cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trends in PCSK9 Inhibitor Prescriptions before and after the Price Reduction in Patients with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease.

Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and cardiovascular event rates, yet due to their high price remain underutilized and difficult to prescribe in clinical practice. In March 2018, their price was significantly reduced. We evaluated whether the price reduction would improve prescribing patterns of PCSK9 inhibitors in eligible patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Methods: We identified the number of eligible ASCVD patients and those prescribed a PCSK9 inhibitor for each year between July 2015 and December 2019. Patient demographics and clinical characteristics for those prescribed a PCSK9 inhibitor were extracted from their electronic health record. Results: In total 1059 patients of eligible patients received a new prescription for a PCSK9 inhibitor. From 2015 to 2019, the rate of new prescriptions among eligible patients increased from 0.5 to 3.3% (p < 0.001) and continuation rates increased from 18 to 60% (p < 0.001). Following the price reduction, patients who were prescribed a PCSK9 inhibitor were younger and more likely to be female, but less likely to have Medicare insurance. Conclusions: Despite the reduction in the cost of PCSK9 inhibitors, most eligible patients are not prescribed one. The reduction in cost has improved adherence, primarily in patients with commercial insurance. Older patients and those on Medicare still face significant barriers in accessing a PCSK9 inhibitor. Further reductions in the price of the PCSK9 inhibitors are needed as is further study of the barriers that exist in prescribing one.
Anatomy of the Grenville Orogen in West Texas

Exposures of Precambrian basement rocks near Van Horn, Texas provide an important transect across the Grenville age deformational front. To the south, metamorphic rocks of the Carizzo Mountain Group (CMG) are interpreted to be an allocthonous package of ∼1350 Ma rift-related rocks. The CMG has been subdivided into three structural domains. In the northwest portion of the mountains a large east-west trending, reclined synform characterizes the hanging wall of the Streeruwitz thrust. The southern limb of this synform has been truncated by the Mineral Creek fault zone (MCfz), a 350 meter thick imbricate package characterized by mylonitized rhyolite. The central domain is in the hangingwall of MCfz and contains large (5 km wavelength) tight, inclined folds with subhorizontal axes. These folds are cut by several northerly directed thrust faults. In the southeast domain, southerly trending structures suggest a zone of refolding plunging beneath the Paleozoic cover. The CMG is translated towards the NNW on the Streeruwitz thrust. In the foreland, sedimentary rocks of the AUamoore Fm. record shallow marine carbonate deposition associated with (andesitic) volcanism of 1250 Ma. Initial deformation is documented in the Tumbledown Fm, a volcaniclastic package containing megabreccias of the Allamoore Fm. This initial deformation is interpreted to reflect a transtensional setting between 1250-1100 Ma. Deformation within the Tumbledown Fm. includes penetrative cleavage and complex conical folds. Post-dating these events is the development of a large alluvial fan comprised of coarse conglomerate and siltstone, the Hazel Fm. The source of these sediments are the Allamoore and Tumbledown Fm. and a granitic/rhyolite basement of ∼1100 Ma, not the CMG. This observation suggests continued strike slip deformation and basement uplift in front of the advancing Streeruwitz thrust. The Hazel alluvial fan is deformed into large kink folds which are subsequently overridden by complex thrust sheets. The thrust sheets are folded and klippe of CMG are emplaced during this final stage of deformation. Recurrent motion has occurred along many of the basement faults in the foreland area. Isotopic data suggests two distinct stages of deformation, an early stage ∼1250 Ma and a younger stage between 1100-1000 Ma. Between these two events is a regional igneous event of ∼1100 Ma, possibly coincident with rifting in the midcontinent.
The Coordination of National Stabilization Policies: Evolution of National Policies and International Institutions

Nations experiencing a progressive integration of their economies confront a central issue: when should their governments cooperate in making decisions about their macroeconomic stabilization policies and, if they do so, how ambitious should that cooperation be?1
Chapter 12 Development of Antibodies to Apical Membrane Constituents Associated with the Action of Vasopressin

Publisher Summary This chapter illustrates the development of antibodies to apical membrane constituents associated with the action of vasopressin. Initial screening assays are introduced to simply measure binding of antibody to antigen. The key to designing assays for binding to specific transport systems is to exploit what is known about the transport system in the design of the assay. The advantage of vasopressin to design a screening system is that it can detect antibodies to apical membrane constituents. The action of vasopressin is described and the overall strategy of antibody assay is presented in the chapter. Characterization of antibodies is also discussed, which include enzyme-linked lmmunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence localization, electron microscopic localization, and antibodies to isolated apical membrane. The chapter concludes that immunization with isolated membrane produces antisera with greater specificity toward the apical membrane. The combination of immunological methods with biochemical and structural analysis offers a promising approach to understanding the physiological regulation of epithelial transport.
Discussion: “Is spreading prolonged, episodic or incipient in the Andaman Sea? Evidence from deepwater sedimentation.” by C.K. Morley and A. Alvey (2015)

