cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microfluidic bioreactor for dynamic regulation of early mesodermal commitment in human pluripotent stem cells

During development and regeneration, tissues emerge from coordinated sequences of stem cell renewal, specialization and assembly that are orchestrated by cascades of regulatory signals. The complex and dynamic in vivo milieu cannot be replicated using standard in vitro techniques. Microscale technologies now offer potential for conducting highly controllable and sophisticated experiments at biologically relevant scales, with real-time insights into cellular responses. We developed a microbioreactor providing time sequences of space-resolved gradients of multiple molecular factors in three-dimensional (3D) cell culture settings, along with a versatile, high-throughput operation and imaging compatibility. A single microbioreactor yields up to 120 data points, corresponding to 15 replicates of a gradient with 8 concentration levels. Embryoid bodies (EBs) obtained from human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (hESC, hiPSC) were exposed to concentration gradients of Wnt3a, Activin A, BMP4 and their inhibitors, to get new insights into the early-stage fate specification and mesodermal lineage commitment. We were able to evaluate the initiation of mesodermal induction by measuring and correlating the gene expression profiles to the concentration gradients of mesoderm-inducing morphogens. We propose that the microbioreactor systems combining spatial and temporal gradients of molecular and physical factors to hESC and hiPSC cultures can form a basis for predictable in vitro models of development and disease.
Inhibitory effects of selenium on the growth of DU-145 human prostate carcinoma cells in vitro.

The growth of DU-145 human prostate carcinoma cells is reduced to 50% of control by 1 × 10−6M to 2 × 10−6M selenium and to 2% of control at 10−4M selenium. These cells show greater sensitivity to inhibition of growth or DNA synthesis by selenium than human W1-38 and HeLa cells and mouse mammary tumor cells. It has been shown that selenium inhibits carcinogenesis and reduces the incidence of chemical carcinogen and virus-induced tumors of a variety of organs in animals. Selenium may also inhibit the growth of certain tumor cells of non-human origin. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the effects of selenium on the growth of human tumor cells. From extrapolation, it is deduced that selenium serum levels in humans living in high selenium areas may be as high as 10−6M and could be effective inhibiting the growth of tumor cells in vivo. These findings have implications in the prevention and intervention of prostate cancer in man.
Nondifferentiable optimization algorithm for designing control systems having singular value inequalities

It has been known for some time that many control system design requirements can be expressed as differentiable inequalities. More recently, it has been shown that important structural properties such as robustness and low noise sensitivity can be expressed as nondifferentiable inequalities involving the singular values of a system or return difference transfer function matrix. This paper presents an optimization algorithm which permits all these constraints to be considered.
A wavelet-based multiscale ensemble time-scale algorithm

The wide-spread availability of ensembles of high-performance clocks has motivated interest in time-scale algorithms. There are many such algorithms in use today in applications ranging from scientific to commercial. Although these algorithms differ in key aspects and are sometimes tailored for specific applications and mixtures of clocks, they all share the goal of combining measured time differences between clocks to form a reference time scale that is more stable than any of the clocks in the ensemble. A new approach to forming time scales is presented here, the multiscale ensemble timescale (METS) algorithm. This approach is based on a multiresolution analysis afforded by the discrete wavelet transform. The algorithm does not assume a specific parametric model for the clocks involved and hence is well-suited for an ensemble of highly disparate clocks. The approach is based on an appealing optimality criterion which yields a reference time scale that is more stable than the constituent clocks over all averaging intervals (scales). The METS algorithm is presented here in detail and is shown in a simulation study to compare favorably with a time-scale algorithm based on Kalman filtering.
Joint concept formation

Abstract Many concept formation systems construct disjoint-concept trees. However, a priori imposed tree structures may restrict the application of these systems in some domains. A joint concept formation scheme is thus proposed, which learns from observation, and constructs acyclic directed concept graphs (trees are a special case). We show that the joint concept formation system can avoid or alleviate some problems the disjoint concept formation system would face, such as the unique winner and oscillation problems. We also demonstrate that a joint concept formation system is able to generate a concept tree if such a regularity is found among the data. The experimental results are consistent with the expectations that the joint system is a generalized version of the disjoint system and improves the learning performance. Joint concept formation extends the classic works, such as COBWEB and ARACHNE.
Economic value of response from sire selection in dairy cattle—A linear programming model

