cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vibration analysis of vector piezoresponse force microscopy with coupled flexural-longitudinal and lateral-torsional motions

Piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) has evolved into a useful tool for measurement of local properties of piezoelectric materials with great potential in applications such as data storage, ferroelectric lithography and nonvolatile memories. In order to utilize PFM for low dimensional materials characterization, a comprehensive analytical modeling based on the coupled motion of PFM in all three directions is proposed. In this respect, the mechanical properties of sample are divided into viscoelastic and piezoelectric parts. The viscoelastic part is modeled as a spring and damper in the longitudinal, transversal and lateral directions, while the piezoelectric part is replaced with resistive forces acting at the end of microcantilever. It is shown that there is a geometrical coupling between flexural-longitudinal and lateral-torsional vibrations of microcantilever used in PFM. Moreover, assuming a general friction between tip and sample, additional coupling effect is also taken into account. Through an energy-based approach, it is seen that the PFM system can be governed by a set of coupled partial differential equations along with nonhomogeneous and coupled boundary conditions. A general formulation is then derived for the mode shape, frequency response, and state-space representation of system. Numerical simulations indicate that mode shapes, natural frequencies and time responses of microcantilever beam are heavily dependent on the viscoelastic and piezoelectric properties of the samples. Moreover, the results demonstrate that utilizing only transversal vibration is not a valid strategy for quantifying mechanical properties of materials with arbitrary crystallographic orientation. Hence, the proposed model with the built-in coupling effects can be a key development for acquiring precise measurements.
Precoder design for weighted sum delay minimization in MIMO physical layer multicasting

This paper considers the design of linear transmit precoding schemes to minimize the weighted sum delay metric over a K-user multi-antenna multicast channel. Limited by the rank and power constraints, the precoding matrices are designed under two interesting scenarios. The first scenario assumes the availability of pilots that can be precoded, using which the transmitter can convey any choice of transmit precoders to the users. Consequently, the sought transmit precoders can be any complex-valued matrices subject to given rank (dimensionality) and power (norm) constraints. A provably convergent cyclic alternating ascent based algorithm is proposed for a relaxed version of the problem, and is shown to attain at least a stationary point. Assuming that no such pilots are available, the second scenario constrains the transmit precoders to lie in a finite codebook. A concatenation based approach is adopted for constructing higher rank precoding matrices, which can facilitate the precoder search and allow for efficient signaling. A simple deterministic algorithm is proposed which involves maximizing a submodular rate function per step, and yields a worst-case performance guarantee.
Attitudinal and Situational Determinants of Self-Service Technology Use

The authors test an extended technology acceptance model by incorporating two situational and two attitudinal variables as new predictors of self-service technology adoption. The situational variab...
Statistical testing of community patterns: uppermost Hamilton Group, Middle Devonian (New York State: USA)

Abstract We present an extensive and rigorously controlled quantitative paleoecological study within an interval of inferred coordinated stasis. This Middle Devonian Hamilton Group study completes a 20-yr project by providing data within the unresolved upper Hamilton Group section. Together with other rigorously controlled studies, these data sets have the potential to address the larger question of coordinated stasis in the fossil record. We collected data from the Windom Member, Moscow Formation (uppermost Hamilton Group), to test different statistical approaches to define paleocommunities. We evaluate various techniques, including non-parametric multidimensional scaling and agglomerative hierarchical clustering to decipher community patterns. Additionally, we advocate regular use of cluster significance testing along with ANOSIM (i.e. analysis of similarities) when examining ecological data. Together these techniques test the significance of sample groups more rigorously than conventional testing (e.g. discriminant analysis or analysis of variance (ANOVA)). Our results indicate that communities within this upper Hamilton Group interval exhibit variable taxonomic membership within a relatively stable ecological structure.
Discrete event model of the remotely-operable TRU pipe connector

Chemical processes that involve hazardous materials may require remote handling for maintenance, repair, set up of new processes, or break down of existing processes. Remote handling dictates that pipe connections be made using a manipulator and various tools as well as specifically-designed fixtures or remotely accessible connectors. The TRU connector is a well-established, remotely-operable pipe connector. The connecting motion is accomplished via a screw-driven clamping device. Knowing the torque and power required to turn the screw and clamp or unclamp the connector is important for remote applications. An operator must be able to select the proper tool and manipulator to drive the screw and clamp or unclamp the connector. This paper describes an analytical model of the torque and power required to drive a TRU connector and presents the details of a discrete event model of a TRU connector in operation.
Analysis of Large Scale Spatial Variability of Soil Moisture Using a Geostatistical Method

