cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cold K-shell emission from the implosion of brass planar wire arrays and X-pinches performed at the 1-MA zebra generator at UNR

Summary form only given. Understanding the time evolution of the cold K-shell lines will help elucidate the nature of electron beams interacting with plasmas in Z- and X-pinches. Experiments using brass (70% copper, 30% zinc) planar wire arrays and x-pinches on the 1-MA Zebra generator at the University of Nevada, Reno were done to capture the emission of cold K-shell radiation. The diagnostic suite included time-integrated spatially resolved spectrometers capturing L-shell and K-shell spectra using a KAP crystal and a LiF crystal, respectively, time-integrated and time-gated pinhole imaging, PCD, XRD, Si-diode signals, a Ni bolometer, a faraday cup, and laser shadowgraphy. In particular, the cold K-shell lines from the wire material (1.39-1.54 Å) were recorded using a time-gated spatially integrated spectrometer with a LiF crystal. These cold K-shell lines originate from inner shell transitions of lower ionization stages of copper and zinc. Contrary to expectations, experimental intensity ratios of the copper to zinc Kα lines from time-gated spectra did not conform to their abundance in brass (0.7/0.3), but instead varied in time over the x-ray pulse. In order to explain this data, properties of the plasma and electron beam need to be considered. It will be demonstrated that opacity alone cannot be responsible for the discrepancy in the observed cold Kα ratios from their abundance in brass. Understanding the copper and zinc cold K-shell line intensities in time from inner shell ionization cross sections, high energy electron beams, and radiation physics will be highlighted. Results from non-LTE kinetic models of copper and zinc are also discussed. The experimental observations and modeling of brass x-pinches and planar wire arrays will be compared and contrasted.
Präder-Willi syndrome fails to alter cardiac autonomic modulation.

Twenty-six healthy subjects with a diagnosis of Prader-Willi syndrome were compared with 26 age-, gender-, and body mass index-matched controls for autonomic modulation and baroreflex sensitivity. Electrocardiograms, beat-to-beat finger blood pressures, and respiration were recorded for several minutes in the following sequence: (1) supine, (2) after transition from supine to standing, (3) sitting, (4) during a Valsalva maneuver, (5) while performing moderate exercise, and (6) during recovery from exercise while seated. All recordings were channeled and stored in a computer; analyses were carried out at a later date. Power spectral analysis (fast-Fourier transform) of heart period variability was used to assess cardiac autonomic modulation. The slope of the regression equation between heart period and blood pressure rise after the Valsalva maneuver was used as an index of baroreflex sensitivity. Analysis of variance failed to reveal significant differences in any of the autonomic and baroreflex sensitivity variables between the two groups. Because breathing patterns entrain autonomic modulation, we verified respiration and found no differences between the two groups. Therefore, findings in the current investigation indicate that cardiac autonomic modulation in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome does not differ from age and body mass index-matched subjects.
Intentions and Moral Permissibility: The Case of Acting Permissibly with Bad Intentions

Many people believe in the intention principle, according to which an agent’s intention in performing an act can sometimes make an act that would otherwise have been permissible impermissible, other things being equal. Judith Jarvis Thomson, Frances Kamm and Thomas Scanlon have offered cases that seem to show that it can be permissible for an agent to act even when the agent has bad intentions. If valid, these cases would seem to cast doubt on the intention principle. In this paper, I point out that these cases have confounding factors that have received little attention in the literature. I argue that these confounding factors undermine the putative force of these cases against the intention principle. Indeed, when cases without these confounding factors are considered, it becomes clear, so I argue, that intentions can be relevant for the permissibility of an act.
Inflammatory “Adiposopathy” in Major Amputation Patients

Background Much has been made of obesity’s health impact, largely founded on data regarding patient weight and circulating adipose-derived mediator levels. Paradoxically, a “healthy obese” state exists, but substantial knowledge gaps also exist regarding human adipose-phenotype determinants. Surgical major amputation (AMP) patients are the “sickest-of-the-sick.” Conversely, elective knee replacement (TKR) is reserved for patients who expect continued health and longevity. To delineate human adipose biology variability and clinical determinants, we studied fresh subcutaneous adipose from AMP patients, using TKR patients as controls. We hypothesized that AMP patients would display a pro-inflammatory adipokine signature, and that certain clinical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, high BMI, uremia) would independently drive elevated adipose inflammation. Methods AMP (n = 29) and TKR (n = 20) adipose tissue samples and clinical data were collected prospectively, and protein was isolated and analyzed for 8 adipose-related mediators. Statistical analyses included Wilcoxon’s rank sum test, Fisher’s exact test, and multiple linear regression modeling of clinical parameter predictors of mediator expression. Results Interleukin-(IL)-6, IL-8, leptin, resistin, and PAI-1 were differentially expressed (up to 200-fold) between AMP/TKR cohorts. Key clinical parameters that associated with protein levels of adipose phenotype included age, gender, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, congestive heart failure, cerebrovascular disease, renal disease, and warfarin, statin, and insulin use. BMI failed to be predictive. Conclusions AMP patients display adiposopathy with a pro-inflammatory adipose phenotypic signature compared with TKR controls. BMI fails to predict phenotype, yet other clinical conditions, such as age, hyperlipidemia, and renal insufficiency, do drive adipokine expression. Understanding human adipose phenotypic determinants stands as a fundamental priority when future studies dissect the interplay between adipose biology and surgical diseases/outcomes.
Managing religious discourse in the mosque: the end of extremist rhetoric during the Friday sermon