Abstract A linear programming model that accounts for the economic consequences of response to selection in milk production, type, somatic cell score, days open (a reproductive trait), and liveweight to the producer enterprise over a given planning horizon is described. A procedure is given in detail for defining upper and lower bound constraints on variables that are correlated in the linear programming model. This procedure enabled the linear programming model to construct a feasible hyperspace that reflects the relationship between the variables in terms of the trend in the relationship and the variation around this trend. The linear programming model was used to compute optimal rates of response to selection for all traits in the model for four planning horizons. The optimal response to selection per year for the production traits was closest to the maximums achievable from a gene-flow model. Of all the nonproduction traits, days open had the greatest proportion of its maximum achievable from a gene-flow model. The linear programming model was used to compute relative economic weights (REVs) for the nine traits for each planning horizon. The REVs for milk, fat, and protein production were considerably larger than the REVs for the nonproduction traits for all planning horizons. Somatic cell score had the largest REVs of the nonproduction traits in all planning horizons.
Results of Second Annual Student Design Contest [Education Column]

The AP-S Education Committee is pleased to announce the winning teams in the second annual Student Design Contest. The assigned task in this year's competition was to design and construct an inexpensive but effective radiation-pattern measurement system for the 2.4 GHz band. The three finalist teams were invited to the IEEE International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation in Spokane, where they demonstrated their measurement systems to conference attendees and to the contest judges. As was done last year, the selection of the first, second, and third place prize winners was very difficult, because all three teams did an outstanding job.
Rare earth intermetallics as synthetic ammonia catalysts

Abstract The rapidity with which rare earth intermetallics absorb hydrogen suggests that they have high catalytic activity for the dissociation of molecular hydrogen and possibly other diatomic molecules such as N 2 . Thirty-six intermetallics involving rare earths in combination with Fe, Co, or Ru were studied as catalysts for the formation of NH 3 from the elements. Several of these have specific activities exceeding that of a doubly promoted iron synthetic ammonia catalyst of the type in commercial use, although the actual activity is lower because of the relatively small surface area of the intermetallics. X-ray diffraction patterns of some of the intermetallics, notably the Fe-containing catalyst, showed extensive conversion into transition metal and rare earth nitride. The catalytic activities of these Systems may be due mainly to the transition elements.
Regional solid waste planning models, two cases

Abstract Two facility location-allocation models as applied to separate regional solid waste management problems are described. The two problems involve the development of plans for the regions around Norfolk, Virginia and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Differences in the preparation, formulation and applications of the models are discussed relative to differences in the two planning problems. The discussion includes some of the techniques used for input data development, complete formulations of the models, and a brief comment on the use of commercially available packages for the application of the models.
A Note on `` A Note on Multiple Error Detection in ASCII Numeric Data Communication''

A recent paper by Chu (J. ACM 28, 2 (Apt 1981), 265-269) proposes a scheme for double error detecuon which ~s based on nawe and unrealistic assumptions about the data communication system. Under more realistic conditions, the scheme fails to work as claimed. Suitably modified versions of Chu's scheme do work: they are also well known in the coding literature as Reed-Solomon coding schemes! Categories and Subject Descriptors: B.4.5 (Inlmt/Output and Data Communications): Reliability, Testing, and Fault-Tolerance--error checking, E.4 (Coding and Information Theory): formal models of communi- cation, nonsecret encoding schemes
Efficacy and safety of mirtazapine in major depressive disorder patients after SSRI treatment failure: an open-label trial.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of mirtazapine in depressed outpatients who have shown nonresponse or intolerance to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) therapy. Method In this open-label, 8-week study, the efficacy and safety of mirtazapine among 103 outpatients with DSM-IV major depressive disorder who had failed previous therapy with an SSRI (fluoxetine, paroxetine, or sertraline) were evaluated. The primary efficacy measure was the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D-17), and safety assessments included reported adverse events, routine laboratory assessments, physical examinations, and assessments of vital signs. A 4-day washout period followed by mirtazapine treatment was compared with an immediate switch from the SSRI to mirtazapine. Results Based on mean HAM-D-17 scores at endpoint and response rates of 48% based on the criterion of > or = 50% reduction in HAM-D-17 score, mirtazapine was found to be an effective treatment for a substantial proportion of patients for whom an SSRI was ineffective and/or poorly tolerated. Mirtazapine was well tolerated, with sedation and appetite increase/weight gain the most commonly reported adverse events. In addition, no difference in efficacy, safety, or tolerability was observed for patients undergoing an immediate switch from an SSRI (after having been tapered to the minimal effective dose) to mirtazapine, compared with those undergoing the imposition of a 4-day drug-free washout. Conclusion These results suggest that an immediate switch to mirtazapine may be a valid therapeutic option among patients who cannot tolerate or do not respond to SSRIs.
Ontogeny and otolith microstructure of bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix (Pisces: Pomatomidae)

