cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast, effective code generation in a just-in-time Java compiler

A "Just-In-Time" (JIT) Java compiler produces native code from Java byte code instructions during program execution. As such, compilation speed is more important in a Java JIT compiler than in a traditional compiler, requiring optimization algorithms to be lightweight and effective. We present the structure of a Java JIT compiler for the Intel Architecture, describe the lightweight implementation of JIT compiler optimizations (e.g., common subexpression elimination, register allocation, and elimination of array bounds checking), and evaluate the performance benefits and tradeoffs of the optimizations. This JIT compiler has been shipped with version 2.5 of Intel's VTune for Java product.
Angular homeostasis V: Some issues in genetics, ontogeny, and evolution

We discuss a provisional model that deals with aspects of normal control of the direction in which cells grow; hence, the organization of structure. The interacting issues of genetics, ontogeny, and phylogeny in relationship to normal development and its defects are addressed. Our main goal is to define a model with a small and sufficient set of conditions that would make it possible to undertake statistically efficient genetic studies of certain congenital defects. But to do so in plausible and heuristic terms, one must address two classical questions: 1) How is the genome translated (or sometimes mistranslated) into a phenotype that is clinically conspicuous and that can be the object of genetic selection, and hence of evolution? 2) Granted that evolution of species occurs in small, rare steps, what is the path that calls for the smallest number of mutations through which ontogenesis could have developed, the intermediate stages being conserved because of actual phenotypic advantage?
THE INVISIBLE INTRUDER: Women's Experiences of Obscene Phone Calls

The analysis of male sexual violence as an integrated phenomenon rests on a theoretical premise that violence and its threat are the foundation of male dominance. I call this phenomenon “sexual terrorism”: the system by which males frighten, and by frightening, dominate and control females. Sexual terrorism is manifested through both actual and implied violence and takes many forms. This article discusses the obscene phone call, a commonly experienced form of intimidation. In this study, while respondents reported a variety of responses to obscene phone calls, most experienced them as “terroristic.” The dynamics of obscene telephone calls mirror the social construction of gender and the fusion of dominance and sexuality.
To what extent is the experience of empathy mediated by shared neural circuits

This paper selectively reviews the neurophysiological evidence for shared neural circuits (supposedly implemented by mirror neurons) as the mechanism underlying empathy. I will argue that while the mirror neuron system plays a role in motor resonance, it is not possible to conclude that this system is critically involved in emotion recognition, and there is little evidence for its role in empathy and sympathy. In addition, there is modest support from neurological observations that lesion of the regions involved in the mirror neuron system leads to dysfunction in empathy, whereas damage of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex is associated with such impairment. To significantly advance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying empathy, research needs finer conceptualization, better designed paradigms, and integration with knowledge from lesion studies.
Mg2+ homeostasis: the Mg2+nificent TRPM chanzymes.

Abstract TRPM6 and TRPM7 are distinct from all other ion channels in that they are composed of linked channel and protein kinase domains. Recent studies demonstrate that these ‘chanzymes' are essential for Mg 2+ homeostasis, which is critical for human health and cell viability.
US institutional investors look at corporate governance in the 1990s

Abstract In the US and elsewhere, shareholdings in corporations have become more concentrated in the hands of institutional investors. Paradoxically, the latter have not increased their power over management. But in the US a lively debate has begun on the topic of corporate governance. Michael Useem, Edward Bowman, Jennifer Myatt, and Craig Irvine present the results of an extensive survey of US institutions in three main areas: investor relations with management, shortcomings of the present governance system, and anticipated trends in shareholder activism. In general, institutional investors are expected to redouble their efforts to make company directors more independent of managers and more accountable to owners.
Isothermal crystallization of isotactic polypropylene in dotriacontane. III: Effect of dilution and crystallization temperature on growth rate

Abstract The spherulitic growth rate of isotactic polypropylene in dotriacontane was studied using optical microscopy. Polymer concentration was varied from 100 to 10 wt% iPP in 10 wt% intervals. Crystallization temperature was varied from 372 to 429 K in 1 K intervals. The influence of these variables on polymer spherulitic growth rate and regime transitions was analysed using the Lauritzen-Hoffman and Toda nucleation theories.
Computer program sequence for analysis and summary of radioimmunoassay data

Abstract A sequence of three programs is described for efficient design and analysis of radio-immunoassays. The first program designs the assay; the second program analyzes all available data according to the organizational base provided by the first program; and the third program summarizes the results of several assays in either tabular or graphical form. The analysis program uses a logit response-log dose transformation to obtain a linear inhibition curve for all preparations assayed at multiple levels. The curves are subjected to a weithted, least squares, regression analysis. All curves are tested for linearity and parallelism with the curve chosen as standard, and a weighted mean potency estimate with error limits is computed for all preparations run at single or multiple dose levels with any degree of replication.
Graphene composites as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries

