cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ferroelectricity and superconductivity in YBa2Cu3O7-Δ

Abstract If a crystalline material possesses a center of symmetry, it cannot be ferroelectric. Also, its Raman active modes must occur at different frequencies from its infrared (IR) active modes; this is the Exclusion Principle. By studying single crystals and ceramics, we have determined the Raman and IR active phonon frequencles for atomic motion along the c-axis in YBa2Cu3O7-[ddot], both in the superconducting and semiconducting phases. The measured phonon frequencies are consistent with the Exclusion Principle, hence this material does not appear to be ferroelectric in either the superconducting or semiconducting phases.
Third Country Effects in Multinational Production Networks

The majority of multinational firms today operate a multilateral production network. Most existing empirical analyses have, however, focused on firms' choice between producing at home and investing overseas and assumed a firm's decision to invest in a foreign country is independent of its locations in third countries. This paper extends the literature by examining the effect of existing production network on multinationals' entry decision. Using detailed French multinational subsidiary-level data, the paper finds strong evidence of horizontal and vertical interdependence across multinationals' foreign production locations. There is, however, little evidence of horizontal interdependence between home-country production and foreign investment when the third-country effects are taken into account, constituting a sharp contrast to the conventional emphasis. This result is robust to the various specifications and sensitivity analyses undertaken in the paper, and suggests the importance of investigating the causes and effects of foreign direct investment in the context of multinational production network
Information Processing Approaches to Development

Information processing approaches to development address questions about what kinds of information children represent in their thinking, how they represent and process this information, how these representations guide their behavior, and what mechanisms lead to changes in these processes across development. This chapter reviews insights into these questions from three types of information processing approaches: production systems, neural networks, and dynamic systems. These insights span a range of domains (e.g., language, memory, and problem-solving) and patterns of developmental change (e.g., stagelike progressions, U-shaped learning curves, and task-dependent progressions). The chapter focuses on accounts that have been implemented in computational models, allowing rigorous testing and direct comparison of theories. Keywords: A-not-B; balance scale; computational models; dynamic systems; neural networks; production systems; past tense
Change in Grain Protein Composition of Winter Wheat Cultivars Under Different Levels of N and Water Stress

Hard white winter (HWW) wheat cultivars in the U.S. must have superior protein quality and consistent processing quality to be successful in the Asian market. Dough rheological properties, baking quality, and end-product attributes are significantly affected by grain protein content and composition. Protein composition, in terms of size and solubility, has been found to be determined by both genetics and environmental conditions. This study investigated the combined influences and interactions of moisture deficit and N management on rheological properties, protein quality, and protein molecular weight distributions of HWW grown in Oregon. Grain was obtained from seven HWW wheat cultivars and two soft white winter (SWW) wheat cultivars grown under line-source irrigation systems in 2002 and 2003. Trials were managed to provide three levels of moisture (100, 80, and 50 % of optimum) over plots receiving two levels of soil nitrogen. The selected cultivars were highly variable for glutenin composition. Protein composition was characterized using size-exclusion HPLC. Resulting chromatograms were divided into three components, which corresponded to HMW and LMW glutenins, gliadins, and non-gluten forming albumins and globulins. Mixograph analyses and SDS sedimentation tests were used to measure variation in protein quality and dough rheological properties. Significant variation in quality was observed among cultivars, irrigation levels, and fertilization rates. Hard wheat cultivars had significantly higher amounts of polymeric proteins (glutenins) than the soft wheat cultivars over both N and water treatments. Concentrations of polymeric proteins were increased under water stress as compared with well-watered conditions for both HWW and SWW cultivars. Moisture stress contributed to higher SDS sedimentation values, although mixing time and mixing tolerance were relatively less affected. As protein content increased, the relative proportion of gliadin proteins also increased, regardless if the protein increase was related to soil N or water stress. Albumin and globulin proteins were the least responsive to changes in protein content. Significant irrigation × N interactions were observed for protein composition and SDS sedimentation volume. AMMI analyses were further used to investigate interactions of water stress and N inputs on key flour quality attributes. Crop management strategies need to consider interactions between moisture stress and N fertilization to reach desired targets for flour quality and end-product performance
Twin Masks of Spiral Structure? A Local Perspective

We examine models for the spiral structure of the Milky Way proposed over the past half century. Many approaches have been pursued to decipher the geometry of the Galaxy’s spiral arms, often with conflicting results. While a general consensus exists that a global pattern exists, considerable disagreement remains in the details. Arm geometries, orientations, and even the number of arms are still debated. Close examination of the literature reveals a clear division between four- and two-arm spiral arms. Four-arm models follow naturally from observations of classical tracers of spiral arms – enhanced gas densities and associated star formation – while two-arm models primarily flow from observations linked to the distribution of cool evolved stars. We examine the dichotomy between two-arm and four-arm models and discuss its implications.
Increased expression of GCNT1 is associated with altered O-glycosylation of PSA, PAP, and MUC1 in human prostate cancers.