Abstract In 2005 I published a paper on the tectonics and geological history of the Andaman Sea, in which I stated again the idea that the Andaman Sea is experiencing sea floor spreading in a basin I called the Central Andaman Basin (Fig. 1). The sea floor in the basin shows signs of what my colleagues and I had previously postulated to be either episodic spreading or episodic deposition of sediment. In the first publication in which we had described this region in 1974, we had favored the idea that the spreading, and not deposition, had varied episodically. In my 2005 paper, I changed my interpretation to episodically changing rates of introduction and deposition of sediment, caused by glacial vs. non-glacial fluctuations of sea level. The recent paper by Morley and Alvey was mainly a discussion of my 2005 paper favoring the idea of an episodically varying rate of spreading. In their analysis, however, they state some other interpretations and differences in opinion. This short communication is mainly a rebuttal to their “discussion”.
Probabilistic Planning in the Graphplan Framework

The Graphplan planner has enjoyed considerable success as a planning algorithm for classical STRIPS domains. In this paper we explore the extent to which its representation can be used for probabilistic planning. In particular, we consider an MDP-style framework in which the state of the world is known but actions are probabilistic, and the objective is to produce a finite horizon contingent plan with highest probability of success within the horizon.
Pancreatic juice cholesterol esterase: Studies on molecular weight and bile salt-induced polymerization☆

Abstract The molecular weight of pancreatic juice cholesterol esterase (sterol ester hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.13) has been determined to be 65–69,000 by Sephadex G-200 gelfiltration chromatography and sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide disc-gel electrophoresis. The amino acid composition resembles that of classical pancreatic lipase (EC 3.1.1.3) but is unique in the virtual absence of tyrosine in the molecule. Evidence for a direct molecular interaction between specific bile salts, i.e., cholic acid or its conjugates, and the pancreatic juice enzyme was obtained by Sephadex G-50 filtration studies. This interaction results in a polymerization of the enzyme protein to give an apparent molecular weight of approximately 400,000 as determined by standardized gel-filtration chromatography. Studies with phenylmethanesulfonylfluoride, a serine hydroxyl group reagent, indicate that the polymerized protein is the active enzyme involved in the reversible synthesis and hydrolysis of sterol esters.
Manipulative Variable Selection for Stabilizing Control of a Competitive Mixed Culture

In this paper we consider the problem of controlling biomss concentrations of two microorganisms which are competing for the same limiting nutrient in a continuous, single stage bloreactor. Although it has been previously shown that feedback control can be used to stabilize this process, the choice of manipulative and controlled variables has a significant impact on how well the system can be controlled. An interaction analysis is presented which shows that the extent of interaction depends on the desired operating point (ratio of the two microorganisms), growth rate characteristics of the microbes, and the selection and pairing of manipulative and controlled variables. In addition, results of statistical screening experiments are presented which indicate the relative magnitude of manipulative variable effects on biomass concentration and yield factors for cultures of Candida utilis and Escherichia coli under ammonium ion limitation.
A short history of Western legal theory

The Greeks the Romans the Early Middle Ages (to 1100) the High Middle Ages (1100-1350) Renaissance and Reformation (1350-1600) the 17th century the 18th century the 19th century the earlier 20th century the later 20th century.
Improving the testability of VLSI circuits through partitioning

The field of test engineering for very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits is inundated with requirements to improve test coverage, reduce overhead and decrease development time. In response to this is a design methodology that will eliminate the test generation effort. This will reduce overall production costs, and provide a savings for products manufactured in low volumes. The approach utilizes known methods of partitioning circuits into smaller portions. Each portion being fully testable, the entire circuit is fully testable, neglecting portions of the Built-In-Self-Test (BIST) circuit itself. Overall, the results show that for small volume production, this methodology could be the best available option for a large class of circuits. Furthermore, it also provides a high degree of reliability in terms of the quality of the manufacturing test, and does not require expensive test devices, such as high-speed wafer-probe testers. The new design cycle that is presented eliminates time for test generation in lieu of approximately fifteen-percent impact in performance and size. >
Ubiquitin‐dependent regulation of Foxp3 and Treg function

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are crucial enforcers of immune homeostasis. Their characteristic suppressive function largely arises from an equally unique pattern of gene expression. A complex network of factors and processes contribute to this 'signature' Treg gene expression landscape. Many of these alter the level and activity of the Treg-defining transcription factor Foxp3. As stable expression of Foxp3 is important for the ability of Treg cells to successfully prevent excessive or inappropriate immune activation, uncovering the mechanisms regulating Foxp3 level is required for the understanding and therapeutic exploitation of Tregs. While transcriptional regulation of the Foxp3 gene has been studied in depth, additional regulatory layers exist controlling the expression and activity of this key transcription factor. These include less-defined mechanisms active at the post-translational level. These pathways are just beginning to be elucidated. Here, we summarize emerging evidence for distinct, post-translationally active, ubiquitin-dependent pathways capable of controlling the activation and expression of Foxp3 and the function of Tregs. These pathways offer untapped opportunities for therapeutic fine-tuning of Tregs and their all-important restraint of the immune system.
Eyebrow Position Following Upper Blepharoplasty