Since the world of mobile phones and laptops has significantly altered by a big designer named Steve Jobs, the electronic industries have strived to prepare smaller, thinner and lower weight products. The giant electronic companies, therefore, compete in developing more efficient hardware such as batteries used inside the small metallic or polymeric frame. One of the most important materials in the production lines is the lithium-based batteries which is so famous for its ability in recharging as many times as a user needs. However, this is not an indication of being long lasted, as many of the electronic devices are frequently being used for a long time. The performance, chemistry, safety and above all cost of the lithium ion batteries should be considered when the design of the compounds are at the top concern of the engineers. To increase the efficiency of the batteries a combination of graphene and nanoparticles is recently introduced and it has shown to have enormous technological effect in enhancing the durability of the batteries. However, due to very high electronic conductivity, these materials can be thought of as preparing the anode electrode in the lithiumion battery. In this paper, the various approaches to characterize different types of graphene/nanoparticles and the process of preparing the anode for the lithium-ion batteries as well as their electrical properties are discussed.
Peripheral block of the hyperpolarization-activated cation current (Ih) reduces mechanical allodynia in animal models of postoperative and neuropathic pain.

Background and Objectives Block of the hyperpolarization-activated inward current (I h ) reduces excitability of peripheral axons during stimulation and decreases ectopic discharges in axotomized sensory neurons. Changes in I h expression in DRG neurons have been suggested to partially underlie sensitization after nerve injury and inflammation. We hypothesized that peripheral block of I h on axons would produce an antiallodynic effect in postoperative as well as neuropathic conditions, and we tested perineural administration of ZD 7288, a specific blocker of I h , on pain-associated behavior in animal models of neuropathic and postoperative pain. Methods Under halothane anesthesia, partial sciatic nerve injury or hind-paw incision were performed on adult male rats as previously described. Mechanical allodynia was inferred by demonstration of a decrease in paw withdrawal threshold by application of calibrated von Frey filaments. After surgery, animals received either a saline or a ZD 7288 solution either by sciatic perineural injection or by intraplantar injection. Results Perineural administration of ZD 7288 (100 μM) significantly reduced mechanical allodynia induced by partial sciatic nerve injury and hind-paw incision. Saline and 10 μM of ZD 7288 had no significant effect on mechanical allodynia. Contralateral administration of ZD 7288, 100 μM, did not affect ipsilateral paw withdrawal threshold after nerve injury. Intraplantar injection of ZD 7288 failed to reduce mechanical allodynia after nerve injury. Sedation and motor effects were not observed. Conclusions The current study shows that peripheral block of I h produces an antiallodynic effect, which suggests that I h channels represent a novel target for nerve block treatment of postoperative and neuropathic pain.
A Glance Back and Outlook of Computational Fluid Dynamics (Keynote Paper)

The development of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can be traced back as far as the early 1900’s. The pioneering efforts by Richardson [1], Courant, Friedrichs, and Lewy [2], Southwell [3], Von Neumann [4], Lax [5], as well as Godunov [6] address the fundamental issues in numerical analyses for CFD. It is immediately clear that a major portion of these efforts was focused on one of the most difficult problems in resolving the discontinuous fluid phenomena in a discretized space — the Riemann problem [7]. As it will be seen later, it remains the most studied problem in CFD. However, if one is interested in the viscous flow simulation, Thom [8] probably obtained the first-ever numerical solution by solving the partial differential equation for a low speed flow past a circular cylinder. For a scholarly description of the CFD historical perspective, the books by Roach [9] and Tannehill, Anderson, and Pletcher [10] are highly recommended.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Cell division cycles and circadian oscillators in Euglena.

The algal flagellate Euglena grown photoautotrophically in L:D 3:3 displays a circadian rhythm of cell division. Oscillatory models for cell cycle (CDC) control (particularly those of the limit cycle variety) include the property of phase perturbation, or resetting. This prediction has been tested in synchronous cultures in which the free-running rhythm has been scanned by 3-hr light signals. A strong (Type 0) phase response curve (PRC), yielding both advances and delays as great as 15 hr, has been derived. A second prediction of the limit cycle model is that there exists a pulse of a critical intensity, which, if given at one specific phase of the rhythm (the singularity point), should result in a phaseless, motionless state in which the rhythmicity disappears. Such a point has been found in Euglena in the late subjective night for light pulses having an intensity ranging from 40 to 700 Ix. Finally, circadian oscillators typically display temperature-compensated period lengths within the physiological ra...
Infection control or formulary control: what is the best tool to reduce nosocomial infections due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus?

rates: a reduction in fluoroquinolone use. With use of the incidence density of MRSA (defined as the number of nonduplicate cases of MRSA/1000 patientdays) and the prevalence of MRSA (defined as the number of nonduplicate clinical MRSA isolates/total number of clinical S. aureus isolates), the authors found that a 10-fold reduction in fluoroquinolone use was associated with a statistically significant reduction in rates of MRSA. These reductions, although modest (a reduction of prevalence from 36.0% to 32.3%), were not present in the control hospitals. The postintervention incidence density of MRSA was less than the lower limit of the 95% CI for incidence, as predicted by a forecasting model, suggesting that fluoroquinolone use had an impact
Mitochondrial calcium transport is regulated by P2Y1‐ and P2Y2‐like mitochondrial receptors