BACKGROUND Protein glycosylation is a common posttranslational modification and glycan structural changes have been observed in several malignancies including prostate cancer. We hypothesized that altered glycosylation could be related to differences in gene expression levels of glycoprotein synthetic enzymes between normal and malignant prostate tissues. METHODS We interrogated prostate cancer gene expression data for reproducible changes in expression of glycoprotein synthetic enzymes. Over-expression of GCNT1 was validated in prostate samples using RT-PCR. ELISA was used to measure core 2 O-linked glycan sialyl Lewis X (sLex) of prostate specific antigen (PSA), Mucin1 (MUC1), and prostatic acidic phosphatase (PAP) proteins. RESULTS A key glycosyltransferase, GCNT1, was consistently over-expressed in several prostate cancer gene expression datasets. RT-PCR confirmed increased transcript levels in cancer samples compared to normal prostate tissue in fresh-frozen prostate tissue samples. ELISA using PSA, PAP, and MUC1 capture antibodies and a specific core 2 O-linked sLex detection antibody demonstrated elevation of this glycan structure in cancer compared to normal tissues for MUC1 (P = 0.01), PSA (P = 0.03) and near significant differences in PAP sLex levels (P = 0.06). MUC1, PSA and PAP protein levels alone were not significantly different between paired normal and malignant prostate samples. CONCLUSIONS GCNT1 is over-expressed in prostate cancer and is associated with higher levels of core 2 O-sLex in PSA, PAP and MUC1 proteins. Alterations of O-linked glycosylation could be important in prostate cancer biology and could provide a new avenue for development of prostate cancer specific glycoprotein biomarkers. Prostate 74:1059–1067, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High Temporal Resolution Dynamic MRI and Arterial Input Function for Assessment of GFR in Pediatric Subjects

Purpose To introduce a respiratory-gated high-spatiotemporal-resolution dynamic-contrast-enhanced MRI technique and a high-temporal-resolution aortic input function (HTR-AIF) estimation method for glomerular filtration rate (GFR) assessment in children.
Instability of edge dislocation walls in a two-phase isotropic medium

Abstract The stress fields of infinite and finite edge dislocation walls in or near the interface of a two-phase isotropic medium are analyzed. An infinite edge dislocation wall with Burgers vectors perpendicular to the plane of the wall has, in general, a long-range shear stress field and is unstable — a result in contrast to that for a single-phase medium. The image stress on the dislocations in an infinite wall is examined. When the distance of the wall from the interface is greater than the spacing between two neighboring dislocations, the image stress approaches a constant. The magnitude of the constant image stress is the same as the magnitude of the long-range shear stress of the wall.
The Determination of Musical Experiences Designed to Develop the Musical Competencies Required of Elementary School Teachers in Maryland

IMPROVING the preservice education of elementary school teachers is of vital concern to those engaged in education, and especially to persons involved in teacher education. In most states the state teachers colleges prepare a large portion of the teachers. These institutions are maintained by the state for the prime purpose of training teachers for the public schools. It becomes the responsibility of these colleges, therefore, to provide experiences which will develop those competencies needed by the classroom teacher. During 1950 and 1951 the writer conducted an investigation to determine what experiences in music should be provided for prospective elementary school teachers in Maryland in order to develop those musical competencies necessary to carry on the music program of the elementary schools in that state.
Evaluating cell-surface expression and measuring activation of mammalian odorant receptors in heterologous cells

A fundamental question in olfaction is which odorant receptors (ORs) are activated by a given odorant. A major roadblock to investigating odorant-OR relationships in mammals has been the inability to express ORs in heterologous cells suitable for screening active ligands for ORs. The discovery of the receptor-transporting protein family has facilitated the effective cell-surface expression of ORs in heterologous cells. The establishment of a robust heterologous expression system for mammalian ORs facilitates the high-throughput 'deorphanization' of these receptors by matching them to their cognate ligands. This protocol details the method used for evaluating the cell-surface expression and measuring the functional activation of ORs of transiently expressed mammalian ORs in HEK293T cells. The stages of OR cell-surface expression include cell culture preparation, transfer of cells, transfection, immunocytochemistry or flow cytometry, odorant stimulation and luciferase assay. This protocol can be completed in a period of 3 d from the transfer of cells to cell-surface expression detection and/or measurement of functional activation.
Inner ear: dye injection reveals peripheral origins of specific sensitivities

In the American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) tracing of functionally identified, dye-filled fibers of the eighth cranial nerve to their peripheral origins has provided the first precise functional o...
Low-mobility solar cells: a device physics primer with application to amorphous silicon

