cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance of mixed effects models in the analysis of mediated longitudinal data

Linear mixed effects models (LMMs) are a common approach for analyzing longitudinal data in a variety of settings. Although LMMs may be applied to complex data structures, such as settings where mediators are present, it is unclear whether they perform well relative to methods for mediational analyses such as structural equation models (SEMs), which have obvious appeal in such settings. For some researchers, SEMs may be more difficult than LMMs to implement, e.g. due to lack of training in the methodology or the need for specialized SEM software. It therefore is of interest to evaluate whether the LMM performs sufficiently in a scenario particularly suitable for SEMs. We focus on evaluation of the total effect (i.e. direct and indirect) of an exposure on an outcome of interest when a mediating factor is present. Our aim is to explore whether the LMM performs as well as the SEM in a setting that is conducive to using the SEM. We simulated mediated longitudinal data from an SEM where a binary, main independent variable has both direct and indirect effects on a continuous outcome. We conducted analyses with both the LMM and SEM to evaluate the performance of the LMM in a setting where the SEM is expected to be preferable. Models were evaluated with respect to bias, coverage probability and power. Sample size, effect size and error distribution of the simulated data were varied. Both models performed well in a range of settings. Marginal increases in power estimates were observed for the SEM, although generally there were no major differences in performance. Power for both models was good with a sample of size of 250 and a small to medium effect size. Bias did not substantially increase for either model when data were generated from distributions that were both skewed and kurtotic. In settings where the goal is to evaluate the overall effects, the LMM excluding mediating variables appears to have good performance with respect to power, bias and coverage probability relative to the SEM. The major benefit of SEMs is that it simultaneously and efficiently models both the direct and indirect effects of the mediation process.
Translation and validation of International Restless Leg Syndrome Study Group rating scale in Hindi language.

Objectives: The objective of this study is to translate and validate the International Restless Leg Syndrome Study Group rating scale (IRLS) in Hindi language. Materials and Methods: Thirty one consecutive patients diagnosed of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) were included in the study. Control group comprised of 31 subjects not having any symptom of RLS. The scale was procured from MAPI research trust; and, permission for the translation was sought. The translation was done according to the guidelines provided by the publisher. After translation, final version of the scale was applied in both the groups to find out the reliability and clinical validity. Results: RLS group had a predominance of females, and they were younger than the male counterparts (Age=36.80 ± 10.46 years vs 45.18 ± 8.34 years; t=2.28; P=0.03). There was no difference in the mean age between groups (RLS=39.77 ± 10.44 years vs Non RLS=38.29 ± 11.29 years; t=-0.53; P=0.59). IRLS scores were significantly different between both groups on all items (P<0.001). Translated version showed high reliability (Cronbach's alpha=0.86). IRLS scores were significantly different between both groups on all items (P<0.001). Conclusion: Hindi version of IRLS is reliable and a clinically valid tool that can be applied in Hindi speaking population.
Fine Grain Cross-VM Attacks on Xen and VMware

This work exposes vulnerabilities in virtualized cloud servers by mounting Cross-VM cache attacks in Xen and VMware VMs. We show for the first time that AES implementations in a number popular cryptographic libraries including Open SSL, Polar SSL and Libgcrypt have non-constant execution times and are vulnerable to Bernstein's correlation attack when run in Xen and VMware (bare metal version) VMs. We show that the vulnerability persists even if the VMs are running on different cores in the same machine. Experiments on Amazon EC2 and Google Compute Engine highlight the practical implications of the found vulnerability. The results of this study show that there remains a security risk to AES implementations of popular libraries and data encrypted under AES on popular cloud services.
Inbreeding depression effects on extinction time in a predator—prey system

Traditional methods of assessing population viability ignore both genetic—demographic interactions as well as community level dynamics. We address these deficiencies by presenting a model that investigates the effects of predation on a prey population experiencing inbreeding depression. Beginning with a simple Lotka—Volterra predator—prey system, we rewrite prey per capita mortality as a function of inbreeding. Inbreeding varies as a function of population size. Using computer simulation, we find that prey extinction times are inversely related to the level of inbreeding depression with and without predation. For all but very low levels of inbreeding depression, predation appreciably reduces persistence time. At moderate levels of inbreeding, predators go extinct before prey. When migration is introduced at low and moderate rates, persistence times only improve for those populations with low inbreeding depression measures. At a higher migration rate, persistence times are lengthened for low and moderately depressed prey populations. Increasing birth rates produce a visible, though noisy, trend towards increased times to extinction for low to moderate levels of inbreeding.
The lateral and medial compartments of the olfactory tubercle and their relation to olfactory-related input as determined by artificial neural network analysis