AbstractPurpose: To evaluate the effect of upper blepharoplasty on eyebrow height, accounting for ocular dominance, fat excision, change in MRD1, and degree of dermatochalasis.Methods: Retrospective review of patients undergoing upper blepharoplasty between January 2013 and July 2014. Patients with a prior history of ocular trauma, disease, and surgery were excluded. Digital photographs were analyzed using NIH ImageJ software to measure pre and postoperative eyebrow height at the medial, central, and lateral positions, MRD1, and dermatochalasis. Univariable comparisons of brow height and MRD1 were performed. A multivariate analysis was used to assess for the effect of percentage change in MRD1 and dermatochalasis and of ocular dominance and fat excision in mean percentage change of eyebrow height.Results: Charts of 19 patients were reviewed. Mean age was 73.2 years (SD = 8.86). There were 9 male (47.4%) and 10 female (52.6%) patients. There were 11 right eye dominant (57.9%) and 8 left eye dominant (42.1%...
Fate of Recipient Deoxyribonucleic Acid During Transformation in Haemophilus influenzae

Abstract During genetic transformation of Haemophilus influenzae, segments of the host deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) corresponding to the integrating donor DNA were degraded and liberated into the medium. This degradation was detected by the release of the radioactive label from host DNA during a time period matching the time of development of maximal linkage between donor and host markers. The host label released above that released from nontransformed, control cultures was equivalent to about 2% of the host genome or 16 × 106 daltons of DNA. The released, labeled material was acid-soluble and dialyzable. The label release from control cultures was unaffected at 30 C; at this temperature, the recombination-specific release from transformed cells was suppressed. High molecular weight fragments of host DNA corresponding in size to the donor fragments could not be found free within the cell, weakly bound to other host DNA, or bound to non-integrated donor DNA by a reciprocal cross mechanism.
Precise Spatial Coding is Preserved Along the Longitudinal Hippocampal Axis

Compared with the dorsal hippocampus, relatively few studies have characterized neuronal responses in the ventral hippocampus. In particular, it is unclear whether and how cells in the ventral region represent space and/or respond to contextual changes. We recorded from dorsal and ventral CA1 neurons in freely moving mice exposed to manipulations of visuospatial and olfactory contexts. We found that ventral cells respond to alterations of the visuospatial environment such as exposure to novel local cues, cue rotations, and contextual expansion in similar ways to dorsal cells, with the exception of cue rotations. Furthermore, we found that ventral cells responded to odors much more strongly than dorsal cells, particularly to odors of high valence. Similar to earlier studies recording from the ventral hippocampus in CA3, we also found increased scaling of place cell field size along the longitudinal hippocampal axis. Although the increase in place field size observed toward the ventral pole has previously been taken to suggest a decrease in spatial information coded by ventral place cells, we hypothesized that a change in spatial scaling could instead signal a shift in representational coding that preserves the resolution of spatial information. To explore this possibility, we examined population activity using principal component analysis (PCA) and neural location reconstruction techniques. Our results suggest that ventral populations encode a distributed representation of space, and that the resolution of spatial information at the population level is comparable to that of dorsal populations of similar size. Finally, through the use of neural network modeling, we suggest that the redundancy in spatial representation along the longitudinal hippocampal axis may allow the hippocampus to overcome the conflict between memory interference and generalization inherent in neural network memory. Our results indicate that ventral population activity is well suited for generalization across locations and contexts.
Factor Structure of the WISC-R across Ethnic Groups: An Investigation of Construct Validity.

This study analyzed scores on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) (Wechsler, 1974) of 560 subjects (189 black, 184 Hispanic; 187 white) to determine if the factor structure was similar across ethnic groups. Results of a two-factor solution yielded highly similar loadings corresponding to the verbal comprehension and perceptual organization factors for all three ethnic groups. Three-factor solutions yielded similar loadings for the Hispanic and white samples but somewhat different loadings for the black subjects. Implications of these data regarding the construct validity as well as suggested uses for the WISC-R are discussed.
A new weak-field coupling scheme for cubic complexes

In the presence of spin-orbit interaction, in addition to the well-known weak-field coupling scheme for cubic complexes in which the ligand field perturbation is applied last, we show that it is possible to devise a second weak-field coupling scheme in which the spin-orbit perturbation is applied last by constructing the corresponding energy matrices for d 2,8 electronic configurations. We also show that for the parameters applicable to actual experimental systems, the new weak-field coupling scheme yields purer eigenfunctions than the well-known weak-field coupling scheme.
Endoplasmic reticular inclusions in the malpighian tubules of the mosquito, Culex tarsalis