The goal of this article is to examine the different types of sermons delivered in Moroccan mosques and how their content and orientation have changed drastically since 2003 as a result of government intervention in the rhetorical practices of imams during the Friday prayer. In addition to discussing the impact of the religious and political rhetorics of imams while delivering their Friday sermons and the types of rhetorical strategies used by each imam to persuade the congregation and move them to action, the article also discusses the Moroccan state's recent involvement in the religious practices of its subjects in an effort to control and manage religious discourse in the country, and the extent to which it has been successful at curbing extremist discourse in the mosque. The article argues that the state has managed to achieve this goal by having recourse to some innovative and ingenious methods, including the establishment of a new imam school that trains new imams and murshidats (female religious le...
Portrayal of body weight on children's television sitcoms: a content analysis.

Abstract Television programs portray characters with idealized body types that for most viewers are unattainable. These body types have become a common source of comparison for many young viewers who evaluate their own self-worth and bodies based on the models they see on television. This study examines body weight, both in terms of frequency and portrayals, focusing on how preadolescent and adolescent characters’ bodies are presented on the sitcoms from three children's television networks. The results indicate that while children's situation comedies have relatively few overweight characters, this small percentage closely parallels national figures. Male and female characters do not differ in their distribution across weight categories. However, when character ethnicity is factored, significant shifts occur. Surprisingly, no differences were observed in the portrayal of physical and mental attributes among weight categories except in social popularity where overweight characters were not as embedded in social networks. Compared to other relevant studies, this research provides some evidence that the treatment and portrayal of overweight characters in children-targeted sitcoms is more positive, equitable, and less stereotypical than in other programming venues and that children are experiencing body type diversity in these fictional portrayals. Nonetheless, above average weight characters still suffer some social marginality and ethnic misrepresentation.
SU‐E‐T‐322: A Dosimetric Comparison of PBI Brachytherapy Techniques: SAVI, Contura, and Tube and Button Applicators

Purpose: To evaluate the dosimetry of partial breast irradiation brachytherapy techniques using the Strut Adjusted Volume Implant (SAVI), Contura, and Tube and Button (T&B) applicators. Methods: A total of 51 breast‐cancer patients (23 SAVI, 6 Contura, and 22 T&B) were treated. The target was delineated following NSABP B‐39 guidelines. 3D plans were optimized using the Inverse Planning Simulated Annealing algorithm to deliver 3.4 Gy per fraction to the target and minimize dose to organs at risk (OARs). Graphical optimization was then used to fine tune the final dose distribution. The minimum cavity‐to‐skin distance was measured. Target coverage (V90 and V95) and maximum dose (D0.1cc) to the OARs were evaluated. Dose homogeneity index (DHI = 1‐V150/V100) was calculated. Results: The average cavity‐to‐skin distances were 4.1 mm (0.5–9.6 mm, SAVI) and 11.7 mm (7.1–15.4 mm, Contura). The target‐to‐skin distance for the T&B cases was 8.7 mm (5.0–13.7 mm). The average V90 and V95 to the target were 96.8% and 94.5% (SAVI), 97.0% and 93.0% (Contura), 98.6% and 97.3% (T&B). The mean D0.1cc to the skin, ribs, and lung was 91.5%, 58.8%, 44.5% (SAVI), 93.1%, 51.3%, 40.5% (Contura), 69.1%, 41.5%, and 31.9% (T&B). The average V150 and V200 to the normal breast tissue were 30.4 cc and 14.9 cc (SAVI), 29.5 cc and 7.3 cc (Contura), 18.3 cc and 7.1 cc (T&B). The average DHI for the SAVI, Contura, and T&B cases was 0.55 (0.50–0.60), 0.70 (0.63–0.78), and 0.76 (0.74–0.79). Conclusions: All techniques provided clinically acceptable target coverage and dose to the OARs. The SAVI device provided a lower skindose at close cavity‐to‐skin distances while providing excellent target coverage. However, the T&B and Contura applicators produced more homogeneous dose distribution (higher DHI) in the target than the SAVI. The correlations between dosimetricproperties and follow‐up mammogram results are under investigation.
Highly Efficient Light-Trapping Structure Design Inspired By Natural Evolution