Abstract The properties of pin solar cells based on photogeneration of charge carriers into low-mobility materials were calculated for two models. Ideal p- and n-type electrode layers were assumed in both cases. The first, elementary case involves only band mobilities and direct electron–hole recombination. An analytical approximation indicates that the power in thick cells rises as the 1 4 power of the lower band mobility, which reflects the buildup of space-charge under illumination. The approximation agrees well with computer simulation. The second model includes exponential bandtail trapping, which is commonly invoked to account for very low hole drift mobilities in amorphous silicon and other amorphous semiconductors. The two models have similar qualitative behavior. Predictions for the solar conversion efficiency of amorphous silicon-based cells that are limited by valence bandtail trapping are presented. The predictions account adequately for the efficiencies of present a-Si : H cells in their “as-prepared” state (without light-soaking), and indicate the improvement that may be expected if hole drift mobilities (and valence bandtail widths) can be improved.
Epithelioma adenoides cysticum: genetic update

Epithelioma adenoides cysticum (EAC) is a well-known genodermatosis which follows an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. Questions still remain, however, concerning an apparent excess of females with EAC. An analysis of nineteen previously published pedigrees and one newly ascertained pedigree, which in the aggregate included over 175 cases of EAC, induced no excess of affected females, but rather, a marked deficit males. This deficiency was not the consequence of sex linkage or decreased viability, and was most evident in large pedigrees and sibships, sibships not including the probands, and late birth orders. In these situations, the penetrance of EAC in male gene carriers was only 50%, but was close to 100% in female gene carries. Under maximum detection conditions, i.e. small pedigrees, small sibships, sibships containing the proband, and early birth orders, the penetrance in males increased to 85% and was again close to 100% in females. These findings suggested that the deficit of affected males was best explained by a comination of lessened expressivity and penetrance, effects which were magnified under situations of poor detection. A review of familial cases of EAC indicated no consistent associated anomalies such as those that characterize the naevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome.
Subthreshold depression: Characteristics and risk factors among vulnerable elders

Objectives: This study examines symptoms of subthreshold depression among older adults in congregate housing, compared with their nondepressed peers, and tests a conceptual model of subthreshold depression. Hypotheses included that subthreshold depression would be characterized and distinguished by low energy, social withdrawal, and depletion, rather than sadness, and that subthreshold depressed elders would be distinguished by poorer health and functioning, loneliness, and grieving a recent loss. Method: A self-administered survey was followed by a diagnostic interview by telephone to (N = 166) white and African-American residents of independent and assisted living apartments from six retirement communities, average age 82.9 years. The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) determined depression status. The 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale was used to measure symptoms. Results: Forty-six individuals (27.7%) were identified as subthreshold depressed, seven as suffering from major depressio...
Strongly coupled quantum criticality with a Fermi surface in two dimensions: Fractionalization of spin and charge collective modes

We describe two-dimensional models with a metallic Fermi surface which display quantum phase transitions controlled by strongly interacting critical field theories below their upper critical dimension. The primary examples involve transitions with a topological order parameter associated with dislocations in collinear spin-density-wave (``stripe'') correlations: the suppression of dislocations leads to a fractionalization of spin and charge collective modes, and this transition has been proposed as a candidate for the cuprates near optimal doping. The coupling between the order parameter and long-wavelength volume and shape deformations of the Fermi surface is analyzed by the renormalization group, and a runaway flow to a nonperturbative regime is found in most cases. A phenomenological scaling analysis of simple observable properties of possible second-order quantum critical points is presented, with results quite similar to those near quantum spin-glass transitions and to phenomenological forms proposed by Schr\"oder et al. [Nature (London) $407,$ 351 (2000)].
Coarsening in High Order, Discrete, Ill-Posed Diffusion Equations

We study the discrete version of a family of ill-posed, nonlinear diffusion equations of order $2n$. The fourth order $(n=2)$ version of these equations constitutes our main motivation, as it appears prominently in image processing and computer vision literature. It was proposed by You and Kaveh as a model for denoising images while maintaining sharp object boundaries (edges). The second order equation $(n=1)$ corresponds to another famous model from image processing, namely Perona and Malik’s anisotropic diffusion, and was studied in earlier papers. The equations studied in this paper are high order analogues of the Perona-Malik equation, and like the second order model, their continuum versions violate parabolicity and hence lack well-posedness theory. We follow a recent technique from Kohn and Otto, and prove a weak upper bound on the coarsening rate of the discrete in space version of these high order equations in any space dimension, for a large class of diffusivities. Numerical experiments indicate that the bounds are close to being optimal, and are typically observed.
Age-Related Differences in Recognition Memory for Items and Associations: Contribution of Individual Differences in Working Memory and Metamemory