An inclusion of variable morphology was observed within the rough endoplasmic reticulum of the Malpighian tubules of the mosquito, Culex tarsalis. These inclusions varied from amorphous through parallel, tubule-like bundles of microfilaments. The variable morphology represented various stages of a secretory process. No association with the Golgi complex in the production of the final secretory product and associated vacuole was observed. The entire process involves only the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The production of a secretory vacuole directly from rough endoplasmic reticulum is apparently a unique event.
The Effects of Native Language Books on the Pre-Literacy Skill Development of Language Minority Kindergartners

Abstract The number of limited-English proficient students in the United States has increased over 10% each year during the last decade. To address one of the resulting challenges, this study sought to determine if exposure to age-appropriate books in their native language would affect the pre-literacy skill development of language minority kindergartners. Using a quasi-experimental design, this study discovered that native Spanish-speaking children exposed to books written in Spanish scored significantly higher on a test of pre-literacy skills than did their native Spanish-speaking classmates who were exposed to books written in English; these students also scored no differently than their native English-speaking classmates exposed to books in English. Conclusions and implications of these findings are discussed.
INTERORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIORS: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY

Exchanges among firms operating in supply chains are complex due to relational embeddedness, i.e., the extent to which relationships, rather than economic rationality, govern firm-to-firm interactions. For many years interfirm relationships were assumed to be best managed via coercive tactics. However, for the last two decades much attention has been given in the literature to more relational forms of governance, and recent supply chain research examining relationship nature, magnitude, and type implies the need for an alternative symbiotic explanation for supply chain relationship effectiveness. To address this void in the literature, this article introduces the concept of interorganizational citizenship behaviors (ICB's). Based on a review of literature from multiple business domains, common types of ICB's are identified, and research hypotheses are developed and tested. Future research initiatives and implications for supply chain management practice are also provided.
On the Fundamental Nature of Metal-Metal Adhesion

The cohesion of metals and their adhesion to other metals are complicated and poorly understood processes. Theories of adhesion have been judged by the use of indirect friction and wear data because of the scarcity of good experimental adhesion data. The adhesion of one metal to another appears to be a manifestation of the electronic configuration of the atoms involved because the cohesive nature of materials results from these atomic forces. Therefore, the atomic binding energies, the distribution of the atomic species in the surface layers, the surface structure, and the crystal lattice disregistration must be influential in metal-metal adhesion. Adhesion is a surface oriented process and, thus, the bulk properties of metals should have only secondary influences. Those metals having an electron deficiency in their outer atomic orbitals should adhere better than those metals which do not in order to minimize the total free energy and approach a more stable state. A correlation is shown between outer s or...
Hexose Phosphorylation by the Ruminal Bacterium Selenomonas ruminantium

Abstract Three strains of Selenomonas ruminantium (D, GA192, and H18) were surveyed for phosphorylation of D-glucose and 2-deoxyglucose by phosphoenolpyruvate and ATP. Cells of all three strains that had been treated with toluene had high rates of hexose phosphorylation with either phosphoryl donor; this activity was constitutive in strain D. Glucose phosphorylation that was dependent on phosphoenolpyruvate was maximal at pH 7.2, remained fairly high at pH 6.5, but decreased (≥65%) at pH 5.0 for all strains. Cell extracts were used to evaluate the involvement of soluble kinases in 2-deoxyglucose phosphorylation. Both glucose and 2-deoxyglucose were phosphorylated by ATP, but phosphorylation of either hexose was negligible with phosphoenolpyruvate in each bacterium. Because phosphoenolpyruvate could not serve as a phosphoryl donor, the activity dependent on phosphoenolpyruvate in cells treated with toluene might have been due to a phosphotransferase system associated with the membrane. Unlabeled 2-deoxyglucose was a strong inhibitor (≥59%) of [ 14 C]glucose phosphorylation with ATP by cell extracts of all S. ruminantium strains, and unlabeled glucose was a strong inhibitor (≥78%) of [ 14 C]2-deoxyglucose phosphorylation with ATP. Based on Lineweaver-Burk kinetics, 2-deoxyglucose was a competitive inhibitor of initial rates of kinase activity in strains D, GA192, and H18. These results collectively suggest that glucose phosphorylation with phosphoenolpyruvate and 2-deoxyglucose phosphorylation with ATP are common traits in these strains of S. ruminantium .
Formation of urea from arginine in the brain of the living rat.