Ischemia-reperfusion injury remains a major clinical problem in liver transplantation. One contributing factor is mitochondrial calcium (mCa(2+)) overload, which triggers apoptosis; calcium also regulates mitochondrial respiration and adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) production. Recently, we reported the presence of purinergic P2Y(1)- and P2Y(2)-like receptor proteins in mitochondrial membranes. Herein, we present an evaluation of the functional characteristics of these receptors. In experiments with isolated mitochondria, specific P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors ligands: 2-methylthio-adenosine 5'-diphosphate (2meSADP) and uridine 5'-triphosphate (UTP), respectively, were used, and mitochondrial calcium uptake was measured. 2meSADP and UTP had a maximum effect at concentrations in the range of the known P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors. The P2Y inhibitor phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonate (PPADS) blocked the effects of both ligands. The phospholipase C (PLC) antagonist U73122 inhibited the effect of both ligands while its inactive analog U73343 had no effect. These data strongly support the hypothesis that mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake is regulated in part by adenine nucleotides via a P2Y-like receptor mechanism that involves mitochondrial PLC activation.
INTERACTION OF VINCA ALKALOIDS WITH TUBULIN : A COMPARISON OF VINBLASTINE,VINCRISTINE, AND VINORELBINE

Vinca alkaloids are antimitotic drugs that inhibit microtubule assembly and induce tubulin self-association into coiled spiral aggregates. Previous sedimentation velocity results with vinblastine have been interpreted by a mechanism involving isodesmic ligand-mediated or ligand-mediated plus ligand-facilitated self-association [Lobert et al. (1995) Biochemistry 34, 8050−8060]. In this study, we compare the vincristine- or vinorelbine-induced self-association of porcine brain tubulin with our prior vinblastine studies in the presence of 50 μM GDP or 50 μM GTP. Vincristine demonstrates the highest overall affinity for tubulin, K1K2, and vinorelbine the lowest (vincristine > vinblastine > vinorelbine). These are the first quantitative studies comparing the interaction of a new vinca alkaloid derivative, vinorelbine (Navelbine), with other vinca alkaloids. The relative binding affinities reported here correlate with the weekly drug doses used clinically in cancer chemotherapy, where vincristine is used at the...
Spatial convergence of crack nucleation using a cohesive finite-element model on a pinwheel-based mesh

We consider the use of initially rigid cohesive interface models in a two-dimensional dynamic finite-element solution of a fracture process. Our focus is on convergence of finite-element solutions to a solution of the undiscretized medium as the mesh spacing Δx (and therefore time-step Δt) tends to zero. We propose the use of pinwheel meshes, which possess the ‘isoperimetric property’ that for any curve C in the computational domain, there is an approximation to C using mesh edges that tends to C including a correct representation of its length, as the grid size tends to zero. We suggest that the isoperimetric property is a necessary condition for any possible spatial convergence proof in the general case that the crack path is not known in advance. Conversely, we establish that if the pinwheel mesh is used, the discrete interface first activated in the finite-element model will converge to the initial crack in the undiscretized medium. Finally, we carry out a mesh refinement experiment to check convergence of both nucleation and propagation. Our results indicate that the crack path computed in the pinwheel mesh is more stable as the mesh is refined compared to other types of meshes. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sex differences in operating room care giver perceptions of patient safety: a pilot study from the Veterans Health Administration Medical Team Training Program

Background Achieving a culture of safety is believed to be an important mechanism for improving patient safety. The Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ) measures provider perceptions of patient safety culture across six domains; higher scores denote more positive perceptions. Although professional differences on the SAQ have been explored, sex differences have not. Methods The SAQ was administered to operating room (OR) care givers at nine Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals. We determined the mean domain scores by care giver profession and sex, used analysis of variance to compare mean scores across professions, used t tests to compare mean scores between sexes and created regression models of the six patient safety domains. Results The SAQ was completed by 187 OR care givers. Older care givers were significantly more likely to report favourable perceptions of teamwork climate; surgeons were significantly more likely to report favourable perceptions of working conditions; anaesthesia providers were significantly more likely to report favourable perceptions of stress recognition but also less favourable perceptions of safety climate. Women were significantly more likely to report less favourable perceptions of job satisfaction and working conditions. Conclusion This pilot study confirms previously reported profession differences in OR care giver patient safety attitudes. We also found previously unreported sex differences. Educational efforts designed to enhance patient safety should be designed so that they address such differences.
Alternating impedance multi-channel transmission line resonators for high field magnetic resonance imaging

The multi-channel volume coil can be comprised of an array of transmission line elements that are operated as independent coils in typically multiple-channel transmit and receive configurations. In these designs, microstrip elements have been implemented as magnetic field generating elements. However, at high fields, short in vivo wavelengths and greater sample losses lead to RF in-homogeneities and inefficiencies. Optimization of these elements are required to overcome these challenges for desired MR applications. In this study, two different microstrip designs with varying impedance lines -- one producing peak B1+ in the center and the other extending the length of usable B1+ along the length of the coil-- are investigated. Simulation and image results for 8-channel volume coils incorporating these element designs were obtained using a phantom at 7 tesla.
Design of a piezoelectric meso-scale mobile robot: a compliant amplification approach