Ability to form new associations between unrelated items is particularly sensitive to aging, but the reasons for such differential vulnerability are unclear. In this study, we examined the role of objective and subjective factors (working memory and beliefs about memory strategies) on differential relations of age with recognition of items and associations. Healthy adults (N = 100, age 21 to 79) studied word pairs, completed item and association recognition tests, and rated the effectiveness of shallow (e.g., repetition) and deep (e.g., imagery or sentence generation) encoding strategies. Advanced age was associated with reduced working memory (WM) capacity and poorer associative recognition. In addition, reduced WM capacity, beliefs in the utility of ineffective encoding strategies, and lack of endorsement of effective ones were independently associated with impaired associative memory. Thus, maladaptive beliefs about memory in conjunction with reduced cognitive resources account in part for differences in associative memory commonly attributed to aging.
Are cognitive deficits in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder related to the course of the disorder? A prospective controlled follow-up study of grown up boys with persistent and remitting course

To investigate the longitudinal course of cognitive functions in boys with persistent and remittent attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) from childhood into young adult years. Males (n=217) 15-31 years with and without ADHD were assessed at 3 time points over 10 years into young adulthood. Subjects were stratified into Remittent ADHD, and Persistent ADHD based on the course of ADHD. Cognitive domains included: 1) overall IQ (overall IQ, block design IQ, vocabulary IQ); 2) achievement scores in reading and math and measures of executive function (Wechsler arithmetic, digit span, digit symbol, Rey-Osterrieth, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and the Stroop Test). Cognitive outcomes were modeled as a function of group (Controls, Remittent ADHD, and Persistent ADHD), age, group by age interaction, and any demographic confounders using linear growth-curve models. There were no significant interaction effects of group by time. Main group effects indicated that persistent and remittent ADHD groups both had significantly lower scores on all cognitive outcomes compared with controls, and these did not differ between the ADHD subgroups Psychometrically defined cognitive deficits are relatively stable into young adult years and appear to be independent of the course of ADHD. More work is needed to help define the implications of these deficits in individuals with a remitting course of ADHD.
Experiences with de-icing salts in W. Germany.

The problems of using de-icing salts on roads are pointed out and a short review of the literature referring to them is given. Various proposals to overcome the damaging effect of de-icing salts are cited.
Differential effects of estrogen and androgen on locomotor activity induced in castrated male rats by amphetamine, a novel environment, or apomorphine.

Abstract Four experiments were conducted using male rats to determine whether testosterone (T), or its neural metabolites estradiol (E2) and 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), influence the expression of locomotor activity, which is thought to depend in part on the activation of mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons. Subcutaneous implantation of silastic capsules containing E2, but not T or DHT, caused a significant increase in the amount of activity displayed by castrated rats which had been habituated to infrared photobeam activity cages prior to receiving an i.p. injection of d -amphetamine sulfate (1.5 mg/kg). Administration of E2, but not T or DHT, also significantly increased the amount of activity which other groups of castrated rats displayed when they were first placed in the photobeam cages. Likewise, administration of E2, but not T or DHT, to castrated rats which had previously received bilateral injections of 6-hydroxydopamine into the nucleus accumbens septi, caused a significant increase in the activity displayed in response to an i.p. injection of apomorphine HC1 (1.0 mg/kg). However, administration of estrogen or androgen to castrated rats which were neurologically intact had no effect on the amount of stereotyped behavior displayed in response to increasing doses (1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mg/kg) of apomorphine. It is suggested that the selective, facilitatory effect of E2 on drug- and novelty-induced locomotor activity resulted from increased postsynaptic receptor activation at dopaminergic synapses in the nucleus accumbens septi.
Communication Subsystem Design Trends for the Defense Satellite Communications Program

The Initial Defense Communication Satellite Program (IDCSP) hasbeen implemented successfully and is handling unique and vital militaryary communications. Tradeoff studies now being made are intended todefine the characteristics of the next phases of the Defense Satellite Communications Program (DSCP). This paper discusses briefly thecommunication subsystem design of the IDCSP for backgroundfor-information, and then discusses the design trends for future phases of the DSCP.The communication subsystem for the IDCSP is characterized bya single hard-limiting, low-power repeater with a toroidal patternantenna. Future trends in design will be toward multiple beams andmultiple repeaters with very wide bandwidths, high-powerquasilinear operation, and highly directive antennas. Several alternatetransponder configurations are evaluated in this paper, and an illustrativeive example is shown. Although long life is essential to future systems,as it was to the IDCSP, the trend will be to adding more complexity inthe satellite to increase the system capacity, while at the same timerequiring less complexity in earth terminals.
An agent-integrated irregular automata model of urban land-use dynamics

Urban growth models are useful tools to understand the patterns and processes of urbanization. In recent years, the bottom-up approach of geo-computation, such as cellular automata and agent-based modeling, is commonly used to simulate urban land-use dynamics. This study has developed an integrated model of urban growth called agent-integrated irregular automata AIIA by using vector geographic information system environment i.e. both the data model and operations. The model was tested for the city of San Marcos, Texas to simulate two scenarios of urban growth. Specifically, the study aimed to answer whether incorporating commercial, industrial and institutional agents in the model and using social theories e.g. utility functions improves the conventional urban growth modeling. By validating against empirical land-use data, the results suggest that a holistic framework such as AIIA performs better than the existing irregular-automata-based urban growth modeling.
William John Little and cerebral palsy in the nineteenth century.