Most marine fish larvae undergo distinct transitions during their development, often associated with functional shifts in their ecology. The purpose of the present study was to document the ontogenetic record contained within otoliths of the early life history stages of the bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix (Linnaeus), so that future work could use this otolith record to examine the ecological and population level consequences of bluefish life history transitions. Seven distinct ontogenetic stages were defined using multivariate analyses of 16 morphological, meristic and coded variables measured from larval and pelagic juvenile bluefish (standard length, SL=25 mm) collected on the Middle Atlantic Bight shelf during the summer of 1988. Otoliths were examined from the individuals utilized in the multivariate analysis, and from bluefish eggs and yolk-sac larvae, which were also collected on the Middle Atlantic Bight shelf during the summer of 1988 and staged using previously published descriptions. Important ontogenetic stage transitions were found to be recorded in otolith microstructure: hatching was marked by the formation of the first otolith increment, flexion was marked by an apparent change in increment formation rate of the lapillus, and the transition from larva to juvenile was marked by the initial formation of secondary growth centers. Thus, otolith microstructure provides a detailed record of ontogeny, and this record will prove useful in future studies of the ecology and dynamics of bluefish early life history stages.
On the separation of internal and boundary damage from combined measurements of electrical conductivity and vibration frequencies

Abstract The paper addresses one of the key problems in structural health monitoring – how to separate defects accumulated in structural members from those in joints. It is suggested to use an additional set of measurements – electrical conductivity – to distinguish between two types of defects. The theory is illustrated by a clear simple one-dimensional example of longitudinal vibrations of a slender bar.
Comparison of XRF and PXRF for analysis of archaeological obsidian from southern Perú

Abstract Chemical sourcing is becoming an increasingly important component of archaeological investigation. Instruments used for elemental analysis generally must be operated in a controlled laboratory environment. Further, many methods require destruction of a small portion of the objects under investigation. These facts inhibit the application of chemical sourcing studies in a number of research contexts. Use of portable non-destructive instruments would resolve these issues. Sixty-eight obsidian artifacts from the site of Jiskairumoko, in southern Peru, were examined by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) and portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (PXRF). Results were compared for consistency in terms of source determination and individual element concentrations. Both instruments determined that the same sixty-six artifacts derived from the Chivay obsidian source and both identified the same two artifacts that could not be assigned to source. Individual element comparisons showed significant differences, but these can be resolved through instrument cross calibration, and differences had no bearing on source identification. PXRF was found suitable for determining obsidian sources in southern Peru and for identifying specimens that require more sensitive analytical methods such as, instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). Regular use of Chivay at Jiskairumoko suggests consistent trade relationships developed during the Archaic.
ANNEALING CYCLE DEPENDENCE OF PREFERENTIAL ARSENIC PRECIPITATION IN ALGAAS/GAAS LAYERS

The spatial distribution of arsenic precipitates formed in a nonstoichiometric AlGaAs/GaAs quantum well is examined for different annealing temperatures and times. Preferential precipitation in the GaAs layer of samples annealed at 600 °C is found to be much weaker than in samples annealed at 850 °C because of the reduced diffusion of arsenic at lower temperatures. Nevertheless, it is demonstrated that strong preferential precipitation is possible at low annealing temperatures, provided that the annealing time is sufficiently long. Limitations to the preferential precipitation process imposed by interface mixing and the decrease in gallium vacancy concentration during annealing are also examined.
Updates on apolipoprotein CIII: fulfilling promise as a therapeutic target for hypertriglyceridemia and cardiovascular disease.

Purpose of reviewThe lipid hypothesis of atherosclerosis is mainly predicated on the function of apolipoprotein (apo)B lipoproteins, which promote atherosclerosis, and apoA lipoproteins, which prevent it. However, accumulating evidence suggests causal roles of other apolipoproteins, abundant surface
Genetic evidence of cryptic speciation within hammerhead sharks (Genus Sphyrna)