Abstract The current literature indicates that olfactory bulbar input projects throughout layer IA of the entire olfactory tubercle, with apparently more fibers in the lateral part than in the medial part of the tubercle. In addition, olfactory cortical association fibers project to layers IB, II, and III in all regions of the tubercle. This study exploited the phenomenon of transsynaptic transfer of WGA-HRP after injection into the olfactory bulb of rats to explore the degree of olfactory-related input to the tubercle. A computerized image analysis system was employed to quantify the amount of tracer transferred to layer II neurons of the tubercle. Qualitative analysis of the data indicates that the lateral tubercle consists of areas that receive little olfactory-related input. Nonparametric statistical tests and a novel application of artificial neural networks indicate regionally heterogeneous labeling across the tubercle and broad connections between homologous regions of the bulb and tubercle. These results have implications for understanding how olfactory sensory information is integrated into limbic-motor circuits by the olfactory tubercle.
Direct Evidence of Electron Tunneling in the Ionization of Sputtered Atoms

Direct evidence has been obtained for electron tunneling between sputtered Cs/sup +/ ions and the solid surfaces from which they originate. Strong neutralization of the Cs/sup +/ ions is observed whenever the tunneling channel is opened by changing the surface work function so that a crossing of the Fermi level by the Cs 6s level occurs. A tunneling model which takes the spatial dependences of the position and the width of the atomic level into account explains the data successfully.
Chronic stimulation of the semicircular canals using a multichannel vestibular prosthesis: Effects on locomotion and angular vestibulo-ocular reflex in chinchillas

Bilateral loss of vestibular sensation causes difficulty maintaining stable vision, posture and gait. An implantable prosthesis that partly restores vestibular sensation could significantly improve quality of life for individuals disabled by this disorder. We have developed a head-mounted multichannel vestibular prosthesis (MVP) that restores sufficient semicircular canal function to recreate a 3D angular vestibulo-ocular reflex (aVOR). In this study, we evaluated effects of chronic MVP stimulation on locomotion in chinchillas. Two of three animals examined exhibited significant improvements in both locomotion and aVOR.
Experimental therapy of prostate cancer with an immunomodulatory oligonucleotide: effects on tumor growth, apoptosis, proliferation, and potentiation of chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND The present study was designed to demonstrate the therapeutic efficacy of a novel immunomodulatory oligonucleotide (IMO) for prostate cancer. METHODS We evaluated the effects of the IMO in xenograft (PC-3) and syngeneic (TRAMP C1) models of prostate cancer, and in prostate cancer cells. The IMO was also evaluated in combination with chemotherapy, and the in vitro expression of TLR9 was examined. RESULTS The IMO had significant anti-tumor activity in both prostate cancer models and almost complete tumor regression was observed when the IMO was combined with taxotere or gemcitabine. TLR9 mRNA and protein were both expressed in prostate cancer cells. The IMO also induced apoptosis and decreased proliferation and survival of PC-3 cells in vitro in the presence of Lipofectin. CONCLUSIONS The IMO inhibits prostate cancer growth in vivo and in vitro, and potentiates the effects of conventional chemotherapeutic agents. This is the first report of TLR9 expression in prostate cancer cells. Prostate 66: 1653–1663, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Constellation lunar capability point of departure architecture

This paper describes and discusses the Constellation point of departure lunar capability architecture. Constellation is NASA's program to implement the human exploration of the moon and Mars. This paper focuses on the overall design and operational strategy for the Constellation lunar transportation system architecture including the Ares V heavy lift launch vehicle, Altair lunar lander and early concepts for lunar surface systems including habitats and mobile vehicles. The architecture builds on the initial capability vehicles of Ares I and Orion as they will initially fly to the international space station. The architecture is based on extensive trade studies of surface system objectives, lunar lander design options and Ares V design options. In addition to the description of the architecture this paper will briefly provide status of the initial capability building blocks of Ares I and Orion.
A ‘best points’ interpolation method for efficient approximation of parametrized functions

We present an interpolation method for efficient approximation of parametrized functions. The method recognizes and exploits the low-dimensional manifold structure of the parametrized functions to provide good approximation. Basic ingredients include a specific problem-dependent basis set defining a low-dimensional representation of the parametrized functions, and a set of ‘best interpolation points’ capturing the spatial-parameter variation of the parametrized functions. The best interpolation points are defined as solution of a least-squares minimization problem which can be solved efficiently using standard optimization algorithms. The approximation is then determined from the basis set and the best interpolation points through an inexpensive and stable interpolation procedure. In addition, an a posteriori error estimator is introduced to quantify the approximation error and requires little additional cost. Numerical results are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the method. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The affect of relative lordosis on dynamic torsional stability in the lumbar spine

