cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microstructure, magnetotransport, and magnetic properties of Gd-doped amorphous carbon

The magnetic rare earth element gadolinium (Gd) was doped into thin films of amorphous carbon (hydrogenated $a\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{C}:\mathrm{H}$, or hydrogen-free $a\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{C}$) using magnetron cosputtering. The Gd acted as a magnetic as well as an electrical dopant, resulting in an enormous negative magnetoresistance below a temperature $({T}^{\ensuremath{'}})$. Hydrogen was introduced to control the amorphous carbon bonding structure. High-resolution electron microscopy, ion-beam analysis, and Raman spectroscopy were used to characterize the influence of Gd doping on the $a\text{\ensuremath{-}}{\mathrm{Gd}}_{x}{\mathrm{C}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}(:{\mathrm{H}}_{y})$ film morphology, composition, density, and bonding. The films were largely amorphous and homogeneous up to $x=22.0\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{at.}\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}%$. As the Gd doping increased, the $s{p}^{2}$-bonded carbon atoms evolved from carbon chains to 6-member graphitic rings. Incorporation of H opened up the graphitic rings and stabilized a $s{p}^{2}$-rich carbon-chain random network. The transport properties not only depended on Gd doping, but were also very sensitive to the $s{p}^{2}$ ordering. Magnetic properties, such as the spin-glass freezing temperature and susceptibility, scaled with the Gd concentration.
Nitrate Reduction In Streambed Sediments: Effects Of Flow And Biogeochemical Kinetics

The effect of retention time on redox sequences along the hydrological flow path of groundwater discharging through low-relief coastal stream sediments and the subsequent impact on the fate of NO3  carried in the groundwater was examined in two intact cores. Rates of denitrification were determined for the organic-rich streambedsediments, and a macroscopic, multispecies, reactive transport model based on multiple Monod kinetics was developed to interpret and extend the experimental results. Regionalized sensitivity analysis and parameter estimation were used to determine a set of parameters that best describe the experimental data for one column. The calibrated model successfully replicated the spatial profiles of nitrate under both steady and transient conditions in the second column operated under different conditions. A dimensionless form of the model was used to examine how coupled biogeochemical reactions and hydrological transport processes operate within the stream sediments could be understood in terms of Peclet (ratio of advection to dispersion) and Damkohler numbers (the ratio ofthe characteristic time of transport to the characteristic time for reaction). At the study site, the Peclet number and the Damkohler numbers for both oxygen and nitrate are high (Pe = 25, DaN = 47.5, and DaO = 40). When Pe > 5, Damkohler numbers explain observed variations in nitrate removal rates; as the flow rate increases, the solute residence time in the reactive zone is shortened resulting in a lesser extent of reaction, such that more NO3  is delivered to the stream water.
Local source impacts on primary and secondary aerosols in the Midwestern United States

Abstract Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) exhibits heterogeneity in composition across urban areas, leading to poor representation of outdoor air pollutants in human exposure assessments. To examine heterogeneity in PM composition and sources across an urban area, fine particulate matter samples (PM2.5) were chemically profiled in Iowa City, IA from 25 August to 10 November 2011 at two monitoring stations. The urban site is the federal reference monitoring (FRM) station in the city center and the peri-urban site is located 8.0 km to the west on the city edge. Measurements of PM2.5 carbonaceous aerosol, inorganic ions, molecular markers for primary sources, and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) tracers were used to assess statistical differences in composition and sources across the two sites. PM2.5 mass ranged from 3 to 26 μg m−3 during this period, averaging 11.2 ± 4.9 μg m−3 (n = 71). Major components of PM2.5 at the urban site included organic carbon (OC; 22%), ammonium (14%), sulfate (13%), nitrate (7%), calcium (2.9%), and elemental carbon (EC; 2.2%). Periods of elevated PM were driven by increases in ammonium, sulfate, and SOA tracers that coincided with hot and dry conditions and southerly winds. Chemical mass balance (CMB) modeling was used to apportion OC to primary sources; biomass burning, vegetative detritus, diesel engines, and gasoline engines accounted for 28% of OC at the urban site and 24% of OC at the peri-urban site. Secondary organic carbon from isoprene and monoterpene SOA accounted for an additional 13% and 6% of OC at the urban and peri-urban sites, respectively. Differences in biogenic SOA across the two sites were associated with enhanced combustion activities in the urban area and higher aerosol acidity at the urban site. Major PM constituents (e.g., OC, ammonium, sulfate) were generally well-represented by a single monitoring station, indicating a regional source influence. Meanwhile, nitrate, biomass burning, food cooking, suspended dust, and biogenic SOA were not well-represented by a single site and demonstrated local influences. For isoprene SOA, product distributions indicated a larger role for the high-NOx pathway at the urban site. These local sources are largely responsible for differences in population exposures to outdoor PM in the study domain located within the Midwestern US.
Pathway to a phenocopy: Heat stress effects in early embryogenesis.