Recent advances in nanophotonic light trapping open up the new gateway to enhance the absorption of solar energy beyond the so called Yablonovitch Limit. It addresses the urgent needs in developing low cost thin-film solar photovoltaic technologies. However, current design strategy mainly relies on the parametric approach that is subject to the predefined topological design concepts based on physical intuition. Incapable of dealing with the topological variation severely constrains the design of optimal light trapping structure. Inspired by natural evolution process, here we report a design framework driven by topology optimization based on genetic algorithms to achieve a highly efficient light trapping structure. It has been demonstrated that the optimal light trapping structures obtained in this study exhibit more than 3-fold increase over the Yablonovitch Limit with the broadband absorption efficiency of 48.1%, beyond the reach of intuitive designs.
Indium-111-pentetreotide scanning versus conventional imaging techniques for the localization of gastrinoma

Background. The present study evaluates 111In-pentetreotide scanning as a method for detection of gastrinomas. Operative findings serve as the benchmark for comparison of the efficacy of 111In-pentetreotide versus conventional imaging studies. Methods. Twelve patients (seven female and five male; age, 37 to 80 years) with histologic confirmation of gastrinoma underwent thin section dynamic computed tomography (CT) scanning and 111In-pentetreotide scanning. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of 111In-pentetreotide and CT scanning are compared on the basis of tumor size and location. Results. Thirty discrete foci of intrahepatic and extrahepatic tumors were detected at operation. CT scanning detected three of nine pancreaticoduodenal lesions, whereas eight of these nine extrahepatic primary tumors were imaged by 111In-pentetreotide scanning. No false-positive 111In-pentetreotide scans were noted. The sensitivity of CT scanning for detection of metastatic disease was 56% versus 94% for the 111In-pentetreotide scan. Successful CT imaging was highly dependent on tumor size. No tumor smaller than 1 cm was imaged by CT, whereas four of seven lesions greater than 1 cm were imaged by 111In-pentetreotide scintigraphy. The smallest gastrinoma imaged by 111In-pentetreotide scanning was a 4 mm duodenal tumor. Conclusions. 111In-pentetreotide scanning, was superior to CT scanning for localizing gastrinomas. Further studies are required to determine whether 111In-pentetreotide scans will complement or replace traditional imaging methods.
High-T/sub 0/ strain-compensated InGaAsSb-AlGaAsSb quantum-well lasers emitting at 2.43 /spl mu/m

Strain-compensated InGaAsSb-AlGaAsSb quantum-well (QW) lasers emitting near 2.5 /spl mu/m have been grown by solid-source molecular beam epitaxy. The relatively high arsenic composition causing a tensile strain in the Al/sub 0.25/GaAs/sub 0.08/Sb barriers lowers the valence band edge and the hole energy level, leading to an increased hole confinement and improved laser performance. A 60% external differential efficiency in pulsed mode was achieved for 1000-/spl mu/m-long lasers emitting at 2.43 /spl mu/m. A characteristic temperature T/sub 0/ as high as 163 K and a lasing-wavelength temperature dependence of 1.02 nm//spl deg/C were obtained at room temperature. For 2000 /spl times/ 200 /spl mu/m/sup 2/ broad-area three-QW lasers without lateral current confinement, a low pulsed threshold of 275 A/cm/sup 2/ was measured.
FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE BLOOD CHOLESTEROL OF RABBITS IN RELATION TO ATHEROSCLEROSIS

1. The action of potassium iodide in preventing a significant rise in the blood cholesterol of rabbits fed cholesterol was temporary. After about 4 months it lost its effectiveness and the blood cholesterol rose. 2. In rabbits with hypercholesterolemia resulting from long continued cholesterol feeding, the administration of potassium iodide caused a marked rise in the blood cholesterol. 3. On the other hand, dried whole thyroid given to such animals produced a sharp fall in the blood cholesterol. This fall was temporary and was followed by a rise to new high levels. 4. In thyroidectomized rabbits fed cholesterol and potassium iodide, both thyroid and thyroxin delayed but did not prevent a rise in blood cholesterol. Even with the hypercholesterolemia in these animals, however, the incidence of atherosclerosis was low. 5. Age apparently played a part in determining the response of the blood cholesterol to cholesterol feeding. In a group of old rabbits when compared with a younger group the rise in the cholesterol of the blood was greater and the subsequent return toward normal was slower when the feeding was stopped.
Acute Delirium and Functional Decline in the Hospitalized Elderly Patient

BACKGROUND Delirium is often considered a transient cognitive syndrome. Its effect on long-term physical function, however, has not been well defined. METHODS In a prospective study of 325 hospitalized community and nursing home elderly, we analyzed the effect of in-hospital delirium on subsequent physical function. ADL performance was assessed prior to admission, and at 3 and 6 months after hospital discharge. RESULTS There was a strong univariate (unadjusted) association between incident delirium and functional decline (p < .02). Delirious subjects lost a mean of almost one ADL, as measured 3 months after hospital discharge. Using multivariate linear regression analysis, with adjusted change in function as the dependent variable, delirium persisted as the sole predictor of loss of function (p = .009) at 3 months after discharge. The functional decline persisted at 6 months after hospital discharge. CONCLUSION This finding of a nontransient, perhaps permanent consequence of delirium invites reexamination of the definition of delirium from that of an acute, reversible syndrome to one of acute onset with long-term sequelae.
The magnetosphere-ionosphere system from the perspective of plasma circulation : A tutorial