The purpose of the study is to investigate one of the factors that appear to be responsible for the high incidence of back pain and disability, inefficacious lumbar lordosis. It has been the observation of many back pain specialists that patients with back pain and disc problems have a decreased lumbar curvature; this has been presumed by some to be a result of muscle spasm, but by others as a cause of the primary malady. Six cadaver spinal segments were tested on a materials testing system (MTS) in varying degrees of lumbar curvature to see whether the curvature had an affect on stability with compression and rotation, the motions responsible for many back injuries. In all cases, increased lumbar lordosis correlated with increased stiffness, This correlation was at a maximum with respect to the spines tested, in the one with the least amount of osteopenia (estimated by radiographs and age of specimens). The results suggest that lumbar lordosis correlates with increased stiffness in cadaveric specimens. This study is ongoing and preliminary results suggest a larger sample size for the mechanical testing is needed for the study to be conclusive and statistically valid. Once that is achieved, the correlations and clinical significance can be determined.
Dental Laminates: Which Technique?

A direct laboratory technique for fabricating dental laminate restorations is described; the method provides good soft tissue compatibility and esthetic appearance with reduced chair time and enhanced patient comfort.
Interaction of prostaglandins with the renin-angiotensin system.

in addition to its paramount role in the regulation of fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is also involved in renal development ([1][1], [17][2]). In adulthood, renal perfusion pressure, sodium chloride concentration at the site of the macula densa, and β-
Improving the health of workers and the environment: twenty years of toxics use reduction: for the 20th Anniversary Symposium of the Massachusetts Toxics Use Reduction Program November 4–5, 2009

The Massachusetts Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA) was passed and signed into law in 1989. Since its passage this legislation has had an important impact on environmental and occupational health, not only in Massachusetts but also nationally and internationally. In order to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this important program, a two-day symposium will be held on November 4–5, 2009. The two days will have different foci. The first day will be a scientific meeting, devoted to the general topic of toxic chemical use reduction (TUR). The second day will focus on the Massachusetts TURA program, its past successes and challenges, and prospects for the future. This Call for Papers is for the scientific meeting on the first day. Accepted papers will be published in a special issue of the Journal of Cleaner Production (JCLP), as described below.
Rapid-response splicing reporter screens identify differential regulators of constitutive and alternative splicing

Bioactive compounds have been invaluable for dissecting the mechanisms, regulation, and functions of cellular processes. However, very few such reagents have been described for pre-mRNA splicing. To facilitate their systematic discovery, we developed a high-throughput cell-based assay that measures pre-mRNA splicing by utilizing a quantitative reporter system with advantageous features. The reporter, consisting of a destabilized, intron-containing luciferase expressed from a short-lived mRNA, allows rapid screens ( 23,000 screened), all pharmacologically active: clotrimazole, flunarizine, and chlorhexidine. Interestingly, none was a general splicing inhibitor. Rather, each caused distinct splicing changes of numerous genes. We further discovered the target of action of chlorhexidine and show that it is a selective inhibitor of specific Cdc2-like kinases (Clks) that phosphorylate serine-arginine-rich (SR) protein splicing factors. Our findings reveal unexpected activities of clinically used drugs in splicing and uncover differential regulation of constitutively spliced introns.
Paget's Disease of Bone

A 69-year-old man reports increasing pain in the right leg. Physical examination reveals warmth and anterolateral bowing of the right shin. The serum alkaline phosphatase level is 260 U per liter (normal, 38 to 126 U per liter). A skeletal scintigraphic scan reveals enhanced uptake in only the deformed tibia, where a radiograph shows changes indicative of Paget’s disease. His sister, whose alkaline phosphatase level is 160 U per liter, has asymptomatic Paget’s disease confined to the left iliac wing. How should their conditions be managed?
Thermo-mechanical characterization of polypyrrole compliance using stochastic system identification

