cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Crucial role of electron correlation in both the upper and lower states in optical transitions

It is demonstrated that the specifically non-closed shell type correlation effects of the Non-Closed Shell Many-Electron (NCMET) Electronic Structure theory of Sinanoglu, in both states of an allowed transition affect the electric dipole oscillator strengths by large factors. Detailed Hartree-Fock and NCMET calculations on the Cl III 3s23p3(4S0)→3s3p4(4P) display the effect.
Membrane potential, pH and the activation of surf clam oocytes

Unfertilized oocytes of the surf clam, Spisula solidissima, have resting membrane potentials of −18 ± 7 mV (n = 20). Within five seconds of sperm addition, an electrophysiologically detectable response was apparent, which was characterized by a rapid and prolonged depolarrization depolarization followed four to five minutes post-insemination by the beginning of the beginning of a steady hyperpolarization to approximatelv −70 mV. This final hyperpolarization was completed within ten minutes of sperm addition. The initial rapid depolarization following insemination may result from a transient increase in sodium conductance, and it may be crucial in preventing polyspermy, since the degree of polyspermy in Spisula oocytes was sensitive to external sodium ion concentrations. Evidence was obtained that changes in intracellular pH are essential for oocvte activation. Using germinal vesical breakdown (GVB) as a marker for activation, it was shown that agents that raise intracellular pH (ammonia and procaine) induced GVB, whereas agents that lower intracellular pH pH (Na-acetate or Na-propionate seawater) inhibited GVB.
Multivariate signal analysis algorithms for process monitoring and parameter estimation in nuclear reactors

Abstract The random fluctuations of the process variables during the normal operation of a nuclear reactor may be processed to yield information about changing parameters, vibration of reactor components, sensor response characteristics, stability margin and noise source distribution. Multivariate time domain algorithms are developed to study the relationship between reactor dynamic variables, both in pressurized water reactors (PWR) and boiling water reactors (BWR). Evaluation of dynamic system descriptors in PWRs using the multivariate analysis is presented for the first time in this paper. The analysis is performed at low frequency range to study the long term behavior of PWR dynamics. Interpretation of driving noise sources and cause-and-effect relationships between the signals are derived using spectral decomposition obtained from the multivariate models. The assumptions in the analysis are tested using an orthonormal projection of the source noise vector into independent components. Applications of mini computer oriented algorithms are evaluated using test data from operating power reactors.
Correcting for ratio variable correlation: examples using models of mortality

Abstract The major purpose of this paper is to examine one part of the ratio variable correlation problem, correlated denominators, using path models of young, middle-age, and older-age mortality, each with 11 sociodemographic and cause-of-death independent variables. The models are calculated using a traditional ratio approach and a residual variable approach for a sample of counties. The methodological discussion focuses on differences in coefficients for the two approaches in terms of significance, magnitude, and hypothesis support. It is concluded that the residual approach is worth pursuing as a viable statistical solution to the correlated denominators component of the ratio variable correlation problem.
Tropical Pioneers: Human Agency and Ecological Change in the Highlands of Sri Lanka, 1800–1900

In 1800, the highlands of Sri Lanka had some of the most biologically diverse primary tropical rainforest ecosystems in the world. By 1900, only a few craggy corners and mountain caps had been spared the firestick. Highland villagers, through the extension of slash-and-burn agriculture, and British managers, through the creation of plantations - first of coffee, then cinchona, and finally tea - had removed virtually the entire primary forest cover. Tropical Pioneers documents the conversion of a tropical rainforest biome and the collision between what previously had been more discrete ecological zones within South Asia. The ecological impacts were transformational. Author James L. A. Webb, Jr., demonstrates that profound ecological disruption occurred in the central highlands of Sri Lanka during the nineteenth century and suggests that the theme of ecological crisis brought about by the integration of tropical ecological zones during precolonial and colonial periods alike is an important one for historians to investigate elsewhere. Tropical Pioneers is based on extensive research in the National Archives of Sri Lanka, the National Agricultural Library at Gannaruwa, the Library of the Royal Asiatic Society-Ceylon Branch, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, the Public Record Office of the United Kingdom, and the British Library.
An auction-based mechanism for dynamic spectrum allocation in participatory cognitive radio networks

The problem of dynamic spectrum allocation for participatory cognitive radio (CR) networks is modeled using an auction-based mechanism, where the fusion center (FC) acts as an auctioneer and allocates spectrum to CRs without complete knowledge regarding spectrum availability. We also consider the cost of collisions with the primary user (PU) and assign this cost to the FC, making it completely responsible for its allocation decision. With the help of CRs participating in the network, the FC makes a global inference on the availability of the spectrum followed by spectrum allocation. The goal of this paper is to investigate the design of an optimal auction-based framework for participatory CR networks, and to find the conditions under which a CR actively participates in the optimal auction (or, collaborative spectrum sensing). We also identify a scenario in the optimal auction design where the FC pays to the participating CRs, in order to improve the sensing performance, while simultaneously maximizing its revenue.
Tantallabicycloalkane complexes and their use as catalysts for the cyclization of α,ω-dienes

