cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mid-infrared spectra of dipropargyl ether ices revisited.

Abstract The infrared (IR) spectrum of dipropargyl ether, (HC≡C-CH2)2O, has been reinvestigated for the compound's liquid, amorphous, and crystalline forms. The IR baseline changes and bandshape distortions seen in literature spectra have been considerably reduced by a different choice of conditions for preparing the crystalline solid, leading to the discovery of two crystalline phases of the ether. A spectrum of the liquid phase has been recorded and compared to that of the amorphous ether to check for possible procedural artifacts. To facilitate cross-laboratory comparisons, estimates are made for absorption coefficients of three IR peaks of the amorphous solid's spectrum. An interpretation is discussed for changes reported in spectral baselines and bandshapes on warming amorphous dipropargyl ether, and tests and predictions are described. The suggestion that the results from dipropargyl ether warming experiments might pose problems in applying Beer's Law to astronomical observations is addressed.
Energy consumption considering tool wear and optimization of cutting parameters in micro milling process

Abstract Micro milling process aims to manufacture complex micro/meso structures, and the reduction of material removal volume determines the possible decrease of the total energy use, which would put less pressure on the environment. However, the energy consumption of micro milling influenced by tool wear and tool run-out would be augmented and result in the drawback of more energy consumption. In order to reduce the energy consumption of micro milling process, a new analytical energy consumption model and the related optimization of cutting parameters are presented in this paper. Although the influence of tool wear is inevitable, it hasn't been thoroughly concerned in the existing energy consumption models. Therefore, the stochastic tool wear progression, which can be obtained from a probabilistic approach based on the online measured cutting forces, is integrated into the proposed energy model. In addition, the process nonlinearities caused by tool run-out and the trochoidal trajectories of cutting edge are also considered in the model. With the developed prediction model of energy consumption, a hybrid cuckoo search and grey wolf algorithm is used to determine the optimum cutting parameters for minimizing the total energy consumption. The micro milling experiments are performed to validate the accuracy and availability of the proposed energy consumption model and the optimization method. The improved optimization method based on the proposed energy model can reduce the energy consumption by 7.89% compared with the empirical selection.
Fullerenes as Key Components for Low-Dimensional (Photo)electrocatalytic Nanohybrid Materials

An emerging class of heterostructures with unprecedented (photo)electrocatalytic behavior, involving the combination of fullerenes and low-dimensional (LD) nanohybrids, is currently expanding the field of energy materials. The unique physical and chemical properties of fullerenes have offered new opportunities to tailor both the electronic structures and the catalytic activities of the nanohybrid structures. Here, we comprehensively review the synthetic approaches to prepare fullerene-based hybrids with LD (0D, 1D, and 2D) materials in addition to their resulting structural and catalytic properties. Recent advances in the design of fullerene-based LD nanomaterials for (photo)electrocatalytic applications are emphasized. The fundamental relationship between the electronic structures and the catalytic functions of the heterostructures, including the role of the fullerenes, is addressed to provide an in-depth understanding of these emerging materials at the molecular level.
Synthesis, structure, and electronic properties of late first-row transition metal complexes of fluorinated alkoxides and aryloxides

Abstract The synthesis, structure, and electronic properties of several series of late first-row transition metal complexes stabilized by highly-fluorinated alkoxide and aryloxide (ORF) ligands, including partially fluorinated OAr’ (3,5-OC6H3(CF3)2)− and fully fluorinated OArF (OC6F5)−, perfluoro-tbutoxide (OC4F9)−, and perfluoropinacolate, denoted as pinF, ({OC(CF3)2}2)2− are described herein. Compared to their protio counterparts, the powerful electron-withdrawing nature of these fluorinated ligands makes them considerably less basic and some syntheses may be conveniently carried out in aqueous media when the metal redox chemistry is compliant. Additionally, the decreased propensity of these ligands to form bridging complexes reduces the number of dimeric or polymeric extended structures, leading to monomeric systems whose corresponding protio analogs may not be synthetically achieved. As pseudo-halogens, these ligands have been found to be electronically similar to fluoride (F−), and in several cases, spectroscopic characterization of their corresponding metal complexes has revealed high-spin electronic configurations, justifying their description as medium field ligands. Furthermore, interactions between O/F atoms on the ligand and counter-cations such as K+ and Tl+ play a key structural role, influencing the solubility and solid-state nuclearity or geometry of the complexes.
Continuous Singularity of the Weak Limit of Convolution Powers of a Discrete Probability Measure on 2 × 2 Stochastic Matrices

Let μ be a probability measure on n 2 × 2 stochastic matrices, n an arbitrary positive integer, and λ= (w) lim n→∞ μ n , such that the support of λ consists of 2 × 2 stochastic matrices of rank one, and as such, λ can be regarded as a probability measure on [0, 1]. We present simple sufficient conditions for λ to be continuous singular w.r.t. the Lebesgue measure on [0, 1]. We also determine λ, given μ.
UNIQUE THREE-DIMENSIONAL CAMERA FOR INSERTING INTRAVENOUS DEVICES IN NEWBORNS