In this paper, the development of a novel piezoelectric-based locomotion design for a meso-scale mobile robot is described. The design exploits a compliant mechanical structure that enables piezoelectric forces to be amplified and transmitted to "legs" that propel the robot through a lift and pull scheme. The lift and pull design contrasts with typical slip/stick approaches that assume the inertia effects of the robot will allow the robot to slip on a smooth surface. By eliminating the slipping assumption, the potential surfaces that the proposed robot can traverse is significantly extended. Discussions are provided regarding the proposed locomotion method, kinematic modeling and system constraints, mechanical optimization, and control of the meso-scale robot.
Purification and characterization of Klebsiella aerogenes UreE protein: a nickel-binding protein that functions in urease metallocenter assembly.

The Klebsiella aerogenes ureE gene product was previously shown to facilitate assembly of the urease metallocenter (Lee, M.H., et al., 1992, J. Bacteriol. 174, 4324-4330). UreE protein has now been purified and characterized. Although it behaves as a soluble protein, UreE is predicted to possess an amphipathic beta-strand and exhibits unusually tight binding to phenyl-Sepharose resin. Immunogold electron microscopic studies confirm that UreE is a cytoplasmic protein. Each dimeric UreE molecule (M(r) = 35,000) binds 6.05 + 0.25 nickel ions (Kd of 9.6 +/- 1.3 microM) with high specificity according to equilibrium dialysis measurements. The nickel site in UreE was probed by X-ray absorption and variable-temperature magnetic circular dichroism spectroscopies. The data are most consistent with the presence of Ni(II) in pseudo-octahedral geometry with 3-5 histidyl imidazole ligands. The remaining ligands are nitrogen or oxygen donors. UreE apoprotein has been crystallized and analyzed by X-ray diffraction methods. Addition of nickel ion to apoprotein crystals leads to the development of fractures, consistent with a conformational change upon binding nickel ion. We hypothesize that UreE binds intracellular nickel ion and functions as a nickel donor during metallocenter assembly into the urease apoprotein.
Domains of Regulatory Gene Expression and the Developing Optic Chiasm: Correspondence With Retinal Axon Paths and Candidate Signaling Cells

In mammals, some axons from each retina cross at the optic chiasm, whereas others do not. Although several loci have been identified within the chiasmatic region that appear to provide guidance cues to the retinal axons, the underlying molecular mechanisms that regulate this process are poorly understood. Here we investigate whether the earliest retinal axon trajectories and a cellular population (CD44 and stage-specific embryonic antigen 1 [SSEA] neurons), previously implicated in directing axon growth in the developing chiasm (reviewed in Mason and Sretavan [1997] Curr. Op. Neurobiol. 7:647-653), correlate with the expression patterns of several regulatory genes (BF-1, BF-2, Dlx-2, Nkx-2.1, Nkx-2.2, and Shh). These studies demonstrate that gene expression patterns in the chiasmatic region reflect the longitudinal subdivisions of the forebrain in that axon tracts in this region generally are aligned parallel to these subdivisions. Moreover, zones defined by overlapping domains of regulatory gene expression coincide with sites implicated in providing guidance information for retinal axon growth in the developing optic chiasm. Together, these data support the hypothesis that molecularly distinct, longitudinally aligned domains in the forebrain regulate the pattern of retinal axon projections in the developing hypothalamus.
Nelfinavir, a protease inhibitor, increases sirolimus levels in a liver transplantation patient: A case report

With the increasing success of liver transplantation and the proven effectiveness of highly active retroviral therapy in HIV-positive patients, liver transplantation has been performed successfully in selected HIV-positive recipients with CD4 and an HIV viral load response to highly active antiretroviral therapy. In these patients, an interaction between a protease inhibitor (nelfinavir) and tacrolimus has been shown. The effect of nelfinavir on the pharmacokinetics of sirolimus, a newer immunosuppressive drug, is currently not known. The goal of the present case report is to document the interaction between sirolimus and nelfinavir in a liver transplantation patient. A 40-year-old woman who was HIV positive underwent a cadaveric liver transplantation for acute fulminant liver failure secondary to nevirapine (a nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor). Postoperatively, she was treated with tacrolimus and steroids. She experienced steroid-resistant rejection and was started on sirolimus on the 17th postoperative day. Kinetic parameters were determined after a 2-mg oral dose of sirolimus and 250 mg of nelfinavir by collecting multiple peripheral venous blood samples before and after sirolimus administration. The kinetic parameters were compared with parameters from three liver transplantation patients on sirolimus who were not on nelfinavir. After normalizing the kinetic parameters to sirolimus dose of 1 mg/d, 0-hour and 24-hour trough sirolimus concentrations were nine-fold and five-fold higher for the patient who was on nelfinavir, compared with those who were not on nelfinavir. The maximum concentration was 3.2 times higher, the area under the concentration curve was 1.6 times higher, and the terminal disposition half-life was prolonged by 60%. The time to reach the peak concentration was 1 hour in all patients. Increase in trough concentration, peak concentration area under the curve concentration, and prolongation of half-life of sirolimus has been shown in a patient who was on a low dose (one fifth the recommended dose) of nelfinavir.
Proteomic Approaches to Analyze the Dynamic Relationships Between Nucleocytoplasmic Protein Glycosylation and Phosphorylation