IN a classical set of experiments, Bollman, Mann and Magath1 demonstrated that “the production of urea in the body of the dog is entirely dependent on the presence of the liver, since urea formation ceases completely as soon as the liver is removed”. Standard text-books of physiology and biochemistry have interpreted the above experiments as demonstrating that urea formation occurs exclusively in the liver. However, an alternative interpretation is possible, namely, that normal liver function is necessary for normal extra-hepatic metabolism, and such extra-hepatic metabolism may include urea synthesis. In fact, it has been shown that perfused brain requires factors elaborated or released by the liver to maintain normal metabolism2.
Electrical Conductivity in Nanocrystalline ZrO2:Y

The electrical conductivity of nanocrystalline thin films and bulk microcrystalline ZrO 2 :16%Y (YSZ) has been studied as a function of oxygen activity and correlated with the microstructure. Nonacrystalline films are characterized by enhanced conductivity and different stoichiometry compared with microcrystalline specimens. The interpretation of the results is based on a defect pair association model with partly ionizated acceptor and donor centers.
Hybrid simulation of a zipper-braced steel frame under earthquake excitation

Hybrid simulation is a testing methodology that combines laboratory and analytical simulation to evaluate seismic response of complex structural framing systems. One or more portions of the structure, which may be difficult to model numerically or have properties that have not been examined before, are tested in one or more laboratories, whereas the remainder of the structure is modeled in software using one or more computers. These separate portions are assembled such that combined dynamic response of the hybrid model to excitation is computed using a time-stepping procedure. A hybrid simulation conducted to examine the seismic response of a type of steel concentrically braced frame, the suspended-zipper-braced frame, is presented. The hybrid simulation testing architecture, hybrid model, test setup, solution algorithm, and the seismic response of the suspended-zipper-braced frame hybrid model are discussed. Accuracy of this hybrid simulation is examined by comparing hybrid and computer-only simulations and the errors are quantified using an energy-based approach. This comparison indicates that the deployed hybrid simulation method can be used to accurately model the seismic response of a complex structural system such as the zipper-braced frame. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Edward Albee: A Casebook. Edited by Bruce J. Mann. New York: Routledge, 2003; pp. 150. $85 cloth.

Scholars and enthusiasts of the work of Edward Albee will be pleased to see this new volume of essays edited by Bruce J. Mann, the first critical collection of essays devoted to the playwright in more than fifteen years. Although it would be hard to judge from the past decade, in which Albee has undergone a renaissance of sorts with several new plays and several major revivals on Broadway (starting in 1994 with Three Tall Women, which earned him his third Pulitzer Prize, and ending most recently with The Goat; or, Who Is Sylvia, which won the Tony for best new play in 2002), Albee had previously lapsed in critical and scholarly favor. This volume aims to capitalize on the recent interest in Albee's work by providing a current survey that pays specific attention to his newer plays, as well as his more obscure ones, and also includes new essays on his three classics: The Zoo Story, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and A Delicate Balance. The volume concludes with an interview with the playwright, conducted by Mann in April 1999.
Emergence of daptomycin-resistant VRE: experience of a single institution.

Recent surveillance from US hospitals shows that more than 99.5% of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) isolates remain susceptible to daptomycin. This report describes emergence of daptomycin-resistant VRE at a major cancer center. The percentage of patients with daptomycin-resistant VRE bacteremia increased from 3.4% in 2007 to 15.2% in 2009 (P = .03). Without susceptibility data, empiric daptomycin therapy for VRE infections should be used with caution.
Rhetorical Homologies in Walter Benjamin, The Ring, and Capital

This article further develops a method of rhetorical homologies developed in some earlier work. A grand binary of the unique as opposed to copies is shown to underlie Walter Benjamin's classic essay “The Work of Art in an Age of Mechanical Reproduction”—people's experiences of capital as it relates to humanity—and popular experience of capital—and some recent texts in popular culture, principally the film The Ring. The homology occurring across those texts and experiences is manifested with different polarities of value so as to adapt to differing rhetorical needs.
Isotope-Selective Detection and Imaging of Organic Nanolayers

Magnetic resonance force microscopy (MRFM) makes use of the spectroscopic nature of magnetic resonance to add unambiguous elemental selectivity to scanning probe microscopy. We show isotopic selectivity of MRFM for three nuclei, 1H, 31P, and 13C, in organic materials. We also detect a roughly 1 nm thick layer of naturally occurring adsorbates on a gold surface by measuring the magnetic resonance signal of the hydrogen contained in the layer. Finally, we detect the signal from hydrogen present on a carbon nanotube and use it to perform a three-dimensional magnetic resonance image of the 10 nm diameter object.
Mass spectrometry in the stratosphere

Abstract During the last few years a gas expansion system, combined with a mass spectrometer has been developed and successfully flown in the stratosphere. Neutral gas particles are formed into a molecular beam which traverses the ion source of the mass spectrometer without wall interactions. Vertical profiles of constituents such as H2O, CO2 and O3 have been measured in the altitude range of 20 to 40 km during balloon descents. Isotopes of major atmospheric gases (N2, O2, Ar) provided in-flight calibration standards. Before each flight the mass spectrometer system was calibrated in the laboratory for many gases of interest, including ozone. Mixing ratios of ozone determined from recent flights have accuracies of better than 5%. The sensitivity of the system was sufficiently high to detect, in addition, the heavy isotope of ozone at mass 50. A pronounced enhancement of heavy ozone in the upper stratosphere has been found. The mass spectrometer system provides the unique opportunity to perform in the stratosphere in-situ measurements combined with isotopic studies.
Modeling and Control of Electrical Breakdown Process of Carbon Nanotubes