Spatial and temporal soil moisture dynamics are critically needed to improve the parameterization for hydrological and meteorological modeling processes. This study evaluates the statistical spatial structure of large-scale observed and simulated estimates of soil moisture under pre- and post-precipitation event conditions. This large scale variability is a crucial in calibration and validation of large-scale satellite based data assimilation systems. Spatial analysis using geostatistical approaches was used to validate modeled soil moisture by the Agriculture Meteorological (AGRMET) model using in situ measurements of soil moisture from a state-wide environmental monitoring network (Oklahoma Mesonet). The results show that AGRMET data produces larger spatial decorrelation compared to in situ based soil moisture data. The precipitation storms drive the soil moisture spatial structures at large scale, found smaller decorrelation length after precipitation. This study also evaluates the geostatistical approach for mitigation for quality control issues within in situ soil moisture network to estimates at soil moisture at unsampled stations.
Imaging of Apoptosis

Cells can die by several pathways, such as accidental death, apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, and oncosis. These are important in normal physiology and many disease states, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. Specific biochemical changes occur in cells undergoing apoptosis that provide potential targets for molecular imaging agents. Several of these molecular steps have been evaluated to date, including phosphatidylserine exposure at the extracellular face of the plasma membrane, detected by proteins such as annexin V; caspase activation in the intracellular compartment, detected by labeled enzyme substrates or inhibitors; and mitochondrial membrane potential collapse, detected by reduced levels of phosphonium cations that normally accumulate in healthy mitochondria. Phase I clinical trials have been performed with 1 of these agents, annexin V. Future work will likely include development of new agents that detect targets not exploited by current agents, translational research on the significance of imaging the different forms of cell death, and further improvements in the techniques for labeling existing agents to improve sensitivity and reduce nonspecific background.
An empirical typology of narcissism and mental health in late adolescence

A two-step cluster analytic strategy was used in two studies to identify an empirically derived typology of narcissism in late adolescence. In Study 1, late adolescents (N=204) responded to the profile of narcissistic dispositions and measures of grandiosity ("superiority") and idealization ("goal instability") inspired by Kohut's theory, along with several College Adjustment Scales and a measure of pathology of separation-individuation. Cluster analysis revealed three clusters: covert narcissists (N=71), moderate narcissists (N=55) and overt narcissists (N=74). Moderate narcissists had significantly lower means scores on indices of anxiety, relationship problem, depression, esteem- and family problems and pathology of separation-individuation. The overt and covert clusters showed comparable levels of dysfunction on most indices of adjustment. This general pattern was replicated in Study 2 (N=210). Moderate narcissists showed a uniform profile of good adjustment, whereas covert and overt narcissist clusters showed a pervasive pattern of dysfunction. Results support the claim that narcissism has "two faces" and that a moderate degree of narcissism is associated with fewer adjustment problems or psychological symptoms. Directions for future research are discussed.
Organic Amendment and Transitional Cropping System Effects on Crop Diseases

Published in Agron. J. 106:519–527 (2014) doi:10.2134/agronj2013.0189 Copyright © 2014 by the American Society of Agronomy, 5585 Guilford Road, Madison, WI 53711. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ABstRAct
Sectoral effects of exchange rate volatility on United States exports

Abstract We analyze the effects of real exchange rate volatility on the proportions of bilateral exports of nine categories of goods from the United States to seven major industrial countries using a fixed effect framework. In six of the nine categories the volatility of the real exchange rate significantly affects the value of exports and in five of these categories the effect is positive. These results are consistent with a model in which risk-neutral firms increase supply of elastically-demanded exports in response to an increase in the volatility of the real exchange rate.
High Hopes Organizational Position, Employment Experiences, and Women's and Men's Promotion Aspirations

Kanter argued that men's and women's positions in workplace opportunity structures, not their sex, shape their career attitudes. Women attached less importance to promotion than men, according to 1...
Choreographing an enzyme’s dance

While ground state structures combined with chemical tools and enzyme kinetics deliver useful information on possible chemical mechanisms of enzyme catalysis, they do not unravel the finely balanced energy inventory to explain the impressive rate enhancement of enzymes. For this goal, a complete description of enzyme catalysis in the form of an energy landscape is needed. Since the rate of catalysis is determined by the climb over a sequence of energy barriers, we focus here on the critical question of transition pathways. A combination of time-resolved NMR and simulation deliver a glimpse into how proteins can so efficiently move within the ensemble of the native conformations while avoiding unfolding during that journey. The loss of energy due to breakage of native contacts is compensated by non-native transient hydrogen bonds during the transition thereby 'holding on' to the energy until the new native contacts form that define the alternate functional state. The use of kinetic isotope effects (KIE) to study the chemical step show that coordinated atomic fluctuations of the protein component dictate the probability of 'correct' distance and orientation, due to its extreme sensitivity to distance. The examples here stress the point that highly choreographed conformational sampling together with chemical integrity is a prerequisite for efficient enzyme catalysis.
Chicken embryo lens cultures mimic differentiation in the lens