Abstract Tantallabicycloalkane complexes have been prepared from 1,6-heptadiene, 1,7-octadiene, and 1,8-nonadiene. The first is all cis about the common CC bond, the second is a mixture of cis and trans isomers, and the third is all trans. The third decomposes at room temperature to give 2-methylmethylene-cycloheptane. In the presence of excess 1,8-nonadiene, 2-methylmethylene-cycloheptane is formed catalytically. Tantallabicycloalkane complexes with more than 9 carbon atoms could not be prepared and no other catalytic cyclization reactions were successful.
Impedance cardiography: The failure of sternal electrodes to predict changes in stroke volume

A study was conducted on 26 healthy male adults comparing the stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (CO) measured with green dye and impedance cardiography in supine, sitting and during 50 W bicycle exercise. The impedance voltage pick-up electrodes were modified from the standard band location and placed at the suprasternal notch and 10 cm below. The percentage change of SV going from supine to sitting was −27.2 ± 7.4% and −16.9 ± 22% for the dye and impedance values respectively. The percentage change of SV going from sitting to exercise was 20.9 ± 11.9% and 36.7 ± 32.9% for the dye and impedance values respectively. The percentage change in SV determined by impedance shows poor correlation (supine to sitting R = 0.16 and sitting to exercise R = 0.42) with dye values. The individual impedance values for a given change in position or exercise showed considerably more variation compared with the dye. Impedance determination of SV using electrodes on the sternum does not appear to be a valid method for SV and CO measurements.
Contribution of strained diffusion flames to acoustic pressure response

The acoustic pressure response coupled to finite-rate chemistry is analyzed for counterflow diffusion flames with one-step irreversible Arrhenius reactions. Particular attention is focused on the premixed-flame regime of the diffusion flame with an acoustic frequency of the same order of magnitude as the rate of strain. The acoustic response is obtained from a linear analysis involving activation-energy asymptotics and is found to result from two mechanisms, namely, oscillations of the reaction sheet induced by acoustic-produced fluctuations of the reaction rate and oscillations of the flow-field variables produced by the transport-zone response. The former is dominant near extinction, while the latter is dominant near equilibrium. The amplification rates near extinction are larger by an order of magnitude than those near equilibrium. Therefore, analyses of the acoustic response that do not consider finite reaction rates can underestimate amplification rates significantly.
Radial grating lateral shear heterodyne interferometer

A variable lateral shear heterodyne interferometer has been developed that is capable, for example, of measuring the high-bandwidth wave fronts in adaptive optical systems. The interferometer is used with a radial Ronchi grating and operates with a variety of spatially and temporally coherent light sources such as white-light extended sources. The interferometer has been operated successfully in a real-time atmospheric compensation adaptive optical system.
Second-order theory of the aberration sensitivity of a positive-branch, confocal unstable cavity

A second-order theory of the aberration sensitivity that is characteristic of a positive-branch, confocal unstable cavity is presented within the framework of the Fresnel–Kirchhoff diffraction integral formulation of the transverse-mode structure. The analysis includes the effects of the ray-trajectory deviation due to the intracavity aberration source and also takes into account diffraction at the cavity feedback aperture. The dependence of the aberration sensitivity on the applied aberration source strength as well as its dependence on the cavity Fresnel number is described. This new analysis shows that the zeroth-order geometric approximation that is due to Anan’ev [ Sov. J. Quantum Electron., Vol. 1, 565 ( 1972)] is obtained in the limit as the applied intracavity aberration strength goes to zero. In addition, the diffractive behavior of the aberration sensitivity is shown to increase to its geometric value as the Fresnel number of the unstable cavity is increased, this increase being more rapid for larger transverse aberration order k.
Biogeography and natural history of Sphaeroma walkeri Stebbing (Crustacea: Isopoda) and its introduction to San Diego Bay, California

(1981). Biogeography and natural history of Sphaeroma walkeri Stebbing (Crustacea: Isopoda) and its introduction to San Diego Bay, California. Journal of Natural History: Vol. 15, No. 1, pp. 31-48.
Capabilities that enhance outcomes of an episodic supply chain collaboration