Abstract Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been found as the promising semiconducting material for the future high performance nanoelectronics. As an important property for applications of a semiconductor, the band gap of a multi-walled CNT is related to its diameter. The capability of adjusting the material band gap is extremely important in sensor and electronics manufacturing. This paper discusses a real-time control method for the selective carbon shell breakdown process to tailor the CNT's band structure. The control method is designed based on the quantum state space model that describes the electron transport in the CNT. The state space anomaly during breakdown process can be observed using robust fault diagnosis technique by combining analytical approach and heuristic approach. The experimental results reported in this paper verify the theoretical findings. As a result, a MWCNT can be converted into a semiconducting material with pre-determined band gap.
Bovine tuberculosis slaughter surveillance in the United States 2001–2010: assessment of its traceback investigation function

The success of tracing cattle to the herd of origin after the detection and confirmation of bovine tuberculosis (TB) lesions in cattle at slaughter is a critical component of the national bovine TB eradication program in the United States (U.S.). The aims of this study were to 1) quantify the number of bovine TB cases identified at slaughter that were successfully traced to their herd of origin in the U.S. during 2001–2010, 2) quantify the number of successful traceback investigations that found additional TB infected animals in the herd of origin or epidemiologically linked herds, and 3) describe the forms of animal identification present on domestic bovine TB cases and their association with traceback success. We analyzed 2001–2010 data in which 371 granulomatous lesions were confirmed as bovine TB. From these 114 bovine TB cases, 78 adults (i.e. sexually intact bovines greater than two years of age), and 36 fed (i.e. less than or equal to two years of age) were classified as domestic cattle (U.S. originated). Of these adults and fed cases, 83% and 13% were successfully traced, respectively. Of these traceback investigations, 70% of adult cases and 50% of fed cases identified additional bovine TB infected animals in the herd of origin or an epidemiologically linked herd. We found that the presence of various forms of animal identification on domestic bovine TB cases at slaughter may facilitate successful traceback investigations; however, they do not guarantee it. These results provide valuable information with regard to epidemiological traceback investigations and serve as a baseline to aid U.S. officials when assessing the impact of newly implemented strategies as part of the national bovine TB eradication in the U.S.
Brief paper: Lossless convexification of a class of optimal control problems with non-convex control constraints

We consider a class of finite time horizon optimal control problems for continuous time linear systems with a convex cost, convex state constraints and non-convex control constraints. We propose a convex relaxation of the non-convex control constraints, and prove that the optimal solution of the relaxed problem is also an optimal solution for the original problem, which is referred to as the lossless convexification of the optimal control problem. The lossless convexification enables the use of interior point methods of convex optimization to obtain globally optimal solutions of the original non-convex optimal control problem. The solution approach is demonstrated on a number of planetary soft landing optimal control problems.
Screening the Los Angeles 'Riots': Race, Seeing, and Resistance

On April 29 1992, the 'worst riots of the century' (Los Angeles Times) erupted. Television news-workers tried frantically to keep up with what was happening on the streets while, around the city, nation and globe, viewers watched intently as leaders, participants and fires flashed across their television screens. Screening the Los Angeles 'Riots' zeros in on the first night of these events, exploring in detail the meanings one news organisation found in them, as well as those made by fifteen groups of viewers in the events' aftermath. Combining ethnographic and quasi-experimental methods, Darnell M. Hunt's account reveals how race shapes both television's construction of news and viewers' understandings of it. He engages with the long-standing debates about the power of television to shape our thoughts versus our ability to resist, and concludes with implications for progressive change.
Complete absence of pulmonary veins

Various types of pulmonary venous return abnormalities have been described in the literature. This report presents a case in which a 4-h-old neonate presented with cyanotic heart disease and respiratory distress. This neonate was subsequently shown to have complete absence of the pulmonary veins (CAPV), a previously undescribed malformation. The case summary describes the physical findings, radiographic and electrocardiographic features, cardiac catheterization data, and results from autopsy. A discussion of the case, theories of embryological etiology for this malformation, and differential diagnoses follow. Surgical treatment for CAPV is not yet possible.
Cure Profile Effects on the Mechanical Behavior and Reliability of Flip Chip on Laminate Assemblies

In this work, the effects of underfill cure temperature and JEDEC MSL preconditioning on underfill mechanical and strength properties, as well as flip chip assembly reliability have been explored. Baseline stress-strain curves, mechanical properties, and interfacial shear strengths of a capillary underfill were recorded for curing at 150 °C and 165 °C (30 minutes). In addition, the changes in the mechanical and strength properties resulting from MSL3 and MSL2 moisture preconditioning were evaluated. The MSL preconditioning of the underfill samples included the JEDEC specified humidity and temperature exposures, plus three simulated reflows at 245 °C or 260 °C. Thermal cycling life tests from −55 to 125 °C were also conducted on daisy chain flip chip assemblies incorporating the same underfill. The test matrix for the reliability testing included both 150 °C and 165 °C curing profiles, and two levels of precondition (none and MSL3). Finally, the failure mechanisms in the flip chip assemblies were studied using CSAM, x-ray and SEM analyses. The results clearly indicate the advantages of the higher curing temperature including improved mechanical properties, superior thermal cycling fatigue life, and enhanced resistance to detrimental effects from moisture exposure and solder reflow.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Some Simple Classroom Experiments on Cerebral Lateralization.