Surveys of genetic variation within cosmopolitan marine species often uncover deep divergences, indicating historical separation and potentially cryptic speciation. Based on broad geographic (coastal eastern North America, Gulf of Mexico, western Africa, Australia, and Hawaii) and temporal sampling (1991–2003), mitochondrial (control region [CR] and cytochrome oxidase I [COI]) and nuclear gene (lactate dehydrogenase A intron 6 [LDHA6]) variation among 76 individuals was used to test for cryptic speciation in the scalloped hammerhead, Sphyrna lewini (Griffith and Smith). CR and COI gene trees confirmed previous evidence of divergence between Atlantic and Indo-Pacific scalloped hammerhead populations; populations were reciprocally monophyletic. However, the between-basin divergence recorded in the mtDNA genome was not reflected in nuclear gene phylogenies; alleles for LDHA6 were shared between ocean basins, and Atlantic and Indo-Pacific populations were not reciprocally monophyletic. Unexpectedly, CR, COI, and LDHA6 gene trees recovered a deep phylogenetic partition within the Atlantic samples. For mtDNA haplotypes, which segregated by basin, average genetic distances were higher among Atlantic haplotypes (CR: D HKY=0.036, COI: D GTR=0.016) than among Indo-Pacific haplotypes (CR: D HKY=0.010, COI: D GTR=0.006) and approximated divergences between basins for CR (D HKY=0.036 within Atlantic; D HKY=0.042 between basins). Vertebral counts for eight specimens representing divergent lineages from the western north Atlantic were consistent with the genetic data. Coexistence of discrete lineages in the Atlantic, complete disequilibrium between nuclear and mitochondrial alleles within lineages and concordant partitions in genetic and morphological characters indicates reproductive isolation and thus the occurrence of a cryptic species of scalloped hammerhead in the western north Atlantic. Effective management of large coastal shark species should incorporate this important discovery and the inference from sampling that the cryptic scalloped hammerhead is less abundant than S. lewini, making it potentially more susceptible to fishery pressure.
Multiple Regression Analysis of Twin Data

A multiple regression model for the analysis of twin data is described in which a cotwin's score is predicted from a proband's score and the coefficient of relationship (R=1.0 and 0.5 for identical and fraternal twin pairs, respectively). This model is especially appropriate for the analysis of data on twins in which one member of each pair has been selected because of a deviant score, e.g., low reading performance. When the model is fitted to such data, the partial regression of the cotwin's score on the coefficient of relationship provides a powerful test of the extent to which the difference between the mean for probands and that for the unselected population is heritable, i.e., a test for genetic etiology. By fitting an augmented model containing an interaction term to either selected or unselected data sets, direct estimates of heritability and the proportion of variance due to shared environmental influences can also be obtained (subject, of course, to the usual assumptions underlying twin analyses, e.g., a linear polygenic model, little or no assortative mating, and equal shared environmental influences for identical and fraternal twins).
The importance of hinge sequence for loop function and catalytic activity in the reaction catalyzed by triosephosphate isomerase.

Abstract We have determined the sequence requirements for the N-terminal protein hinge of the active-site lid of triosephosphate isomerase. The codons for the hinge (PVW) were replaced with a genetic library of all possible 8000 amino acid combinations. The most active of these 8000 mutants were selected using in vivo complementation of a triosephosphate isomerase-deficient strain of Escherichia coli, DF502. Approximately 0.3 % of the mutants complement DF502 with an activity that is between 10 and 70 % of wild-type activity. They all contain Pro at the first position. Furthermore, the sequences of these hinge mutants reveal that hydrophobic packing is very important for efficient formation of the enediol intermediate. However, the reduced catalytic activities observed are not due to increased rates of loop opening. To explore the relationship between the N-terminal and C-terminal hinges, three semi-active mutants from the N-terminal hinge selection experiment (PLH, PHS and PTF), and six active C-terminal hinge mutants from previous work (NSS, LWA, YSL, KTK, NPN, KVA) were combined to form 18 “double-hinge” mutants. The activities of these mutants suggest that the N-terminal and C-terminal hinge structures affect one another. It appears that specific side-chain interactions are important for forming a catalytically active enzyme, but not for preventing release of the unstable enediol intermediate from the active site of the enzyme. The independence of intermediate release on amino acid sequence is consistent with the absence of a “universal” hinge sequence in structurally related enzymes
Regulatory and policy issues protecting public safety with better communications systems

The communications failure present in the September 11 World Trade Center tragedy served as the basis for this paper. These communications failures are not the result of simple operator error or a single design flaw. The problems are rooted in the basic technical architecture of the communications infrastructure used for public safety in the United States, and the policy that produced that infrastructure. This paper presents innovation in both technology and policy to address the many problems.
Comparison of developmentally controlled glucoamylase from normal and mutant strains of the basidiomycete Schizophyllum commune.