Intravenous therapy is the most common therapy in the neonatal intensive care unit. Regarding intravenous therapy, there are two major challenges: inserting the intravenous line and preventing intravenous complications. Insertion of an intravenous device in a neonate is a challenge on its own. More often several attempts are needed before intravenous devices are placed properly. There are aids to improved intravenous line insertion, for example transilluminators and ultrasound devices. Unfortunately, it is not always easy to use those aids optimally: keeping them in the right position and at the same time making an attempt to insert the vein or artery. Frequently seen common complications during or after these attempts are blood vessel and tissue damage. Complications due to intravenous therapy can cause severe damage and necroses of (sub)cutaneous tissue. It is frequently seen and often accepted as unavoidable. An aetiological role is probably played by the administered fluids and medication and by the choice, usage and insertion of materials. That these complications increase the morbidity and in general are lengthening the stay in the neonatal intensive care unit is obvious. Creating preconditions to insert intravenous devices accurately and to administer intravenous fluids adequately but also to recognise the complications as soon as possible is one of the responsibilities of the medical and nursing discipline. In our study we evaluated the method of using a unique three-dimensional camera for intravenous insertion of peripheral intravenous lines, peripherally inserted central catheters and peripheral arterial catheters but also we used the camera to check whether the intravenous line tip was still placed in the correct position while delivering intravenous therapy.
Polanyi, Callon, and Amazon: Institutionalist, ANT, and DRAN Approaches to Platform Economies

Drawing on a detailed analysis of Grabher and Konig’s study of platformization (Grabher & Konig, 2020), this essay develops a revision of Actor-Network Theory by proposing how a Device, Representation, Actor and Network or a DRAN Approach can be more helpful in making sense of platform economic processes. First, it locates the ways in which Grabher & Konig’s article approach platforms from an updated Polanyian perspective. Second, it elaborates on how the aforementioned article critiques static Polanyian perspectives while at the same time building a double tension by a) not being clear whether we observe "the platform economy" as an object or platform economization as a process, and b) not paying sufficient attention to how platforms that draw on intangible materialities move beyond being mere marketization relations. Third, it presents how to address these tensions by drawing on novel theoretical advances of DRAN Approaches and fresh empirical research concerning platform economies, located at the intersection between computer science and social sciences. Proposing a possibility to integrate historical and contemporary studies of economic processes, the essay ends by elaborating on how Grabher & Konig’s article has a potential to enable a multi-perspective dynamic research strategy in making sense of not only the contemporary working of platforms, but their historical and socio-technical condition of possibility.
Bow Shocks from Neutron Stars: Scaling Laws and Hubble Space Telescope Observations of the Guitar Nebula

The interaction of high-velocity neutron stars with the interstellar medium produces bow shock nebulae, in which the relativistic neutron star wind is confined by ram pressure. We present multiwavelength observations of the Guitar Nebula, including narrowband Hα imaging with Hubble Space Telescope (HST) WFPC2, which resolves the head of the bow shock. The HST observations are used to fit for the inclination of the pulsar velocity vector to the line of sight and to determine the combination of spin-down energy loss, velocity, and ambient density that sets the scale of the bow shock. We find that the velocity vector is most likely in the plane of the sky. We use the Guitar Nebula and other observed neutron star bow shocks to test scaling laws for their size and Hα emission, discuss their prevalence, and present criteria for their detectability in targeted searches. The set of Hα bow shocks shows remarkable consistency, in spite of the expected variation in ambient densities and orientations. Together, they support the assumption that a pulsar's spin-down energy losses are carried away by a relativistic wind that is indistinguishable from being isotropic. Comparison of Hα bow shocks with X-ray and nonthermal radio-synchrotron bow shocks produced by neutron stars indicates that the overall shape and scaling is consistent with the same physics. It also appears that nonthermal radio emission and Hα emission are mutually exclusive in the known objects and perhaps in all objects.
Cash Transfers, Conditions, School Enrollment, and Child Work: Evidence from a Randomized Experiment in Ecuador

The impact of cash transfer programs on the accumulation of human capital is a topic of great policy importance. An attendant question is whether program effects are larger when transfers are "conditioned" on certain behaviors, such as a requirement that households enroll their children in school. This paper uses a randomized study design to analyze the impact of the Bono de Desarrollo Humano (BDH), a cash transfer program, on enrollment and child work among poor children in Ecuador. There are two main results. First, the BDH program had a large, positive impact on school enrollment, about 10 percentage points, and a large, negative impact on child work, about 17 percentage points. Second, the fact that some households believed that there was a school enrollment requirement attached to the transfers, even though such a requirement was never enforced or monitored in Ecuador, helps explain the magnitude of program effects.
DepRes: A Tool for Resolving Fully Qualified Names and Their Dependencies.

