vital concern to the investigator. Such phenomena are naturally amenable to random calculations. In contrast with the “classical” or determinate methods of solution, the random walk method is limited by economic considerations rather than by the availability of mathematical procedures. Once the probabilities are assigned to the walks on the basis of local diffusion relations, a solution by random walks is assured; the accuracy and reliability of the solution are determined by the cost of computing a sufficiently large number of walks. The present paper deals with methods for setting up walks for a very general class of diffusion phenomena and with computer programs for tracing and evaluating such walks. Several examples are given, including a probabilistic “tree” model for portions of the lung.
Global capitation at a women’s health referral center: The challenge of patient selection

Global risk capitation as a preferred payment method in heavily penetrated managed care markets poses important challenges for women's health care tertiary referral centers that employ participating primary care physicians. Global risk capitation agreements expose those centers to the adverse financial effects of high frequency of obstetric visits, costly infertility and neonatal care, and care of a disproportionate number of patients with complex, resource-intensive conditions.
Electrochemiluminescent immunoassay for rat skeletal troponin I (Tnni2) in serum

Abstract Introduction The identification of xenobiotic-induced skeletal muscle toxicities through the detection of biomarkers in nonclinical studies can be useful early in the drug discovery process to aid in candidate drug decisions. Skeletal muscle troponin I (sTnI) has been identified as a potential marker of skeletal muscle injury in humans and animals. When skeletal muscle tissue is injured, sTnI is released into circulation. Methods Due to the nature of the troponin subunits to form intermolecular complexes and to oxidize under various environmental conditions, the optimal assay required the use of a combination of chelating and reducing agents in the sample preparation. It also required the selection of capture and detection antibodies with specificity to the reduced sTnI monomeric subunit and includes a capture antibody specific for sTnI Type 2 (Tnni2), which is associated with Type 2 “fast twitch” muscle fibers. Results We have developed a sensitive and specific assay to detect the concentration of rat sTnI in serum using an electrochemiluminescent (ECL) immunoassay platform with a sensitivity of 2.4 ng/ml and with minimal cross-reactivity with rat cardiac TnI (Tnni3). Discussion The use of additives and the wide dynamic range of the ECL platform resulted in an accurate and consistent ECL immunoassay that was able to specifically detect sTnI (Tnni2) in rat serum. This method can be applied to safety assessment in early drug development.
Modulation of Fcγreceptor expression and function in murine peritoneal macrophages by ammonium metavanadate

Resident peritoneal macrophages (PEM) harvested from female B6C3F1 mice given an intraperitoneal injection of ammonium metavanadate (2.5 or 10 mg V/kg), an equivalent amount of ammonium in the form of ammonium chloride, or sodium phosphate buffer (0.1 M, pH 7.2) every third day for 6 weeks, were subjected to flow cytometric analysis of Fcτ2a and Fcτ2b receptor expression, and photometric microassay to measure receptor mediated binding and phagocytosis of sheep red blood cells (SRBC). The NH4Cl and 10V groups showed 21.7 and 17.2% lower mean fluorescence channel (MFC) values and 7.1 and 5.9% lower values in percentage fluorescence-positive cells than the phosphate buffer control with respect to Fcτ2a expression. For Fcτ2b expression, the 10V group showed significantly (P<0.05) lower MFC (31.2%) and percentage fluorescence-positive cells (15.7%) than the phosphate buffer control. Though the four groups did not show a significant difference in Fcτ2a mediated binding and phagocytosis of SRBC, the 10V group showed a significantly lower Fcτ2b mediated binding and phagocytosis. The results indicate that the reduction in Fcτ2b expression and function could contribute toward the previously observed depression in phagocytosis, NADPH-oxidase and superoxide generation in peritoneal macrophages obtained from vanadate-treated animals.
Review: Behavior of organic chemicals at soil, air, water interfaces as related to predicting the transport and volatilization of organic pollutants

The transfer of organic pollutants into the atmosphere is discussed from the standpoint of mechanisms involved, factors influencing rates of volatilization, and progress in developing models for predicting transfer rates. The volatilization rate of soil-incorporated chemicals is controlled by vapor pressure of the chemical in soil and by its rate of movement to the soil surface by diffusion or by a combination of diffusion and convection in evaporating water. Vapor pressures of organic chemicals are greatly decreased by their interaction with soil mainly due to adsorption. The magnitude of the adsorption effect depends upon the nature of the chemical, its concentration, the soil water content and soil properties, such as organic matter and clay content. Vaporization of chemicals in soil or from disposal sites covered with soil can be estimated from considerations of the physical and chemical factors controlling concentrations at the soil surface and most models developed to estimate volatilization rates are based upon equations describing the rate of movement of the chemical to the soil surface by diffusion and/or convection. Considerable progress has been made in developing laboratory based models for predicting volatilization from soil. Since volatilization of soil-incorporated chemicals is controlled mainly by factors within the soil, predictions from laboratory based mathematical models should be sufficiently accurate for many purposes.
The Impact of Prosecutor/Public Defender Interaction on Sentencing: An Exploratory Typology:

The interacting relationships of key Criminal Justice System members and the resulting interdependencies that develop because of these interactions are critical information in obtaining a better understanding of the operation of the court system. This analysis directs attention to the interactions among courtroom members. The particular purpose of this study is to examine one set of courtroom interactions, those between the prosecutor and public defender, and to suggest the beginnings of a typology of those interactions to aid in explaining the sentencing process. The discussion and analysis indicate that a defendant's sentence is considerably determined by the relationship between the prosecutor and public defender. Future research should be geared to clearer operationalizations of interacting relationships and more time needs to be spent analyzing the possible relationships among courtroom actors and the impact of the interactions on the sentences given out in court.
Bases for First-Order Theories and Subtheories

The extent to which we can grasp the content of a (non-logical) theory, expressing it economically by means of an axiom system or basis, varies greatly. In this paper we shall investigate what degree of economy, or at least regularity, can be achieved for all recursively axiomatizable first-order theories. A useful approach, also of interest in its own right, turns out to be the study of bases for subtheories, where a subtheory of a given theory consists of those theorems from which certain predicate symbols are absent. These predicate symbols might be thought of as the formal counterparts of the “purely theoretical” terms employed by a science, the theory corresponding to the science itself and the subtheory to its “observational consequences”. Roughly speaking, the types of operations involving such predicate symbols will be reduced to a minimum, so that their syntactical role in deductions will emerge more clearly.
CMOS-compatible RF-MEMS tunable capacitors

New CMOS-MEMS tunable capacitors have been designed, fabricated and tested. Large-tuning range and high quality factor, Q, are achieved. The structures were made from the CMOS interconnect stack using a maskless CMOS micromachining process. Our tunable capacitor designs can be classified into two categories based on their tuning schemes as gap and area tuning and gap-only tuning. The capacitors with gap and area tuning were fabricated using Austria Microsystems (AMS) 0.6 /spl mu/m and Agilent 0.5 /spl mu/m CMOS processes. These devices have a measured nominal capacitance of 209 fF and a measured Q of 28 at 1.5 GHz. The capacitance change is measured from 209 fF to 294 fF within a 24 V control voltage, and 72.4 mW power at 1.5 GHz. The capacitors with gap-only tuning were fabricated in the TSMC 0.35 /spl mu/m CMOS process and have larger tuning range and more power efficiency than the 1st generation designs. For these new designs, 3.52 to 1 tuning range has been measured with tuning from 42 fF to 148 fF within a 12 V control voltage and 34 mW power and Q of 52 at 1.5 GHz. The tuning mechanism uses electro-thermal actuation. The essential differences between this work and prior work are the CMOS compatibility and more area efficiency at several gigahertz. Wide-range VCOs can be designed by using these MEMS tunable capacitors, inductors and CMOS or SiGe electronics on the same chip. Parasitic losses can be minimized and phase noise performance can be improved.
An Adaptive WTA using Floating Gate Technology

We have designed, fabricated, and tested an adaptive Winner-Take-All (WTA) circuit based upon the classic WTA of Lazzaro, et al [1]. We have added a time dimension (adaptation) to this circuit to make the input derivative an important factor in winner selection. To accomplish this, we have modified the classic WTA circuit by adding floating gate transistors which slowly null their inputs over time. We present a simplified analysis and experimental data of this adaptive WTA fabricated in a standard CMOS 2µm process.
Differential expression of oxygen sensitivity in voltage-dependent K channels in inbred strains of mice.