Fondateur de la chirurgie orthopedique. Lui-meme ayant ete victime de la polyomelite. En Grande-Bretagne
Algorithmic tuning of clock trees and derived non-tree structures

This mini-tutorial covers recent research on clock-network tuning. It starts with SPICE-accurate optimizations used in winning entries at the ISPD 2009 and 2010 clock-network synthesis contests. After comparing clock trees to meshes, it outlines a recent redundant clock-network topology that retains most advantages of clock trees, but improves robustness to PVT variations. It also shows how to incorporate clock-network synthesis into global placement to reduce dynamic power and insertion delay.
Palatal erythema: Another etiologic factor

The authors present three cases which created diagnostic problems. The etiology of these is, in the authors' experience, unique and not generally known. It is suggested that this etiology be considered whenever palatal erythema, ecchymoses, or petechiae are seen.
Sub-μrad angular stability measurements by use of long-trace-profiler-based systems

High accuracy angle measurement at the sub-(mu) rad level requires extremely high instrument stability. In order to reach sub-(mu) rad stability (0.1 arc second or less) over long time periods, it is necessary to maintain the test object and almost all of the optical components in the measuring instrument in very steady positions. However, mechanical force relaxation, thermal expansion, and asymmetric structures produce angular and linear displacements in the system, resulting in angular measurement error. A Long-Trace-Profiler (LTP)-based stable equipment is used to test precision angular stability with sub-(mu) rad resolution. Long term stability over 15 hours has been measured on different kind of mechanical structures. Temperature monitoring during the tests is extremely important. Some test results showing the effects of thermal variations are presented, which indicate that temperature stability on the order of 0.1 degrees Celsius is absolutely necessary for repeatable sub-(mu) rad measurements. The optical method, using optics with an even number of reflecting surfaces (for example, a right angle prism, pentaprism, or rhomboid prism) to reduce the influence of existing angular displacement, is introduced and the comparison measurement is presented. An optical fiber transfer line is able to reduce the laser angular shift from about 10 (mu) rad to a level of 0.3 (mu) rad rms. Careful system configuration, design and operation are very important for the sub-(mu) rad angle stability.
Adrenal Imaging: From Addison to Algorithms

Despite their small size, pathologic condition of the adrenal glands is often far from insignificant. Imagers should therefore be familiar with the principles and techniques that underpin the ability of imaging to characterize most lesions. Ignorance of these techniques fails to deliver the necessary imaging value to referrers and patients alike. This article, outlines the range of possible abnormalities encountered in the adrenal gland, the imaging modalities and specialized techniques used to detect and characterize them, the principles based on which these techniques are used, and finally a working imaging algorithm that can be readily used in daily practice.
Formulating the Charge-distribution Multisite Surface Complexation Model Using FITEQL

ality and crystallography of mineral surfaces involved, and the total concentration of the metal or oxyanion Sorptive interactions at the solid–water interface strongly influence present. However, most nutrient oxyanions and trace the bioavailability of many important nutrient oxyanions and trace metals occur at relatively low concentrations in natural contaminant metals in both natural and engineered settings. Recently, the charge-distribution multisite complexation (CD-MUSIC) model environments (micromolar or less) precluding precipitahas been developed to model ion adsorption behavior on variable- tion. Therefore, adsorption processes ultimately control charge minerals. Although this model shows great promise, its use has the phase distribution and potential bioavailability of been limited by lack of incorporation into commonly used computer these ions (McBride, 1994). codes. In this study formulation of the CD-MUSIC model in the sur- Because trace metals including Fe, Cu, Zn, and oxyface complexation modeling program FITEQL 4.0 is described, and anions such as Pi have central functions in many biodemonstrated using Cu 2 - and orthophosphate (Pi)-goethite adsorp- chemical pathways, and occur at relatively low concention data. Mass-action and mass-balance expressions for Cu 2 and Pi trations in pristine environments, organisms generally adsorption on goethite were developed using a combination of monotake up inorganic nutrient ions using transport systems dentate and bidentate surface species. Pauling’s rules were used to de
Cognitive effects of "older" anticonvulsants in children with epilepsy: a review and critique of the literature.