During the formation of fruit bodies, the basidiomycete Schizophyllum commune produces glucoamylase activity. DEAE-cellulose chromatography resolves the enzymic activity into a major peak found early in development and a minor peak which appears when the fruit bodies are mature. A mutant homokaryon has been isolated which constitutively produces glucoamylase activity without any fruiting. When purified, the mutant enzyme and the major fruit body enzyme appear to be identical by several physical and kinetic parameters including molecular weight, temperature sensitivity, and Km.
System Complexity As a Measure of Safe Capacity for the Emergency Department

Objectives: System complexity is introduced as a new measure of system state for the emergency department (ED). In its original form, the measure quantifies the uncertainty of demands on system resources. For application in the ED, the measure is being modified to quantify both workload and uncertainty to produce a single integrated measure of system state. Methods: Complexity is quantified using an information-theoretic or entropic approach developed in manufacturing and operations research. In its original form, complexity is calculated on the basis of four system parameters: 1) the number of resources (clinicians and processing entities such as radiology and laboratory systems), 2) the number of possible work states for each resource, 3) the probability that a resource is in a particular work state, and 4) the probability of queue changes (i.e., where a queue is defined by the number of patients or patient orders being managed by a resource) during a specified time period. Results: An example is presented to demonstrate how complexity is calculated and interpreted for a simple system composed of three resources (i.e., emergency physicians) managing varying patient loads. The example shows that variation in physician work states and patient queues produces different scores of complexity for each physician. It also illustrates how complexity and workload differ. Conclusions: System complexity is a viable and technically feasible measurement for monitoring and managing surge capacity in the ED. ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2006; 13:1212‐1219 a 2006 by the Society for Academic Emergency
Whole-lung tomography in urologic malignancy.

Abstract The place of whole-lung tomography in urologic malignancy has not been established. We reviewed 88 cases of known or suspected urologic malignancy in which tomography was used. Most patients had renal, bladder, or testicular tumors. Of the 68 patients with negative screening chest roentgenograms, all but 2 had negative tomograms. One of these 2 patients had a normal chest film (the other had extrapulmonary metastasis), and he did not have the renal carcinoma initially suspected. Tomography discovered no metastases from urologic malignancy that was not already known about from the screening x-ray film. In 20 cases with a positive screening xray film, tomography was of limited value. It cleared two suspicious chest films and added information on extent of metastasic involvement in three. We conclude that whole-lung tomography adds little information not available by chest roentgenogram in our selected population, and with a negative screening chest film no additional chest study is needed.
Effects of an electron reservoir on the phase diagram of chromium alloys.

The phase diagram of chromium alloys sensitively depends on the presence of an electron reservoir. With the formation of a spin-density wave (SDW), electrons are depleted from the nested electron-hole surfaces and for a finite reservoir the chemical potential will decrease. If the power \ensuremath{\rho} of the electron reservoir were infinite, then the chemical potential would remain constant and lightly doped CrMn alloys would experience a first-order transition from an incommensurate (I) to a commensurate (C) SDW state with decreasing temperature. With a power less than about 10, the reservoir will flip the phase boundary from one side of the triple point to the other, allowing a commensurate to incommensurate transition with decreasing temperature as observed experimentally. A finite reservoir also suppresses the first-order jumps in the SDW order parameter and wave vector. When \ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{\le}2, the CI transition is second order for all temperatures. When \ensuremath{\rho}g2, the transition is second order near the triple point but first order at lower temperatures.
Arbitration: How to Use it in Dentistry

Arbitration can be a valuable tool in resolving disputes. The authors explain how to use the arbitration process. With the current backlog of court cases, many parties involved in business disputes are turning to arbitration to resolve problems. The process with its application to dentistry is defined.
Combining p-Values in Non-Stationary Panels

This article summarizes and discusses the existing p-value pooling approaches and compares their performances in the context of panel unit root tests. When the data are free of contemporaneous correlation, most tests achieve very high power. However, in the presence of contemporaneous correlation, most tests suffer from moderate to severe size distortions. When the panel contains both stationary and nonstationary series, the power of tests increases as the cross-sectional units grows. Among all the tests under study, the mean-of-Z test yields the highest power for the benchmark model, while the Fisher test is most robust for complicated model structures.
JPEG 2000 encoder options on model observer performance in signal known exactly but variable tasks (SKEV)

The new still image compression standard JPEG 2000 provides a set of features such as multiple resolution representation, tiling, region of interest (ROI) coding, and easy compression rate control. Previous evaluations of these encoder options have been with respect to non-task based image quality metrics (PSNR) and for non-medical images. In this paper, we investigated the effect of different JPEG 2000 encoder options on task-based model and human observer performance. Test images consisted of x-ray coronary angiogram backgrounds with simulated filling defects (signals)of 184 different size/shapes inserted in one of four simulated arteries. The task was to select the simulated artery containing the signal (four alternative forced choice; 4 AFC). The signal on each trial varied in shape and size but was known to the observer (signal known exactly but variable, SKEV). We obtained performance for the non-prewhitening matched filter with an eye filter (NPWE) model for the SKEV task through direct template implementation (Eckstein et al., 2000) on the test images. For comparison, a follow-up human psychophysical study with two observers was conducted. Our results showed that the dependence of task performance on the JPEG 2000 encoder options was similar for both the NPWE model and the human observers.
Benchmarking dynamic strain predictions of pulsed mercury spallation target vessels