O-linked β- N -acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is both an abundant and dynamic posttranslational modification similar to phosphorylation that occurs on serine and threonine residues of cytosolic and nuclear proteins in all metazoans and cell types examined, including cardiovascular tissue. Since the discovery of O-GlcNAc more than 20 years ago, the elucidation of O-GlcNAc as a posttranslational modification has been slow, albeit similar to the rate of acceptance of phosphorylation, because of the lack of tools available for its study. Identifying O-GlcNAc posttranslational modifications on proteins is a major challenge to proteomics. The recent development of mild β-elimination followed by Michael addition with dithiothreitol has significantly improved the site mapping of both O-GlcNAc and O -phosphate in functional proteomics. β-Elimination followed by Michael addition with dithiothreitol facilitates the study of the labile O-GlcNAc modification in the etiology of disease states. We discuss how recent technological innovations will expand our present understanding of O-GlcNAc and what the implications are for diabetes and cardiovascular complications.
Arthroscopic Biceps Tenodesis: Direct Suturing and Results

The long head of the biceps is a common cause of shoulder pain. Arthroscopic biceps tenodesis can be combined with treatment to the rotator cuff and impingement. Certain superior labrum anterior-posterior (ie, SLAP) tears in nonthrowing athletes may be treated with a tenodesis. The direct suture repair to the supraspinatus can provide biceps tendon stability and relief of pain. A series of 48 patients with direct suture repair are presented. Most patients had biceps partial tears and instability, but some were treated for SLAP tears or revision surgery for capsular contracture and rotator interval scarring. Patients with partial-thickness rotator cuff tears had reinforcement of the tears with the biceps. Patients with subscapularis or supraspinatus tears had biceps tenodesis placed superiorly or posteriorly to the tear. Pain relief was predictable, stiffness was uncommon, and most patients returned to an active lifestyle without pain along the intertubercular groove.
Product universality and design for supply chain management

Abstract We describe our experience of developing models in which the principles of design for supply chain management (DFCM) have been implemented for new product development at Hewlett-Packard Company (HP). This experience arises from the development of a new product that is scheduled to be released in 1995. A key design decision faced by the product development team was whether to use a universal module or regionally dedicated modules to satisfy global market requirements. We describe a wide range of factors—including manufacturing and logistics costs—that could be used to support the design decision; these factors associated with product and process design contribute to tolal supply chain costs. We review the analytical model used to evaluate the cost and service implications of the two design alternatives. Finally, we discuss qualitative considerations that might influence the eventual decisions as well as the lessons learned from this real world experience.
REQUIREMENT FOR α-L-FUCOSE ON THE MACROPHAGE MEMBRANE RECEPTOR FOR MIF

α-L-fucose abolishes the activity of guinea pig migration inhibitory factor (MIF) on the macrophages. Other sugars such as α-D-glucose, β-D-galactose, α-L-rhamnose, methyl-α-D-mannoside, and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosamine had no effect. Theabolition of MIF activity by α-L-fucose was reversible. When macrophages were incubated with α-L-fucosidase, a glycosidase which splits terminal α-L-fucose from oligosaccharides, the macrophages no longer responded to MIF. On the other hand, MIF incubated with α-L-fucosidase was still active. These experiments strongly suggest that α-L-fucose comprises an essential part of a macrophage membrane receptor for MIF.
Expert holistic nurses' advice to nursing students.

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to describe the advice that expert holistic nurses gave to nursing students regarding the theory and practice of holistic nursing and to describe nursing students’ experience and perceptions of their interaction with the experts. Design: This was a qualitative descriptive study. Methods: Nursing students who attended the 2008 and 2009 conferences of the American Holistic Nurses Association interviewed expert holistic nurses, asking them for advice for beginners. Students recorded the interviews on paper and wrote their perceptions of interacting with experts. The data were examined for recurring themes. Findings: The most common advice from the experts was regarding the importance of self-care, person-centered care, touch, and lifelong learning. Students’ perceptions of the interviews included feeling empowered to accomplish goals, gaining a greater understanding of holistic nursing, and feeling admiration for the holistic nurse experts. Conclusion: Giving students...
Joining of ZrB2‐Based Ultra‐High‐Temperature Ceramic Composites to Cu–Clad–Molybdenum for Advanced Aerospace Applications