Conducting polymers such as polypyrrole are studied as novel biologically inspired actuators. Their capacity to generate stresses of up to 5 MPa, strains of up to 10% at low voltages (2 V) make them ideal candidates to be used as artificial muscle materials. It has been shown that the modulus of polypyrrole can change when the material is electrochemically excited. In this paper we develop a technique that uses a stochastic stress input that can be used to measure the compliance frequency response (between 10-2 Hz and 100 Hz) of polypyrrole in-situ. We validate the compliance calculated from the stochastic stress input by comparing it with the compliance calculated from a single sinusoidal stress input. We also measure the compliance as a function of temperature using both techniques and show that the stochastic compliance follows the same trends as the compliance calculated from single sinusoidal stress input.
Fungal Prophylaxis in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Candida sp are the third most common cause of late-onset sepsis (occurring at >72 hours of age) in very low-birthweight (VLBW) infants (birthweight ≤1,500 g). Invasive candidiasis may cause death or neurodevelopmental impairment in almost 75% of infected extremely low-birthweight (ELBW) infants (birthweight ≤1,000 g). Preventive strategies are urgently needed to improve on these poor outcomes. The antifungal agent fluconazole is an ideal candidate prophylactic agent. Its pharmacokinetic properties and distribution allow for low doses and extended intervals while maintaining high tissue concentrations. In the past decade, four randomized, controlled trials and seven retrospective cohort studies have evaluated fluconazole prophylaxis for the prevention of fungal infection in ELBW or VLBW infants. These studies have shown that fluconazole treatment significantly reduces Candida infection rates with a concomitant reduction in Candida-related mortality. To date, fluconazole prophylaxis has not been associated with adverse events or with the emergence of fluconazole-resistant Candida sp. Although further studies may provide information to allow targeting of prophylaxis to infants at highest risk, fluconazole prophylaxis should be strongly considered in a time-limited fashion, especially in neonatal intensive care units that have higher-than-baseline rates of Candida infection, in infants weighing less than 1,000 g at birth, and for those who have significant ongoing risk factors.
A comparison of the socioeconomic and health status characteristics of uninsured, state Children's health insurance program-eligible children in the united states with those of other groups of insured children: implications for policy.

Objectives. To describe the sociodemographic and health status characteristics of the national uninsured, State Children9s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP)-eligible population, and to compare this population with Medicaid-enrolled children, privately insured children, and privately insured children who have family income in the SCHIP eligibility range. Procedures. Data were analyzed for 50 950 children 0 to 18 years of age included in the 1993 and 1994 National Health Interview Surveys. The survey obtained information on insurance coverage and sociodemographic and health status measures. Bivariate analyses were conducted to identify the relationships between SCHIP eligibility and sociodemographic and health status characteristics. Multivariate analyses were conducted to assess the independent association of the sociodemographic and health status variables with the likelihood of being uninsured, SCHIP-eligible. Primary Findings. Results indicate that SCHIP children exhibit markedly different socioeconomic and health status characteristics than do both Medicaid- enrolled and privately insured children, although these differences are less significant in privately insured children. SCHIP children more often live with college- educated (39.4%) and employed adults (91.2%) than do Medicaid-enrolled children (23.0% and 53.9%, respectively). However, SCHIP children live with college-educated and employed adults less than do all privately insured children (66.7% and 96.9%, respectively) and privately insured/same-income children (57.8% and 97.0%, respectively). Parents of SCHIP-eligible children are also disproportionately self-employed or employed in industries (eg, retail trade) and occupations in which health insurance coverage is less available or affordable. SCHIP-eligible children are also 2 times more likely to be adolescents and 1½ times more likely to be in excellent health than Medicaid-eligible children. Compared with privately insured children, SCHIP-eligible children are nearly 3 times more likely to be Hispanic and nearly 2 times more likely to be rated in fair or poor health. Conclusions. The results demonstrate that uninsured, SCHIP-eligible children are substantially different from children in these groups, particularly compared with Medicaid-enrolled children. These differences need to be taken into account when setting policies and implementing programs intended to increase health insurance coverage and access to health care.
Bandpass–Bandstop Filter Cascade Performance Over Wide Frequency Tuning Ranges

A tunable, substrate integrated, high Q bandpass-bandstop filter cascade is demonstrated that is capable of providing up to 100 dB of isolation between two dynamically selectable frequencies of interest. Evanescent-mode cavity filters are used in the cascade to allow high quality factors and wide tuning ranges. It is shown that it is theoretically possible to tune the cascade circuit's passband and transmission nulls independently over more than an octave in frequency while displaying good performance. General coupling matrix theory, ABCD matrix theory, and measurements are shown that describe the behavior of the filter cascade over the entire frequency tuning range. The high, dynamic isolation provided by cascade circuits has potential to be useful in concurrent transmit-receive systems, shared aperture systems, and spectral environments with strong co-site interference.
The ANK3 Bipolar Disorder Gene Regulates Psychiatric-Related Behaviors That Are Modulated by Lithium and Stress