Abstract Embryonic chicken lenses, which had been disrupted by trypsin, were grown in culture. These cultures mimic lens development as it occurred in vivo , forming lens-like structures known as lentoids. Using a variety of techniques including electron microscopic analysis, autoradiography, immunofluorescence, and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, it was shown that the lentoid cells had many characteristics in common with the differentiated cells of the intact lens, the elongated fiber cells. These characteristics included a shut off of DNA synthesis, a loss of cell organelles, an increase in cell volume, an increase in δ-crystallin protein, and the development of extensive intercellular junctions. The cultures began as a simple epithelial monolayer but then underwent extensive morphogenesis as they differentiated. This morphogenesis involved three distinctive morphological types which appeared in sequence as an epithelial monolayer of polygonal shaped cells with pavement packing, elongated cells oriented end to end, and the multilayered, multicellular lentoids. These distinct morphological stages of differentiation in culture mimic morphogenesis as it occurs in the lens.
Assessment of Flowable Fill Strength in Pavement Construction

Flowable fill is a self-compacted, cementitious material used primarily as a backfill in lieu of compacted fill. It generally consists of sand, portland cement, fly ash or slag, and water. It does not settle or require vibration or other means of compaction, it can be excavated, and it is safer than other forms of fill. One approach to predicting its ability to be excavated is to develop a correlation using early-age strength and long-term strength. Flowable fill mixture exhibiting strength less than 0.689 MPa (100 psi) is classified excavatable; mixtures with strengths higher than 0.689 MPa are difficult to excavate and are considered nonexcavatable. Because flowable fill is generally used for backfill and is placed underneath pavement, few studies have been undertaken evaluating moisture effects on long-term strength of flowable fill while underneath pavement. This paper presents the results of a laboratory study evaluating moisture effects on long-term strengths of flowable fill and assesses an acceler...
Sequential complexities and uniform martingale laws of large numbers

We establish necessary and sufficient conditions for a uniform martingale Law of Large Numbers. We extend the technique of symmetrization to the case of dependent random variables and provide “sequential” (non-i.i.d.) analogues of various classical measures of complexity, such as covering numbers and combinatorial dimensions from empirical process theory. We establish relationships between these various sequential complexity measures and show that they provide a tight control on the uniform convergence rates for empirical processes with dependent data. As a direct application of our results, we provide exponential inequalities for sums of martingale differences in Banach spaces.
Relationships between the Underlying Constructs of the Beck Depression Inventory and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale.

This study examines the relationships between the constructs of depression as measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and the revised Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) in a sample of 261 college students. The two scales were found to have a moderately high correlation and a similar pattern of relationships to measures of anxiety, hostility, self-esteem, hypochondriasis, and locus of control. However, the relations between the subscales and the factor structure of the subscales derived from both instruments suggest that the BDI and CES-D measure different aspects of depression despite sharing some symptoms. Therefore, the authors argue that the BDI and CES-D should not be used interchangeably. The results are discussed in terms of the applicability of the two measures of depression for use with nonclinical populations.
Unified approach to shear analysis and design

Abstract The theory of reinforced concrete originated in the late 19th century with the development of the linear theory for bending. As the first rational theory in reinforced concrete behavior, it satisfied Navier's three principles of mechanics of materials: stress equilibrium; strain compatibility; and constitutive law of material. By the 1950s this linear bending theory was generalized to become the Bernoulli compatibility truss model which covered both the linear and non-linear theories for bending, axial load and their combination. For shear and torsion, however, a rational theory that satisfies Navier's principles took the entire 20th century to develop. By the 1990s the theory for shear and torsion contained four truss models: the equilibrium (plasticity) truss model; the Mohr compatibility truss model; the rotating-angle softened-truss model; and the fixed-angle softened-truss model. Together with the strut-and-tie model for local regions and the Bernoulli compatibility truss model for bending and axial load, a unified theory of six rational models for reinforced concrete was established.The two non-linear softened-truss models have capacities for predicting the behavior of reinforced concrete elements subjected to in-plane shear and normal stresses. These two models satisfy the two-dimensional stress equilibrium, Mohr's circular strain compatibility and the softened biaxial constitutive laws of concrete. As a result, they can be used to predict the strength as well as the load-deformation history of a membrane element. The rotating-angle softened-truss model is simple to use and is adequate for situation that does not require the ‘contribution of concrete’ (Vc), while the fixed-angle softened-truss model is more complex but is capable of predicting Vc. The rotating-angle softened-truss model has been used to analyze four types of structures that are subjected predominantly to shear: low-rise shear walls, framed shear walls, deep beams and shear transfer zones. In addition, both softened truss models are used to construct the concrete stiffness matrices used in the finite element analysis. These matrices contain only three moduli in the diagonal elements. The assumption that Poisson ratios are zero in the non-diagonal elements leads to undesirable limitations of applicability. To overcome this weakness, a general model of the stiffness matrix is proposed that includes two additional Poisson ratios. All five material properties in the general matrix are currently being established by new biaxial tests of panels using proportional loading and strain-control procedures.
A global approach for reducing risks in hydrogenation operations