Cognitive decline in children with seizure disorders is due to several factors, one being the choice of anticonvulsant and total anticonvulsant exposure. This paper reviews research investigating cognitive effects associated with “older” anticonvulsant medications (i.e., phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and valproate) prescribed as monotherapy. A number of cognitive difficulties such as intellectual decline, mild memory loss, visual-motor impairment, and psychomotor slowing have been associated with these medications. Each study included in this review is assessed in terms of the appropriateness of study design and ability of the reader to draw clear conclusions about the cognitive effects associated with the anticonvulsant under investigation. The review also includes a synopsis of the myriad of methodological difficulties that plague this body of literature. Conclusions that can be drawn from the existing literature are delineated, and future directions for research are suggested.
Stereochemistry and secondary reactions in the irreversible inhibition of serine hydrolases by organophosphorus compounds

The stereoselectivity of phosphonylation of serine hydrolases by the ROR′P(O)X group of compounds is governed by the electronic properties of X, the size of RO groups, the active site milieu and the specific architecture of the active site of the serine hydrolase. For example, stereoselectivity in excess of 104 has been observed favoring the P(S) diastereomers of 2-(3,3-dimethylbutyl) methylphosphonofluoridate (soman) when phosphonylating acetylcholinesterases. Based on molecular dynamics simulations, this is attributable to specific binding of the pinacolyl group to Glu199, Trp84 and Phe331, which exert compression to effect F− departure in the pentacoordinate transient (transition state or intermediate) of soman-inhibited cholinesterases. The pinacolyl group is not so well adapted at the acyl-binding site in the P(R) diastereomers reducing the efficiency of F− expulsion. Serine hydrolase inactivation is often followed by secondary reactions. The electronic properties of ligands attached to P are decisive in whether CO or PO bond cleavage occurs in phosphonate diesters of serine hydrolases. Phenoxide ions leave readily with PO cleavage from cholinesterases and chymotrypsin, the reaction resembling deacylation in the reaction of substrates. The architecture and electrostatic character of the active site govern the fate of a covalently attached phosphonyl fragment. Strong negative electrostatic and hydrophobic forces in the cholinesterases preferentially promote CO bond cleavage with occasional methyl migration, whereas this route of dealkylation is nearly absent in phosphonate esters of serine proteases. Dealkylation in soman-inhibited cholinesterases is 10 orders of magnitude faster than in appropriate model reactions and occurs 104 times faster in the P(S) than in the P(R) diastereomers. It is driven by enzyme-facilitated methyl migration, occurring most likely concerted with CO bond cleavage. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using Multiscale Modeling to Predict Material Response of Polymeric Materials

Presented is a multiscale modeling method applied to light activated shape memory polymers (LASMP). LASMP are a new class of shape memory polymer (SMP) being developed for applications where a thermal stimulus is undesired. Rotational Isomeric State (RIS) theory is used to build a molecular scale model of the polymer chain yielding a list of distances between the predicted cross-link locations, or r-values. The r-values are then fit with Johnson probability density functions and used with Boltzmann statistical mechanics to predict stress as a function of strain of the phantom network. Junction constraint theory is then used to calculate the stress contribution due to interactions with neighboring chains, resulting in previously unattainable numerically accurate Young’s modulus predictions based on the molecular formula of the polymer. The system is modular in nature and thus lends itself well to being adapted for specific applications. The results of the model are presented with experimental data for confirmation of correctness along with discussion of the potential of the model to be used to computationally adjust the chemical composition of LASMP to achieve specified material characteristics, greatly reducing the time and resources required for formula development.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
The Future of Human Longevity: A Demographer's Perspective

The lifespan of humans has been increasing steadily over the past few centuries. In this commentary, Wilmoth argues that the best predictor of how human lifespan will change in the future is a simple extrapolation of past trends.
Fabrication of PEEK/carbon fibre composites by aqueous suspension prepregging*

Abstract Poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) composites were made by impregnation of continuous carbon fibres with aqueous suspensions of PEEK particles made by a novel precipitation process. These particles were suspended in aqueous solutions of ammonium salts of polyamic acids which performed two essential roles: as a polymeric dispersant and as a binder at the fibre-matrix interface. The resulting composite panels had properties that were comparable in some cases to those of commercially available PEEK composites. Fracture surface analysis from unidirectional panels suggests that the miscibility of the matrix and binder affects the failure mode at the fibre-matrix interface.
Esophagectomy for high grade dysplasia is safe, curative, and results in good alimentary outcome.