BACKGROUND Heat shocks applied at the onset of gastrulation in early Drosophila embryos frequently lead to phenocopies of U-shaped mutants-having characteristic failures in the late morphogenetic processes of germband retraction and dorsal closure. The pathway from nonspecific heat stress to phenocopied abnormalities is unknown. RESULTS Drosophila embryos subjected to 30-min, 38 °C heat shocks at gastrulation appear to recover and restart morphogenesis. Post-heat-shock development appears normal, albeit slower, until a large fraction of embryos develop amnioserosa holes (diameters > 100 µm). These holes are positively correlated with terminal U-shaped phenocopies. They initiate between amnioserosa cells and open over tens of minutes by evading normal wound healing responses. They are not caused by tissue-wide increases in mechanical stress or decreases in cell-cell adhesion, but instead appear to initiate from isolated apoptosis of amnioserosa cells. CONCLUSIONS The pathway from heat shock to U-shaped phenocopies involves the opening of one or more large holes in the amnioserosa that compromise its structural integrity and lead to failures in morphogenetic processes that rely on amnioserosa-generated tensile forces. The proposed mechanism by which heat shock leads to hole initiation and expansion is heterochonicity, i.e., disruption of morphogenetic coordination between embryonic and extra-embryonic cell types.
The Formation of the Propulsive Industries of Economic Development Acting as the Growth Poles of Regions

Abstract Sci***entific and practi**cal provisions for the formation of the propulsive industries of economic development acting as the growth poles of regions are developed in the article. An analytical review of the theories of Russian and foreign authors concerning the formation of growth poles is carried out; the growth poles theory is adapted to the conditions of a particular region. Methodical principles of the formation of the ‘growth poles’ of the region are developed on the basis of the proposed system of indicators characterizing the industries as propulsive, taking into account the factors of leadership and the factors creating additional effect; On the basis of the qualitative and quantitative methods of regional economy management, the components of the ‘spontaneous’ and ‘planned’ efficiency of the growth poles functioning have been identified.
EIT-enhanced nonlinear Kerr index of refraction of Rb vapor measured in an optical cavity

Summary form only given. We present our recent results in measuring the nonlinear Kerr index of refraction of multi-level rubidium atoms inside an optical ring cavity. By using a similar experimental arrangement as we used previously to demonstrate cavity linewidth narrowing due to EIT inside an optical ring cavity, we can measure the nonlinear coefficient χ/sup (3)/ through the asymmetric transmission profile of the ring cavity. By measuring the degree of asymmetry, we can obtain the Kerr nonlinear index of refraction directly, without worrying about contributions from linear absorption. Our preliminary results indicate a significant enhancement of Kerr nonlinearity due to atomic coherence at near-resonance conditions. We present our experimental results and their comparison with theoretical calculations. We discuss the implications of this enhanced nonlinear Kerr index of refraction to nonlinear optical processes in an optical cavity.
Post-process fabrication of multilayer mm-wave on-package antennas with inkjet printing

This work outlines and demonstrates for the first time the utilization of inkjet printing processes for the fabrication of on-package mm-wave antenna structures. A multilayer, fully printed 30 GHz square patch antenna with a 120 µm thick dielectric substrate is fabricated directly onto an IC chip package through the use of metallic and dielectric inks. A probe station is used to measure the return loss of the fabricated on-package antenna, showing excellent agreement with simulations. This well defined process of fully additive antenna fabrication demonstrates the integrity of the inkjet printing process for on-package and on-chip antenna fabrication up to mm-wave frequency ranges.
Dynamic fracture parameters and constraint effects in functionally graded syntactic epoxy foams

Abstract Functionally graded syntactic foam sheets are developed by dispersing microballoons in epoxy for studying dynamic fracture behavior under low velocity impact loading. The volume fraction of microballoons is graded linearly over the width of the sheets. The mode-I crack initiation and growth behaviors are studied using reflection coherent gradient sensing technique and high-speed photography in samples with crack on the compliant and stiff sides and oriented along the compositional gradient. Crack growth along the gradient in each case shows sudden acceleration followed by steady state growth and deceleration during the window of observation. In both cases, the crack accelerations are similar while crack decelerations show differences. The dynamic stress intensity factor history prior to crack initiation in each case shows a rapid increase at different rates with the crack on the compliant side of the graded sheet experiencing higher rate of loading relative to the one with the crack on the stiffer side. Post-crack initiation stress intensity factor histories suggest increasing fracture toughness with crack growth in the graded sample with the crack on the compliant side while a decreasing trend is seen when the crack is on the stiffer side. Optical measurements are supplemented by finite element simulations for studying crack tip constraint effects on fracture behavior of graded foam sheets. Computed plane strain constraints in graded configurations are essentially identical to the homogeneous counterpart and the computed stress intensity factors obtained from plane stress elasto-dynamic analyses of the graded foams correlate well with the experimental measurements prior to crack initiation. The computed T-stress histories however, show an earlier loss of negative crack tip constraint in case of the graded foam sample with a crack on the compliant side. This correlates well with the higher crack tip loading rate and earlier crack initiation suggesting a possible role of in-plane constraint on fracture of graded foam. The coincidence of the time rate of change of in-plane constraint parameter becoming stationary close to experimentally observed crack initiation times are noted.
Skin aging and photoaging: The role of DNA damage and repair