Background Ankyrin 3 ( ANK3 ) has been strongly implicated as a risk gene for bipolar disorder (BD) by recent genome-wide association studies of patient populations. However, the genetic variants of ANK3 contributing to BD risk and their pathological function are unknown. Methods To gain insight into the potential disease relevance of ANK3 , we examined the function of mouse Ank3 in the regulation of psychiatric-related behaviors using genetic, neurobiological, pharmacological, and gene-environment interaction (G×E) approaches. Ank3 expression was reduced in mouse brain either by viral-mediated RNA interference or through disruption of brain-specific Ank3 in a heterozygous knockout mouse. Results RNA interference of Ank3 in hippocampus dentate gyrus induced a highly specific and consistent phenotype marked by decreased anxiety-related behaviors and increased activity during the light phase, which were attenuated by chronic treatment with the mood stabilizer lithium. Similar behavioral alterations of reduced anxiety and increased motivation for reward were also exhibited by Ank3+/– heterozygous mice compared with wild-type Ank3+/+ mice. Remarkably, the behavioral traits of Ank3 +/– mice transitioned to depression-related features after chronic stress, a trigger of mood episodes in BD. Ank3 +/– mice also exhibited elevated serum corticosterone, suggesting that reduced Ank3 expression is associated with elevated stress reactivity. Conclusions This study defines a new role for Ank3 in the regulation of psychiatric-related behaviors and stress reactivity that lends support for its involvement in BD and establishes a general framework for determining the disease relevance of genes implicated by patient genome-wide association studies.
Evolution of poecilogony and the biogeography of North American populations of the polychaete Streblospio.

Abstract Invertebrate interspecific developmental patterns can be highly variable and, taxonomically, are considered only weakly constrained. Intraspecifically, some invertebrate species possess multiple developmental modes—a condition known as poecilogony. Closer examination of most putative poecilogenous species, however, has not supported poecilogony, but rather has uncovered hidden or cryptic species. The polychaete Streblospio benedicti is a well-known, poecilogenous species found along the coast of North America. We collected mitochondrial cytochrome subunit I DNA sequence data from 88 individuals taken from 11 locations along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific Coasts of the United States to provide a phylogenetic framework from which to interpret intraspecific variation in larval life history and brooding structure morphology in this species. Our results are consistent with a recent revision of the species into two separate species: S. benedicti, a pouched brooding form distributed along the Atlantic ...
How Has the Law Attempted to Tackle the Borderless Nature of the Internet

The ubiquitous nature of the Internet and its ability to swiftly and effortlessly transcend national boundaries and sovereign territories has presented a unique challenge for regulators and those expected to obey the law. Modern legislation needs to somehow address the fact that many of the actions and effects within the lawmaker's territory will not actually have physically taken place there. What are the connecting factors used to attribute certain acts and effects to a certain jurisdiction? What are the mechanisms used to afford judiciaries and other national authorities jurisdiction over matters theoretically located in cyberspace? To answer these questions, a look is taken at the law of defamation, the regulation of data protection and privacy and ultimately the law concerning online gambling. Different regulatory frameworks are scrutinised so as to extract common themes. The latter are then compared, contrasted and analysed in the context of their respective policy objectives.
ACNP intensivist: A new ICU care delivery model and its supporting educational programs

The purposes of this article are to describe a physician (MD)/acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) intensivist model for delivery of critical care services in a tertiary academic medical center and to describe an innovative nurse practitioner educational program developed to support the model. In an effort to address the current shortage of intensivists, Vanderbilt Medical Center has developed and refined a multidisciplinary intensivist MD/ACNP teams to provide expanded critical care services. The ACNPs, in collaboration with intensivist MDs, function as intensivist teams and are responsible for developing and executing the daily medical plan, bedside procedures, and emergency response. These teams provide 24-h a day coverage of tertiary level ICUs, and provide several unique benefits over traditional resident ICU staffing models. As the concept of the MD/ACNP intensivist team has developed, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing ACNP Program has expanded its curriculum to provide graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experiences to safely manage unstable critically ill patients. Multidisciplinary critical care teams of MD intensivists who work in collaboration with ACNP intensivists address the current shortfall of intensivists and represent a cost-effective means for expanding ICU coverage and increasing ICU bed availability while maintaining Leap Frog ICU staffing compliance.
Laser Compton polarimetry of proton beams

A need exists for non-destructive polarization measurements of the polarized proton beams in the AGS and, in the future, in RHIC. One way to make such measurements is to scatter photons from the polarized beams. Until now, such measurements were impossible because of the extremely low Compton scattering cross section from protons. Modem lasers now can provide enough photons per laser pulse not only to scatter from proton beams but also, at least in RHIC, to analyze their polarization.
Measurement of linewidth enhancement factor of semiconductor lasers using an injection-locking technique

A new method for measuring the linewidth enhancement factor is presented. This idea is based on the relation between the upper and lower bounds of the locked and unlocked regimes when the detuning of the pump and slave laser is plotted as a function of the injection power. Our results are confirmed with an independent measurement using amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) spectroscopy as well as our theory, which takes account of the realistic quantum-well (QW) band structure and many-body effects. This method provides a new approach to measure the linewidth enhancement factor above laser threshold.
The rhythm aftereffect: support for time sensitive neurons with broad overlapping tuning curves.