Abstract Pulsed mercury spallation targets like that used in the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) feature a target vessel that strains with each burst of protons. A robust simulation method for predicting the strain response of the target vessel is needed to evaluate the target’s fatigue life. The interaction of pressure waves in the mercury with the vessel is a complex problem made more difficult by cavitation. The importance of benchmarking simulations had been recognized by SNS and its R&D program included experiments for measuring strains in various mercury-filled targets responding to single-beam pulses. Recent progress with simulations is reported. Results for two experimental targets are presented and compared to their test data, and the development of simulation parameters improved predictions is discussed. Overall the recent simulations do a fairly good job of predicting strain magnitude and dynamic response. In some target locations the predictions match data quite well, but this quality is not universally achieved.
Analytical representation of nano-scale parasitic motion in flexure-based selectively compliant mechanisms

Analytical modeling of selectively compliant mechanisms for quantifying the nano-scale parasitic motion is presented. Flexure-based compliant mechanisms are capable of meeting the demanding requirements of the partially constrained ultraprecision motion systems. However, the geometric errors induced by manufacturing tolerances can limit the precision capability. Understanding parasitic motion at the nano-scale necessitates a 3-D model even for mechanisms that are designed to be planar. A spatial kinematics based kinetostatic model is used here. This approach systematically accounts for the geometric errors, and enables estimation of the inherently spatial parasitic motion. Using insights from screw theory, the parasitic motion is classified into intrinsic mechanism errors, and errors that can be minimized by calibration procedures. A metric that quantifies the intrinsic parasitic motion and characterizes the precision capability of the mechanism is identified. Monte Carlo simulation is used to propagate the variance of the geometric errors through the model to determine the statistical moments of the chosen metric. To illustrate the approach, the modeling and analysis is applied to a classical four-bar mechanism with flexure joints. The model is further used to investigate the key system parameters that influence the intrinsic parasitic motion in the mechanism. The simulation results indicate more than 50% improvement in the precision capability of the four-bar mechanism by improved design of flexure joints, without changing the manufacturing tolerance limits.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Pulsed uv nitrogen laser: its intensity and linewidth.

Calculations are made on laser peak power and linewidth as a function of laser length. The results differ from those of the saturated linear amplifier model. (AIP)
Surface phonon polaritons mediated energy transfer between nanoscale gaps.

Surface phonon polaritons are electromagnetic waves that propagate along the interfaces of polar dielectrics and exhibit a large local-field enhancement near the interfaces at infrared frequencies. Theoretical calculations show that such surface waves can lead to breakdown of the Planck’s blackbody radiation law in the near field. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that surface phonon polaritons dramatically enhance energy transfer between two surfaces at small gaps by measuring radiation heat transfer between a microsphere and a flat surface down to 30 nm separation. The corresponding heat transfer coefficients at nanoscale gaps are 3 orders of magnitude larger than that of the blackbody radiation limit. The high energy flux can be exploited to develop new radiative cooling and thermophotovoltaic technologies.
Traumatic posterior cerebral artery aneurysm secondary to an intracranial nail: Case report

We present the case of a traumatic posterior cerebral artery aneurysm from a self-inflicted pneumatic nail-gun missile injury through the roof of the mouth. The patient presented to us in a coma with subarachanoid and intraventricular hemorrhage. Cerebral angiography revealed an aneurysm of the left posterior cerebral artery with no distal filling. The patient died 6 days after admission. At autopsy, a pseudoaneurysm of the posterior cerebral artery was seen. This aneurysm resulted from direct disruption of the arterial wall by the intracranial nail
Magnetization and susceptibility of ion-irradiated granular magnetite films

Porous granular films of magnetite (Fe${}_{3}$O${}_{4}$) with grains of \ensuremath{\sim}3 nm in size were prepared using a state-of-the-art nanocluster deposition system. The films are initially superparamagnetic but become magnetized following Si${}^{2+}$ ion irradiation. A significant increase in the grain size and a dramatic change in the microstructure are observed. There are dipolar interactions between the nanoparticles in both the unirradiated and irradiated films. The in-phase alternating current magnetic susceptibility of the unirradiated film shows a blocking temperature of \ensuremath{\sim}150 K, depending on frequency. A broadened Verwey transition for the irradiated film occurs at \ensuremath{\sim}75 K, above which the susceptibility exhibits unusual behavior: a nearly linear decrease with decreasing temperature. There are irreversible domain rotations in the irradiated film during zero-field cooling and warming cycles between 10 and 300 K. The observed behavior of the irradiated granular films is quite distinct from that of metallic nanostructures after irradiation, and is due to the dramatic change in microstructures.
What Randomized Controlled Trials Tell Us About Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) has been a revolutionary development in the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). However, EVAR has been rapidly embraced by both physicians and patients despite the paucity of Level I evidence demonstrating the long-term benefit of EVAR. The result of the two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EVAR versus open repair for the treatment of AAAs has provided some insight to the questions surrounding the utility of EVAR. The data and conclusions of these EVAR-related RCTs are briefly reviewed and discussed in this manuscript.
What we talked about at the pediatrician's office: Exploring differences between healthy steps and traditional pediatric primary care visits.

