cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic Epidemiology of Mismatch Repair Deficiency in Ovarian Cancer

This chapter reviews the molecular and histopathologic characteristics of ovarian cancers due to genetic defects in the MMR pathway, highlighting the clinical significance of these findings, including implications for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment as well as interactions between DNA mismatch repair (MMR) pathway and environmental risk factors for ovarian cancer. At least ten per cent of cases of ovarian cancer are due to mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 and an additional percentage are due to mutations in other genes, including the mismatch repair genes, MSH2, MLH1 and MSH6. Since the mismatch repair pathway may be impaired in up to one-fifth of ovarian tumors, categorization of ovarian cancers into subtypes based on mismatch repair deficiency is likely to permit more accurate assessment of potential etiologic associations. Furthermore, specific chemotherapeutic regimens may exist specifically for ovarian cancers with microsatellite instability, to improve treatment efficacy and reduce toxicity of drugs which may provide no added benefit. Hence clarification of epigenetic—environment interactions in a large-scale study of ovarian cancers may stimulate the development of novel chemotherapy agents.
Lack of tolerance and rapid recovery of cimetidine-inhibited chlordiazepoxide (Librium) elimination.

Abstract Cimetidine has been shown to inhibit oxidative metabolism of several drugs while sparing the glucuronidation pathways of drug metabolism. We studied the time-course of inhibition and recovery of cimetidine-inhibited chlordiazepoxide elimination in 7 healthy subjects. Chlordiazepoxide elimination was studied after cimetidine treatment for 1 and 30 days, and after withdrawing cimetidine for 48 h. The plasma clearance of chlordiazepoxide was reduced by 54% (p N -desmethylchlordiazepoxide, the first metabolite of chlordiazepoxide metabolism. This study demonstrates a rapid inhibitory effect on chlordiazepoxide elimination, an absence of tolerance to this effect and a rapid reversal of this effect upon stopping cimetidine. These findings may have important therapeutic implications for patients receiving both drugs simultaneously.
Hypoglycemia in Diabetes Mellitus

As indicated earlier in Chapter 2, human plasma glucose concentrations are maintained within a relatively narrow range throughout the day (usually between 55 and 165 mg/dl, ∼3.0 and 9.0 mM/L) despite wide fluctuations in the delivery (e.g., meals) and removal (e.g., exercise) of glucose from the circulation. This is accomplished by a tightly linked balance between glucose production and glucose utilization regulated by complex mechanisms.
Determinants of stroke prevalence in the southeastern region of the United States

The southeast of the United States (USA) is a high stroke prevalence area otherwise known as the “Stroke Belt” in order to characterize the increased stroke morbidity and mortality rates found there. The purpose of this study was to characterize the relationship between socio-cultural factors and dietary habits related to stroke occurrence within the affected states. The 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data was analyzed for both bivariate and multivariate models aimed at studying the interaction between socio-cultural factors and the prevalence pattern of stroke in the southeastern area of the USA. Overall, 4% of individuals who lived in the US southeastern states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi had stroke. Of these, Mississippi had the most stroke victims, followed by Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, and Florida, with 5.1%, 4.7%, 4.5%, 4.3%, and 3.4% respectively (χ2 = 18.68 and p value < 0.01). The logistic regression showed that individuals who consumed vegetables every day were less likely to be stroke victims than those who did not consume vegetables on a daily basis, with aOR = 0.74; CI = 0.59–0.91; p value < 0.01. Surprisingly, individuals who drank alcohol were less likely to report stroke than those who did not drink alcohol (aOR = 0.63; CI = 0.51–0.79; p value < 0.001). Characterization of factors associated with stroke prevalence in a region of the USA known for its adverse stroke rates is essential for offsetting the burden of this public health issue and for promoting health.
Placental O2 Exchange

This chapter discusses oxygen transfer of the placental. It discusses fetal oxygen uptake, oxygen affinity, and the role of the Bohr effect.
Temperature-dependent thermal conductivity and suppressed Lorenz number in ultrathin gold nanowires