Abstract This tutorial review examines the role of O + in the dynamics of magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling. The life cycle of an O + plasma element is considered as it circulates from the mid- to high-latitude ionosphere. Energization and diversion of the convecting plasma element into outflows involves Alfvenic turbulence at the low-altitude base of the cusp and plasmasheet boundary layer and in downward-current “pressure cookers.” Observational evidence indicating that O + dominates the plasmasheet and ring current during extreme storm intervals is reviewed. The impacts of an O + -enriched plasma on solar wind–magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling are considered at both the micro and global scales. A synthesis of results from observation, theory and simulations suggests that the presence of O + in the magnetosphere is both a disruptive and a moderating agent in maintaining the balance between dayside and nightside magnetic merging.
Absorption of undulator radiation in media

Detailed thermal stress analyses of beamline and optical components subject to high heat loads require an Accurate determination of the absorbed power profile for accurate prediction of the temperature profile and structural parameters. This is particularly important for high power beams from wigglers and undulators at the third generation synchrotron sources because components must, in general, be designed and maintained with strict mechanical tolerances. The spatial distribution of the power density of an undulator is a rapidly varying function of the energy of the photons suggesting that approximative methods based on a smooth spectral variation may not be valid. In this paper, a fast code for calculating undulator spectra is developed and compared with a wiggler code for approximation of the same spectra. Results from numerical simulations, including the emittance of the stored particle beam, are presented for the absorbed power density in a beryllium window. We find markedly different results for the two models for far off-axis radiation indicating the inadequacy of the wiggler model applied to an undulator spectrum in this case. The wiggler model overestimates the total absorbed power by as much as 82% for the beryllium window.
Zero-Exposure Distributed TDMA Using Time-Coded Packet Transmissions

This paper proposes a distributed TDMA slot allocation protocol that relies on zero amount of explicit information exchange among the participating nodes. This novel property allows the protocol to work in restricted environments such as in privacy-sensitive body area networks and various military networks in which nodes may need to cooperate in distributed TDMA but are not allowed to explicitly exchange any information in order to preserve their anonymity. This paper introduces an innovative approach of time-coded packet transmissions for implicitly exchanging slot timing information. It is shown that using such implicit information, together with a notion of pattern based shadow packet, the nodes are able to self-allocate collision-free TDMA slots in a Zero Exposure manner. The protocol is evaluated and its performance has been shown using extensive simulation models.
3D integration of planar crossbar memristive devices with CMOS substrate.

Planar memristive devices with bottom electrodes embedded into the substrates were integrated on top of CMOS substrates using nanoimprint lithography to implement hybrid circuits with a CMOL-like architecture. The planar geometry eliminated the mechanically and electrically weak parts, such as kinks in the top electrodes in a traditional crossbar structure, and allowed the use of thicker and thus less resistive metal wires as the bottom electrodes. Planar memristive devices integrated with CMOS have demonstrated much lower programing voltages and excellent switching uniformity. With the inclusion of the Moire pattern, the integration process has sub-20 nm alignment accuracy, opening opportunities for 3D hybrid circuits in applications in the next generation of memory and unconventional computing.
Raman spectrum of CF4 in liquid-argon solution

Abstract Raman spectra of CF 4 in liquid-argon solutions have been measured and compared to spectra of the liquid and the gas. The Fermi doublet between ν 3 and 2ν 4 was investigated as a function of concentration, and changes in the Raman spectrum corresponded closely to those observed previously in the i.r. spectrum.
Diagnosing pediatric asthma: Validating the Easy Breathing Survey

Abstract Objective: To determine the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of a simple, self-administered questionnaire for the diagnosis of asthma in children. Study design: A questionnaire specifically designed to assist primary care providers in making a diagnosis of asthma in children was developed and administered in 4 different primary care and subspecialty clinics, validated, and then used as part of an asthma management program called Easy Breathing. Asthma diagnoses were made according to recommended National Asthma Expert Panel Guidelines. Results: Four questions on the survey were shown to be sensitive and specific for asthma. The sensitivity was greater for all levels (mild, moderate, and severe) of persistent asthma than for mild, intermittent asthma. A positive response to any 1 of the 4 questions was over 94% sensitive for asthma; a negative response to all 4 questions was 55% specific for ruling out asthma. Conclusions: Patient responses to 4 specific respiratory symptom questions can assist primary care providers in diagnosing asthma in children. Primary care providers serving pediatric populations at high risk for asthma should consider asking patients or their parents these 4 questions regarding asthma symptoms on a regular basis. (J Pediatr 2001;139:267-72)
Why does 5-methylchrysene interact with DNA as both a planar and a nonplanar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon? Quantum mechanical studies