Abstract Firms are increasingly dependent on the knowledge and expertise in external organizations to innovate, problem-solve, and improve supply chain performance. This research examines two capabilities that enable firms to collaborate successfully as a means to combine knowledge and expertise in an episodic collaboration initiative. Building from two theoretical foundations, the knowledge-based and relational views of the firm, we examine the effects of absorptive capacity and collaborative process competence on the outcomes of an episodic collaboration initiative. Using structural equation modeling, we empirically validate the positive effect of absorptive capacity, collaborative process competence and level of engagement on the operational and relational success of a collaboration effort. Results show that collaborative process competence mediates the relationship between absorptive capacity and collaborative engagement, and positively influences both operational and relational outcomes. Finally, we offer suggestions for managers to improve the effectiveness of inter-firm collaboration initiatives and discuss future research opportunities.
Noise Exposure to Musicians during Practice

Abstract Occupational noise exposure poses a unique problem for selected groups of workers. Musicians are especially dependent on their hearing and represent a special category of workers. Regulatory standards do not address the unique nature of exposure nor the particular requirements of musicians for auditory competence. Studies of musician settings such as practices have been noted to precipitate not only subjective complaints but also documented threshold shifts. The purpose of this study is to document musicians' noise exposure during practices and performances. Different types of musical groups were monitored, including marching bands, concert bands, and a small combo performance group to determine the noise exposures resulting from different musical formats and practice environments. Individual dosimeters were worn by selected members of each band to determine their noise exposures. Results from the various noise sampling indicated noise doses as high as 169.0 percent (equivalent time-weighted aver...
Headaches, Performance in High School, and Handedness

Students who had headaches or who had missed high school because of headaches were no more likely than their peers to have low scores on the Gates-MacGinitie tests of Vocabulary and Comprehension. This does not support the hypothesis that children with severe headaches are more likely than their peers to have trouble with school work. Students who identified themselves as ambidextrous were at approximately 50% greater risk than right-handers and left-handers of experiencing headaches. This can be viewed as providing some support for the Geschwind-Behan hypotheses that migraine and handedness are not independent phenomena.
Use of isoproterenol as an aid to electric induction of chronic recurrent ventricular tachycardia

Abstract Initiation of ventricular tachycardia using isoproterenol administration and programmed stimulation of the heart was attempted in 11 patients with recurrent ventricular tachycardia in whom standard stimulation techniques alone failed to induce the tachycardia. Seven patients had nonsustained and four had sustained ventricular tachycardla. In four patients, ventricular tachycardia was induced by exercise; in the remaining seven, tachycardia was not exercise-induced. Before isoproterenol, single and double ventricular premature depolarizations and rapid ventricular pacing failed to induce the tachycardia in all patients. After intravenous administration of small amounts (6 to 16 μg) of isoproterenol, critically timed single and double ventricular premature depolarizations could reproducibly initiate and terminate the tachycardia in six of seven patients with nonsustained ventricular tachycardia and in three of four patients with sustained ventricular tachycardia. Propranolol (0.05 to 0.1 mg/kg body weight) was effective in blocking the arrhythmia-facilitating effect of isoproterenol in four patients and procainamide (10 mg/kg) was effective in three patients. In two patients, neither propranolol nor procainamide was effective. The precise mechanisms underlying the arrhythmogenic effects of isoproterenol in each patient are not obvious. Nonetheless, our results suggest that the administration of isoproterenol is a useful adjunct when attempting to initiate ventricular tachycardia by stimulation techniques. As such, it should be helpful in carrying out studies designed to establish appropriate therapeutic interventions in patients with recurrent ventricular tachycardia.
FLUCTUATING EXCHANGE RATES AND THE PRICING OF EXPORTS

The purpose of this paper is to examine the invoicing decision of an exporter under a system of pegged exchange rates and a system of freely fluctuating rates. With pegged exchange rates, the exporter may equivalently invoice in its home currency or in the currency of its foreign clients, since the two prices are related by the pegged rate. With fluctuating rates, however, the choice of an invoicing strategy is important and will affect the level of trade. The optimal prices with each strategy are compared, and the exporter's responses to governmental policy instruments are characterized.
The Sepoys of the Pound and Sandy Row: Empire and Identity in Mid-Victorian Belfast

This article examines the place of empire in Belfast’s popular culture during the mid-Victorian era, paying particular attention to how Protestants and Catholics responded to the Crimean War and th...
Fingerpad Skin Stretch Increases the Perception of Virtual Friction

This research focuses on the relative importance of fingerpad skin stretch on the perception of friction. It is hypothesized that the perceived magnitude of friction rendered by traditional force feedback can be increased through the addition of fingertip skin stretch. Perceptual data are presented from two separate tests performed on nine male subjects. The first experiment determines the perceptual thresholds for friction based on a modified Karnopp friction model where friction is rendered as purely a kinesthetic resistance via a PHANToM force feedback device. JNDs of 0.056-50.150 corresponding to static coefficients for friction of mus = 0.2-0.8 were established. The second experiment evaluates possible changes in the perceived friction magnitude due to imposing small amounts of tangential skin stretch (0.25-0.75 mm) to the fingerpad in combination with force feedback (kinesthetic resistance). Our results show that even these small amounts of skin stretch lead to a statistically significant increase in perceived friction (p < 0.01). This significant finding will enable the hapticians to more realistically and accurately render friction via a combination of kinesthetic resistance and tactile feedback.
Laser-Based Ultraviolet Absorption Detection in Capillary Electrophoresis