The values of material parameters required for quantitative electrothermal modeling of nanoscale structures typically differ strongly from those of the bulk material. In this work, we apply a simple experimental technique that allows us to estimate values for thermal conductivity of both a metal nanowire and its insulating substrate by measuring the increase in resistance due to small amounts of dc self-heating. We measure gold nanowires with widths between 24 and 55 nm using this technique, and extract relevant material parameters as a function of temperature. Electrical resistivities of our nanowires are width dependent and much higher than bulk gold values, and enhanced temperature dependence of the resistivity indicates a depressed Debye temperature due to significant phonon softening. The fit thermal conductivity versus temperature of our 21-nm ${\mathrm{SiO}}_{2}$ on Si substrate is highly consistent with literature values for oxide thin films. We find the thermal conductivity of the nanowires increases rapidly with temperature and width and is well below the value for bulk gold, which can be qualitatively explained by the dominance of structural scattering. The Lorenz number is relatively constant over temperature, as in the Wiedemann-Franz theory, but it is significantly lower than reported values for bulk gold and exhibits some width dependence.
Abstract TP381: Discrepancies in Arrival Time for Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients: An Opportunity for Improvement

Background: Current guidelines and national quality improvement efforts emphasize door-to-needle (DTN) time in stroke thrombolysis. Stroke center certifying bodies depend on hospital-reported DTN t...
When Enough is Enough: The Use of Stopping Rules in Auditor Determinations of Evidence Sufficiency

Advances in auditing technology and PCAOB reports documenting deficiencies by public accounting firms have increased recent dialog about what constitutes sufficient audit evidence, particularly given that the determination of sufficiency depends largely on professional judgment. We analyze interview responses of 15 financial statement auditors through a framework depicting four information gathering stopping rules that may be descriptive of how auditors make evidence sufficiency judgments (Browne and Pitts 2004). The analysis shows all four information stopping rules to be present in auditor’s determination of evidence sufficiency, with a preference for the mental list and magnitude threshold rules in easier sufficiency judgments and a preference for the difference threshold and representational stability rules in more difficult judgments. Our findings suggest that we have more to learn about audit evidence sufficiency determinations, particularly in the performance of difficult audit tasks and how audit procedures directing evidence collection become institutionalized in audit programs.
Early Diagnosis of Latent Tuberculosis Reactivation due to Drug Interaction between Cobicistat and Intranasal Fluticasone

Background. Single-tablet antiretroviral therapy is currently the first-line choice for the treatment of HIV infection. Some therapeutic regimens contain the CYP3A4 inhibitor cobicistat, which can interact with drugs undergoing hepatic first-pass metabolism, leading to unintended adverse effects. Case Presentation. A 41-year-old man presented to the HIV clinic following a visit to the Emergency Department. His CD4+ count was 1,271 cells/μL, and viral load was undetectable in the previous month. The patient was on an antiretroviral therapy regimen containing cobicistat. He reported using a self-initiated over-the-counter fluticasone nasal spray for at least 2 weeks prior. He had a history of positive tuberculin skin test and a negative chest X-ray within the past year. He denied cough and was in no respiratory distress. A chest CT scan revealed a new thick-walled cavitary nodule in the right upper lobe. A CT-guided biopsy of the lesion yielded Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Conclusions. HIV-infected individuals have higher risk for tuberculosis reactivation regardless of their CD4+ count. Fluticasone’s hepatic metabolism is bypassed in the presence of CYP3A4 inhibitors, which increases its systemic bioavailability and the risk for impaired immunity. The goal of this report is to increase awareness among physicians about the potential adverse outcomes from the interaction of these drugs.
Biomechanics and Stress Fractures: Utility of Running Gait Analysis

Bone stress injury is common in active populations and can be a significant barrier to a healthy lifestyle. Optimal training regimens that maximize osteogenic potential while minimizing fatigue damage remain ideal but remain elusive. Examining evidence related to the complex etiology of bone stress injury reveals key factors associated with injury. Biomechanical factors, specifically bone stress and strain, are introduced as proximate causes of injury. Key components of bone stress and strain are introduced and discussed. Targets for intervention are identified with emphasis on bone strength, load management, and running mechanics. Because each individual with bone stress injury has a unique presentation, clinicians need to fully examine the web of determinants that interact to influence bone-specific load and load capacity and direct personalized interventions accordingly.
Energy Based Therapies for Chronic Pain

Energy, in all its varied forms, can be applied to the body in order to relieve chronic pain. Acupuncture has been gaining support recently, and now the American College of Physicians (ACP) has recommended it as one of the nonpharmacological treatments for chronic low back pain. Acupuncture relies on placing needles in acupoints. Needles can be a form of mechanical energy. Heat and electrical current can also be applied to acupuncture sites. Acupuncture risks include drowsiness, bleeding, and pain. In general, risks are low and acupuncture is considered safe. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is discussed as it was recommended by ACP for the nonpharmacological treatment of low back pain. The evidence for this technology is still being gathered and firm conclusions concerning various other forms of chronic pain cannot be made. Laser technology poses a risk for ocular damage, however, the LED versions of LLLT do not share that same risk.
Anomalous minority carrier behavior induced by chemical surface passivation solution in p-type GaSb metal–oxide–semiconductor capacitors on Si substrates