Reusing code snippets shared by other programmers on Q&A forums (e.g., StackOverflow) is a common practice followed by software developers. However, lack of sufficient information about the fully qualified name (FQN) of identifiers in borrowed code snippets, results in serious compile errors. Programmers either have to manually search for the correct FQN of identifiers which is a tedious and error-prone process, or use tools developed to automatically identify correct FQNs. Despite the efforts made by researchers to automatically identify FQNs in code snippets, the current approaches suffer from low accuracy when it comes to practice. Moreover, while these tools focus on resolving the FQN for an identifier in a code snippet, they leave the challenge of finding the correct third-party library (i.e., dependency) implementing that FQN unresolved. Using an incorrect dependency or incorrect version of a dependency might lead to a semantic error which is not detectable by compilers. Therefore, it can result in serious damages in the run-time. In this paper, we introduce DepRes, a tool that leverages a sketch-based approach to resolve FQNs in java-based code snippets and recommend the correct dependency for each FQN. The source code, documentation, as well as a demo video of DepRes tool is available from its code repository at this https URL.
Factors Associated With Dysfunction of Glymphatic System in Patients With Glioma.

Objectives Rodent experiments have provided some insights into the changes of glymphatic function associated with glioma growth. The diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) method offers an opportunity for the noninvasive investigation of the glymphatic system in patients with glioma. We aimed to investigate the factors associated with glymphatic function changes in patients with glioma. Materials and Methods A total of 201 glioma patients (mean age = 47.4 years, 116 men; 86 grade II, 52 grade III, and 63 grade IV) who had preoperative diffusion tensor imaging for calculation of the ALPS index were retrospectively included. Information collected from each patient included sex, age, tumor grade, isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutation status, peritumoral brain edema volume, tumor volume, and ALPS index. Group differences in the ALPS index according to sex, tumor grade, and IDH1 mutation status were assessed using analysis of covariance with age adjustment. Linear regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with the ALPS index. Results Group comparisons revealed that the ALPS index of grade II/III gliomas was significantly higher than that of grade IV gliomas (p < 0.001). The ALPS index of IDH1 mutant gliomas was significantly higher than that of IDH1 wild-type gliomas (p < 0.001). On multivariable linear regression analysis, IDH1 mutation (β = 0.308, p < 0.001) and peritumoral brain edema volume (β = -0.353, p < 0.001) were the two independent factors associated with the ALPS index. Conclusion IDH1 wild-type gliomas and gliomas with larger peritumoral brain edema volumes were associated with a lower ALPS index, which may reflect impaired glymphatic function.
Examining the Effectiveness of Nutrition Information in a Simulated Shopping Environment

We conduct an experiment with grocery store shoppers using an onsite survey to examine the effectiveness of nutrition labels provided on grocery store shelves. We measure effectiveness of the nutrition labels in terms of how well the labels attract attention and if they affect shopper behavior. Based on our sample, we find that shelf label nutrition information not only attracts shopper attention but affects shopper behavior as well. Further, we find the effect is moderated by a shopper’s propensity to use nutrition information. Our results suggest providing nutrition information via grocery store shelf labels may be a useful medium to convey nutrition information to shoppers. Additionally, increasing interest in nutrition information and the ability to use the information can have important implications.
PEG-asparaginase induced severe hypertriglyceridemia

Asparaginase (ASP) is an effective chemotherapy agent extensively used in children with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). There has been a recent interest in using ASP in adults with ALL, particularly the less toxic pegylated (PEG) formulation. Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is a rare complication of PEG-ASP therapy. We report two cases of obese patients who developed severe HTG after receiving PEG for ALL. Both patients were incidentally found to have severe HTG (TG of 4,330 and 4,420 mg/dL). In both patients, there was no personal or family history of dyslipidemia or hypothyroidism. There was no evidence of pancreatitis or skin manifestations of HTG. Both patients were treated with PEG cessation, low-fat diet and pharmacotherapy. Both patients were re-challenged with PEG, with subsequent increase in TG but no associated complications. TG returned to baseline after discontinuing PEG and while on therapy for HTG. A literature review of PEG-induced HTG in adults demonstrated similar results: asymptomatic presentation despite very severe HTG. HTG is a rare but clinically important adverse effect of PEG. Underlying obesity and/or diabetes may represent risk factors. Clinicians should monitor TG levels during PEG therapy to avoid TG-induced pancreatitis.
Fragmentation of a Protostellar Core: The Case of CB230