Ivry [Ivry, R. B. (1996). The representation of temporal information in perception and motor control. Current Opinion in Neurobiology, 6, 851–857.] proposed that explicit coding of brief time intervals is accomplished by neurons that are tuned to a preferred temporal interval and have broad overlapping tuning curves. This proposal is analogous to the orientation selective cells in visual area V1. To test this proposal, we used a temporal analog to the visual tilt aftereffect. After adapting to a fast auditory rhythm, a moderately fast test rhythm (400 ms between beats) seemed slow and vice versa. If the speed of the adapting rhythm was made too disparate from speed of the test rhythm the effect was diminished. The effect occurred whether the adapting and test stimuli were presented to the same or different ears, but did not occur when an auditory adapting rhythm was followed by a visual test rhythm. Results support the proposition that explicit time information is coded by neural units tuned to specific temporal intervals with broad overlapping tuning curves. In addition, it appears that there is a single timing mechanism for each incoming sensory mode, but distinct timers for different modes.
File Handling for Detail, Extent and Sub-Tasks in the Implementation of Decision Processes

Abstract A notation for decision processes and the file handling thereof is introduced. Within this context it is indicated how an explanation system can work. This paper is based on current implementation work using the decide system developed over prolog at the University of Tennessee and communicates insights gained from this development.
Surface profilometry at large working distances using volume holographic optics

We present a volume holographic long range surface profilometer that exploits a priori object information to resolve up to 50 /spl mu/m surface height features at a working distance of 50 cm.
Reduction in Switching Field for a Granular Perpendicular Medium Using Microwave Assisted Magnetic Recording

This paper describes the basic physics of magnetization switching in the presence of a dc bias and an in-plane radio-frequency (RF) field using a micromagnetic model based on the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert formulation for the magnetization dynamics. We start with the case of a uniform granular media at T = 0 K without any distributions in grains or medium properties. The switching behavior of this medium is essentially the same as that of a single grain and can be described by replacing HK of the grain with H'K = HK- 4piMs of the medium. Significantly smaller values of the dc bias field compared to the Stoner-Wohlfarth field are needed to reverse the medium for the assumed medium properties at low damping constant alpha. This reduction in dc bias field is progressively less at higher values of damping constant. However, increasing RF field magnitude can provide a significant reduction in the dc bias field even for high alpha values. As grain size distributions are added, the coherent precession of the medium grains can be sustained only for very short duration due to varying self-demagnetization of individual grains. Once the coherent precession is lost, a higher dc bias field compared to the case of uniform granular medium is required to completely reverse all the grains in the medium. At finite temperature and with the inclusion of grain size and magnetic materials distributions, the coherent precession is completely lost, thereby requiring even larger dc bias field for complete reversal of the grains. However, this dc bias field is still significantly smaller compared to the dc field required without the presence of RF field. The need for smaller dc bias field may mitigate the writeability requirements for high areal density recording.
Spectral analysis of bilateral or alternate-site kindling-induced afterdischarges in the rabbit hippocampi.

Summary Kindling is one of the popular animal models of temporal lobe epilepsy. In the present study following the previous results obtained using unilateral hippocampal kindling (UK), we performed spectral analysis of bilateral or alternate-site kindling-induced afterdischarges (ADs) in the rabbit hippocampi. Eight and ten adult rabbits were used for bilateral kindling (BK) and alternate-site kindling (AK), respectively. Kindling stimuli consisted of a train of biphasic pulses (1ms duration each) of 50Hz for 1s, with suprathreshold intensity for AD. The stimulations were applied simultaneously to the bilateral hippocampi in the BK and were delivered to the right and left hippocampus once every 24h in the AK. Motor responses were classified into five stages according to the conventional criteria. All animals in BK as well as AK developed stage 5 convulsions. This contrasts to the result of UK (kindled: 50%; incomplete: 50%). We normalized power spectral density (PSD) and monitored the changes in the proportion of lower frequency band component (LFB: 0–9Hz) and the higher frequency band (HFB: 12–30Hz). BK animals showed a significantly large decrement (0.5 times, p p
BISC decision support system: fuzzy logic-GA based decision and risk analysis

In this paper, we introduce the BISC (Berkeley Initiative in Soft Computing) decision support system (DSS) as an alternative for ranking and predicting the risk for problems which utilize an imprecise and subjective process. The BISC DSS's key features are: (i) intelligent tools to assist decision makers in assessing the consequences of decisions made in an environment of imprecision, uncertainty and partial truth, and in providing a systematic risk analysis, (ii) intelligent tools to assist decision-makers in answering "what-if" questions, examining numerous alternatives very quickly and finding the values of inputs required to achieve a desired level of output, and (iii) intelligent tools to be used with human interaction and feedback to achieve a capability to learn and adapt over time.
EUV lithography for 30nm half pitch and beyond: exploring resolution, sensitivity, and LWR tradeoffs