Background The increasing adoption of endoscopic therapies and expectant surveillance for patients with high grade dysplasia (HGD) in Barrett’s esophagus has created considerable controversy regarding the ideal treatment choice. Confusion may be due, in part, to a limited understanding of the outcomes associated with surgical resection for HGD and extrapolation of data derived from patients undergoing an esophagectomy for invasive cancer. The purpose of our study was to document the perioperative and symptomatic outcomes and long-term survival after esophagectomy for HGD of the esophagus.
Polymer and nano-technology applications for repair and reconstruction of the central nervous system

The hydrophilic polymer PEG and its related derivatives, have served as therapeutic agents to reconstruct the phospholipid bilayers of damaged cell membranes by erasing defects in the plasmalemma. The special attributes of hydrophilic polymers when in contact with cell membranes have been used for several decades since these well-known properties have been exploited in the manufacture of monoclonal antibodies. However, while traditional therapeutic efforts to combat traumatic injuries of the central nervous system (CNS) have not been successful, nanotechnology-based drug delivery has become a new emerging strategy with the additional promise of targeted membrane repair. As such, this potential use of nanotechnology provides new avenues for nanomedicine that uses nanoparticles themselves as the therapeutic agent in addition to their other functionalities. Here we will specifically address new advances in experimental treatment of Spinal Cord and Traumatic Brain injury (SCI and TBI respectively). We focus on the concept of repair of the neurolemma and axolemma in the acute stage of injury, with less emphasis on the worthwhile, and voluminous, issues concerning regenerative medicine/nanomedicine. It is not that the two are mutually exclusive - they are not. However, the survival of the neuron and the tissues of white matter are critical to any further success in what will likely be a multi-component therapy for TBI and SCI. This review includes a brief explanation of the characteristics of traumatic spinal cord injury SCI, the biological basis of the injuries, and the treatment opportunities of current polymer-based therapies. In particular, we update our own progress in such applications for CNS injuries with various suggestions and discussion, primarily nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems. The application of nanoparticles as drug-delivery vehicles to the CNS may likely be advantageous over existing molecular-based therapies. As a "proof-of-concept", we will discuss the recent investigations that have preferentially facilitated repair and functional recovery from breaches in neural membranes via rapid sealing and reassembly of the compromised site with silica or chitosan nanoparticles.
Spatial shift variance and anisotropic blurring of cone-beam computed tomography imaging system

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a three-dimensional (3-D) imaging modality. The spatial blurring or spatial resolution of a CBCT system can be quantitatively characterized by a 3-D point spread function (PSF), which can be experimentally measured through the use of a small ball phantom and an edge-blurring algorithm. A solid ball offers a number of step edge functions along its radial lines, in terms of density profile. The CBCT system PSF is responsible for blurring a step edge into a spread edge, which can be determined by an iterative algorithm. By a spatial separability assumption, a 3-D PSF can be decomposed into 2-D and 1-D PSFs. The spatial shift variance refers to the nonuniform distribution of PSF full width at half maximum (FWHM) over the object domain. The anisotropic blurring is reflected by the blurring differences along three orthogonal directions of a PSF ellipsoid. The experimental results show that our CBCT system varies in the range between 0.43 and 0.82 mm in the object domain of 80×80×120 mm3, and the anisotropy of 3-D PSF is generally insignificant and is bounded by 0.04 mm.
The energy and isotope dependence of electronic relaxation in dilute vapors of fluorene and β-naphthylamine

Abstract The excitation energy and isotope dependence of fluorescence lifetimes and quantum yields in dilute vapors of fluorene and β-naphthylamine are discussed in relation to the manner in which different channels of radiationless transitions are affected by the vibrational energy content of the molecule. Evidence is presented which shows that vibrational relaxation is slow compared with electronic relaxation for molecules with low excess energies and that the rate of S 1 → S 0 internal conversion is greater in the deuterated compound than in the corresponding protonated species for very large excess energies.
Sustainability of Rural Road Network Given Changing Demands of Rural Agriculture: Evidence from Texas:

Over the past two decades, the changing transport demands of agriculture and rural industry and the strategic rail decisions that resulted in the abandonment of many rural rail links have had severe impacts on rural road infrastructure. As larger and heavier trucks haul products over longer distances on rural pavements, the financial ability of the state and local governments to maintain and improve the rural road network has been diminishing. Clearly there is a need to recognize the significance of the agriculture-transport relationship and to determine the impacts on rural roads associated with major agricultural traffic generators to ensure the sustainability of rural road networks. Evidence of the increased truck volumes associated with industrialized agriculture and strategic changes in the rail industry is provided through a case study of the grain industry, with specific emphasis on the production and consumption of corn in Texas. A methodology is suggested to quantify the impacts of increased truck volumes and axle loads on rural pavements that were not designed or built to accommodate more and heavier axle loads. It is believed that a simple methodology to quantify pavement damage can be invaluable to demonstrating rural maintenance needs and to informing rural transport investment decisions.
The economic dispatch computer

THE ECONOMIC DISPATCH COMPUTER has been in service since February 1957 at Charleroi, Pa., central dispatching headquarters for West Penn Power Company. Generator load dispatching for the integrated properties of West Penn Electric System, consisting of West Penn Power Company, Monongahela Power Company and Potomac Edison Company has been done at Charleroi for many years. The development of the economic dispatch computer was a joint development between the engineers of West Penn and the Westinghouse Electric Corporation.
Pathological identification as a cause of suicide on an inpatient unit.