The Bok globule CB230 (L1177) contains an active, low-mass star-forming core which is associated with a double NIR reflection nebula, a collimated bipolar molecular outflow, and strong mm continuum emission. The morphology of the NIR nebula suggests the presence of a deeply embedded, wide binary protostellar system. High-angular resolution observations now reveal the presence of two sub-cores, two distinct outflow centers, and an embedded accretion disk associated with the western bipolar NIR nebula. In terms of separation and specific angular momentum, the CB230 double protostar system probably results from core fragmentation and can be placed at the upper end of the pre-main sequence binary distribution.
Towards voice over ad hoc networks: an adaptive scheme for packet voice communications over wireless links

In a no-guarantees network such as an ad hoc network, nodes are expected to adapt to changes in network and channel conditions. As a step toward supporting voice communications in such environments, we propose an adaptation scheme that takes both voice coding (i.e., compression) and modulation as parameters. In such severe environments, the main goal is to maintain a call as opposed to providing excellent quality. To this end, our adaptation scheme demands the least cost in terms of network bandwidth when network conditions are good. As network conditions worsen, more bandwidth is needed so that an acceptable quality can be maintained. This approach is a balance between providing reasonable quality and less resource consumption (with its implication on decreasing network load thus not affecting other connections). Even though our ultimate goal is supporting voice over ad hoc networks, in this paper we present extensive simulation results over a single hop scenario. Unlike other adaptation schemes involving source coding and modulation schemes in the literature, our scheme is specific to the nature of voice, thus allowing for better perceived quality without imposing high costs. Our adaptation scheme is investigated under a Rayleigh fading channel modeled as a finite state Markov channel (FSMC). The scheme is generic enough to work for any packet voice system including VoIP over wireless. Results show that the scheme allows for supporting many more calls when compared to a non-adaptive scheme.
Early versus late atrial fibrillation after atrial flutter ablation.

Introduction: Radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial flutter (AFl) has high initial success with a 10–15% recurrence. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) after radiofrequency catheter ablation of AFl can occur but may be transient (lasting no more than four weeks).
Foster Parents' Understanding of Children's Problematic Attachment Strategies: The Need for Therapeutic Responsiveness.

ABSTRACT Foster mothers and biological mothers were interviewed regarding their understanding of children's insecure attachment strategies and their knowledge of foster care issues. In addition, parent sensitivity was assessed and case workers in the foster care system reported on foster mothers' effectiveness. As expected, foster mothers reported significantly more attachment-related difficulties with their foster children than biological mothers reported with their natural children. Foster mothers were not significantly different from biological mothers in their understanding of attachment strategies, knowledge about foster care issues, or sensitivity. Case workers' reports of foster parent effectiveness were significantly related to foster parents' knowledge about foster care issues but were not significantly related to parents' understanding of attachment strategies. We discuss the importance of sensitivity to attachment issues among foster parents.
Irrigation's influence on precipitation: Texas High Plains, U.S.A.

[1] Using bias-corrected Nexrad precipitation estimates and spatial statistics of rainfall intensity, we examine the influence of irrigation on summer precipitation in the Texas High Plains. In this region, human alteration of the surface water and energy balance has been extreme. Irrigation enhances precipitation downwind, yielding storms of greater duration, length, and accumulation. Irrigation water is not a significant source of moisture feeding precipitation; rather, the cool, wet surface increases low-level instability, triggering storms. We estimate that an additional 6% to 18% of summer precipitation attributable to irrigation falls ∼90 km downwind of the irrigated region.
A spreadsheet approach for early optimization of large bus switching performance

A technique for optimizing bus performance early in the design cycle is described. The technique allows packaging-related aspects of bus delay to be analyzed in a spreadsheet format. The time required for receiver inputs to pass switching threshold is described as a series of simplex expression that can be entered into a spreadsheet for comparison of various design options. It assumes CMOS or TTL-like driver devices and unterminated receivers. Parameters that can be varied include driver output characteristics, receiver thresholds, number of receivers, bus partitioning, and card transmission line characteristics. An an example, analysis of design options for a large CMOS memory bus is demonstrated. >
Hydrogen bonding: Part 17. IR and NMR study of the lower hydrates of choline chloride

Abstract Choline chloride forms two lower hydrates — a dihydrate and a monohydrate — with quite unusual properties. The dihydrate is a highly structured liquid salt; the IR spectrum is similar to that of a crystalline framework clathrate hydrate, and there are separate 1 H-NMR signals for the cation hydroxyl and water protons. The dihydrate is a crystalline solid at reduced pressure. The crystalline monohydrate only exists at reduced pressure; at atmospheric pressure it disproportionates to liquid dihydrate and anhydrous choline chloride. The anhydrous choline chloride thus formed is a previously unreported crystal modification of choline chloride.
Bioelectronic DNA chips for the clinical laboratory.