Three hot-pressed ZrB 2 -based ultra-high-temperature ceramic composites (UHTCC), ZrB 2 -SiC P (ZS), ZrB 2 -SiC P -C (ZSC), and ZrB 2 -SCS9A (SiC fiber)-SiC P (ZSS), were joined to Cu-clad-Mo using AgCuTi brazes (T L ∼1073-1173K) and Pd-base brazes (TL∼ 1493-1513K). More extensive chemical interactions occurred in Pd-base joints than in AgCuTi-base joints. The Pd-braze region displayed higher hardness in joints made using ZS than ZSS and ZSC. Residual stress calculations point toward negative strain energy up to ∼ 23% clad layer thickness because α Cu-clad-Mo α ZS , strain energy is positive, and it increases with increasing thickness. Projected reductions in the thermal resistance highlight the benefits of joining the UHTCC to Cu-clad-Mo.
ApoA1 Reduces Free Cholesterol Accumulation in Atherosclerotic Lesions of ApoE–Deficient Mice Transplanted With ApoE–Expressing Macrophages

Abstract —Along with apolipoprotein (apo) E, which promotes cholesterol efflux from foam cells, apoA1–containing high density lipoprotein (HDL) is thought to facilitate the transport of cholesterol from lesions. This role for apoA1 was tested in vivo by lethally irradiating apoE–deficient and apoE– plus apoA1–deficient mice and reconstituting them with bone marrow cells isolated from wild-type (WT) mice. ApoE, but not apoA1, was synthesized by the transplanted bone marrow–derived cells. Therefore, this transplantation procedure generated apoE–deficient animals with atherosclerotic lesions that contained both apoE and apoA1 (E/A1 mice) and apoE–deficient animals with lesions that contained apoE but no apoA1 (E/A1o mice). As shown previously, the transplanted WT macrophage–derived apoE dramatically lowered the plasma hypercholesterolemia in both groups. On feeding with an atherogenic diet after transplantation, plasma cholesterol levels were raised in both groups of mice, but the levels in the E/A1 mice at 20 weeks were 2- to 3-fold higher than in E/A1o mice. Immunohistochemical staining verified that apoE was abundant in lesions of both groups, whereas apoA1 was detected in the lesions of E/A1 mice only. Despite a 2- to 3-fold lower total plasma cholesterol in the E/A1o mice, the free cholesterol recovered from isolated aortas was ≈60% higher and the mean lesion area in serial sections of the aortic valves 45% larger. Therefore, apoA1 reduces free cholesterol accumulation in vivo in atherosclerotic lesions.
Analysis of upper critical field curves in amorphous superconductors

Abstract It is shown that the upper critical field values in amorphous Zr-base superconductors can be higher or lower than the theoretical values, depending upon the preparation conditions of the samples. The results are correlated with inductive transitions at zero field and are attributed to flux pinning effect due to inhomogeneities. The applicability of the Werthamer-Helfand-Hohenberg theory in this class of materials is discussed. The present findings have important implications on the analysis of upper critical field curves in crystalline superconductors of general interest.
Interface And Near-Interface Microstructure Of Discontinuous Reinforced Metal Matrix Composites

Interfacial microstructure can have a significant influence on the microfracture processes of discontinuous reinforced metal matrix composites (DMMCs). The fracture properties, however, are largely influenced by the microfracture and deformation mechanisms associated with the matrix microstructure and with the interface microstructure. Also, it is known that the paniculate morphology and distribution can modify the deformation process by influencing the stress state that develops in the matrix materials near the reinforcement. Along with the matrix microstructure, characterizing the role of the interfacial and the near-interfacial microstructure is essential for a broader understanding of fracture behavior in DMMCs. To characterize the microstructure of cast DMMCs, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron microprobe (EMP) examinations were conducted at the interface and in regions near the particulate/matrix interface. Materials studied consisted of cast Al-4.5Cu and Al-7Si matrix alloy systems with B4C and SiC reinforcement. In general, the interfacial and matrix microstructure of Al-4.5Cu/SiC and Al-4.5 CuB4C composites exhibited little variance, i.e. the reinforcement type had no apparent effect on the resultant microstructures. For the Al-7Si system, however, significant microstructural variance was observed both in the matrix and interfacial regions. In the Al-7Si/B4C composite, an extensive reaction zone was found at the B4C interface. Interfacial compounds observed in Al-7SiC/B4C were Ti(O,B), Si, and MgB6 precipitates. In the near-interface region compounds such as Alx(B, C, 0)y, AlxMg(1−x)B2, and Al4C3 were found. In sharp contrast to Al-7SiC/B4C, an extensive interfacial reaction zone was not revealed for Al-7Si/SiC MMC. Only isolated, extremely fine second phase precipitates were observed on SiC paniculate interfaces. Fracture surface evidence suggested that both the matrix and the interface microstructure influenced deformation and microfracture mechanisms in DMMCs.
Band matrix systems solvers on ensemble architecture

We present direct solvers for band matrix systems for processor ensembles configured a 2-dimensional meshes with end-around connections, binary trees, shuffle-exchange, perfect shuffle and boolean ...
Laser-assisted controlled micro-injection into living cells