p-type GaSb metal–oxide–semiconductor capacitors with thin InAs surface capping layers were prepared on Si(001) substrates. Epitaxial structures with superlattice metamorphic buffer layers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy. Chemical surface treatment and atomic layer deposition methods were employed for a semiconductor surface passivation and Al2O3 high-k oxide fabrication, respectively. Capacitance-voltage measurements and scanning and transmission electron microscopies were used to correlate electrical properties with the oxide-semiconductor interface structure of the capacitors. Unexpectedly, fast minority carrier response present down to liquid nitrogen temperature was observed in the capacitors passivated by an ammonium sulfide solution. This fast response was found to be related to etch pitlike surface morphology developed upon chemical passivation at the surface steps formed by microtwins and antiphase domain boundaries. Preferential InAs etching by ammonium sulfide at the surface defects was confirmed by analytical TEM studies. Very low activation energy of minority carrier response suggests the presence of electron sources under the gate; they result from growth-related surface defects that give rise to potential fluctuations of as high as half the GaSb bandgap.
Delivery-based criteria for empiric antibiotic administration among preterm infants

Determine impact of using delivery criteria to initiate antibiotics among very low birth weight (VLBW) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. Single site cohort study from 01/01/2009 to 01/31/2020. After 04/2017, infants delivered by Cesarean section, without labor or membrane rupture were categorized as low-risk for early-onset infection and managed without empiric antibiotics. We determined effect of this guideline by pre-post, and interrupted time-series analyses. After 04/2017, antibiotic initiation ≤3 days decreased among low-risk VLBW (62% vs. 13%, p < 0.001) and low-risk ELBW (88% vs. 21%, p < 0.001) infants. In time series analysis, guideline was associated with decreased initiation among low-risk ELBW infants. In contrast, low-risk VLBW infants demonstrated decreased antibiotic initiation throughout study period. Incidence of confirmed infection, death, or transfer ≤7 days age was unchanged. Delivery criteria may be used to optimize early antibiotic initiation among preterm infants without short-term increase in adverse outcomes.
Research and analysis on defect detection of semi-conductive layer of high voltage cable

As a component of the Internet of things, high-voltage cables are the power supply infrastructure for the modern development of cities. The operation experience shows that the high-voltage cable has been broken down many times due to the defective operation. At present, due to the limitation of detection technology, the research on detection and identification of defects in high-voltage cables is progressing slowly. Therefore, a new DR technology based on X-ray digital imaging is proposed in this paper to realize real-time detection of defects in the semi-conductive buffer layer of high-voltage cables, and intelligent detection of DR images of high-voltage cables by using image depth processing technology to realize intelligent identification of defects in the buffer layer of power cables. The results show that using the new DR technique proposed in this paper, the accurate and intuitive DR image of high-voltage cable can be obtained quickly, and the intelligent identification of defects can be realized.
Generalization of Data Reliability Metric (DReM) Mechanism for Pulsatile Bio-signals

Due to rapid development of wearable technologies used for health monitoring, a robust data reliability assessment technique is required. Choosing the right sets of Data reliability metrics (DReM) can improve the performance of data reliability assessment and thus, it can help in reliable data acquisitions of bio-signals. Traditional reliability assessment techniques rely significantly on the signal specific peak detection algorithms. It impedes the endeavor of generalizing signal independent data reliability assessment techniques. In this work, we explored nine signal independent statistical candidates for DReM and finalized five top features as our DReMs which can identify acceptable signal segments from unacceptable segments with 0.83 precision, 0.84 recall and 0.83 F-1 score on accurately identifying acceptable pulses (ECG, PPG and respiratory signal). Additionally, the five DReMs are capable of detecting unacceptable signal segments with 0.92 precision, 0.92 recall and 0.92 F-1 score. We proposed optimal Random Forest classifier model with excellent Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) with significant Area Under the Curve (AUC) value of 0.994.
Diplomacy and Politics

In Africa, the function of diplomacy as a political instrument has far-reaching roots. Crucial to understanding this African politics of diplomacy, its origins, nature, aspirations, and the contributions of key players, is a historical viewpoint. It is from a historical perspective that insight into the formation of the principles (equality, solidarity, justice, peace, and development) that have guided African diplomatic actions especially in recent times can be gained. African diplomacy has been largely viewed as originating from the negative experiences that characterize most of the post-colonial period of its development, experiences that present African diplomacy as originating from marginalization and a position of vulnerability. Notwithstanding these (negative) experiences that have colored the expression of African diplomacy in contemporary times, the continent has stood firm and braved monumental odds (mostly not in her favor). And at its core, African diplomacy is infused with traditional African values which have been deployed at global stages with varying successes by illustrious African sons who have served in various capacities at different global diplomatic institutions. This chapter analyzes the historical and contemporary dimensions of African diplomacy and politics in global affairs.
Ecocide of Native America: Environmental Destruction of Indian Lands and Peoples