Pfizer API manufacturing consists of 16 sites around the world and represents a large manufacturing capability. This network has expanded in recent years through mergers. This community of manufacturing sites represents a wide range of practical knowledge for conducting safe API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) manufacturing. Taking advantage of this wealth of experience, Pfizer manufacturing operations performed a global survey of hydrogenation current practices. From the information gathered, a “Hydrogen and Catalyst Handling Good Practice” guide was developed that covered the facility design and operational practices. The team that developed the “Good Practice” guide is also involved in overseeing the implementation of the recommended practices at all manufacturing sites conducting hydrogenations. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2005
Modification of the Mitochondrial Proteome in Response to the Stress of Ethanol-dependent Hepatotoxicity

Mitochondria are particularly susceptible to increased formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in the cell that can occur in response to pathological and xenobiotic stimuli. Proteomics can give insights into both mechanism of pathology and adaptation to stress. Herein we report the use of proteomics to evaluate alterations in the levels of mitochondrial proteins following chronic ethanol exposure in an animal model. Forty-three proteins showed differential expression, 13 increased and 30 decreased, as a consequence of chronic ethanol. Of these proteins, 25 were not previously known to be affected by chronic ethanol emphasizing the power of proteomic approaches in revealing global responses to stress. Both nuclear and mitochondrially encoded gene products of the oxidative phosphorylation complexes in mitochondria from ethanol-fed rats were decreased suggesting an assembly defect in this integrated metabolic pathway. Moreover mtDNA damage was increased by ethanol demonstrating that the effects of ethanol consumption extend beyond the proteome to encompass mtDNA. Taken together, we have demonstrated that chronic ethanol consumption extends to a modification of the mitochondrial proteome far broader than realized previously. These data also suggest that the response of mitochondria to stress may not involve non-discriminate changes in the proteome but is restricted to those metabolic pathways that have a direct role in a specific pathology.
Ask the Experts: Management of hepatic metastases from neuroendocrine cancer

David M Nagorney, Professor of Surgery, was born and raised in Kansas City (KS, USA) in the USA. He graduated from the University of Kansas (KS, USA), the University of Kansas Medical School and the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine (MN, USA). He completed his general surgery residency at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine and served as a research fellow there. He was selected as a Mayo Foundation Scholar and completed his training at the Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital (London, UK). He is an accomplished general surgeon, holding a status of Professor of Surgery, specializing in the treatment of gastroenterologic and liver oncologic diseases at the Mayo Clinic Department of Surgery (MN, USA). Presently, he is the program director for the Mayo Clinic Department of Surgery Fellowship Scholars. Nagorney is a member of numerous national and international surgical societies focusing on hepato-pancreatic-biliary surgery and surgical oncology.
A study of free jet impingement. Part 1. Mean properties of free and impinging jets

In this, the first part of a two-part experimental study of the behaviour of impinging jets, the mean properties of the flow field are established. Velocity profiles are given for three types of jet flow issuing from a circular convergent nozzle. Measured distributions of surface pressure are given which result when the jets impinge both normally and obliquely at various distances on several surface shapes. The pressure distributions are used to compute the radial velocity gradient at the impingement stagnation point. It is found that for normal impingement this gradient correlates with the free jet centreline velocity and half-radius at the same axial location. A fall-off in the correlated value is noted as the impingement is made oblique. Measurements of the azimuthal distribution of momentum flux in the resulting wall jet are also given. The general behaviour of all three types of jet is found to be similar at locations downstream of any local effects due to the shock waves present in the under-expanded types. A special study of the close-range impingement of an under-expanded jet containing a normal shock disk reveals a region of separated flow surrounding the stagnation point. This condition results in a negative value of the radial velocity gradient at the centreline.
Relationship between professed values and emotional adjustment of college students.

To explore the relationship between value preference of college students and emotional adjustment, 209 students were given a test measuring 9 values, 5 relating to either dependency or individualism. Self-interpretation, Self-actualization, Achievement were the individualistic values, Relationship and Support were the dependent values. Based on the Kleinmuntz scale and the Goldberg index, Ss were divided into four adjustment levels. Using a 2 × 4 analysis of variance for each of the 9 values, and a trend analysis for those with significant main effects, 3 values relating to dependency or individualism differed significantly among the adjustment groups, Self-interpretation, Relationship, and Achievement. There was a significant linear trend for each value, indicating an increase in adjustment level as preference increased for the two individualistic values and a decrease in level as preference increased for the dependent value. A comparison of adjustment groups' most frequently preferred value yielded resu...
Planetary-Induced Nutation of the Earth: Direct Terms