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are a large class of anthropogenic chemicals found in the environment. Some class members are potent animal carcinogens while other similar class members show little carcinogenic activity. When considering a series of in vitro studies of the interaction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon bay region diol-epoxides with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), it was found that molecules with a crowded bay region behaved differently than molecules with a more open bay region. Molecules with a crowded bay region are nonplanar while in general polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are planar molecules. This dichotomy between planar and nonplanar subclasses proved useful, but when the experimental data was considered, 5-methylchrysene did not fit well into either class. In this study quantum mechanical calculations are reported that show 5-methyl chrysene and its diol-epoxides are nonplanar molecules, but the energy required to force them to be planar is considerably smaller than for most other nonplanar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The relationship to the experimental results that indicated 5-methylchrysene may behave like both a planar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in some experiments and a nonplanar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in others is discussed. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2002
Nonpointlike-parton model with asymptotic scaling and with scaling violation at moderate Q 2 values

A nonpointlike-parton model is formulated on the basis of the assumption of energy-independent total cross sections of partons and the current-algebra sum rules. No specific strong-interaction Lagrangian density is introduced in this approach. This model predicts asymptotic scaling for the inelastic structure functions of nucleons on the one hand and scaling violation at moderate Q/sup 2/ values on the other hand. The predicted scaling-violation patterns at moderate Q/sup 2/ values are consistent with the observed scaling-violation patterns. A numerical fit of F/sub 2/ functions is performed in order to demonstrate that the predicted scaling-violation patterns of this model at moderate Q/sup 2/ values fit the data, and to see how the predicted asymptotic scaling behavior sets in at various x values. Explicit analytic forms of F/sub 2/ functions are obtained from this numerical fit, and are compared in detail with the analytic forms of F/sub 2/ functions obtained from the numerical fit of the quantum-chromodynamics (QCD) parton model. This comparison shows that this nonpointlike-parton model fits the data better than the QCD parton model, especially at large and small x values. Nachtman moments are computed from the F/sub 2/ functions of this model and are shown to agree with datamore » well. It is also shown that the two-dimensional plot of the logarithm of a nonsinglet moment versus the logarithm of another such moment is not a good way to distinguish this nonpointlike-parton model from the QCD parton model.« less
Single-file transport of water molecules through a carbon nanotube

Recent molecular dynamics simulations of water transport through the interior channel of a carbon nanotube in contact with an aqueous reservoir showed that conduction occurred in bursts with collective water motion. A continuous-time random-walk model is used to describe concerted transport through channels densely filled with molecules in a single-file arrangement, as also found in zeolites, as well as ion channels and aquaporins in biological membranes. Theoretical predictions for different collective properties of the single-file transport agree with the simulation results.
Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease in Metropolitan Atlanta: A Population-Based Assessment

Active, population-based surveillance for invasive group A streptococcal (GAS) disease was conducted in laboratories in metropolitan Atlanta from 1 January 1994 through 30 June 1995. Clinical and laboratory records were reviewed and isolates characterized. One hundred and eighty-three cases of invasive GAS disease were identified (annual incidence, 5.2 cases/100,000). The incidence was highest among blacks (9.7/100,000 per year; relative risk (RR), 1.92; confidence interval (CI), 1.69-2.19; P < .0001) and the elderly, particularly nursing home residents (RR, 13.66; CI, 7.07-26.40; P < .0001). The mean age of patients was 41.3 years (range, 0-95 years). Skin and soft-tissue infections were most common. Mortality was 14.4%; risk of death was significantly higher for patients with streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) (RR, 9.73; CI, 3.34-29; P = .0008) and individuals infected with M-type 1 (RR, 7.40; CI, 1.5-16; P = .0084). Fourteen percent of invasive GAS infections were STSS and 3% were necrotizing fasciitis. Invasive GAS disease was associated with varicella infection in children (RR, 12.19; CI, 5.58-26.62; P < .0001). M (or emm) types included M1 (16%), M12 (12%), and M3 (11%). Continued study of GAS disease is essential to further define risk factors and risk of secondary cases and to develop effective prevention strategies.
Electrical Safety in Electrodiagnostic Medicine

Enhancing safety during procedures is one of our primary professional obligations to our patients. The vigilant application of basic principles allows electrodiagnostic medicine consultants to maintain a safe environment for both patients and office staff. Use of a nerve stimulator in close proximity to the path of wires or catheters that enter the heart or great vessels should be avoided; a separation of at least 15 cm (6 in) is recommended. Other testing of nerves in the limbs can be performed safely, particularly in patients with modern bipolar pacemakers and even with cardiac defibrillation devices in place. Current must never have a path to flow through the torso. Proper grounding of electrodiagnostic equipment should be ensured, and both the instruments and the wall plugs should be tested periodically. In addition, adherence to the proper stimulation intensity and avoidance of overstimulation is important not only for safety but also because it improves measurement accuracy and patient comfort.
Two-criteria LQG decision problems with one-step delay observation sharing pattern