Laser-based UV absorption in capillary electrophoresis is demonstrated. The use of vacuum photodiodes and an all-electronic noise canceller provides adequate baseline stability despite the large inherent intensity noise in UV lasers. A 4-fold improvement in the detection limit is achieved in comparison to that of commercial instruments. The main advantage here is the better optical coupling with small capillary tubes, maximizing the available optical pathlength for absorption.
Unstable resonator with canceling edge waves: asymptotic analysis

The asymptotic analysis of the diffraction integral equation for an unstable optical resonator is extended to include a mirror with an internal surface discontinuity. The treatment is then applied to an unstable resonator with canceling edge waves, and the result obtained compares favorably with the predictions of a numerical-propagation code. Also, other applications of the approach taken here are suggested.
Effects of V2G reactive power compensation on the component selection in an EV or PHEV bidirectional charger

Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are becoming a part of the electric grid day by day. Chargers for these vehicles have the ability to make this interaction better for the consumer and for the grid. Vehicle to grid (V2G) power transfer has been under research for more than a decade because of the large energy reserve of an electric vehicle battery and the potential of thousands of these connected to the grid. Rather than discharging the vehicle batteries, reactive power compensation in particular is beneficial for both consumers and for the utility. However, certain adverse effects or requirements of reactive power transfer should be defined before a design stage. To understand the dynamics of this operation, this study investigates the effect of reactive power transfer on the charger system components, especially on the dc-link capacitor and the battery.
Interactive, scalable, declarative program analysis: from prototype to implementation

Static analyses provide the semantic foundation for tools ranging from optimizing compilers to refactoring browsers and advanced debuggers. Unfortunately, developing new analysis specifications and implementations is often difficult and error prone. Since analysis specifications are generally written in a declarative style, logic programming presents an attractive model for producing executable specifications of analyses. However, prior work on using logic programming for program analysis has focused exclusively on solving constraints derived from program texts by an external preprocessor. In this paper, we present DIMPLE, an analysis framework for Java bytecodes implemented in the Yap Prolog system [8]. DIMPLE provides both a representation of Java bytecodes in a database of relations and a declarative domain-specific language for specifying new analyses as queries over this database. DIMPLE thus enables researchers to use logic programming for every step of the analysis development process, from specification to prototype to implementation. We demonstrate that our approach facilitates rapid prototyping of new program analyses and produces executable analysis implementations that are speed-competitive with specialized analysis toolkits.
Fate of Spermatozoa in the Male: II. Absence of a Specific Sperm Disposal Mechanism in the Androgen-Deficient Hamster and Rabbit

This study provides no support for previous conclusions that castration is followed by rapid destruction and disappearance of spermatozoa retained within the cauda epididymidis. Even 28 days after castration, there was no significant difference as compared with controls in the number of spermatozoa remaining within the ligated duct, providing that the duct epithelium remained intact. The significant reduction in sperm numbers which occurred in some castrate animals was invariably associated with rupture of the duct; this usually developed close to a ligature with formation of a sperm-filled granuloma or with extravasation of spermatozoa found in peritubular fibrinoid deposits. This and their phagocytosis after escape from the duct accounts for the rapid disappearance of spermatozoa from the ligated cauda epididymidis of castrated hamsters and rabbits. A state of androgen deficiency does not elicit special mechanisms for intraluminal sperm disposal involving either lysis or their ingestion by cells of the intact epithelium.
Region-selective inverse-detected long-range heteronuclear chemical shift correlation using shaped pulses

F1 region-selected variants of the HMBC experiment were compared and evaluated. In particular, a significant advantage was demonstrated for an E-BURP-2 pulse over a Gaussian 270° pulse for region-selected applications. The Gaussian 270° pulse would still, however, be the preferred pulse for use in single-resonance, on-resonance selective excitation. Data are presented from NMR spectrometers both equipped and not equipped with programmable pulse modulators (waveform generators). Pulse evaluations were performed using the simple heteroaromatic alkaloid quindoline; application of the technique to the important immunosuppressive cyclic peptide cyclosporin-A is also presented and discussed.
Liquidity Commonality Across the Bond and CDS Markets