A titanium-sapphire laser emitting 100 fs short laser pulses at 800 nm wavelength is employed to inject an impermeable dye into single living cells. The cell morphology remains intact after this process. A new method to analyze dye uptake and evaluate membrane integrity is suggested.
Low-Mowing Tolerance in Buffalograss

Drought-tolerant turfgrasses that can tolerate low mowing heights need to be identified in order to obtain reduction in water use required of turfgrass in many locations. We have begun evaluation and selection of buffalograss [Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.] at typical golf course fairway mowing heights. A large number of accessions originating from throughout the Great Plains of North America, with the majority from the northern Plains, are being maintained at 1.6-cm mowing heights. Seedlings from a polycross of six females and four males provided six half-sib families to observe under similar conditions. Turfgrass quality and genetic color differed significantly among entries in the trials. Several vegetatively propagated genotypes yielded high-quality turf and exhibited vigorous and competitive growth under low mowing. When data were analyzed by gender, female genotypes performed better than male or monecious types. Genotypes marginally hardy in Nebraska were not hardy when maintained at low mowing heights. Seeded varieties performed well for fall color, probably because of greater genetic diversity. Preliminary selection may be accomplished at higher mowing heights prior to the more costly and time-consuming low-mowing evaluations. Results indicate that low-mowing tolerance may be heritable in buffalograss.
Fresh Frozen Plasma Increases Adhesion Molecule Expression on Human Pulmonary Endothelial Cells

Background Current blood banking practices allow fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to be thawed and then stored for 5 d between 1 and 6 °C. We hypothesized that aged plasma (d 5 FFP) would be pro-inflammatory to the endothelium compared with fresh plasma (d 0 FFP). Materials and Methods Human pulmonary endothelial cells (PECs) were treated with (1) media, (2) media + lipopolysaccharide (LPS), (3) lactated Ringer's (LR), (4) LR + LPS, (5) d 0 FFP, (6) d 0 FFP + LPS, (7) d 5 FFP, and (8) d 5 FFP + LPS. After a 24 h incubation, the PECs were stained with antibodies for I-CAM, V-CAM, P-selectin, and E-selectin. The cells were subsequently analyzed by flow cytometry. Results In both PEC groups treated with FFP and stimulated with LPS, I-CAM, V-CAM, P-selectin, and E-selectin were significantly up-regulated compared with LR when stimulated by LPS. Conclusion FFP at both ages significantly increased expression of four different adhesion molecules compared with LR in PECs. This may represent a possible mechanism for increased leukocyte binding on the endothelium as a result of FFP transfusion.
Overview on Vehicle Buzz, Squeak and Rattle

BSR may be the single largest factor that affects customers' perception of both vehicle initial quality and dependability. Vehicle dependability drives vehicle market share and residual value. Squeak generation requires that two contact surfaces have unstable and relative motion such as stick-slip motion. Buzz or rattle is produced by impact between two surfaces, either originally in contact or not. Most of the BSRs come from three major areas: IP, body closures, and underbody. BSR prevention is a system engineering process; the art is to achieve it with total cost effectiveness and durability. CAE may not render an absolute prediction if a design is subjected to yield BSR; however, it will provide the trend. It has become an indispensable tool for reducing product development time and cost. BSR prevention verification may be performed at the component, system or vehicle level. At the component or system level, usually a bench test can be performed with simulated load cases. At the vehicle level, it can be either a road test or using a hydraulic ride simulator with simulated road cases. Many BSR issues stem from the manufacturing process; SPC is often used to control assembly quality. Examples of the main technical papers and references are selected to illustrate BSR issues, which might shed some light on the state of the art.
Building the Narrow Gate: Digital Decisions for Christ and the Draw of Rhetorical Space

For evangelicals, the allure of mass media evangelism has always been the potential to reach ever-more-distant “unsaved” populations across the globe. However, as the print and broadcast revolutions quickly revealed, targeting individuals’ needs and developing a sense of personal intimacy between evangelists and audience via these media proved a perpetual challenge. The digital revolution transformed this relationship: the interactive capabilities of the Internet and the ability to inexpensively target niche audiences re-shaped mass media evangelism. However, a close examination of evangelistic practices online reveals that, in fact, this latest “revolution” — rather than representing entirely novel ground — actually more closely approximates the type of evangelism that has taken place in brick and mortar churches and non-virtual environments since Christianity’s origins. The concept of “rhetorical space” — drawn from rhetorician Roxanne Mountford’s work on how the design of pulpits and church buildings directly impacts the types of pastoral and congregational behaviors promoted — helps us to see why. Using Global Media Outreach’s Jesus2020.com and The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s PeacewithGod.net web sites as exemplars, I explore how, by conceptualizing evangelistic websites as rhetorical spaces with architectural features functioning persuasively in a manner similar to physical spaces, scholars of digital religion gain a theoretical framework for effectively describing the unique draw of these sites. Three elements of design in particular reveal how web design works imperceptibly to create a personalized, intimate, and interactive experience, while quickly moving users to make the decision to convert: the rhetorics of interface, navigation, and virtual relationship design. Understanding evangelistic websites as rhetorical spaces thus allows scholars of digital religion to see ways in which Internet evangelism has many similarities with evangelism in non-virtual spaces, pushing us to view it as a more familiar and historical strategy than is commonly recognized.
Dialectical Tensions in the Wal-Martization of the United States