Healthy Steps for Young Children (HS) is a program designed to enhance pediatric primary care experiences for children birth to 3 years and their families by pairing a developmental specialist with a pediatric provider during well-child visits. This study examined the impact of HS on content discussed during well-child visits by providers, HS Specialists, and families. The impact of HS on pediatric outcomes, including timeliness of well-child visits and immunizations, also was examined. Using retrospective medical review, records of 40 children enrolled in HS were compared with records of 36 demographically matched controls. A developmental topics checklist was used to analyze content of well-child visits. Attendance at well-child visits, receipt of immunizations, and healthcare utilization also was evaluated. Important developmental topics were discussed mor eo ften during well-child visits of children enrolled in HS than for children who were not enrolled. Children enrolled in HS received timelier well-child visits and immunizations. No differences between groups were found in the number of sick or emergency room visits. Integrating HS Specialists into pediatric primary care well-child visits allows for discussion of important developmental topics while also impacting pediatric health outcomes. Abstracts translated in Spanish, French, German, and Japanese can be found on the abstract page of each article on Wiley Online Library at http://wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/imhj.
Comparative metagenome analysis of an Alaskan glacier

The temperature in the Arctic region has been increasing in the recent past accompanied by melting of its glaciers. We took a snapshot of the current microbial inhabitation of an Alaskan glacier (which can be considered as one of the simplest possible ecosystems) by using metagenomic sequencing of 16S rRNA recovered from ice/snow samples. Somewhat contrary to our expectations and earlier estimates, a rich and diverse microbial population of more than 2,500 species was revealed including several species of Archaea that has been identified for the first time in the glaciers of the Northern hemisphere. The most prominent bacterial groups found were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. Firmicutes were not reported in large numbers in a previously studied Alpine glacier but were dominant in an Antarctic subglacial lake. Representatives of Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteria and Planctomycetes were among the most numerous, likely reflecting the dependence of the ecosystem on the energy obtained through photosynthesis and close links with the microbial community of the soil. Principal component analysis (PCA) of nucleotide word frequency revealed distinct sequence clusters for different taxonomic groups in the Alaskan glacier community and separate clusters for the glacial communities from other regions of the world. Comparative analysis of the community composition and bacterial diversity present in the Byron glacier in Alaska with other environments showed larger overlap with an Arctic soil than with a high Arctic lake, indicating patterns of community exchange and suggesting that these bacteria may play an important role in soil development during glacial retreat.
The declaration of death and the withdrawal of care in the neurologic patient.

Advances in critical care technologies have led to an increase in patients who are neurologically devastated and in patients who have succumbed to their neurologic injuries. Physidans caring for these patients often face complex medical, ethical, and moral issues. Decisions and discussions surrounding withdrawal of care, death by neurologic criteria, and organ donation require significant knowledge of the prognosis, ancillary testing, and definitions of these processes. This article discusses some of the issues involved in the withdrawal of care and the declaration of death by neurologic criteria.
Should we pursue measurement of the natural capital stock

Abstract This paper critically surveys earlier definitions of the natural capital concept and several preliminary attempts to measure it. Utilizing Georgescu-Roegen's thoughts on funds, flows and stocks, I offer several (hopefully rigorous) definitions of natural capital. I close by arguing that measurement of ISEW, not of total natural capital, should be a priority of ecological economists.
Structure and properties of the high and low pressure forms of SrIrO3

Abstract The structure of the atmospheric pressure form of SrIrO3 is shown to be a monoclinic distortion of the hexagonal BaTiO3 structure ( a = 5.604 A , b = 9.618 A , c = 14.17 A , β = 93.26°). The cell dimensions have been studied to 1000°C and the coefficients of thermal expansion given. The structure transforms at 40 kbar and 1000°C to an orthorhombic perovskite ( a = 5.60 A , b = 5.58 A , c = 7.89 A ) with a 3% decrease in volume. This high pressure phase only retransforms slowly at atmospheric pressure and 1200°C and exhibits metallic conductivity and Pauli paramagnetism.
Clinical Supervision in Effectiveness and Implementation Research