The International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS) denotes Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography as a leading technology option for realizing the 32nm half-pitch node and beyond. Readiness of EUV materials is currently one high risk area according to assessments made at the 2008 EUVL Symposium. The main development issue regarding EUV resist has been how to simultaneously achieve high sensitivity, high resolution, and low line width roughness (LWR). This paper describes the strategy and current status of EUV resist development at Intel Corporation. Data is presented utilizing Intel's Micro-Exposure Tool (MET) examining the feasibility of establishing a resist process that simultaneously exhibits ≤30nm half-pitch (HP) L/S resolution at ≤10mJ/cm2 with ≤4nm LWR.
Buckling of long, sandwich cylindrical shells under pressure

The paper deals with the theoretical prediction of buckling loads for sandwich long cylindrical shells with laminated facings and foam core. The loading is a uniform hydrostatic pressure, which means that the loading remains normal to the deflected surface during the buckling process. Several fiber materials are used in the laminated facings. The materials are: Boron/Epoxy, Graphite/Epoxy and Kevlar/Epoxy laminates with 0° orientation with respect to the hoop direction. These various materials are employed to provide comparative data that can be used in design. Shell theory results are generated with and without accounting for the transverse shear effect. Moreover, results based on three-dimensional elasticity are also generated for comparison purposes. The effect of the ratio of radius to thickness is assessed.
Psychoanalytic Perspectives on Traumatic Repetition

ABSTRACT Much research has explored processes of repetition in trauma survivors, from early notions of repetition compulsion to recent path analytic models of revictimization. However, a rift exists in the current literature: a tendency for empirical and social/cognitive theoretical perspectives to dismiss or neglect psychoanalytic and psychodynamic theories, while psychoanalytic theorists tend to eschew empirical validation. This paper reviews psychoanalytic perspectives on repetition and re-enactment in the hopes of achieving a deeper understanding of repeated patterns in trauma survivors. The paper focuses on the well-documented phenomenon in which survivors of childhood sexual abuse are frequently sexually revictimized in adolescence and adulthood, exploring ways in which psychoanalytic perspectives may inform and complement existing theories and empirical models. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of dissociation. Finally, the paper highlights several possible avenues where future attempts at ...
The medieval idea of marriage: Christopher Brooke (Oxford; Oxford University Press, 1989), xviii + 325 pp., £7.95, paper

(1992). The medieval idea of marriage. History of European Ideas: Vol. 14, No. 2, pp. 292-294.
Uptake and levels of the antibiotic berberine in individual dormant and germinating Clostridium difficile and Bacillus cereus spores as measured by laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy

Objectives Spores of Clostridium difficile and Bacillus cereus are major causes of nosocomial diarrhoea and foodborne disease. Our aim was to measure the dynamics of the uptake of the antibiotic berberine by individual germinating spores and the levels of berberine accumulated in germinated spores. Methods Laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy (LTRS) and differential interference contrast microscopy were used to measure levels of berberine accumulated in single germinating spores and to monitor berberine uptake and germination of individual C. difficile and B. cereus spores. Results MIC values of berberine for C. difficile and B. cereus spores were 640 and 256 mg/L, respectively. Levels of berberine accumulated at the berberine MICs in individual germinated spores were heterogeneous, with values of 17.1 ± 5.4 and 12.7 ± 5.5 g/L for C. difficile and B. cereus spores, respectively. These values were 25-50-fold higher than the MIC values. However, berberine did not affect the germination of C. difficile and B. cereus spores, but did block germinated spores' outgrowth. Berberine uptake kinetics were similar for these two kinds of spores. After the addition of germinants, berberine began to enter germinating spores at the time (Tlag) when rapid release of the spore core's large depot of the 1:1 chelate of Ca(2+) with dipicolinic acid began, and the level of berberine taken up was maximal shortly after spore cortex lysis was completed (Tlysis). Conclusions LTRS can be used to measure uptake and levels of berberine in single cells. High levels of berberine can enter spores of C. difficile and B. cereus soon after germination is initiated, thus inhibiting spore outgrowth and minimizing hazards posed by germinated spores.
Does Surface Topography Play a Role in Taper Damage in Head-neck Modular Junctions?