Two experiments designed to assess hemispheric specialization of function are described. The experiments require minimal equipment, can be rapidly conducted in the classroom, and yield substantial laterality effects. The ease of the experiments, combined with an extensive and varied literature and high student interest, make this area an excellent introduction to research methodology for undergraduate students.
Quantitative determination of ionized calcium and total calcium in human serum by capillary zone electrophoresis with indirect photometric detection

We have developed a new method to quantitatively determine ionized calcium and total calcium by using high performance capillary electrophoresis (HPCE) with indirect photometric detection. Other cations such as Na+, K+, and Mg+ can also be quantitatively determined. A 70 cm × 50 μm i.d. fused silica capillary was used for the separation. The detection window was located 25 cm from the cathodic end, and the detection wavelength was set at 214 nm. A 100 mM imidazole solution at pH 7.4 (adjusted with 5% H2SO4) containing 0.1% hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HMC, 4000 centipoise) was used as background electrolyte. Whole serum was injected for 5 s at 15 kV for the determination of ionized calcium. The total calcium levels in a number of human serum samples were determined by HPCE and compared with the NIST reference method (atomic absorption), and the results agree with each other within 95% confidence. Two NIST standards were analyzed by HPCE, and the results fit each other perfectly. The ionized calcium levels in sera by this HPCE method have been compared with those obtained with ion-selective electrode (ISE) method, and the results were lower than those of ISE, which was what we anticipated. The effects of sample temperature and buffer pH were studied.
EXAFS and XANES study of vanadium in β-rhombohedral boron

Abstract The local structure and bonding of vanadium doped β-rhombohedral boron at a composition VB ∼165 has been investigated using a combined EXAFS/XANES technique utilizing synchrotron radiation as a light source. In this alloy, the V atoms are found to be 12-fold coordinated by B atoms at a distance of 2.17 ± 0.02 A. This result agrees well with the assignment of the A 1 site for V in the alloy from single crystal diffractometry. In addition, the V K -edge XANES spectrum exhibits a number of outstanding absorption features when compared with pure vanadium and VB 2 , the latter is used to model the B environment of V in β-boron: (a) with respect to pure vanadium, there is a positive shift of the photoionization threshold of 1.5 eV in VB ∼165 ; (b) two well-defined bound states at 7.7 and 11.6 eV appear; and (c) a shift of the white line position (4 p final state) from 19 eV in pure vanadium and VB 2 to 24.8 eV in VB ∼165 . The XANES spectral features are qualitatively interpreted in terms of a matrix-isolation effect of individual V atoms in the β-boron lattice and a subsequent loss of metallic-like character.
Prediction of pedal forces in bicycling using optimization methods.

The bicycle-rider system is modeled as a planar five-bar linkage with pedal forces and pedal dynamics as input. The pedal force profile input is varied, maintaining constant average bicycle power, in order to obtain the optimal pedal force profile that minimizes two cost functions. One cost function is based on joint moments and the other is based on muscle stresses. Predicted (optimal) pedal profiles as well as joint moment time histories are compared to representative real data to examine cost function appropriateness. Both cost functions offer reasonable predictions of pedal forces. The muscle stress cost function, however, better predicts joint moments. Predicted muscle activity also correlates well with myoelectric data. The factors that lead to effective (i.e. low cost) pedalling are examined. Pedalling effectiveness is found to be a complex function of pedal force vector orientation and muscle mechanics.
Spatial and temporal variability of precipitation for selected regions of New York State and relationship to variability in sulfate deposition measurements

This paper presents the preliminary results of a study aimed at quantifying the variability in precipitation data and its role in the modeling of acidic deposition processes. The character of this variability for various regions of New York State is assessed over a 30-year period, with emphasis on the Adirondack region. Spatial and temporal means as well as coefficients of variation are presented. Of the five regions where precipitation data are investigated, the Adirondacks have the greatest overall variability, around 23 percent, while Long Island has the least, about 17 percent. A proportionality factor, based on the coefficient of variation, is suggested to account for the precipitation variability in achieving targeted wet deposition threshold values.
Time-dependent nonlinear photorefractive response to sinusoidal intensity gratings