This analysis looks at glocalization and grobalization, two relatively new concepts of globalization, as a framework of dialectical tensions. Dialectical tensions are opposing forces that can either battle or complement each other. On the whole, glocalization (a portmanteau of “local” and “globalization”) refers to the strategies that a multinational corporation uses to cater to local cultures or communities (Robertson, 1994). Conversely, grobalization (a portmanteau of “growth” and “globalization”) refers to the uniform or standardized strategies that a major corporation applies across all cultures or communities, without paying attention to local sensitivities (Ritzer, 2008). By concentrating on these dialectical tensions, the authors help describe the intricacies of the Wal-Martization of the United States. Overall, it was found that a large part of Wal-Martization's phenomenal success in the United States is to be both grobalizing and glocalizing.
Improving Pain Care Through Telemedicine: Future or Folly?

In this issue, Liddy et al. [1] report their findings regarding improving access to chronic pain services through the use of telehealth e-consultative services. Dr. Liddy and her colleagues tackled a common problem of access to pain medicine consultative services in North America and found that e-consultative services greatly improved access to patient care in the Ottawa health care system. Using these services, patient information was reviewed in a median response time of less than 2 days, compared with an average wait time of 6 months or greater (up to 2.5 years) with a conventional referral and in-person consultation. Although this is significantly longer than the anticipated wait times in the United States (US), it does mirror the challenges of prompt access to care, particularly for patients in rural settings or those of lower socioeconomic status that rely on state or indigent care programs, which may further limit their access to care. The referring primary care physicians greatly valued the service in >90% of cases, citing benefits provided to both patients and themselves, and including avoidance of unnecessary in-person referrals. Unfortunately the study did not capture the patient-perceived value in the e-consultative service. The format of their intervention, … kevin.vorenkamp{at}gmail.com
Atypical Social Development in Vasopressin-Deficient Brattleboro Rats.

Abstract Over the past 3 decades, a large body of evidence has accumulated demonstrating that the neuropeptide arginine vasopressin (AVP) plays a critical role in regulating social behavior. The overwhelming majority of this evidence comes from adults, leaving a gap in our understanding of the role of AVP during development. Here, we investigated the effect of chronic AVP deficiency on a suite of juvenile social behaviors using Brattleboro rats, which lack AVP due to a mutation in the Avp gene. Social play behavior, huddling, social investigation & allogrooming, and ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) of male and female rats homozygous for the Brattleboro mutation (Hom) were compared with their wild-type (WT) and heterozygous (Het) littermates during same-sex, same-genotype social interactions. Male and female Hom juveniles exhibited less social play than their Het and WT littermates throughout the rise, peak, and decline of the developmental profile of play. Hom juveniles also emitted fewer prosocial 50 kHz USVs, and spectrotemporal characteristics (call frequency and call duration) of individual call types differed from those of WT and Het juveniles. However, huddling behavior was increased in Hom juveniles, and social investigation and 22 kHz USVs did not differ across genotypes, demonstrating that not all social interactions were affected in the same manner. Collectively, these data suggest that the Avp gene plays a critical role in juvenile social development.
Research on Speech Processing for Military Avionics

The Biological Acoustics Branch of the Armstrong Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory (AAMRL) is engaged in research in a number of speech related areas. This paper will describe the approach used to conduct research in the development and evaluation of military speech communication systems, mention the types of studies done using this approach and give examples of the types of data generated by these studies. Representative data will also be provided describing acoustic-phonetic changes that occur when speech is produced under acceleration.
Middleman Minorities in the Syrian Mosaic Trade, Conflict, and Image Management

In this article, an aspect of the “middleman minority” situation will be explored: How do individuals of different minorities interact when they are competing within a single social field. The case that will be used here is that of the competition of Christians and Jews in Late Ottoman Syria for certain positions attached to the government and for key roles in international trade. Image management in the present instance includes stigmatization of one's rivals. The implications of this case for other studies of minorities is considered.
Design D-optimal event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging experiments

Summary New computer algorithms for finding D-optimal designs of stimulus sequence for functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) experiments are proposed. Although functional MRI data are commonly analysed by linear models, the construction of a functional MRI design matrix is much more complicated than in conventional experimental design problems. Inspired by the widely used exchange algorithm technique, our proposed approach implements a greedy search strategy over the vast functional MRI design space for a D-optimal design. Compared with a recently proposed genetic algorithm, our algorithms are superior in terms of computing time and achieved design efficiency in both single-objective and multiobjective problems. In addition, the algorithms proposed are sufficiently flexible to incorporate a constraint that requires the exact number of appearances of each type of stimulus in a design. This realistic design issue is unfortunately not well handled by existing methods.