Both genetic (intrinsic) and environmental (extrinsic) factors contribute to the phenotypic changes in cutaneous aging. However, only recently have the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in these changes been elucidated. DNA damage to both genomic and mitochondrial DNA and subsequent DNA repair contribute greatly to age-associated skin changes and carcinogenesis. Better understanding of these intricate, interwoven mechanisms involved in DNA damage and repair might help to develop new strategies in preventing and treating changes of intrinsic skin aging and photoaging, improving skin appearance and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
The Treatment of Hairy Cell Leukemia: A Review

Hairy cell leukemia is a chronic lymphoproliferative malignancy first described by Bouroncle et al. over 30 years ago(1). Representing less than 2% of adult leukemias, hairy cell leukemia has become the focus of intense interest over the past few years as a result of therapeutic advances. The malignant cell has characteristic irregular cytoplasmic projections visible on the peripheral blood smear and cytoplasmic vesicles staining positive for tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. The origin of the hairy cell appears to be a preplasma cell B lymphocyte based on immunoglobulin gene rearrangements and B-cell-specific antigens, although very rare T-cell variants have been reported. While the diagnosis may be suspected from the clinical manifestations and examination of the peripheral smear, a bone-marrow biopsy is frequently necessary for definitive diagnosis. The typical patient is a middle-aged man with complaints of fatigue or weakness; symptoms of splenic pain, bleeding or bruising, or recurrent infections are less common at presentation(2). Splenomegaly without peripheral adenopathy occurs in 70-80 % of newly diagnosed patients(2). Pancytopenia is present in approximately two-thirds of patients, although 10% of patients present with a leukocytosis resulting from a high circulating hairy cell count.
Evaluating Velopharyngeal Incompetence

Numerous procedures and techniques for the treatment of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) have been suggested over the past century, and the development of new procedures continues unabated. The emphasis on the success or failure in treatment has been the relative merits of each of these procedures, whether they be surgical, prosthetic, or therapeutic. It is more appropriate to place the emphasis on the indications for those procedures so that success or failure is dependent upon adequate diagnosis. The purpose of this article is to discuss what constitutes state-of-the-art in the diagnosis of VPI and how the results of this diagnosis affects treatment planning.
Selective and reversible increase in the number of quisqualate-sensitive glutamate binding sites on hippocampal synaptic membranes after angular bundle kindling

The specific binding ofl-[3H]glutamate to hippocampal synaptic membranes was examined in rats kindled by tetanic stimulation of the angular bundle. One day after the last of a minimum of 3 class 4 kindled seizures, the binding ofl-[3H]glutamate to a quisqualate-sensitive site (GLU A) was about 40% greater than in electrode-implanted unstimulated controls. Saturation binding data indicated an increase in the maximum density of GLU A binding sites with no change in their affinity forl-glutamate. No such increase was detected 28 days after the last kindled seizure, although the animals were still kindled. Radioligand binding to a site that is much less sensitive to quisqualate (GLU B) was unaffected by kindling stimulation. These observations suggest that an increase in GLU A binding sites could be involved in the induction, but not in the maintenance, of the kindled state.
Tetralogy of fallot: Factors influencing the mortality rate of total correction

Abstract Total correction of tetralogy of Fallot was carried out in 215 patients from 1957 through mid-1967. Twenty-eight patients died during the period of hospitalization following the operation, and 5 died later. The operative mortality rate declined steadily throughout the period, reaching 2.2 per cent in the last 22 months. The major factors determining the outcome of surgical treatment were the age of the patient, the severity of the cardiac deformities, the beneficial effects of a prior systemic-pulmonary shunt, associated cardiac lesions, and the surgical technic. Total correction between the ages of 6 and 14 carries the most favorable prognosis. When young patients are severely cyanotic, it is better to establish a palliative systemic-pulmonary artery shunt, preferably by the Blalock-Taussig technic, and subsequently carry out the total repair when the patient is from 6 to 9 years old. This procedure enhances the child's normal development in the interim and establishes more favorable conditions for the later operation.
Randomized Newton-Raphson

Abstract Let g represent a continuous function with roots in a compact set W ⊂ R . Under general conditions, adding noise in a controlled manner to the step term of the Newton-Raphson (NR) root finding algorithm permits “statistical q-linear” convergence and mean square convergence to a root of g for a larger class of functions and larger sets of starting values than those for which NR converges “deterministically”. An extension of this randomized algorithm to functions on R n is achieved through a stochastic version of the generalized inverse.
Regioselectivity in gas-phase elimination reactions: 1,2 vs 1,4 and allenic ion vs dienide formation