Small torques by the planets can alter the direction of the Earth's rotation axis in space. These direct planetary-induced nutations have been computed using a numerical technique. 62 nutation terms with periods between 0.2 and 883 yr are presented. The maximum,nutation is 0.5 marcsec. Also given are planetary-induced rates and accelerations of precession and obliquity.
Using Explicit Instruction to Promote Vocabulary Learning for Struggling Readers

Research supports the need for active vocabulary learning across grade levels and subject areas to help increase readers' comprehension of diverse texts that they encounter. Given the increasing emphasis on decoding and reading comprehension, the relative importance of vocabulary instruction has been diminished in recent years. The authors argue that explicit support for vocabulary is an important aspect of reading instruction across the primary- and secondary-grade levels. Explicit vocabulary strategies for classroom use are included.
Reproductive biology of the Pteridophyta: 1. General considerations and a study of Onoclea sensibilis L.

Many pteridophytes are capable of two levels of selling, intra and intergametophytic. Since intragametophytio selling (the origin of both gametes from one gametophyte) results in zygotic homozygosity, this introduces a factor in pteridophyte evolution seldom contemplated. Morphological and genetic techniques are presented which may give an estimate of the frequency of intragametophytic selfing in nature. Morphological criteria such as the sequence of the development and the spatial arrangement of the gametangia may be indicative of the importance of intragametophytic selfing in the mating system. Estimates of the genetic load (sporophytio lethals) in a population are related to the frequency of the occurrence of intragametophytio selfing. Onoclea sensibilis L. morphologically has a mating system which gives a low probability of intragametophytio selfing. A genetic load was found in this species.
Review of Brad Spellberg, Rising Plague: The Global Threat from Deadly Bacteria and Our Dwindling Arsenal to Fight Them

In Rising Plague, Brad Spellberg sets out to accomplish two goals: to show us how urgent the problem of antibiotic resistance has become, and to offer specific policy proposals for stimulating the ...
Atypical Imaging Findings in an Immunocompetent Patient

A previously healthy woman in her 50s presented with complaints of increasing forgetfulness, fatigue, and depressed mood after dealing with the deaths of several close relatives. She was diagnosed with depression and began treatment with antidepressant medication. After 8 months, she had worsening complaints. At that time, a family member reported that her memory problems had progressed. She was no longer able to find misplaced objects, remember appointments, or handle financial affairs. She was often subdued, her mood depressed, and her sleeping time increased. Clinical examination at that time revealed a flattened affect and a 22 of 30 Mini-Mental State Examination score. Findings were otherwise normal, and there were no focal neurologic deficits. Basic laboratory workup results were unremarkable. She was referred to a neurologist, who ordered contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. TheMRI (Figure) revealedextensive ill-defined areas of FLAIR (fluid-attenuated inversion recovery) and T2 signal abnormalities with additional enhancing nodular foci located withindeepwhitematter structures, thebasal ganglia, the caudate, thepons, and themidbrain. Also identified was enhancement of the interpeduncular cistern and cerebral peduncles, suggestive of leptomeningeal involvement. A B
Treatment with sulfasalazine or sulfapyridine, but not 5-aminosalicylic acid, inhibits basic fibroblast growth factor-induced endothelial cell chemotaxis

Objective. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by leukocyte recruitment and angiogenesis. We investigated the effects of sulfasalazine (SSZ) and its metabolites, sulfapyridine (SP) and 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), on components of angiogenesis, namely, endothelial cell (EC) chemotaxis and proliferation, as well as on EC chemokine and soluble adhesion molecule expression. Methods. SSZ, SP, and 5-ASA were assayed for their effects on basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)‐ induced human dermal microvascular endothelial cell (HMVEC) chemotaxis and proliferation. EC were plated on Matrigel to assess the effect of SSZ on EC tube formation. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed to determine changes in HMVEC production of interleukin-8 (IL-8), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), growth-related oncogene a (GROa), epithelial neutrophil‐activating peptide 78 (ENA-78), soluble E-selectin (sE-selectin), and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1) upon treatment with SSZ or its metabolites. Results. HMVEC incubated with SSZ or SP exhibited reduced bFGF-induced chemotaxis (59%, [n 5 7] and 22%, [n 5 3], respectively) (P < 0.05). SSZ and SP decreased basal HMVEC proliferation, while 5-ASA increased proliferation (P < 0.05; [n 5 5]). SSZ decreased bFGF-induced HMVEC proliferation (P < 0.05 [n 5 5]). SSZ inhibited phorbol 12-myristate 13acetate‐induced HMVEC tube formation (P < 0.05; [minimum n 5 5]). Tumor necrosis factor a‐stimulated HMVEC shedding of sICAM-1 was reduced by incubation with either SSZ (19%) or 5-ASA (23%) (P < 0.05; [n 5 6]). SP inhibited cytokine-stimulated HMVEC expression of IL-8 and MCP-1 (P < 0.05; [n 5 4]). Neither SSZ nor its metabolites had any effect on HMVEC production of sE-selectin, GROa, or ENA-78. Conclusion. These results demonstrate that SSZ and its metabolite SP may affect the pathogenesis of RA by inhibiting EC chemotaxis, proliferation, tube formation, and expression of sICAM-1, IL-8, and MCP-1.
Soluble α2-macroglobulin receptor is increased in endotracheal aspirates from infants and children after cardiopulmonary bypass