After the suicide of a patient, staff on an inpatient ward anxiously take increased suicide precautions, including special attention to patients known to be associated with the victim. However, in identifying other patients at risk, they may overlook those who have formed pathological idntifications with the victim as the result of a history of similar past experience, especially that of a suicidal or abandoning parent, and of the often unrecognized intimacy that occurs between patients during a brief hospitalization. Pathological identifications involved in a suicide, a subsequent suicide attempt, and suicidal preoccupation are illustrated by the case histories of three patients treated on an inpatient ward at the same time.
The effect of forward flight on the noise and flow field of inverted profile jets

Noise and flow field measurements are reported for an inverted profile coannular jet (where the annular jet speed exceeds the center jet speed) under simulated flight conditions. The annular and center jets were cold and both were operated subsonically. Forward flight was simulated by placing the coannular jet inside a larger open jet. Acoustic measurements show the effects of inverted profile shape and simulated flight on far field directivity, total radiated power, and spectral content. Measurements of total acoustic power demonstrate that the acoustic efficiency of inverted profile jets is about 3 dB less than the efficiency of 'top hat' profile jets, and that the noise decreases as the seventh power of the relative jet velocity in the limit of small flight velocity. Flow measurements demonstrate that the jet spreading parameter scales the thickness of the outer shear layer and the passage frequencies of the large turbulence scales. Comparisons between the turbulence time scales and the noise spectra suggest that coherent noise sources may become more important in forward flight.
Evidence of Return of Function in Patients with Vocal Fold Paresis

Summary Unilateral vocal fold paresis (UVFP) patients were examined over time for achievement of partial or full functional return or no functional return in the extent of arytenoid movement, clarity of laryngeal articulation, maximum phonation time (MPT), and flow. Effects of treatment type and initial laryngeal electromyography (EMG) results were examined. A retrospective chart review was completed for patients a year or less after onset evaluated between April 1999 and December 2005 and treated between 2 and 20 months after onset. Twenty-one individuals were evaluated (11 males, age: 34–89 years) and subsequently treated (10 by injection and 11 by thyroplasty). Evidence of full functional return was found for the extent of arytenoid movement in 25% of individuals, for clarity of laryngeal articulation in 71%, for MPT in 58%, and for flow in 50%. No evidence of functional return was found for the extent of arytenoid movement in 33% of the individuals, for clarity of laryngeal articulation in 8%, for MPT in 32%, and for flow in 22%. All pairs of outcome measures showed poor agreement in the level to which they functionally returned. More individuals with signs of reinnervation demonstrated MPTs with full functional return than expected. Patients with UVFP, even after treatment and at least 12 months postinjury did not demonstrate full functional return for all measures. Differences across measures in the percentage of individuals demonstrating each level of function and the lack of agreement of function level between measures within individuals suggest the need to use multiple outcome measures.
Economics and the 1992 Merger Guidelines: A brief survey

The 1992 Horizontal Merger Guidelines amplify, extend, and in some respects significantly modify the methodology for merger assessment embodied in the predecessor Guidelines released in 1982 and 1984. Like their predecessors, the 1992 Guidelines recognize that only those mergers (and acquisitions) that have a likely effect of creating, facilitating or enhancing exercise of market power should be challenged by the antitrust enforcement agencies. This focus on market power and its exercise provides the foundation on which the Guidelines are built. Our survey will explicate how these market power concerns link the five analytical steps of merger assessment that comprise the 1992 Guidelines. I For the sake of brevity', we emphasize the issues of market definition and measurement (§1 of the Guidelines); the potential adverse competitive effects of mergers (§2 of the Guidelines); and entry (§3 of the Guidelines). Only passing references will be made to efficiencies 2 and failure (§§4 and 5, respectively).
Mobile, Contactless, Single Shot, Fingerprint Capture System

In some applications such as field stations, disaster situations or similar conditions, it is desirable to have a contactless, rugged means to collect fingerprint information. The approach described in this paper enables acceleration of the capture process by eliminating an otherwise system and finger cleanup procedure, minimizes the chance of the spread of disease or contaminations, and uses an innovative optical system able to provide rolled equivalent fingerprint information desirable for reliable 2D matching against existing databases. The approach described captures highresolution fingerprints and 3D information simultaneously using a single camera. Liquid crystal polarization rotators combined with birefringent elements provides the focus shift and a depth from focus algorithm extracts the 3D data. This imaging technique does not involve any moving parts, thus reducing cost and complexity of the system as well as increasing its robustness. Data collection is expected to take less than 100 milliseconds, capturing all four-finger images simultaneously to avoid sequencing errors. This paper describes the various options considered for contactless fingerprint capture, and why the particular approach was ultimately chosen.