Abstract Gas-phase elimination reactions of deuterium labeled 1-allyl-1-methoxy-6,6-dimethyl-2-cyclohexene ( 1 ), 1-methoxy-4,4-dimethyl- 1-vinyl-2-cyclohexene ( 2 ) and 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butene ( 3 ) have been investigated. 1,2-Elimination is the favored pathway when 1 reacts with hydroxide (3.5:1) and methoxide (2.6:1), but 1,4-elimination is preferred with fluoride by 2:1. Abstraction of a vinyl proton in the elimination reactions of 2 and 3 is dominant when amide and/or dimethylamide are used, whereas the loss of an alkyl proton is heavily favored with hydroxide.
Serotonin signaling in diverticular disease

Diverticulosis is extremely common in Western societies and is associated with complications in up to 15%of cases. Altered motility is an important feature of the pathogenesis of diverticular disease, and serotonin (5-HT) release is a primary trigger of gut motility. This study aims to determine whether colonic 5-HT signaling is altered in patients with diverticulosis or diverticulitis, and whether differences in serotonin signaling may distinguish patients with asymptomatic diverticulosis from those who develop disease specific complications. Sigmoid colon biopsies were obtained from healthy control subjects, individuals with asymptomatic diverticulosis, and those with a history of CT-proven diverticulitis within the preceding 6 months. The key elements of 5-HT signaling including content, release, and 5-HT transporter (SERT) expression were analyzed. A significant decrease in SERT transcript levels was present in the mucosa of patients with a history of diverticulitis when compared with controls, but not in those with asymptomatic diverticulosis. Mucosal 5-HT content, enterochromaffin (EC) cell numbers, and TpH-1 mRNA levels were comparable amongst the groups, as were basal and stimulated 5-HT release. Alterations in 5-HT signaling do not appear to be responsible for the development of diverticula. However, patients with a recent history of acute diverticulitis have a significant attenuation in SERT expression and function, likely secondary to previous inflammation. Our findings may explain the persistent symptoms of pain and altered motility so often observed in patients with diverticulitis long after recovery from the acute inflammatory response.
Distinguishing Atom Differences in a Molecular Graph Shape Index

The molecular shape index, previously described, has been extended to take into account the size differences among heteroatoms and carbon atoms in different valence states. In the algorithm for the shape index, 2K, calculated as a function of the non-hydrogen atom count, the count value of non-C sp3 atoms is modified by a term α. The value of α is derived from the covalent radius of an atom relative to the radius of C sp3. Several examples of the use of the atom-specified shape index, 2Kα, in biological studies are presented.
How accurate is peer grading

Previously we showed that weekly, written, timed, and peer-graded practice exams help increase student performance on written exams and decrease failure rates in an introductory biology course. Her...
A distance and orientation dependent potential energy function with cluster energy

Although there have been many potential energy functions to evaluate protein structures, it is still a major challenge to develop an effective energy function. Most potential energy functions do not distinguish a pair of interacting residues in the densely packed environment from the loosely packed environment. We have developed a block pair-specific function that is both distance and orientation dependent. Instead of using the entire side-chain to represent the residue, our function is built on one or two key blocks of each side chain. We show that the probability for seeing low-energy pairs in the highly packed clusters is not the same as that in the entire protein structure for certain pairs. We introduced a cluster energy term in the potential function to represent such difference. In a test of 5 decoy sets, our cluster-energy-adjusted function using key blocks (CEAKB) appears to perform comparably as OPUS-PSP in three decoy sets in spite of its reduced representation of the side chain blocks. CEAKB has better recognition of the native structures in the other two sets of decoys.
Lesion types and device characteristics that predict distal embolization during percutaneous lower extremity interventions.

Objective Distal embolization (DE) during percutaneous lower extremity revascularization (LER) may cause severe clinical sequelae. To better define DE, we investigated which lesion types and treatment modalities increase the risk for embolization. Methods A prospective registry of LER from 2004 to 2009 was reviewed. All cases with runoff evaluated before and after intervention were included. Angiograms and operative reports were reviewed for evidence of DE. Interventions included percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), with or without stent placement, and atherectomy with four different devices. Chi-square analysis and Fisher's exact test were used to assess significance. Patency rates were calculated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and compared using log-rank analysis. Results There were 2137 lesions treated in 1029 patients. The embolization rate was 1.6% (34 events). Jetstream (Pathway, Kirkland, Wash) and DiamondBack 360 (Cardiovascular Systems Inc, St Paul Minn) devices had a combined embolization rate of 22% (8 of 36), 4 of 18 (22%) in each group, which was significantly higher than with PTA alone (5 of 570, 0.9%), PTA and stent (5 of 740, 0.7%), SilverHawk (ev3, Plymouth, Minn) atherectomy (14 of 736, 1.9%), and laser atherectomy (2 of 55, 3.6%; P .05). Limb salvage was 72.6% ± 3.1% in lesions in which no DE occurred vs 83.3% ± 15.2% in lesions in which DE occurred (P = .699). Conclusions DE is a rare event that occurs more often with the Jetstream and DiamondBack 360 devices. In-stent and complex native lesions are at higher risk for DE. DE is typically reversible with endovascular techniques and has no effect on patency rates and limb salvage.
Limitations and problems in the clinical application of behavioral techniques in psychiatric settings