The article examines various liquidity measures across the corporate bond and credit default swap (CDS) markets. The results, from the factor decompositions for individual liquidity measures and across various measures, show a strong liquidity commonality across the bond and CDS markets. In addition, the article finds that the liquidity common factor has significant impact on the unexplained part of the credit spread changes by default risk factors.
Monocyte activation in multiple sclerosis

Monocytes, macrophages, and microglia have a central role in the CNS inflammation of MS. Monocytes are important in the earliest events in MS. Peripheral blood monocytes secrete prostaglandins before MS attacks. During clinical activity monocyte activation markers increase and IL-1 and TNF-alpha levels are elevated. Other monocyte products such as IL-10 reduce inflammation. IL-10 mRNA in MNC is increased during stable disease. Manipulation of monokine secretion and expression of monocyte surface proteins are reasonable approaches for immune therapy of MS.
Physiological and molecular analysis of carbon source supplementation and pH stress-induced lipid accumulation in the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum

A detailed physiological and molecular analysis of lipid accumulation under a suite of conditions including nitrogen limitation, alkaline pH stress, bicarbonate supple- mentation, and organic acid supplementation was performed on the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. For all tested conditions, nitrogen limitation was a prerequisite for lipid accumulation and the other culturing strategies only enhanced accumulation highlighting the importance of com- pounded stresses on lipid metabolism. Volumetric lipid lev- els varied depending on condition; the observed rankings from highest to lowest were for inorganic carbon addition (15 mM bicarbonate), organic acid addition (15 carbon mM acetate), and alkaline pH stress (pH9.0). For all lipid- accumulating cultures except acetate supplementation, a common series of physiological steps were observed. Upon extracellular nitrogen exhaustion, culture growth con- tinued for approximately 1.5 cell doublings with decreases in specific protein and photosynthetic pigment content. As nitrogen limitation arrested cell growth, carbohydrate con- tent decreased with a corresponding increase in lipid con- tent. Addition of the organic carbon source acetate appeared to activate alternative metabolic pathways for lipid accumu- lation. Molecular level data on more than 50 central metab- olism transcripts were measured using real-time PCR. Analysis of transcripts suggested the central metabolism pathways associated with bicarbonate transport, carbonic anhydrases, and C4 carbon fixations were important for lipid accumulation. Transcriptomic data also suggested that repurposing of phospholipids may play a role in lipid accu- mulation. This study provides a detailed physiological and molecular-level foundation for improved understanding of diatom nutrient cycling and contributes to a metabolic blue- print for controlling lipid accumulation in diatoms.
Single dose of a dopamine agonist impairs reinforcement learning in humans : Behavioral evidence from a laboratory-based measure of reward responsiveness

Rationale The dopaminergic system, particularly D2-like dopamine receptors, has been strongly implicated in reward processing. Animal studies have emphasized the role of phasic dopamine (DA) signaling in reward-related learning, but these processes remain largely unexplored in humans.
A Modified Quality-of-Life Measure for Youths: Psychometric Properties

In the Diabetes Control and Complication Trial (DCCT), a Diabetes Quality of Life (DQOL) measure was developed to assess the psychosocial impact of intensified regimens. Its applicability for use with children and adolescents was limited by the exclusion criteria of the DCCT. In this study, the DQOL was modified for specific use in young diabetes populations. The result is an instrument composed of three intercorrelated scales--a Diabetes Life Satisfaction scale, a Disease Impact scale, and a Disease-Related Worries scale--with satisfactory levels of reliability. While the scale variances were independent of glycosylated hemoglobin values, they were related to adolescents' perception of their general health status. Self-perceived quality of life related to diabetes management is an important alternative outcome for diabetes education programs.
Death by grounding

Misunderstandings concerning stray current and equipotential planes are prevalent in North America. Clarification of and differences between equipotentials found in high voltage cable and in concrete encased reinforcing bar installations in concrete pads and swimming pools are explained. Misunderstanding and false interpretation of the IEEE Standard 80, ldquoGuide for Safety in AC Substation Groundingrdquo has led to flawed conclusions and the false concept of equipotential planes, which are shown to be erroneous and are debunked by tests performed in the field. Also discussed are the dangers associated with bare concentric neutral high voltage cable, the use of can and has contributed to the proliferation of stray current which has resulted in death.
Gut microbial products regulate murine gastrointestinal motility via Toll-like receptor 4 signaling.