Background There are increasing reports of total hip arthroplasty failure subsequent to modular taper junction corrosion. The surfaces of tapers are machined to have circumferential machining marks, resulting in a surface topography of alternating peaks and valleys on the scale of micrometers. It is unclear if the geometry of this machined surface topography influences the degree of fretting and corrosion damage present on modular taper junctions or if there are differences between modular taper junction material couples.
Law and Globalization: Conceptual Issues

By transforming borders and de-territorializing behavior, globalization raises a host of questions and concerns fundamental to law. Many commentators argue that international law and national law are no longer adequate categories for the totality of “law” today, and offer an array of new concepts such as transnational law, global law, global legal pluralism, etc., to help us understand law in the global space. This essay offers one view of how concepts such as “transnational law” and “global law” stand in relation to one another and to what has been traditionally understood as “national” and “international” law, employing the different dimensions of law as process, output and structure. Transnational law theorists can be understood as focusing on new metanational processes of norm creation and their output, while global law theorists take an architectural approach to how domestic and international legal structures work with transnational legal dynamics to form a new global law system. In order to understand globalization’s law fully, we have to understand it comprehensively as both “transnational” and “global,” complementing a “post-global” view of the “national” and the “international.”
The Great Disruption: Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order

(2000). The Great Disruption: Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order. Journal of Economic Issues: Vol. 34, No. 4, pp. 997-1003.
Situation testing-based discrimination discovery: a causal inference approach

Discrimination discovery is to unveil discrimination against a specific individual by analyzing the historical dataset. In this paper, we develop a general technique to capture discrimination based on the legally grounded situation testing methodology. For any individual, we find pairs of tuples from the dataset with similar characteristics apart from belonging or not to the protected-by-law group and assign them in two groups. The individual is considered as discriminated if significant di?erence is observed between the decisions from the two groups. To find similar tuples, we make use of the Causal Bayesian Networks and the associated causal inference as a guideline. The causal structure of the dataset and the causal effect of each attribute on the decision are used to facilitate the similarity measurement. Through empirical assessments on a real dataset, our approach shows good efficacy both in accuracy and efficiency.
Experience report: Workshopping alternate outcomes to Sexism through participatory classroom roleplay

This experience report outlines how a participatory Sexism Response Workshop helped a diverse set of students in a large class have wide-ranging and open conversations about sexism. We ran the Sexism Response Workshop for a class of 92 undergraduate students, splitting the students into two groups to make the workshop manageable. The workshop was run by a theater facilitator and was based on Augusto Boal's ‘Theater of the Oppressed’ methodology. We report how the workshop was conducted, the types of roleplay situations and the responses of the students and observers, as well as written responses of some students who chose to blog about the activity the following week.
Staying Focused on the Goal: Peer Bonding and Faculty Mentors Supporting Black Males’ Persistence in College

This qualitative study investigated the collegiate experiences of 59 Black males at three different historically White institutions. Specifically, we explore how these students construct meaning fr...
Printed assemblies of GaAs photoelectrodes with decoupled optical and reactive interfaces for unassisted solar water splitting

Despite their excellent photophysical properties and record-high solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency, the high cost and limited stability of III–V compound semiconductors prohibit their practical application in solar-driven photoelectrochemical water splitting. Here we present a strategy for III–V photocatalysis that can circumvent these difficulties via printed assemblies of epitaxially grown compound semiconductors. A thin film stack of GaAs-based epitaxial materials is released from the growth wafer and printed onto a non-native transparent substrate to form an integrated photocatalytic electrode for solar hydrogen generation. The heterogeneously integrated electrode configuration together with specialized epitaxial design serve to decouple the material interfaces for illumination and electrocatalysis. Subsequently, this allows independent control and optimization of light absorption, carrier transport, charge transfer, and material stability. Using this approach, we construct a series-connected wireless tandem system of GaAs photoelectrodes and demonstrate 13.1% solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency of unassisted-mode water splitting. Photoelectrochemical devices based on III–V semiconductors have high performance potential but their cost and stability inhibit their wide application. Kang et al. make printed assemblies of GaAs-based photoelectrodes with separate optical and reactive interfaces, demonstrating water-splitting efficiency up to 13.1%.
Rapid in vitro screening for the location-dependent effects of unnatural amino acids on protein expression and activity

The incorporation of unnatural amino acids (uAA) can introduce novel functional groups into proteins site-specifically, with important applications in basic sciences and protein engineering. However, uAA incorporation can impact protein expression and functional activity depending on its location within the protein-a process that is not yet completely understood and difficult to predict. Therefore, practical applications often necessitate a time-consuming optimization of uAA location by individual gene cloning, expressions, purification, and evaluations for each location tested. To address this limitation, we introduce a streamlined and versatile in vitro system to rapidly express and screen uAA-containing proteins without cumbersome cell culturing or purification procedures. We utilized this technology to simultaneously screen 24 different t4-lysozyme mutants with different uAA incorporation sites in a matter of hours, compared to weeks-long workflow of conventional methods. Screening data offered a mechanistic explanation to some effects of uAA incorporation on expression and activity. Despite these insights, rational prediction of such effects remained challenging, further confirming the value of a rapid screening approach. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 2412-2417. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.