Limitations and problems in the clinical application of behavioral techniques in psychiatric settings were examined with respect to: the use of drugs vis-a-vis behavior therapy; the application of clinical techniques to patients based on findings with college students; nonresponders to selected treatment strategies; the insensitive clinician, usually the neophyte behavior therapist; and the continuous term maintenance of initial behavioral changes. The discussion is based on empirical studies, illustrative examples, and the author's experience in severial psychiatric settings as educator, researcher, clinician, and consultant.
Civil-Military Relations In Poland Between The Wars: 1918-1939

This examination of the military's role in Polish politics and society between the two world wars attempts to fill a gap in our knowledge of civil-military relations across systems. Despite considerable literature on that subject in advanced industrial societies. (.ommunist states, and the less-developed or Third World countrics, an analytical treatment of civil-military relations in the so-called authoritarian svstems, of which prewar Poland is a prime example, has been conspicuously missing. This research was conducted with the help of two analytical frameworks that are frequently referred to as forming the developmental model. The purpose was not so much to test the use of Western social science methodology but mostly to investigate the possibility of making meaningful cross-systemic and longitudinal comparisons. The conclusion that emerged wxas that prewar Poland represents a textbook case of "oligarchical praetorianism" which suggests in turn the possibility of comparing it with other countries falli...
Toward a U.S. energy policy. Twenty-first century issues.

Abstract United States energy policy from 1973 to the present has been a sequence of initiatives based on a strategy of “oil avoidance.” This began with the 1973 oil crisis, when the oil to avoid was from the Middle Eastern suppliers, until today, when the prevailing electrification policies of coal and nuclear power development—the energy options the United States has favored—still predominate. Environmental and capital limits are identified here as the two major constraints within which future policies will likely be framed. Today's policies, however, tend to ignore the continuing need for liquid fuels and the real question of growing demand for motor gasoline. If environmental and capital limits are to provide the criteria for the development of twenty first century energy policy, then energy efficiency in automobiles and buildings, coal use, and oil product pricing are an immediate set of topics with which to begin. However, if the electrification trend is to prevail despite costs and environmental li...
In response to: Pesut B. & Johnson J. (2008) Reinstating the ‘Queen’: understanding philosophical inquiry in nursing. Journal of Advanced Nursing61(1), 115–121

As a first year PhD in Nursing Science student, I was extremely pleased to see an article stressing the importance of philosophy in the discipline of nursing. Pesut’s & Johnson’s JAN paper titled ‘Reinstating the ‘Queen’: understanding philosophy inquiry in nursing’ provided an excellent introduction to the characteristics of philosophy inquiry. One of the first required classes in the PhD programme at the University of Washington is ‘Philosophical Basis of Nursing Inquiry’. The purpose of the course is to provide an overview and critical analysis of historical and contemporary views of knowledge development and of science, with particular emphasis on the way these views influence approaches to nursing inquiry. The focus of the course is on analysing underlying epistemological and ontological assumptions and the implications of diverse approaches to knowledge generation in nursing. Unfortunately, I feel the authors are undervaluing the efforts currently being done by nurse scientists because their work is labelled as theory-focused and not philosophy-focused. The authors focus on the ‘tools’ of a philosopher as a way to examine philosophical issues in nursing, as if these ‘tools’ are novel methods unique to philosophy and currently absent in the discipline of nursing. But that is simply not the case. Chinn and Kramer (2008) define philosophy as ‘a form of disciplined inquiry that discerns the nature of reality and of knowledge and knowing’ (p. 184). The hallmark of philosophical thinking is the use of logic and reasoning, rather than empiric evidence, to create knowledge (Chinn & Kramer 2008). That is exactly what the early nurse theorists did. The intellectual questions a nursing scientist must ask while conducting a concept exploration, concept analysis, concept development and theory development are the same questions asked while attempting explore philosophical issues in nursing. In both the sitiuations, nurse scientists examine the nature of the problem, look to reveal assumptions or potential distortions, and attempt to clarify views. If the end product is reached through the use of logic and reason, then what difference does it make if it is labelled as a ‘nursing theory’ and not as a ‘nursing philosophy’? As William Shakespeare (2004) wrote in 1595,
A unified view of the MOS-gated thyristors

Abstract MOS-gated thyristors (MGTs) are a family of important power semiconductor devices which are gaining more and more attention due to their superior forward current carrying capability and ease of control provided by insulating gates. This paper presents for the first time a unified view of MGTs based on the equivalent circuits of MOS controlled injection (MCI). This unified view facilitates a qualitative understanding of all existing MGTs and also provides a methodology for new MGT's development.
Optimal design of GMV self-tuning controllers