I read with interest the fine review by Dr. Ronald McGlennen of miniaturization technologies (1). My colleagues and I applaud Dr. McGlennen’s focus on technology that may allow the hurdles of reimbursement, regulation, education, and utility to be addressed so that the fruits of the Human Genome Project can be realized as improved therapeutics and diagnostics. For the sake of accuracy, I want to update the readership on the most current information about the technology we have developed; some of this information may not have been available to Dr. McGlennen during the research for his review. Clinical Micro Sensors, Inc. (CMS; Pasadena, CA) was acquired by Motorola in June 2000 and is now part of Motorola Life Sciences. Dr. McGlennen’s paragraph on CMS (Motorola) focused on our ultimate vision of a point-of-care instrument for molecular diagnostics. Our vision is to …
Social Influence Network Theory: A Sociological Examination of Small Group Dynamics

Part I. Introduction: 1. Group dynamics: structural social psychology 2. Formalization: attitude change in influence networks 3. Operationalization: constructs and measures 4. Assessing the model Part II. Influence Network Perspective on Small Groups: 5. Consensus formation and efficiency 6. The smallest group 7. Social comparison theory 8. Minority and majority factions 9. Choice shift and group polarization Part III. Linkages with Other Formal Theories: 10. Models of group decision making 11. Expectation states and affect control 12. Individuals in groups Epilogue Appendices.
Factors that influence disintegration of PFD cover fabrics

Six fabrics used as the cover component of personal floatation devices (PFDs) were evaluated during exposure to laboratory-simulated accelerated weathering. Factors that influence the disintegration were examined including fiber type, coloring agents, water type, and length of exposure. Disintegration was determined by monitoring changes in physical properties. Fabrics of similar fibers, yarn construction, and fabric construction but of different colors had significantly different disintegration rates. The fabrics that were neon-colored degraded significantly faster than did two of the non-neon-colored fabrics in the study. The white fabric degraded the most rapidly. Various water types including simulated sea water, lake water, and deionized water resulted in no significant differences in the disintegration rate of the fabrics. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Concurrent think-aloud protocols to assess elementary design students

Initiatives to integrate engineering design in the elementary science classroom have become increasingly evident in both national reform documents and classroom practice. Missing from these efforts is a purposeful attempt to capture students’ designerly thinking and dialogues as they engage in the process. The purpose of this study was to investigate how elementary school students approach and engage in engineering design using concurrent think-aloud protocols. Data from seven concurrent think-aloud protocols among triads of elementary students across seven classrooms were analyzed to identify how students conceptualize design. Researchers employed a transfer problem and think-aloud protocol analysis to assess students’ transfer of learning from classroom science based engineering design-based experiences. Results indicate that elementary student triad design teams were able to define a design problem, identify constraints and criteria, and generate multiple design ideas to solve the problem. Protocol timelines were generated using NVivo software to capture sequence of the triads’ coded cognitive strategies crucial in understanding which triads used a systematic approach to solving the problem from triads that randomly brainstormed ideas. If design is to become a pedagogical approach to teaching science or other STEM-related subjects, attention must be given to how students learn design and function within design. Concurrent think-aloud protocol provides a promising means of assessment of such efforts.
STIM1 Increases Ca2+ Stores in the Sarcoplasmic Reticulum of Adult Feline Ventricular Myocytes

STIM1 is a Sarcoplasmic Reticulum (SR) membrane resident protein implicated in sensing and maintaining SR Ca2+ levels. The role of STIM1 in the regulation of SR Ca2+ stores in the normal and diseased heart is not well described. Our data shows that STIM1 is present at low levels in adult normal cardiac myocytes, but expression levels increase after cardiac injury. Because STIM1 is involved in regulating intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, we hypothesize that increased STIM1 expression after cardiac injury may be involved in the disturbed Ca2+ cycling within diseased cardiomyocytes. Using cultured adult ventricular feline myocytes, we found that adenoviral vector mediated overexpression of STIM1 induces cell death in 80% of myocytes versus only 5% in uninfected controls. We also showed that rested state contractions were minimally increased in unpaced STIM1 overexpressing myocytes, compared with control myocytes (3 fold increase), suggesting that STIM increases SR Ca2+ stores under conditions in which SR Ca2+ stores are usually depleted. STIM1 overexpressing myocytes had increased Ca2+ transient peaks (measured with fluo-4) as well as increased contractions. We are currently exploring how STIM1 modifies SR load and mechanisms by which STIM1 alters excitation-contraction coupling. Our findings show that STIM1 can increase SR Ca2+ loading and this could have effects on contractility and arrhythmias in disease.
Comparative study of homochiral and racemic chiral metal-organic frameworks built from camphoric acid

The study of the crystallization of homochiral or racemic chiral framework materials from enantiopure or racemic ligands is an important step for the rational design of crystalline homochiral materials. The self-assembly of extended frameworks in the presence of enantiopure or racemic ligands is regulated by the differing symmetry requirements of the ligand. By employing both enantiopure and racemic ligands as cross-linking ligands, we have prepared three homochiral and three racemic chiral compounds and their synthesis and structural and topological properties are presented here. It is shown that depending on the chemical compositions and framework topologies, the effect of the ligand handedness on the resulting crystal structure can vary greatly. The ligand handedness can have negligible effect on the crystallization, which leads to an interesting example of two pairs of isostructural achiral and homochiral structures with two types of six-connected nets. In another example reported here, the racemic ch...
Dopamine mediates testosterone-induced social reward in male Syrian hamsters.