This paper is concerned with the development of a general theory for the class of multistage linear\3-quadratic\3-Gaussian (LQG) decision problems characterized by (i) two decision makers (DM) each with a different objective functional to optimize, (ii) one-step delay observation sharing information pattern which provides each DM with the observation (but not the action) of the other DM with a one-step delay, (iii) a noncooperative equilibrium solution concept. In particular, it is proven that, under certain conditions, this class of optimization problems admit unique equilibrium strategies for each DM, which are linear in the information available. Moreover, exact expressions for those unique strategies are given in the paper. When specialized to the case of a single objective functional, the theory developed generalizes and unifies some of the results found in the literature on dynamic LQG team and zero-sum game problems.
Effect of Micmcracking on the Fracture Toughness and Fracture Surface Fractal Dimension of Lithia‐Based Glass‐Ceramics

The effect of thermally induced microcracks on the fracture toughness and fractal dimension of fully crystalline lithia disilicate glass-ceramics was studied. The fracture toughness, K{sub IC}, for the nonmicrocracked lithia disilicate, 3.02 {+-} 0.12 MPa {center_dot} m{sup 1/2}, was significantly greater than the value of 1.31 {+-} 0.05 MPa {center_dot} m{sup 1/2} for the microcracked specimens. The fractal dimensional increment, D*, was 0.24 {+-} 0.01 for nonmicrocracked lithia disilicate specimens compared with a value of 0.18 {+-} 0.01 for the microcracked specimens. The relationship between K{sub IC} and D* implies that the two materials exhibit dissimilar fracture behavior of microstructural differences. Estimates of the characteristic length involved in the fracture process, a{sub 0}, indicate that the materials have an identical fracture process at the atomic level. This paper contradiction may be explained by the scale on which the measurements were taken. It is suggested that fractal analysis at the atomic level would yield equivalent D* values for the two different microstructures.
Site-Specific Variation in Food Resources, Sex Ratios, and Body Condition of an Overwintering Migrant Songbird

ABSTRACT. Territorial social behavior of wintering Nearctic—Neotropic migrant songbirds places males and females in direct conflict over access to winter space and resources. Outcomes of this intersexual competition can vary by species and habitat, but information has been collected for only a small subset of migrant species. We investigated the available food resources, sex ratios, and body condition of territorial Bicknell's Thrushes (Catharus bicknelli) wintering in the Dominican Republic between 1999 and 2008 at two ecologically distinct wet-forest sites, one in high-elevation cloud forest and the other in mid-elevation rainforest. Arthropod abundance was greater in cloud forest habitat, which was occupied by proportionally more males, the larger-bodied sex (74% male). By contrast, both sexes occurred at parity in rainforest habitat (53% male), where soft-bodied fruit was the predominant dietary resource. Body condition of cloud forest males was comparable to that of rainforest males, but cloud forest...
The Collagen Fibril Structure in the Superficial Zone of Articular Cartilage by μMRI

Summary Objective To investigate the fibril architecture of the collagen matrix in the superficial zone (SZ) of articular cartilage non-destructively by microscopic magnetic resonance imaging (μMRI) T 2 anisotropy. Method Six specimens of canine humeral cartilage were rotated in such a way that the normal axis of the articular surface of the cartilage specimen remained stationary and perpendicular to the static magnetic field, over a range of 180° and at a step of 15°. At each rotation angle, a quantitative T 2 image was constructed at 13μm pixel resolution. Results A set of complex and depth-dependent patterns was found in the μMRI T 2 anisotropy along the depth of the tissue. In the SZ, the T 2 anisotropy is clearly periodic, which demonstrates that the distribution of the collagen fibrils in the SZ is not random. In the transitional zone, the periodicity of the T 2 anisotropy approximately doubles with respect to that in the SZ. In the initial part of the radial zone (RZ), the T 2 anisotropy is also periodic but inverse to that in the SZ. In the deep part of the RZ, the T 2 anisotropy becomes increasingly weaker and eventually disappears. Conclusion There exists a certain degree of collagen anisotropy in all zones of articular cartilage. The anisotropic imaging data can be interpreted with the aid of a collagen architecture model.
INFLUENCE OF COOKING METHOD ON QUALITY ATTRIBUTES AND VITAMIN CONTENT OF SWEET POTATOES

A study was conducted on the effects of cultivar, size and method of cooking on quality attributes and nutrient content of sweet potatoes. The sweet potatoes were cooked by baking, boiling, steaming, microwave and canning, and subsequently analyzed. Sensory evaluations were also conducted. Ascorbic acid, riboflavin and carotenoids were highest in the cultivar Centennial and lowest in Georgia Jet. Niacin content was higher in Jasper than the other cultivars, while Goldrush and Centennial contained more pantothenic acid. Large roots contained more ascorbic acid and carotenoids, but B-vitamins did not vary with size. Canned roots were lower in all vitamins tested, except for carotenoids. Baking retained more of the vitamins, followed by microwave cooking. Generally, baking and microwave cooking produced better color, higher total solids and better flavor. Microwave cooking resulted in less moistness and smoothness. Cultivars and sizes responded differently to cooking, thus producing significant interactions.
Integrated processing of MOS gate dielectric structures