A design algorithm for generalized minimum variance (GMV) self-tuning controllers is presented. The weighting polynomials associated with the control cost function are defined by minimizing a newly proposed index which measures the stochastic variances of system input and output signals and violation of dominant closed-loop pole pair from the desired sampling lines in the Z-plane. To obtain the desired control performance, a corresponding constraint is introduced which restricts the closed-loop poles within a permissible region specified by some qualitative engineering criteria instead of using the conventional pole-assignment method to fix the poles to prespecified locations. A nonlinear programming method is utilized to accomplish the constrained minimization. The validity of the proposed algorithm and effectiveness of the GMV controller based on it are illustrated in some representative examples. >
Advantage of semantic language therapy in chronic aphasia: A study of three cases

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the effects of semantically and of phonologically oriented therapies on word-finding recovery in chronic aphasic patients, more than 3 years after their stroke. For this purpose, three patients were selected who differed in their residual difficulties in language processing: the first patient (JHN) showed problems in both semantic and phonological processing, the second patient (GE) showed difficulties predominantly in semantic functions, and the third patient (EG) suffered mainly from difficulties in phonological processing. All three patients underwent two intensive multimodal therapies, one semantically and the other phonologically oriented. Both types of therapy were applied for 1 month, with a break of 2 months between them. Patient JHN, with both semantic and phonological residual difficulties after his left fronto-temporo-insular stroke, showed a significant improvement in his naming abilities after semantically-oriented therapy only. Patient GE with ...
Multiple Phenotypes Resulting from a Mutagenesis Screen for Pharynx Muscle Mutations in Caenorhabditis elegans

We describe a novel screen to isolate pharyngeal cell morphology mutants in Caenorhabditis elegans using myo-2::GFP to rapidly identify abnormally shaped pharynxes in EMS (Ethyl Methanesulfonate) mutagenized worms. We observed over 83 C. elegans lines with distinctive pharyngeal phenotypes in worms surviving to the L1 larval stage, with phenotypes ranging from short pharynx, unattached pharynx, missing cells, asymmetric morphology, and non-adherent pharynx cells. Thirteen of these mutations have been chromosomally mapped using Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) and deficiency strain complementation. Our studies have focused on genetically mapping and functionally testing two phenotypes, the short pharynx and the loss of muscle cohesion phenotypes. We have also identified new alleles of sma-1, and our screen suggests many genes directing pharynx assembly and structure may be either pharynx specific or less critical in other tissues.
Rationalization, Transformations of Consciousness and Intercivilizational Encounters Reflections on Benjamin Nelson's Sociology of Civilizations

This article provides a critical reconstruction of Benjamin Nelson's work on the sociology of civilizations. His main concepts for civilizational analysis are located within the sociological tradition, in particular, the work of Durkheim, Mauss and their school and Max Weber. The article focuses especially on the historical, comparative and analytic value of Nelson's distinction among three types of structures of consciousness (sacro-magical, faith and rationalized structures), particularly the historical role of rationalized structures. It suggests how these concepts might be given both a fuller analytical differentiation and more detailed historical specification. The article emphasizes how intercivilizational encounters provide the settings for cultural innovations which serve as starting points for the later historical transformations of civilizations. Outcomes of civilizational encounters between Greece, Rome and Judaism in the Hellenistic era are given special attention. The article's main themes are illustrated throughout by reference to a variety of substantive issues and historical comparative civilizational contexts. These include the role of world religions, sciences, philosophies and other cultural forms in the ancient world, Western Europe, Russia and elsewhere
Flow measurement in pneumatic transport of pulverized coal

The paper also deals with the measurement of particle velocity. Particle velocity is the most fundamental parameter in the study of solids' movement by gases. However, its experimental determination is difficult. In most of the investigations of pneumatic transport of solids, the particle velocity either was measured indirectly or was inferred from theory. More recently, various techniques, such as the LDV (Laser Doppler Velocimetry), the tagging technique, or the double-solenoid technique, were advanced to measure the particle velocity directly. However, the usefulness of these techniques was limited, e.g. the LVD method could be used only in the dilute phase, and the tagging method needed a clean and transparent pipe. Recently, Mathur and Klinzing have used a cross-correlation technique for the measurement of the particle velocity in a coal/gas system using signals from two Auburn Monitors. These devices were expensive, and a more economical solution of the problem was sought. The possibility of using an Auburn triboelectric instrument that is based on the static charge transfer technique, was explored. The device in its original form was capable of indicating a flow or no-flow condition of solids in the pipe. The triboelectric devices were modified for our application so as to provide two matching signals, which could then be cross-correlated to yield particle velocity. Preliminary results using triboelectric devices are quite encouraging.
Next generation HVDC network for offshore renewable energy industry