Adolescent maturation of responses to social stimuli is essential for adult-typical sociosexual behavior. Naturally occurring developmental changes in male Syrian hamster responses to a salient social cue, female hamster vaginal secretions (VS), provide a good model system for investigating neuroendocrine mechanisms of adolescent change in social reward. Sexually naive adult, but not juvenile, males show a conditioned place preference (CPP) to VS, indicating that VS is not rewarding before puberty. In this series of experiments, the authors examined the roles of testosterone and dopamine receptor activation in mediating the adolescent gain in positive valence of VS. Experiment 1 showed that testosterone replacement is necessary for gonadectomized adult hamsters to form a CPP to VS. Experiment 2 showed that testosterone treatment is sufficient for juvenile hamsters to form a CPP to VS, and that the dopamine receptor antagonist haloperidol blocks formation of a CPP to VS in these animals. Experiments 3 and 4 demonstrated that the disruption of VS CPP with low doses of haloperidol is the result of a reduction in the attractive properties of VS and not attributable to aversive properties of haloperidol. Together, these studies demonstrate that the unconditioned rewarding properties of a social cue necessary for successful adult sociosexual interactions come about as the result of the pubertal increase in circulating testosterone in male hamsters. Furthermore, this social reward can be prevented by dopamine receptor antagonism, indicating that hypothalamic and/or mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic circuits are targets for hormonal activation of social reward.
RNA interference by expression of short-interfering RNAs and hairpin RNAs in mammalian cells

Duplexes of 21-nt RNAs, known as short-interfering RNAs (siRNAs), efficiently inhibit gene expression by RNA interference (RNAi) when introduced into mammalian cells. We show that siRNAs can be synthesized by in vitro transcription with T7 RNA polymerase, providing an economical alternative to chemical synthesis of siRNAs. By using this method, we show that short hairpin siRNAs can function like siRNA duplexes to inhibit gene expression in a sequence-specific manner. Further, we find that hairpin siRNAs or siRNAs expressed from an RNA polymerase III vector based on the mouse U6 RNA promoter can effectively inhibit gene expression in mammalian cells. U6-driven hairpin siRNAs dramatically reduced the expression of a neuron-specific β-tubulin protein during the neuronal differentiation of mouse P19 cells, demonstrating that this approach should be useful for studies of differentiation and neurogenesis. We also observe that mismatches within hairpin siRNAs can increase the strand selectivity of a hairpin siRNA, which may reduce self-targeting of vectors expressing siRNAs. Use of hairpin siRNA expression vectors for RNAi should provide a rapid and versatile method for assessing gene function in mammalian cells, and may have applications in gene therapy.
The isolation of a low molecular weight serum factor which enhances the viability of sv3t3 cells

A serum factor which enhances the growth/viability of SV40 transformed 3T3 mouse fibroblasts, but not untransformed 3T3 cells in tissue culture has been partially purified from calf serum. The purification, which involves acidification to pH 2, chromatography on Sephadex G-100 at pH 2 followed by either Sephadex G-25 or BioGel P-2, results in material exhibiting two ninhydrin positive spots on thin layer chromatography and five to six dansylatable bands on SDS gels. This substance, termed Peak III or Serum Factor III, has been found in every serum examined thus far (including calf, rat, mouse, goat, lamb, rabbit, pig, horse, and chicken) and appears to be a low molecular weight, heat-insensitive molecule. Attempts to characterize it by chemical analyses and specific enzymatic inactivation have been either negative or inconclusive. Its biological mode of action is presently obscure. While it does not affect DNA synthesis, it does greatly increase the viability of SV3T3 cultures growing in low serum (0.15–0.30% calf serum) medium and, when added to “stationary phase” cells, restores healthy proliferation. This and evidence reported by others suggest that Peak III may affect SV3T3 cells in either overcoming a potentially lethal block in G1 or in passage through G2/M.
Modeling and Implementation of Semi-Active Hydraulic Engine Mounts