Background & Aims Altered gastrointestinal motility is associated with significant morbidity and health care costs. Toll-like receptors (TLR) regulate intestinal homeostasis. We examined the roles of TLR4 signaling in survival of enteric neurons and gastrointestinal motility. Methods We assessed changes in intestinal motility by assessing stool frequency, bead expulsion, and isometric muscle recordings of colonic longitudinal muscle strips from mice that do not express TLR4 ( Tlr4 Lps-d or TLR4 −/− ) or Myd88 ( Myd88 −/− ), in wild-type germ-free mice or wild-type mice depleted of the microbiota, and in mice with neural crest-specific deletion of Myd88 ( Wnt1Cre +/− /Myd88 fl/fl ). We studied the effects of the TLR4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on survival of cultured, immortalized fetal enteric neurons and enteric neuronal cells isolated from wild-type and Tlr4 Lps-d mice at embryonic day 13.5. Results There was a significant delay in gastrointestinal motility and reduced numbers of nitrergic neurons in TLR4 Lps-d , TLR4 −/− , and Myd88 −/− mice compared with wild-type mice. A similar phenotype was observed in germ-free mice, mice depleted of intestinal microbiota, and Wnt1Cre +/− /Myd88 fl/fl mice. Incubation of enteric neuronal cells with LPS led to activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor (NF)-κB and increased cell survival. Conclusions Interactions between enteric neurons and microbes increases neuron survival and gastrointestinal motility in mice. LPS activation of TLR4 and NF-κB appears to promote survival of enteric neurons. Factors that regulate TLR4 signaling in neurons might be developed to alter gastrointestinal motility.
Turbo equalization via constrained-delay APP estimation with decision feedback

We consider turbo equalization for intersymbol interference (ISI) channels, wherein soft symbol decisions generated by the channel detector are iteratively exchanged with the outer error-correction decoder based on the turbo principle. Our work is based on low-complexity suboptimal soft-output channel detection using a constrained-delay (CD) a posteriori probability (APP) algorithm. Central to the proposed idea is the incorporation of effective decision-feedback schemes, which significantly reduce complexity while providing immunity against error propagation that typically plagues decision-feedback schemes. We observe that the effect of decision feedback is quite different on turbo equalization versus traditional, hard-decision-generating and noniterative equalization. In particular, we demonstrate that when the feedback scheme applied is inadequate for the given equalizer parameters and ISI condition, the extrinsic information generated by the equalizer becomes distinctly non-Gaussian, and the quality of soft information, as monitored by the trajectory of mutual information, fails to improve in the iterative process. We identify parameters of feedback-based CD-APP schemes that offer favorable complexity/performance tradeoffs, compared with existing turbo-equalization techniques.
Conformational Role of Xanthan in its Interaction with Locust Bean Gum

: Texture analysis and Ubbelohde capillary viscometry were used to investigate the effects of chain conformational changes of xanthan or deacetylated xanthan on its interaction with locust bean gum (LBG). The stability of xanthan helical structure or xanthan chain flexibility played a critical role in interacting with LBG. Destabilization of xanthan helical structure by deacetylation and heating facilitated the intermolecular binding between xanthan and LBG. Xanthan conformational change was noted in the presence of LBG, even when its helical structure was stabilized by salt. However, this conformational change was not observed for deacetylated xanthan, presuming deacetylated xanthan was in the exact conformation to bind LBG.
Constructing Public Space|Weibo, WeChat, and the Transformative Events of Environmental Activism in China

The emergence of China and the advent of social media are two events that rupture the world as it is and force a rethinking of activism and public spaces. Environmental protests in China, often performed on a mediascape dominated by social media, suggest new conditions of possibility for activism and a need to adopt new methods and tools for understanding the myriad practices of activists in China that exceed the strictures of governmental control and offer hope for different futures. This essay theorizes emerging practices of citizenship and inventive imaginings of public spaces by introducing wild public screens. To do so, we analyze how Chinese environmentalists deploy Weibo, WeChat, and other social media platforms.
Review of the species of Ittys (Chalcidoidea: Trichogrammatidae) occuring in the United States, with the description of four new species

The United States fauna of the genus Ittys (Trichogrammatidae: Paracentrobiini) is revised for the first time. This revision includes a redescription of the genus, redescriptions of the named North American species with illustrations of diagnostic characters. The genus Ittys contains three described North American species which are all considered synonyms of the widespread Ittys ceresarum (Ashmead). Four new species from the United States I. californica n. sp., I. infuscata n. sp., I. macfarlandi n. sp. and I. inermis n. sp. are described as new.
Strange bedfellows: Coalition makeup and perceptions of democratic performance among electoral winners

We argue that the partisan makeup of governing coalitions affects perceptions of democratic performance among those who voted for a government party. We introduce ambivalence toward the governing parties as the mechanism that drives this relationship, and we argue that such ambivalence, which occurs when favorability ratings of the parties vary, will be more common where the parties are more ideologically diverse. After advancing our theory, we test our expectations with post-election survey data from several countries. Evidence demonstrates that coalition ambivalence is greater where governing parties are ideologically divergent, and, even when controlling for this ideological divergence, ambivalence leads to more negative perceptions of democratic performance, bringing the attitudes of electoral winners closer to those of individuals who did not vote for a party in government.
PfCRT and PfMDR1 modulate interactions of artemisinin derivatives and ion channel blockers.