The growing demand on non-fossil fuel energy has escalated the desire for mega-scale renewable energy power generation. This demand can no longer be satisfied by solely relying on onshore renewable energy power plants (i.e. onshore wind farms, PV farms, etc.). Outcomes from a recent project funded by the Sixth European Union Framework Programme (FP6), “Project Upwind” concluded that larger offshore wind turbines (i.e. >10MW) are feasible and offer an opportunity for a strategically important area. It will be beneficial for such future large scale renewable energy power generators (i.e. large offshore turbines) and plant (i.e. large offshore wind farms) to have a dedicated high efficiency, robust, flexible and low cost power collection, transmission and distribution technology. Proposed in this paper is a compact and effective hybrid HVDC transformer. The aim is to realise a highly robust and financially rewarding next generation multi-terminal HVDC power collection, transmission and distribution system for future offshore renewable energy power plant. This concept potentially allows the elimination or minimisation of the need for a centralised local offshore HVDC platform or substation in each wind farm, solar farm, tidal farm or wave farm. By not using the line frequency components, it is possible for the proposed power collection system (i.e. the hybrid HVDC transformer) to be designed in such a way that, at the generator site, it is compact enough to fit within the nacelle or tower of an individual turbine. This paper discusses the study outcome of the proposed hybrid HVDC transformer and the application of a multiterminal HVDC system in the renewable energy industry, compared to the existing HVAC and VSC type HVDC systems. (6 pages)
Media Spectacle and the 2008 Presidential Election

Presidential campaigns in the U.S., but also globally, have become major media spectacles, often decided by orchestrated spectacles. During the 2004 U.S. presidential election, media spectacle was a major determinant of the campaign with the so-called Swift Boat attacks on John Kerry’s war record and daily ads and Republican demonstrations dramatizing Kerry's alleged “flip-flopping.” In this article, I review the role of media spectacle in the Democratic Party primaries where it played a major role and in the general election contest between Barack Obama and John McCain. I argue that the Democratic primary race between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama included a spectacle of race vs. gender and that Obama emerged as master of the spectacle during the primaries, a role he successfully carefully out in the Fall 2008 presidential election. My argument is that media spectacle is an important and often overlooked element of recent presidential elections and I offer concluding comments on “Deconstructing the sp...
Immunotherapy for malignant melanoma: A review and update

Several different approaches to the application of specific active immunotherapy for the adjuvant therapy of melanoma have developed independently. Specific active immunotherapy refers to autologous or allogenic inoculation or transplantation of tumor cells or cell products into patients with cancer. Several different types of tumor vaccines have been studied and have been combined with different immunotherapeutic modalities. This report will include a review of several of those different techniques and will also review the observed 5-year survival rates for a melanoma tumor homogenate (concentrated) vaccine, developed by L.J. Humphrey and colleagues.
Immunologically nonspecific enhancement of artificial lung metastases in tumor-bearing mice

Experiments designed to investigate concomitant enhancement of tumor growth in the lungs of tumor-bearing mice are reported. When a fibrosarcoma (NFSA)3 that had arisen spontaneously in a C3Hf/Bu mouse was transplanted into the hind legs of syngeneic mice 2 weeks prior to IV tumor challenge, the tumor-bearing mice developed more lung colonies than did normal controls. Paradoxically, the same mice demonstrated concomitant resistance to an IM tumor challenge. Animals bearing the tumor for only 1 week and those from which the tumor had been excised after 2 weeks' growth showed neither enhancement nor resistance to lung colony growth. Enhancement in mice bearing the tumor for 2 weeks was shown not to be due to metastases seeded from the primary tumor. Tumor-bearing animals receiving whole-body irradiation (WBI) 1 day before or 12 days after tumor transplantation showed no enhancement compared with nontumor-bearing WBI controls. Mice receiving partial body radiation with the thorax shielded also failed to show concomitant enhancement. Adult thymectomy alone did not affect the enhancement, while thymectomy followed by whole-body irradiation and bone marrow-cell reconstitution abolished it. Although apparently dependent upon relatively long-lived T cells, enhancement was not tumor-specific; mice bearing another fibrosarcoma (FSA), which does not cross react immunologically with NFSA, also showed enhancement when challenged IV with NFSA. Treatment of tumor-bearing mice with C. parvum prior to IV challenge prevented the enhancement phenomenon.
The SOFIA science instrument program: lessons learned

We present an overview of the science instrument program for the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA). Funded for an initial suite of facility and PI instruments, the SOFIA instrument development program includes imagers and spectrometers from both U.S. and German development teams. With an emphasis on lessons learned, we review the development of the facility instrument suite. We conclude with the anticipated role for SOFIA as a new technology test bed for the latest far-infrared detectors.
On being truly professional

The nature of professionalism is explored as it applies to the child care worker's search for professional status. Child care workers are advised to keep in mind as they demand better working conditions that true professionalism requires much more than forming a trade association or a bargaining unit, so that the process of becoming a true profession may not be sidetracked or delayed.
The impact of higher energy prices on growth and inflation in an industrializing economy: the Korean experience☆

Abstract The first serious problem faced by the Korean economy in recent years is the stagflation caused by the increasing energy cost of imported oil. How much does the oil crisis contribute to Korean inflation and unemployment? To answer the question, a variable input-output model is introduced. It differs from conventional models in one important respect: it allows the industrial structure to change in response to changing input costs. Under the model, the technical coefficient becomes an endogenous variable, a property that conventional input-output models fail to share.
Aeroacoustic Testing of Open Rotors at Very Small Scale