Integrated processing of MOS gate dielectric structures has been carried out in an ultraclean, multichamber processing system as a prototype for cluster (multichamber) processing in order to understand the potential and limitations of cluster processing for this application. With the enhanced surface cleanliness and contamination control enabled in this process environment, etching of the clean Si surface can occur when very low concentrations of oxygen species impinge on the surface at elevated temperatures, an intrinsic consequence of Si-O chemistry. Such etching leads to statistical roughening of the Si surface topography and thereby degrades the electrical properties of subsequently fabricated MOS structures. Identification of the etching reaction leads directly to prescriptions for cluster process integration which prevent etching: (1) ramping up to thermal oxidation temperature in an ambient with sufficient oxygen concentrations; and/or (2) in-situ formation of a passivating oxide surface layer as part of the pre-oxidation cleaning step. >
Empirical and stochastic formulations of western boundary conditions

Abstract High-frequency radar observations of surface current at 100 m resolution are used to stochastically determine the vorticity variability in the boundary layer between the Florida Current and the Florida coast. Using the empirical data, several formulations of the stochastic boundary condition (SBC) are then developed and evaluated for the parameterization of sub-grid scale variability along the western boundaries of an ocean general circulation model (OGCM). These SBCs are compared to both no-slip and free-slip boundary conditions along the western boundary of a channel model simulating separation of the boundary current at a cape, as well as simulations of the classic, wind-forced double-gyre circulation. Our studies indicate that simulated circulation patterns are sensitive to both the functional form of the SBC and the parameters used in a given formulation. In particular, a relatively simple, auto-regressive formulation of SBC can be applied to a coarse-resolution, eddy-permitting OGCM to increase flow turbulence and to affect the flow patterns in ways distinct from the standard, deterministic no-slip and free-slip boundary conditions. Correlation time scales of a few days to weeks, orders of magnitude larger than a typical time step of OGCM, are needed in the regression model for SBC. This formulation of SBC is shown to be effective in both quasi-geostrophic and shallow-water dynamics.
A Second-Order Accurate, Finite Volume–Based, Integrated Hydrologic Modeling (FIHM) Framework for Simulation of Surface and Subsurface Flow

Surface water, the vadose zone, and groundwater are linked components of a hydrologic conƟ nuum. In order to capture the interacƟ on between diff erent components of a hydrologic conƟ nuum and to use this understanding in water management situaƟ ons, an accurate numerical model is needed. The quality of model results depends on accurate representaƟ on of the physical processes and the data describing the area of interest, as well as performance of the numerical formulaƟ on implemented. Here we present a physics-based, distributed, fully coupled, second-order accurate, upwind cell-centered, constrained unstructured mesh based fi nite-volume modeling framework (FIHM) that simultaneously solves two-dimensional unsteady overland fl ow and three-dimensional variably saturated subsurface fl ow in heterogeneous, anisotropic domains. A mulƟ dimensional linear reconstrucƟ on of the hydraulic gradients (surface and subsurface) is used to achieve second-order accuracy. Accuracy and effi ciency in raster data and vector-boundary representaƟ ons are facilitated through the use of constrained Delaunay meshes in domain discreƟ zaƟ on. The experiments presented here (i) explore the infl uence of iniƟ al moisture condiƟ ons, soil properƟ es, anisotropy, and heterogeneity in determining the pressure head distribuƟ ons in the vadose and saturated zones, (ii) show the existence of localized “fl ux rotaƟ on” phenomenon due to heterogeneous anisotropy, leading to the creaƟ on of convergence–divergence zones, (iii) show the infl uence of verƟ cal drainage from unsaturated zone on the response of an unconfi ned aquifer to pumping, and (iv) show the eff ects of capillarity, saturaƟ on excess, infi ltraƟ on excess, and iniƟ al water table locaƟ on on determining the overland fl ow generaƟ on.
Recognition, Resolution, and Complexity of Objects Subject to Affine Transformations

The problem of recognizing objects subject to affine transformation in images is examined from a physical perspective using the theory of statistical estimation. Focusing first on objects that occlude zero-mean scenes with additive noise, we derive the Cramer-Rao lower bound on the mean-square error in an estimate of the six-dimensional parameter vector that describes an object subject to affine transformation and so generalize the bound on one-dimensional position error previously obtained in radar and sonar pattern recognition. We then derive two useful descriptors from the object's Fisher information that are independent of noise level. The first is a generalized coherence scale that has great practical value because it corresponds to the width of the object's autocorrelation peak under affine transformation and so provides a physical measure of the extent to which an object can be resolved under affine parameterization. The second is a scalar measure of an object's complexity that is invariant under affine transformation and can be used to quantitatively describe the ambiguity level of a general 6-dimensional affine recognition problem. This measure of complexity has a strong inverse relationship to the level of recognition ambiguity. We then develop a method for recognizing objects subject to affine transformation imaged in thousands of complex real-world scenes. Our method exploits the resolution gain made available by the brightness contrast between the object perimeter and the scene it partially occludes. The level of recognition ambiguity is shown to decrease exponentially with increasing object and scene complexity. Ambiguity is then avoided by conditioning the permissible range of template complexity above a priori thresholds. Our method is statistically optimal for recognizing objects that occlude scenes with zero-mean background.
Exploiting Postdominance for Speculative Parallelization