Treatment of the symptomatic asexual stage of Plasmodium falciparum relies almost exclusively on artemisinin (ART) combination therapies (ACTs) in endemic regions. ACTs combine ART or its derivative with a long-acting partner drug to maximize efficacy during the typical three-day regimen. Both laboratory and clinical studies have previously demonstrated that the common drug resistance determinants P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) and multidrug resistance transporter (PfMDR1) can modulate the susceptibility to many current antimalarial drugs and chemical compounds. Here we investigated the parasite responses to dihydroartemisinin (DHA) and various Ca2+ and Na+ channel blockers and showed positively correlated responses between DHA and several channel blockers, suggesting potential shared transport pathways or mode of action. Additionally, we demonstrated that PfCRT and PfMDR1 could also significantly modulate the pharmacodynamic interactions of the compounds and that the interactions were influenced by the parasite genetic backgrounds. These results provide important information for better understanding of drug resistance and for assessing the overall impact of drug resistance markers on parasite response to ACTs.
ANALYZING MOBILE APPLICATION SOFTWARE POWER CONSUMPTION VIA MODEL-DRIVEN ENGINEERING

Smartphones are mobile devices that travel with their owners and provide increasingly powerful services. The software implementing these services must conserve battery power since smartphones may operate for days without being recharged. It is hard, however, to design smartphone software that minimizes power consumption. For example, multiple layers of abstractions and middleware sit between an application and the hardware, which make it hard to predict the power consumption of a potential application design accurately. Application developers must therefore wait until after implementation (when changes are more expensive) to determine the power consumption characteristics of a design. This paper provides three contributions to the study of applying model-driven engineering to analyze power consumption early in the lifecycle of smartphone applications. First, it presents a model-driven methodology for accurately emulating the power consumption of smartphone application architectures. Second, it describes the System Power Optimization Tool (SPOT), which is a model-driven tool that automates power consumption emulation code generation and simplifies analysis. Third, it empirically demonstrates how SPOT can estimate power consumption to within ∼3-4% of actual power consumption for representative smartphone applications.
Kinetics and pool size of primary bile acids in man.

Primary bile acid kinetics and pool size were determined in a group of 10 subjects following the simultaneous administration of 14C-cholic and 14C-chenodeoxycholic acid. Chenodeoxycholic acid was found to have a significantly slower turnover rate, daily production, and a smaller pool size than cholic acid. The primary bile acid pool (cholic plus chenodeoxycholic) was 1.85 g and the total daily synthesis of bile acids was 495 mg. These data suggest that chenodeoxycholic acid is more efficiently handled by the small intestine than cholic acid.
Britons’ Shattered Psyche

The shell-shocked soldier—gendered male—has come to exemplify the individual conditioned by the history of the twentieth century. The Great War stands as the inaugural event of that century, establishing the emotional states of the quintessential twentieth-century self that subsequent wars, revolutions, and holocausts would intensify. The victim of a trauma whose scale and scope were unprecedented, whose mind had been shattered by the endless cycles of bombardment, terror, destruction, and death, and whose control over mental and bodily functions was shaky at best, the shell-shocked soldier came to represent the subject of the age. For the “lost generation” and those who followed, shell shock provided the experience by means of which interwar Britons—and here I want to emphasize women as well as men—came to understand their sense of self, a reflection of the phenomenon anthropologist Jean Comaroff calls “cultural ontology.” She asserts that people in particular times and places arrive at various conceptualizations of selfhood that make sense within the circumstances of those times and places, that resonate with the social, economic, political, and cultural practices that prevail.
Charge neutralisation from the side surface of an insulating plate

This paper explores whether charge neutralisation from the side surface of an insulating plate is effective, on the basis of investigating the motion of positive and negative ions using 2-D numerical fluid simulations for different initial surface charge distributions and placements of an insulating plate to be neutralised.
Construction Project Managers’ Motivators and Human Values

AbstractConstruction project managers occupy middle management positions and their performance is as important as the performance of skilled/unskilled workers to the success of a project. This study investigates the factors that motivate construction managers, identifies the dominant human values of construction managers, and explores the relationship between construction managers’ human values and their motivators. A total of 101 construction managers participated in a survey to rate the importance of 20 motivators and 18 human values. Although simple correlation analysis indicated that many motivators are highly correlated with many human values, this finding ignores the interrelationships between the many variables. Factor analysis was used to reduce the 20 motivators to six motivating factors, and regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between each of the six motivating factors and human values, albeit without much success because of the nonlinear nature of the problem. However,...
Adjustment for unbalanced sample size for analytical biosimilar equivalence assessment