Objective Cytokine dysregulation contributes to the systemic inflammatory response after cardiopulmonary bypass. Clearance of cytokine binding proteins may be important in the resolution of inflammation. Our aim was to determine whether the cytokine binding protein α 2 -macroglobulin and its soluble receptor were upregulated in endotracheal aspirates from infants and children undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods Seventy tracheal aspirates were collected before and after cardiopulmonary bypass from 35 infants and children undergoing surgical correction of congenital heart defects. α 2 -Macroglobulin and the soluble α 2 -macroglobulin receptor were identified by Western blot. With the use of multi-analyte cytokine profiling, pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were quantified, normalized to total protein, and expressed as ratios. Paired t tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were performed between prebypass and postbypass samples. Correlations were examined among α 2 -macroglobulin, soluble α 2 -macroglobulin receptor, cytokine ratios, and the clinical variables of cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic crossclamp, and circulatory arrest times. Results α 2 -Macroglobulin increased by 50% (mean densitometry increase 82,683 ± 184,594, P = .012), and soluble α 2 -macroglobulin receptor increased by 17% (mean densitometry increase 506,148 ± 687,037, P = .0001) after cardiopulmonary bypass. The ratio of interleukin-8/interleukin-4 increased by 136% ( P = .0001), and interleukin-8/interleukin-10 increased by 102% ( P = .001). The increase in soluble α 2 -macroglobulin receptor was positively correlated with the ratios of interleukin-8/interleukin-4 and interleukin-8/interleukin-10. There were no statistically significant positive correlations between the increase in α 2 -macroglobulin or soluble α 2 -macroglobulin receptor and measured clinical variables. Conclusions We report for the first time the upregulation of α 2 -macroglobulin and soluble α 2 -macroglobulin receptor in tracheal aspirates after cardiopulmonary bypass in infants and children. Soluble α 2 -macroglobulin receptor correlates with increased α 2 -macroglobulin and a disproportionate increase in pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory cytokine ratios.
An Attempt to Understand Rt-Sculptoris

The metal-deficient star RT Sculptoris is a rare binary showing a secularlydecreasing period, probably due to mass transfer from the more to the less massive component. The somewhat difficult photometric solution indicates a semi-detached configuration with one star only very slightly smaller than its limiting lobe. Probably it is the more massive and lower temperature star which fills its lobe. The photometric solution for the mass ratio (q) is especially troublesome, as there are at least two (nearly equally deep) minima in parameter space-one atq=1.10 and another atq=1.67. The few existing radial velocity observations are inadequate for a determination of the mass ratio, but do point to absolute masses which are about half of those expected. We look into the question of whether this result can be understood in terms of low metallicity, and conclude that a significant part of the discrepancy can be so explained. The remainder could be due to accretion luminosity and to evolution. Some comments are made in regard to whether RT Sculptoris is likely to evolve into a contact system.
The characteristics of iron in high frequency magnetic fields

Abstract Not many years ago it was quite generally believed that iron was unable to follow rapid magnetic changes. Experiments which showed an apparent decrease in the permeability of the iron with an increase in the frequency of the magnetic cycle furnished a basis for a theory that iron was magnetically sluggish. Further and more accurate experiments proved, however, that the effects which had previously been ascribed to a peculiarity of the material were in reality caused by eddy currents in the sample. Theoretical calculations were made which demostrated that eddy currents in an iron test piece increased as the square of the frequency and that for even the lower frequencies it was necessary to use quite thin laminations in magnetic circuits in order to eliminate deleterious effects. Furthermore, it was found that due to eddy currents and the magnetic properties of iron, the magnetization in high frequency fields was confined to a thin surface layer of the piece. This “Magnetic Skin Effect” reduced the cross section of the iron which was magnetically active even though the laminations were extremely thin. Careful experimental measurements compared with theoretical calculations proved that the real permeability of iron remained unchanged at frequencies up to about 106 and that previous results had been is serious error due to neglect of the factors mentioned. This fact having been established, efforts were made to see what practical use could be made of iron in high frequency work and to that end some extensive experimental investigations of the saturation curves and core losses were made upon specimens laminated as thinly as was commercially practicable. The resulting data have furnished a basis for design. It is a demostrated fact that the permeability of all metals is unity for the magnetic cycles imposed upon them by heat and light waves. In the region between frequencies of about 106, where the true permeability of iron is practically the same as at zero frequency, and frequencies of about 1010 where the true permeability of iron approaches unity, the experimental values of μ decrease smoothly with the frequency. What happens to μ in the range of frequencies between the lingest heat waves and the shortest Hertzian waves which have yet been made is a question which has many interesting features but which has not yet yielded to the experimenter.
The selective non‐catalytic reduction of nitric oxide using ammonia at up to 15% oxygen