In an effort to improve passenger comfort, the automotive industry is evaluating more sophisticated techniques to reduce engine excited frame vibrations. A new approach is to implement hydraulic mounts in a semi-active mode. In this mode, low power actuators are used to change the impedance characteristics of the mount. This paper presents a dynamic model and analysis of the semi-active hydraulic mount. Experimental data confirming the mount model are presented. Finally, results of an experimental study on the implementation of the semi-active mounts on a production automotive vehicle are presented. The study focuses on frame vibration reduction during engine idle. The semi-active hydraulic mounts show improved vibration levels over passive hydraulic mounts in the vehicle application.
Chemokine CXCL16 Regulates Neutrophil and Macrophage Infiltration into Injured Muscle, Promoting Muscle Regeneration

Only a few specific chemokines that mediate interactions between inflammatory and satellite cells in muscle regeneration have been identified. The chemokine CXCL16 differs from other chemokines because it has both a transmembrane region and active, soluble chemokine forms. Indeed, we found increased expression of CXCL16 and its receptor, CXCR6, in regenerating myofibers. Muscle regeneration in CXCL16-deficient (CXCL16KO) mice was severely impaired compared with regeneration in wild-type mice. In addition, there was decreased MyoD and myogenin expression in regenerating muscle in CXCL16KO mice, indicating impaired satellite cell proliferation and differentiation. After 1 month, new myofibers in CXCL16KO mice remained significantly smaller than those in muscle of wild-type mice. To understand how CXCL16 regulates muscle regeneration, we examined cells infiltrating injured muscle. There were more infiltrating neutrophils and fewer macrophages in injured muscle of CXCL16KO mice compared with events in wild-type mice. Moreover, absence of CXCL16 led to different expression of cytokines/chemokines in injured muscles: mRNAs of macrophage-inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, MIP-1β, and MIP-2 were increased, whereas regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted, T-cell activation-3, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 mRNAs were lower compared with results in muscles of wild-type mice. Impaired muscle regeneration in CXCL16KO mice also resulted in fibrosis, which was linked to transforming growth factor-β1 expression. Thus, CXCL16 expression is a critical mediator of muscle regeneration, and it suppresses the development of fibrosis.
Global aspects of sunlight as a major energy source

Abstract To achieve and sustain a decent livable world for all is a central goal for human society. While an abundant supply of energy is not in itself a determinant of such a world, it is nevertheless essential. A careful inquiry suggests that sunlight could eventually be the primary and even exclusive source of heat, electricity and synthetic fuels for the entire world, continuously and eternally on a scale (upwards of 100 TW) generally regarded possible only with fusion or with fission via the fast breeder. This could be achieved through a global network of solar conversion facilities coupled with appropriate energy transport and storage systems, and appears to be possible within acceptable constraints on energy payback time, materials and water resources, capital investment, and available suitable land.
Thermal analysis and its application in evaluation of fluorinated polyimide membranes for gas separation

Abstract Seven polyimides based on (4,4′-hexafluoroisopropylidene) diphthalic anhydride, 6FDA, with different chemical structures were synthesized in a single pot two-step procedure by first producing a high molecular weight polyamic acid (PAA), followed by reaction with acetic anhydride to produce polyimide (PI). The resulting polymers were characterized using thermal analysis techniques including TGA, derivative weight analysis, TGA–MS, and DSC. The decarboxylation-induced thermal cross-linking, ester cross-linking through a diol, and ion-exchange reactions of selected polyimide membranes were investigated. Cross-linking of polymer membranes was confirmed by solubility tests and CO 2 permeability measurements. The thermal analysis provides simple and timesaving opportunities to characterize the polymer properties, the ability to optimize polymer cross-linking conditions, and to monitor polymer functionalization to develop high performance polymeric membranes for gas separations.
Mid-infrared single-photon detection using superconducting nanowires integrated with nano-antennae

We present some major challenges of mid-infrared superconducting nanowire single-photon detector technology and our device design with nano-antenna integration to address these challenges.
An Efficient and Robust Data Compression Algorithm in Wireless Sensor Networks

Data compression is a useful technique in the deployments of resource-constrained wireless sensor networks (WSNs) for energy conservation. In this letter, we present a new lossless data compression algorithm in WSNs. Compared to existing WSN data compression algorithms, our proposed algorithm is not only efficient but also highly robust for diverse WSN data sets with very different characteristics. Using various real-world WSN data sets, we show that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms existing popular lossless compression algorithms for WSNs such as LEC and S-LZW. The robustness of our algorithm has been demonstrated, and the insight is provided. The energy consumption of our devised algorithm is also analyzed.
ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DISCOUNT FACTORS AND DUAL VARIABLES IN THE FORMULATION OF THE PURE CAPITAL RATIONING PROBLEM

Abstract The need for consistent discount factors under the pure capital rationing case has been the subject of several papers. This paper illuminates this subject and analyzes the solution procedures suggested for finding a consistent solution. As is shown, none of the suggested procedures converge to an acceptable consistent solution.
Richter's syndrome associated with loss of response to transforming growth factor-beta