Large sample size imbalance is not uncommon in the biosimilar development. At the beginning of a product development, sample sizes of a biosimilar and a reference product may be limited. Thus, a sample size calculation may not be feasible. During the development stage, more batches of reference products may be added at a later stage to have a more reliable estimate of the reference variability. On the other hand, we also need a sufficient number of biosimilar batches in order to have a better understanding of the product. Those challenges lead to a potential sample size imbalance. In this paper, we show that large sample size imbalance may increase the power of the equivalence test in an unfavorable way, giving higher power for less similar products when the sample size of biosimilar is much smaller than that of the reference product. Thus, it is necessary to make some sample size imbalance adjustments to motivate sufficient sample size for biosimilar as well. This paper discusses two adjustment methods for the equivalence test in analytical biosimilarity studies. Please keep in mind that sufficient sample sizes for both biosimilar and reference products (if feasible) are desired during the planning stage.
Safety of alectinib for the treatment of metastatic ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) may derive significant clinical benefit from targeted therapies against this driver mutation, but progression is virtually inevitable. Alectinib is a next-generation ALK inhibitor that provides a novel treatment option for this group of patients.Areas covered: In this review, we summarize the overall safety and tolerability of alectinib. Specifically, we cover cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic, musculoskeletal, and respiratory adverse events. The safety profile of alectinib is also described in special populations and in comparison with other ALK inhibitors.Expert opinion: Alectinib is a well-tolerated tyrosine kinase inhibitor and should be considered for patients with ALK-rearranged NSCLC. The question then arises as to how to choose a next-generation ALK inhibitor in the second-line setting. Understanding acquired resistant mechanisms has become essential. Whether or not to use ale...
Stanford Anderson (1934–2016)

> This is my simple advocacy: the fruitfulness of recognizing the strengths and the claims of, on one side, our theories and conventions, that should not be held dogmatically, and, on the other, the realities, that are in some ways obdurate but often remarkably and fascinatingly malleable. To seek to live only a life of the mind at one pole, or of materiality at the other, or of coercive power from either, is to impoverish one's self, one's discipline, and one's smaller or greater community.1 Stanford Anderson was an architect, teacher, historian, urbanist, and critic of architecture (Figure 1). From the start of his career he studied the relationships of culture and society with design, seeking to refine a theoretical framework for understanding the architectural discipline, its constraints and potentials for supporting and enhancing life. Through sustained and probing studies of Peter Behrens, Hermann Muthesius, Le Corbusier, Alvar Aalto, Eladio Dieste, and others, Stan examined design with an architect's precision and a scholar's rigor. He identified himself as a member of the generation contending with postwar reactions against modernism; his historical, theoretical, and critical work can be interpreted as an energetic and unrelenting defense of architecture as a rational endeavor and of modernism as a liberating force. Figure 1 Stanford Anderson (photo courtesy of Nancy Royal). Born in Minnesota, Stan was raised in South Dakota before returning to Minnesota for an undergraduate degree in architecture. He earned a master's degree in architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1958 and conducted dissertation research on Behrens supported by a Fulbright Fellowship in Munich in 1961–62, receiving a doctorate from Columbia University in 1968. In 1962–63 Stan taught at the Architectural Association in London. He was then invited by Henry Millon to join the architecture faculty at MIT in 1963, and together they …
Kinetics and Mechanism of Isocyanide-Promoted Carbene Insertion into the Aryl Substituent of an N-Heterocyclic Carbene Ligand in Ruthenium-Based Metathesis Catalysts

In situ IR spectroscopy was used to study the kinetics of addition of L = alkyl and aryl isocyanides to the Grubbs second-generation carbene complex Ru(H2IMes)(CHPh)(PCy3)Cl2 (H2IMes = 1,3-dimesityl-4,5-dihydroimidazol-2-ylidene), which triggers carbene insertion into an aromatic ring of the N-heterocyclic carbene supporting ligand, forming Ru{1-mesityl-3-(7′-Ph-2′,4′,6′-trimethylcycloheptatrienyl)-4,5-dihydroimidazol-2-ylidene}L2(PCy3)Cl2. The rate law was determined to be first order in isocyanide concentration and first order in carbene complex concentration. For various isocyanides CNR the rate increases as R = tert-butyl ≪ cyclohexyl < n-octyl < CH2Ph ≈ CH2CO2Me ≈ CH2SO2C6H4-4-Me < C6H4-4-OMe < C6H4-4-Cl. The proposed mechanism involves reversible addition of isocyanide followed by rate-determining, irreversible carbene insertion and subsequent, rapid addition of the second isocyanide. The carbene insertion is accelerated by the electrophilicity of the carbene, which is enhanced due to ligand binding...