Selective non-catalytic reduction of nitric oxide (NO) using ammonia was studied with up to 15% (by volume) oxygen at 102 kPa. The experiments were conducted in an electrically heated laminar-flow, quartz reactor using mixtures of N2, O2, NO, and CO to simulate exhaust gas. The base case condition included 330 ppmv of NO, 495 ppmv of NH3, and 15% O2. At a reactor temperature of 1050 K, 77% of the NO was removed. For a lower oxygen concentration of 1%, the NO removal was as high as 98% at 1100 K. The degraded performance at high oxygen concentrations is attributed to increases in the oxidation reactions. A major result of this work was the quantification of the amount of N2O in the treated gases. For the base case conditions, 21 ppmv of N2O was measured for a reactor temperature of 1075 K. Increasing the ratio of NH3 to NO (by increasing the NH3 concentration) increased the maximum NO removal and decreased the temperature at which this level of NO removal was achieved. For the higher NH3 concentrations, however, the N2O concentration increased to as high as 54 ppmv. The oxidation products of ammonia (in the absence of NO) for these conditions were found to include first N2O beginning at 900 K and then NO beginning at 1050 K. Comparisons between these experimental results and predictions from the Miller and Bowman (1989) model indicate that further enhancements of the model may be necessary to incorporate the features of high oxygen conditions. On a etudie la reduction selective non catalytique du monoxyde d'azote (NO) a l'aide d'ammoniac, en presence d'oxygene (jusqu'a 15% par volume) et a 102 kPa. Les experiences ont ete menees dans un reacteur au quartz, en ecoulement laminaire et chauffe electriquement, avec des melanges de N2, O2, NO et CO pour simuler le gaz de sortie. Les conditions du cas de base sont: 330 ppmv de NO, 495 ppmv de NH3 et 15% de O2. A une temperature de reacteur de 1050 K, 77% du NO est retire. Pour une faible concentration d'oxygene (1%), a 1100 K, le retrait atteint 98%. La degradation de la performance aux fortes concentrations d'oxygene est attribuee au renforcement des reactions d'oxydation. Un des resultats importants de cette etude est la quantification de la quantite de N2O dans les gaz traites. Pour les conditions du cas de base, on a mesure 21 ppmv de N2O pour une temperature de reacteur de 1075 K. L'augmentation du rapport NH2 sur NO (par une plus forte concentration de NH3) augmente le retrait maximal de NO et diminue la temperature a laquelle est obtenu ce retrait de NO. Pour de fortes concentrations de NH3, cependant, la concentration de N2O augmente pour atteindre 54 ppmv. Selon nos observations, les produits d'oxydation de l'ammoniac (en l'absence de NO), pour ces conditions, incluent d'abord le N2O a partir de 900 K, puis le NO a partir de 1050 K. Des comparaisons entre ces resultats experimentaux et les predictions de Miller et Bowman (1989) indiquent que de nouvelles ameliorations du modele seraient necessaires pour incorporer les caracteristiques de conditions elevees d'oxygene.
The effect of feedback consistency on success in markets with positive feedbacks

Abstract In this paper, we show how the finite time expected outcomes in a stochastic ball and urn model depend on the variation in feedbacks by applying the concept of second order stochastic dominance to the feedback distribution. We find that less variation leads to greater expected outcomes.
Analytical treatment of neutrino asymmetry equilibration from flavor oscillations in the early universe

A recent numerical study by A. D. Dolgov, S. H. Hansen, S. Pastor, S. T. Petcov, G. G. Raffelt, and D. V. Semikoz (DHPPRS) [Nucl. Phys. B632, 363 (2002)] found that complete or partial equilibrium between all active neutrino flavors can be achieved before the big bang nucleosynthesis epoch via flavor oscillations, if the oscillation parameters are those inferred from the atmospheric and solar neutrino data, and, in some cases, if ${\ensuremath{\theta}}_{13}$ is also sizable. As such, cosmological constraints on the electron neutrino-antineutrino asymmetry are now applicable in all three neutrino sectors. In the present work, we provide an analytical treatment of the scenarios considered in DHPPRS, and demonstrate that their results are stable even for very large initial asymmetries. The equilibration mechanism can be understood in terms of a Mikheyev-Smirnov-Wolfenstein-like effect for a maximally mixed and effectively monochromatic system. We also comment on the DHPPRS's choices of mixing parameters, and their handling of collisional effects, both of which could impinge on the extent of flavor equilibrium.
Toward an improved need theory: In response to legitimate criticism