Abstract A patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia developed a large cell lymphoma apparently derived from the same neoplastic B-cell clone (Richter's syndrome). At the same time, mitogen-stimulated proliferation of the patient's circulating leukemic B-cells was no longer inhibited by the regulatory cytokine transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), suggesting that such loss of inhibition might be contributing to the clinical and biological progression of the disease.
Spiral point drill temperature and stress in high-throughput drilling of titanium

Abstract The spatial and temporal distributions of the temperature and stress of a 9.92 mm diameter spiral point drill are studied in high-throughput drilling of Ti–6Al–4V with 384 mm 3 /s material removal rate (MRR). A finite element thermal model using the inverse heat transfer method is applied to find the heat partition on the tool–chip contact area and convection heat transfer coefficient of cutting fluid. The thermal model is validated by comparing experimentally measured and numerically predicted drill temperature with good agreement. Thermo-mechanical finite element analysis is applied to solve the drill stress distribution. Modeling results confirm that the supply of cutting fluid is important to reduce the temperature across the drill cutting and chisel edges. At 183 m/min peripheral cutting speed, 0.05 mm/rev feed and 10.2 mm depth of drilling, the drill peak temperature is reduced from 1210 °C in dry drilling to 651 °C with cutting fluid supplied through the drill body. Under the same MRR, 61 m/min peripheral cutting speed and 0.15 mm/rev feed, the analysis shows that the drill peak temperature is reduced to 472 °C. The temperature induced thermal stress combined with the mechanical stress caused by cutting forces is analyzed to predict the location of drill failure. Applying the modified Mohr failure criterion, the drill cutting and chisel edges are found to be prone to failure in dry and wet drilling conditions, respectively. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of drill thermal and stress modeling for drilling process parameter selection and drill design improvement.
Computer-Assisted Audiovisual Language Learning

Advances in speech-processing technology have enabled novel ways to learn a foreign language online. With Engkoo, researchers in China are working to turn any computer into a language learning assistant and make searching a language easier. The featured Web extra at http://youtu.be/_VHDMAKKLKo is a video discussion titled “Computer-Assisted Audiovisual Language Learning” that demonstrates Engkoo, a Web-based computer-assisted audiovisual language-learning service that combines two emerging speech processing technologies-talking head and phonetic similarity search.
Reliable evaluation of performance level for computer-aided diagnostic scheme.

Rationale and Objectives Computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) schemes have been developed for assisting radiologists in the detection of various lesions in medical images. The reliable evaluation of CAD schemes is an important task in the field of CAD research. Materials and Methods Many evaluation approaches have been proposed for evaluating the performance of various CAD schemes in the past. However, some important issues in the evaluation of CAD schemes have not been systematically analyzed. The first important issue is the analysis and comparison of various evaluation methods in terms of certain characteristics. The second includes the analysis of pitfalls in the incorrect use of various evaluation methods and the effective approaches to the reduction of the bias and variance caused by these pitfalls. We attempt to address the first important issue in details in this article by conducting Monte Carlo simulation experiments, and to discuss the second issue in the Discussion section. Results No single evaluation method is universally superior to the others; different situations of CAD applications require different evaluation methods, as recommended in this article. Bias and variance in the estimated performance levels caused by various pitfalls can be reduced considerably by the correct use of good evaluation methods. Conclusions This article would be useful to researchers in the field of CAD research for selecting appropriate evaluation methods and for improving the reliability of the estimated performance of their CAD schemes.
A role for elevated plasma corticosterone in modulation of host response during infection with Trichinella pseudospiralis.

Summary Suppression of host inflammatory response in mice infected with Trichinella pseudospiralis was associated with host plasma corticosterone levels significantly higher than those seen in uninfecled mice or in mice infected with T. spiralis. Increases in the population of mitochondria and depletion of lipid droplets in cells of the zona fasciculata were seen in the adrenals of mice infected with T. pseudospiralis. Elevations in enteritis, myositis and myocarditis accompanied 100% mortality in adrenalectomized mice infected with T. pseudospiralis, while lower levels of inflammation and no mortality were observed in sham operated or intact animals infected with this parasite. The severe myositis normally accompanying infection with T. spiralis was suppressed by concurrent infection with 1000 or 2000 T. pseudospiralis to levels equivalent to those seen in animals receiving 015 and 0-41 mg cortisone acetate/25 g mouse/day, respectively.
Triethyltin toxicity and brain impedance.

Electrical impedography was employed in the study of the effects on rat brain of chronic intoxcation with triethyltin sulfate. Behavioral and pathologic changes were the same as those reported else-where in the literature. The impedance data is new and consists of a progressive increase in cerebral resistance during the period of time when trietyhltin sulfate is being administered. Since this represents essentially a measurement of the resistive properties of extracellular space, it is indicative of either a decrease in its volume, a decrease in its conducting elements, or both. It is suggested that it may be largely due to change in conductivity associated with hypotonicity.