This study examines the potential of very-small-scale experiments to simulate the acoustics of large scale counter-rotating open rotors in isolation and with a rectangular-plate shield. The experimental rotor model was based on the historical F7/A7 design developed by General Electric. The 80-mm diameter rotors were fabricated using advanced stereolithography and were powered by two high-performance DC brushless motors. Realistic tip Mach numbers were achieved with the rotors spinning near 50000 rpm. Far-field acoustic surveys were conducted inside an anechoic chamber using a 12-microphone array. The isolated tests captured the tonal and broadband contents of open rotor noise. Rotor-alone tones dominated the sound emission in the vicinity of the rotor plane. In the aft direction, interaction tones were very strong. Addition of the rectangular plate shield created complex trends in the tonal content. Tones radiating in the direction of the rotor plane were well attenuated, while tones emitted in the aft direction were poorly shielded. Some tones were amplified with insertion of the shield. Even though the shield reduced the noise level in an overall sense, the complicated tonal pattern presents challenges for the effective reduction of aircraft noise.
Integration of weather avoidance and traffic separation

This paper describes a dynamic convective weather avoidance concept that compensates for weather motion uncertainties; the integration of this weather avoidance concept into a prototype 4-D trajectory-based Airborne Separation Assurance System (ASAS) application; and test results from a batch (non-piloted) simulation of the integrated application with high traffic densities and a dynamic convective weather model. The weather model can simulate a number of pseudo-random hazardous weather patterns, such as slow — or fast-moving cells and opening or closing weather gaps, and also allows for modeling of onboard weather radar limitations in range and azimuth. The weather avoidance concept employs nested “core” and “avoid” polygons around convective weather cells, and the simulations assess the effectiveness of various avoid polygon sizes in the presence of different weather patterns, using traffic scenarios representing approximately two times the current traffic density in en-route airspace. Results from the simulation experiment show that the weather avoidance concept is effective over a wide range of weather patterns and cell speeds. Avoid polygons that are only 2‣3 miles larger than their core polygons are sufficient to account for weather uncertainties in almost all cases, and traffic separation performance does not appear to degrade with the addition of weather polygon avoidance. Additional “lessons learned” from the batch simulation study are discussed in the paper, along with insights for improving the weather avoidance concept.
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) as initiating agents in hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract PCBs are carcinogens, but for many decades it was assumed that PCBs may not possess initiating activity. Initiation is a process that involves changes in the DNA sequence, often, but not exclusively produced through DNA adduction by a reactive compound or reactive oxygen species (ROS). DNA adducts can be detected by 32P-postlabeling, a method that Dr. Ramesh Gupta co-developed and refined. Today these types of assays together with other mechanistic studies provide convincing evidence that specific PCB congeners can be biotransformed to genotoxic and therefore potentially initiating metabolites. This review will provide an overview of our current knowledge of PCBs’ genotoxic potential and mechanism of action, emphasizing the contributions of Dr. Ramesh Gupta during his tenures at the Universities of Kentucky and Louisville.
14β-Chlorocinnamoylamino derivatives of metopon : long-term μ-opioid receptor antagonists

The affinity, selectivity and antinociceptive properties of 5β-methyl-14β-(p-chlorocinnamoylamino)-7,8-dihydromorphinone (MET-Cl-CAMO) and N-cyclopropyl-methyl-5β-methyl-14β-(p-chlorocinnamoylamino)-7,8-dihydronormorphinone (N-CPM-MET-Cl-CAMO) for the multiple opioid receptors were characterized. In competition binding assays using bovine striatal membranes, both compounds inhibited the binding of 0.25 nM [3H][d-Ala2,(Me)-Phe4,Gly(ol)5]enkephalin (DAMGO) with IC50 values of less than 2 nM. Preincubation of membranes with MET-Cl-CAMO and N-CPM-MET-Cl-CAMO produced a concentration-dependent, wash-resistant inhibition of μ-opioid receptor binding. Saturation binding experiments with N-CPM-MET-Cl-CAMO showed a reduction in the number of μ-opioid binding sites without a change in affinity. In the mouse 55°C warm-water tail-flick assay, neither MET-Cl-CAMO nor N-CPM-MET-Cl-CAMO at doses up to 100 nmol produced antinociception after intracerebroventricular administration, but morphine-induced antinociception was antagonized in a time- and dose-dependent manner by both compounds. The antagonism produced by 1 nmol of either MET-Cl-CAMO or N-CPM-MET-Cl-CAMO reached a maximal effect after 24 h, and lasted up to 48 h. Analgesia mediated by δ- or κ-opioids was not altered by either compound. In summary, the data suggest that MET-Cl-CAMO and N-CPM-MET-Cl-CAMO are long-term, μ-opioid receptor antagonists, devoid of agonist properties in the mouse tail-flick assay, and that N-CPM-MET-Cl-CAMO may produce its antagonistic effects by binding irreversibly to the μ-opioid receptor.
Beta-phenylethyl alcohol as a preservative for ophthalmic solutions.

Abstract β-Phenylethyl alcohol appears to be nonirritating to the rabbit eye when used in a three tenths per cent aqueous solution and the pure chemical has a low oral toxicity in rats.