Task-selection policies are critical to the performance of any architecture that uses speculation to extract parallel tasks from a sequential thread. This paper demonstrates that the immediate postdominators of conditional branches provide a larger set of parallel tasks than existing task-selection heuristics, which are limited to programming language constructs (such as loops or procedure calls). Our evaluation shows that postdominance-based task selection achieves, on average, more than double the speedup of the best individual heuristic, and 33% more speedup than the best combination of heuristics. The specific contributions of this paper include, first, a description of task selection based on immediate post-dominance for a system that speculatively creates tasks. Second, our experimental evaluation demonstrates that existing task-selection heuristics based on loops, procedure calls, and if-else statements are all subsumed by compiler-generated immediate postdominators. Finally, by demonstrating that dynamic reconvergence prediction closely approximates immediate postdominator analysis, we show that the notion of immediate postdominators may also be useful in constructing dynamic task selection mechanisms
CRT optimization: don't forget the atrium!

Clinical trials of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have consistently demonstrated significant improvement in quality of life, functional status, and exercise capacity in patients with heart failure (HF). CRT is also associated with reverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling, improved systolic
Modeling the Politics of Afro-Latinos: Lessons from Forty Years of Social Science

Since the 1970's, a small but significant body of social scientific research on the politics of Afro Latinos has been produced. While generally limited to the margins of broader Latino politics research, analyses of how Afro Latino individuals, groups, and communities engage U.S. politics have become more frequent in recent years. Some research has explored Afro Latinos' inter-minority bridging potential -- in other words, how Afro Latino activists and interests might foster, or inhibit, Black/Latino coalition politics. Other work has assessed anti-Black racism among Latinos, identifying traditional patterns of racial and social exclusion 'inherited' from Latin American political cultures and situating Latino and Afro Latino politics within those traditions. A final strand has used survey research (especially the Latino National Survey) to measure attitudes of linked fate among Latinos (including Afro Latinos), African Americans, and others; (racially) gendered differences in political behavior; and class and ethnic identity among Afro Latinos and Latinos.The proposed paper critically reviews existing scholarship in the field, identifies areas for further empirical and theoretical development, and proposes a new framework modeling Afro Latino politics using political economic, attitudinal, and institutional analysis. The paper's purpose is to stimulate discussion and research, assessing Afro Latino political constraints and opportunities in the nation's contemporary, transitional racial regime.The paper engages the 2013 conference theme by offering a distinctive new approach linking Black politics and Latino politics, "expanding the boundaries of how global Blackness and social identity are defined/delimited along the lines of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, class, ideology, religion, and region."
Development of Crash Modification Factors for Installation of High-Tension Cable Median Barriers

Cross-median crashes are among the most hazardous collision types on freeways. The primary countermeasure to reduce such crashes is the installation of a median barrier, with a cable barrier being a widely used alternative. As of 2014, approximately 317 mi of cable median barriers had been installed on freeways throughout Michigan. To assess the safety impacts of this installation program, a comprehensive before-and-after crash analysis was conducted; this analysis included a manual crash report review to identify all median-related crashes. Safety performance functions were developed for roadway segments before and after cable barrier installation, as well as for similar control segments where no barrier had been installed. The empirical Bayes (EB) method was used to develop crash modification factors as a function of median width. To explore the effects of regression to the mean (RTM), the EB results were compared with those from a naive before–after analysis. The results showed that cable barriers sign...
Passive Hemagglutination and Its Inhibition

The binding of antigens to red blood cells may render them agglutinable with the corresponding antiserum. For example, human group O erythrocytes will be agglutinable by antiegg albumin antibodies if the red blood cell is coated with egg albumin. In these reactions the red blood cell serves as a carrier of the antigen and also as an easily visible indicator of the antigen-antibody reaction. Because of the passive role of erythrocytes in these immunologic reactions, the method is called “passive hemagglutination”.
Abstract 345: Inhibitor Kappa B Kinase Regulates Nitric Oxide Synthase Activity in Vascular Endothelial Cells

The generation of nitric oxide (NO) in endothelial cells is predominantly regulated by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity. The role of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp-90) in the regulation of eNOS activity has been established. Earlier, we demonstrated an increased interaction of Hsp-90 with inhibitor kappa B kinase β (IKKβ) in aortic endothelial cells (ECs) under conditions of high glucose (HG). These studies implicated the possibility of a site-specific competition between eNOS and IKKβ to bind to Hsp-90. In this study, the binding site of IKKβ on Hsp-90β is demonstrated by generating 5’deletional mutants of Flag tagged Hsp-90 and full length enhanced yellow fluorescent protein tagged IKKβ (EYFP-IKKβ). Forceful co-expression of the Hsp-90 deletion constructs with EYFP-IKKβ plasmid followed by immunoprecipitation/immunoblotting revealed the binding site of IKKβ to be between 307-711aa on Hsp-90, the middle domain (440-600 aa) where eNOS has been shown to bind to Hsp-90. Co-immunoprecipitation e...