Oxygen sensitivity of voltage-dependent K channels (Kv channels) in chemosensory glomus cells is responsible for hypoxic chemotransduction processes in the carotid body. Human studies in twins and in individuals over time suggest that hypoxic sensitivity of the carotid body is genetically controlled (Collins et al., 1978; Kawakami et al., 1982; Nishimura et al., 1991; Thomas et al., 1993). The concept is further confirmed in the studies using inbred strains of mice (Tankersley et al., 1994; Campen et al., 2004) and rats (Weil et al., 1998) which are genetically almost identical within a strain. In these studies, respiratory or cardiovascular responses to hypoxia vary among several strains, but are similar within a strain. Thus, some proteins which are differentially expressed in individuals due to genetic differences likely cause variable carotid body responses. We have hypothesized that differential expression of oxygensensitive Kv channels contributes to the differences in hypoxic sensitivity of DBA/2J and A/J strains of mice.
A comparative evaluation of several algorithms for phase aberration correction

A common framework is presented to classify several phase correction techniques. A subset of these techniques are evaluated through simulations which utilize 2-D phase aberration profiles measured in the breast. The techniques are compared based on their ability to reduce phase errors, stability, and sensitivity to noise and missing elements in the transducer array. Significant differences are observed in these measures of performance when the size and location of the aperture area used to generate a phase reference signal are varied. Techniques that utilize a small correction reference region are more susceptible to noise and missing elements than techniques which use larger reference regions. The algorithms encounter problems in 2-D phase correction when making the transition from one row to the next, due to the low interelement correlation at the transition points. It is shown that the magnitude of the interelement correlation is the key parameter governing phase correction performance. >
Enhanced Design of an Integrated Transmission-Line Bus Filter

Integrated transmission-line filters were previously proposed to attenuate conducted electro-magnetic interference (EMI) produced by high-frequency switching power converters. In this work, such a filter is manufactured using planar processing technologies. The design is improved and simplified to provide the ability for a cheaper and more compact filter. It is compared and tested with a previous, more complex, design and shown to have similar or improved filtering characteristics. The proposed filter achieves 40 dB attenuation at the first resonant point in the EMI spectrum.
An Examination of Parenting the Strong-Willed Child as Bibliotherapy for Parents:

This study examined the Parenting the Strong-Willed Child (PSWC) book as a self-directed program for parents of 3- to 6-year-olds. Fifty-two parents were randomly assigned to PSWC or a comparison book, Touchpoints: Three to Six. Assessments occurred at baseline, postintervention (6 weeks after baseline), and 2-month follow-up. The findings indicated both books, but particularly PSWC, were associated with lower levels of child problem behavior after intervention. PSWC was associated with greater decreases in child problem behaviors on certain measures when amount of reading completed was taken into account. Parents reading PSWC reported that they were satisfied with the book and found the book useful and easy to implement. The findings are discussed in the contexts of both the percentage of parents who read the PSWC book and the cost-effectiveness of a self-directed intervention.
A novel method with significant impact on adenoma detection: combined water-exchange and cap-assisted colonoscopy

Background Water exchange provides salvage cleansing and improves adenoma detection, but drawbacks include prolonged procedure time. Cap-assisted colonoscopy decreases cecal intubation time but is limited by impaired views when feces lodge in the cap. Objective To investigate the impact of combined water-exchange and cap-assisted colonoscopy (WCC) on detection of adenomas and proximal colon serrated polyps. Design Retrospective, single-center, single-colonoscopist, consecutive group observational study. Setting Veterans Affairs outpatient endoscopy suite. Patients Outpatients undergoing screening or surveillance colonoscopy. Intervention WCC data collected from 100 consecutive patients were compared to a control group of 101 consecutive patients examined with conventional air insufflation colonoscopy during the prior 4-month period. Main Outcome Measurements Adenoma detection rate (ADR), adenomas detected per colonoscopy, proximal colon serrated polyp detection rate, and proximal colon serrated polyps per colonoscopy rate. Results Compared with controls, the WCC group had a higher polyp detection rate (93.0% vs 84.2%; P = .07), ADR (75.0% vs 59.4%; P = .02), proximal colon ADR (61.0% vs 47.5%; P = .07), proximal colon serrated polyp detection rate (24.0% vs 9.9%; P = .009), number of adenomas per colonoscopy (2.70 vs 1.50; P = .002), and mean number of proximal colon serrated polyps per colonoscopy (0.38 vs 0.12; P = .004). Limitations Retrospective study; single, unblinded endoscopist. Conclusion ADR and adenomas per colonoscopy are both sensitive indicators of colonoscopy quality. WCC merges two simple methods to improve the performance of screening and surveillance colonoscopy. The data suggest that larger, prospective studies are necessary to determine if there are differences between water-exchange combined with cap-assisted maneuvers and the individual components used alone in lesion detection in screening and surveillance colonoscopy.
Simulation, learning, and optimization techniques in Watson's game strategies