The role of clinical supervision in the larger-scale implementation of effective mental health treatments has begun to attract attention in effectiveness research and implementation science. Clinical supervision approaches demonstrated to support the implementation of effective treatments could provide a fruitful basis for adaptation to the contours and implementation of other interventions. The adaptation of the Multisystemic Therapy supervision model to support the implementation of an innovative, experimental mental health service model called Links to Learning is described. An observational study provides the platform for consideration of the extent to which the Links supervision model was implemented as intended and of challenges to Links implementation illuminated by the supervision process. Implications are considered for research on supervision as a tool to effect the implementation and outcomes of effective treatment and service models in community practice contexts.
Nonlinear Free Vibration of a Cable Against a Straight Obstacle

The purpose of this study is to investigate the nonlinear effect of gravity on the free vibration of a cable against a straight obstacle. The cable model is expressed in terms of nonlinearly coupled transverse and axial displacements. The penalty method is used to simulate the obstacle, which is equivalent to inserting a stiff elastic foundation. The first symmetric frequencies are obtained when the depth of the obstacle is 1/2 and 1/3 of the initial transverse displacement. The effects of varying amplitude and equilibrium curvature are investigated.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Attenuation of local tetanus by treatment of ipsilateral sciatic nerve with colchicine.

Abstract A study of local tetanus in the hindlimb muscles of albino rats has shown that the toxin's clinical and electromyographic effects can be reduced by using colchicine to inhibit centripetal intraaxonal flow. We have not found significant defects in any aspect of neuromuscular transmission, but involved muscles show fibrillation, a tendency toward slower twitches, and profound weight loss, as if denervated. This is interpreted to mean that tetanus toxin damages the motoneuron so that it cannot synthesize or transport materials required for peripheral neurotrophic regulation of muscles. Phasic (type II) muscles are more involved than the tonic (type I) muscles. Joint adhesions were found to cause some of the late manifestations of local tetanus at a time when the spasms had subsided.
Analysis of nerve fiber layer measurements obtained from scanning laser polarimetry for glaucoma detection

New analysis tools to address the problem of early detection of the eye blinding disease glaucoma are presented. The thickness maps of the Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer (RNFL) corresponding to 184 eyes (92 Normal and 92 Glaucoma Patients) were obtained from a Scanning Laser Polarimeter (Gdx-VCC). The two dimensional data was used to draw features as opposed to the circular band one-dimensional data in previous approaches. Fourier analysis was performed on the 90° projection of the thickness map data to emphasize the shape contained in the RNFL. Different parameters from the Fourier Coefficients were drawn and tested for their ability to detect glaucoma. Significant differences were found in the shape measures of the projections and the ROC curve analysis was done to measure the separability of the sample set with those features. Another approach was to analyze the shape of the entire 2 dimensional thickness map through a 2D Fourier Transform. A circular ring band (10 pixel wide) data at a radius of 20 pixels was analyzed for this 2D FT. Principal Component Analysis was performed on this data for dimension reduction of feature space. Finally Fisher's linear discriminant function (LDF) was used as a classifier. The evaluation of different parameters obtained through the Fourier analysis of the thickness map image of RNFL was found to be a useful tool as an analysis strategy for glaucoma detection.
Durable polyisobutylene edge sealants for organic electronics and electrochemical devices

Abstract The performance of a desiccant-filled polyisobutylene edge sealant for organic electronics is reported. The sealant was applied through a low temperature lamination process using glass substrates and various seal widths. The performance was tested using the Ca corrosion method at 50 °C and 80% relative humidity (RH). Data show an effective water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), on the order of 10−3 g/m2/day in the transient regime with a breakthrough time greater than 1400 h for seals 1.5 mm wide and 0.3 mm thick. By changing the sealant architecture, the breakthrough time was increased with similar effective WVTRs. Finally, the sealant was applied to organic electrochromic devices, which displayed a retention of performance after 1000 h of storage at 50 °C and 80% RH.
A differentiated analysis of research—Practice linkages in early childhood programs

Abstract The loosely coupled relation between research and practice in early childhood education (ECE) is analyzed by examining four types of research in relation to policy and practice uses of research knowledge. It is concluded that although research has not driven early childhood program practices, social science findings have contributed substantially to policy initiatives aimed at expanding the field of early childhood programs, and that policy issues have driven the early childhood program research agenda. In anticipation of greater future demand for practice use of program process-outcome research and in view of the literature on practitioner adoption of innovations in education, it is proposed that practice uses of research knowledge occur at a conceptual level.