Abstract The time-dependent, nonlinear Kukhtarev equations are numerically solved to determine the temporal and spatial dependence of the space-charge field for a sinusoidal intensity profile with an arbitrary modulation depth m . The intensity profile is spatially bounded simulating two interfering laser beams of finite spot size. The numerical solution allows us to critically examine the validity of analytical theories for linear and nonlinear photorefractive effects. The parametric dependence of the characteristic time constant τ for writing a grating is studied including the effects of quiescent intensity I 0 , modulation index m and the thermal ionization rate β. We find that the Kukhtarev equations inherently yield a sublinear dependence of the characteristic time constant τ on I 0 even for a single trap (acceptor) species when I 0 is above a critical value I c . Expression for I c is given in terms of material properties, and the sublinearity index is determined for BSO. The exact dependence of τ on the modulation index (0 m ≤ 1) is determined for BSO, and the nonsinusoidal waveform of the space-charge field for large m is fully characterized both analytically and numerically.
The oxidation of Pd(111)

The oxidation of Pd(111) was characterized using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM ), temperature-programmed desorption (TPD), and low energy electron diVraction (LEED). Initial exposure of Pd(111) to O 2 at temperatures between 300 and 575 K resulted in a (2◊2) structure observable by both LEED and STM. The maximum coverage achieved by O 2 exposure at 300 K was 0.25 ML. By increasing the temperature above 500 K, the oxygen coverage could be increased to 0.37 ML. To increase the oxygen coverage further, NO 2 was used as the oxidant. On Pd(111), NO 2 dissociatively adsorbs, with NO going to the gas phase below 500 K, leaving oxygen on the surface. Above 500 K, initial exposure of NO 2 to Pd(111) also produced the (2◊2) structure. Increasing the oxygen coverage to between 1.0 and 2.2 ML resulted in a complicated LEED pattern. This pattern could be explained as the superposition of three equivalent domains of two surface structures: one with a square surface lattice rotated 15° with respect to Pd(110), the other with a rectangular surface lattice with the short sides of the rectangles parallel to Pd(110). In STM movies, ad-islands and peninsulas were observed to nucleate and grow as the oxygen coverage reached this regime. The rectangular structure was observed on the original Pd(111) terraces, and the square structure on the islands and peninsulas. This suggested that when the oxygen coverage exceeds 0.25 ML, oxygen atoms penetrate the surface creating a rectangular structure with a lower Pd atom density than the clean surface; the liberated Pd atoms, along with oxygen, then form the islands and peninsulas. The lattice constants obtained from the STM images were 0.679±0.012 nm for the square structure and 0.394±0.008 nm and 0.638±0.022 nm for the rectangular structure, both consistent with LEED observations. Neither of these structures can be simply related to any crystal orientation of Pd or PdO, indicating that there are states intermediate between Pd and PdO. After further increasing the oxygen coverage, the complicated LEED patterns became faint and a low temperature shoulder attributed to PdO decomposition developed in TPD traces. The results indicate that Pd(111) oxidation proceeds through three stages involving four distinct surface states. © 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
At least two genes reside within a large intron of the dunce gene of Drosophila.

The dunce locus of Drosophila melanogaster is considered to house a gene involved in memory, because flies carrying lesions at the locus have shortened memory of several different conditioned behaviours1–6. Our recent partial characterization of the gene at the molecular level, along with prior genetic and biochemical evidence, recently provides compelling evidence that the gene codes for the enzyme cAMP phosphodiesterase7. The observation that the gene encodes at least six overlapping poly(A)+ RNA molecules ranging in size from 4.2 to 9.5 kilobases (kb) (ref. 8), suggests that the gene is extraordinarily complex. Here we provide the sequence of a dunce complementary DNA clone and the corresponding genomic coding regions which show that the organization of the gene is elaborate. The cDNA clone defines dunce exons which are separated by a large intron of 79 kb. More importantly, at least two other genes are shown to reside within the large intron, including the well-defined glue protein gene, Sgs-4. The location of dunce exons relative to the molecular breakpoints of chromosomal aberrations with defined cytological positions indicates that the dunce gene extends over more than five polytene chromosome bands.
Remembering without knowing — not without justification

Keith Lehrer and Joseph Richard have cooked up four delectable examples of remembering without knowing.' Although the subject (S) in each example remembers that p, S either does not presently know that p (as in their first and second examples), or did not previously know that p (as in their third example), or does not and never did know that p (as in their fourth example). The examples do, in my opinion, refute the present and previous knowledge requirements in analyses of factual memory such as:
The People and the Plan: Intended Reactions to a Nuclear Emergency in New York State

Nuclear emergency management procedures in the US do not explicitly address the issue of how people might react to a nuclear accident. This question was asked of a sample of residents in the Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) of the Nine Mile Point nuclear power plant in New York State, using four scenarios designed in collaboration with local county emergency planners. The answers were then compared to the directives likely to be given by the planners. Results show that respondents would follow directives in 48 per cent to 92 per cent of the cases (63 per cent is the average), depending on the scenario used. Predictive factors include attitudes towards nuclear energy and opinions on social issues, while location in the EPZ and socio-demographic characteristics do not play a significant role. Other findings suggest unresolved issues in risk communication strategies and show widespread distrust of the role of the media in the event of an accident.