The game of Jeopardy!™ features four types of strategic decision-making: 1) Daily Double wagering; 2) Final Jeopardy! wagering; 3) selecting the next square when in control of the board; and 4) deciding whether to attempt to answer, i.e., "buzz in." Strategies that properly account for the game state and future event probabilities can yield a huge boost in overall winning chances, when compared with simple "rule-of-thumb" strategies. In this paper, we present an approach to developing and testing components to make said strategy decisions, founded upon development of reasonably faithful simulation models of the players and the Jeopardy! game environment. We describe machine learning and Monte Carlo methods used in simulations to optimize the respective strategy algorithms. Application of these methods yielded superhuman game strategies for IBM Watsoni that significantly enhanced its overall competitive record.
Combining an extrapolation technique with the method of moments for solving large scattering problems involving bodies of revolution

The purpose of this work is to combine an extrapolation technique with the method of moments (MoM) to solve scattering problems involving large bodies. It has been shown in a previous work that the current induced on the smooth parts of large scatterers may be represented as a series of complex exponential functions with a few terms. Based on this concept, a hybrid set of basis functions is constructed using entire domain functions of complex exponential type on the smooth portion of the scatterer, complemented by subdomain basis functions near edges and discontinuities. An extrapolation procedure is developed in which the scattering problem is first solved for a portion of the scatterer using the conventional MoM. Next, a set of entire-domain basis functions, whose behaviour could be extrapolated with an increase in the size of the scatterer, is extracted from this original solution. The procedure outlined has the very desirable feature that the total number of basis functions remains unchanged even as the scatterer size is increased, allowing for large scatterers to be handled with a relatively small number of unknowns. The extrapolation technique is applied to scattering problems from bodies of revolution (BORs), and numerical results for an open cylinder and a barrel-shaped BOR are presented.
Delayed Development of Ventricular Ectopic Rhythms following Experimental Coronary Occlusion

Following aseptic occlusion of the anterior descending artery of the dog's heart ectopic ventricular tachycardia develops after a latency of four and one-half to eight hours, and persists for two to four days. Large gross infarcts are found in all hearts. The duration of latency of onset of major ectopic activity approximates the minimal period of ischemia required to produce histologic signs of necrosis. It is suspected that products or processes of necrosis have excitatory effects on tissues bounding the ischemic zone. Evidences concerning various possible excitatory factors are briefly reviewed.
Analysis of Nevirapine Resistance Mutations in Cloned HIV Type 1 Variants from HIV-Infected Ugandan Infants Using a Single-Step Amplification-Sequencing Method (AmpliSeq)

We analyzed the genetic linkage of nevirapine (NVP) resistance mutations and the genetic complexity of HIV-1 variants in Ugandan infants who were HIV infected despite single dose (SD) prophylaxis. Plasma samples were obtained from six HIV-infected infants who had two or more NVP resistance mutations detected by population sequencing (ViroSeq). ViroSeq PCR products were cloned and transformed, and a single-step amplification-sequencing reaction (AmpliSeq) was used to analyze NVP resistance mutations in cloned HIV-1 variants directly from bacterial colonies. Fifty clones were analyzed for each infant sample. This analysis revealed numerous NVP resistance mutations not detected by population sequencing, genetically linked NVP resistance mutations, and a high degree of genetic complexity at codons that influence NVP susceptibility.
Electronic excitations in fast ion-solid collisions

We review recent developments in the study of electronic excitation of projectiles in fast ion-solid collisions. Our focus will be primarily on theory but experimental advances will also be discussed. Topics include the evidence for velocity-dependent thresholds for the existence of bound states, wake-field effects on excited states, the electronic excitation of channeled projectiles, transport phenomena, and the interaction of highly charged ions with surfaces.
Brains and Music, Whales and Apes, Hearing and Learning...and More.

This article is about whalesongs, hearing, musical brains, and a number of other topics explored over the past 35 years. Previous research is reviewed briefly, and more attention is given to recent efforts with an emphasis on collaborative research conducted with many wonderful colleagues. First is a brief account of the Institute for Music Research at the University of Texas at San Antonio, followed by more details on current projects at the Music Research Institute (MRi) at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Research at the MRi is divided into six topics: BioMusic, Music-Related Hearing Loss, Music Education, Music Performance, Ethnomusicology and Ecocriticism, and Neuromusical Research. The second half of the article is devoted to neuromusical research. This line of research includes earlier studies of pianists, conductors, and singers and more recent work on multisensory processing in musicians.