The concept of need applies to strains produced by stresses upon all living systems. Adjustment processes are directed toward the reduction of needs. Although Miller (1978) defined needs as drives, current usage is more closely related to his concept of lack. Needs represent the status of various matter-energy and information resources in accordance with the purposes of the system. Thus, the input, output, and storage subsystems are involved. Needs are also linked by theory to the decider subsystem Current popular theories of human needs suffer from many defects that threaten to undermine other need-based theories. Need is not well defined in these theories, descriptions of specific needs and need categories are ambiguous, the origin of needs is disputed, and empirical evidence offers at best only partial support for need hierarchies. A need concept properly grounded in living systems theory would correct these and other defects. Such a concept is presented, and its implications for research, for the notion of a need hierarchy, and for other need-based theories are examined.
Clinical studies of thyrotropin and thyrotropin-releasing-hormone

Summary Most clinical studies with thyrotropin have utilized bovine TSH since human TSH has not been available, but more general use of the latter may be possible in the near future. The use of BTSH has been limited to stimulation testing of thyroid function, and the compound has shown lesser, but occasional, usefulness in the treatment of metastatic thyroid carcinoma. The radioimmunoassay of HTSH has largely replaced the TSH stimulation test in the differential diagnosis of hypothyroidism and has become a valuable tool in the management of thyroid disease. More recently the availability of synthetic TRH has opened a new aspect to the understanding of hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid interrelationships. The TRH test has also become important in the diagnosis and management of thyroid disease. The role of TRH in the therapy of hypothalamic or thyroid disease is yet to be determined and its usefulness in psychological investigations will no doubt be studied further.
The Development of Prosocial Behavior

Conceptual Issues. Early Development of Prosocial Behavior and Socialization Mechanisms. The Role of Cognition. The Role of Affect. Personality and Prosocial Behavior. Index.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging- Guided Biopsy of the Breast Fundamentals and Finer Points

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is now an accepted component of standard breast-imaging practice. This article reviews the fundamentals of performing an MR imaging-guided biopsy using a grid localization system, and discusses many of the finer points and nuances of the procedure. Tips and tricks found useful at the authors' institution are included, although multiple variations also exist. Performing effective and efficient MR imaging-guided biopsy depends both on deliberate preparation (of the proceduralist, the patient, and the equipment) and on deliberate positioning (of the patient and the sampling device).
Design of an LVCMOS high resolution frequency synthesizer

This work presents the design and implementation of a high frequency high resolution clock synthesizer. A phased-locked-loop (PLL) with internal feedback is the core of the synthesizer. The operating frequency range of the PLL oscillator is 1 GHz to 2 GHz. High resolution is achieved by a wide range programmable feedback divider from 1 to 1024 divide factors in steps of 1. A programmable current mode charge pump is designed to manage the wide range feedback divider. Circuit simulation results demonstrate design feasibility. The design was implemented on a 0.18 /spl mu/m low voltage CMOS (LVCMOS) technology.
Learning to detect the functional components of doorbell buttons using active exploration and multimodal correlation

This paper describes a large-scale experimental study, in which a humanoid robot learned to press and detect doorbell buttons autonomously. The models for action selection and visual detection were grounded in the robot's sensorimotor experience and learned without human intervention. Experiments were performed with seven doorbell buttons, which provided auditory feedback when pressed. The robot learned to predict the locations of the functional components of each button accurately. The trained visual model was also able to detect the functional components of novel buttons.
Adaptive dynamic range matching for spectroscopic measurements

We describe the design and development of an adaptive spectrometer that actively manages dynamic range mismatch between source signals and the spectrometer's detector. The introduction of an inexpensive digital micromirror array yields performance improvements compared to a traditional device. Simulation results are presented that indicate real-world scenarios in which the adaptive spectrometer will yield superior performance. Experimental results from a first-generation prototype adaptive spectrometer confirm the expectations of the simulations.
The impact of identifier style on effort and comprehension

A family of studies investigating the impact of program identifier style on human comprehension is presented. Two popular identifier styles are examined, namely camel case and underscore. The underlying hypothesis is that identifier style affects the speed and accuracy of comprehending source code. To investigate this hypothesis, five studies were designed and conducted. The first study, which investigates how well humans read identifiers in the two different styles, focuses on low-level readability issues. The remaining four studies build on the first to focus on the semantic implications of identifier style. The studies involve 150 participants with varied demographics from two different universities. A range of experimental methods is used in the studies including timed testing, read aloud, and eye tracking. These methods produce a broad set of measurements and appropriate statistical methods, such as regression models and Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMMs), are applied to analyze the results. While unexpected, the results demonstrate that the tasks of reading and comprehending source code is fundamentally different from those of reading and comprehending natural language. Furthermore, as the task becomes similar to reading prose, the results become similar to work on reading natural language text. For more "source focused" tasks, experienced software developers appear to be less affected by identifier style; however, beginners benefit from the use of camel casing with respect to accuracy and effort.