"This book is not only a work of history, it makes history.... We desperately need to hear this story if we are to save the earth, the sky, the water, the air -- save ourselves.... I thank Donald Grinde and Bruce Johansen for their eloquent and powerful contribution to our education". (Howard Zinn) "A dense, hard-hitting well-documented work ... Ecocide of Native America offers a much needed option to European perspectives of history.... It is a valuable alternative textbook, if you can hold with its difficult truths". (New Mexican) The book includes the moving testimony of those who continue to experience the slow death of their lands, their means of subsistence, their communities, even as environmentalists look to Native American ecological precedents for solutions to our common global catastrophe.
The Interrelationship of Magnetospheric Processes

Convection of plasma in the magnetosphere is one of the major aspects of magnetos-pheric dynamics. Attempts during the past 10 yr to understand this complicated phenomenon have led to a sequence of theoretical models of constantly increasing sophistication (see, for example, Axford (1969)). Most of these models have been formulated in qualitative terms. But although such qualitative models are very useful, and indeed indispensable, it is also necessary to construct the corresponding quantitative models: to write down the physical equations implied by the qualitative ideas, and solve them. Quantitative models, although of necessity greatly simplified and schematic, serve to test whether our qualitative models really behave as we think they do.
Surrendering autonomy: can cooperative mobility help?

In this paper, we develop a Cooperative Mobility Model that captures new salient features of collaborative and mission-oriented MANETs. In particular, the cost-benefit framework of our model is a significant advance in modelling heterogenous networks whose nodes exhibit the complete range of autonomy with respect to mobility. We then describe the design of CoopSim, a platform for conducting simulation experiments to evaluate the impact of parameter, policy and algorithm choices on any system based on the proposed Cooperative Mobility Model. We present a small but illustrative case study and use the experimental evidence derived from it to give an initial evaluation of the merits of the proposed model and the efficacy of the CoopSim software. In our case study, we propose studying the impact of the proposed model on improving the end-to-end communication based on the QoS parameter, namely BER.
An Electrohydraulic Gas Sampling Valve with Application to Hydrocarbon Emissions Studies

Design and development of an electrohydraulically actuated gas sampling valve is presented for use in auto engine combustion studies. The gas sampling valve is coupled to a gas chromatograph to measure concentrations of major species components. Initial studies have focussed upon determining species profiles near the wall at specific times after flame arrival at one sampling location in the engine cylinder. The results indicate that the contribution of wall quench layer hydrocarbons to the engine exhaust is substantially smaller than previously estimated.
Ribonucleic Acud Polymerase in Virions of Newcastle Disease Virus: Comparison with the Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Polymerase

The virions of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) contained an enzyme that catalyzed the incorporation of ribonucleotides into ribonucleic acid (RNA). Optimal conditions for this polymerase activity were identical to the conditions for the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) polymerase, and both enzymes were active for longer times at 32 C than at 37 C. However, the specific activity of the NDV polymerase was less than 3% that of the VSV polymerase. Product RNA species from the NDV and VSV polymerase reactions annealed specifically to the homologous virion RNA species. Transcriptive intermediates containing product RNA attached to the respective virion RNA could be identified in both systems.
Defining Power: Electrons and the Law

This is the second of two Articles by Professor Ferrey on the California electricity crisis. In this Article, he discusses the unresolved question of whether the common law or the Uniform Commercial Code governs disputes concerning deregulated electric markets.
Legitimacy and Law-Making Alliances

Law-making institutions seek legitimacy to secure compliance with the norms that they generate. In the international setting this quest is made more difficult by the lack of both an identifiable public that international organizations represent and competing normative prescriptions for international law-making. In light of these obstacles, various legitimacy theories attempt to evaluate the law-generating efforts of international organizations. These theories consider whether the organizations are representative, inclusive, or effective. Law-making organizations that satisfy the legitimacy criteria articulated in these theories can claim legitimacy and expect greater compliance as a result.Although these theories are helpful, a powerful new phenomenon forces us to reassess international law-making legitimacy and how we evaluate it. International organizations now form law-making alliances with each other in order to tackle complex problems. These alliances claim, and sometimes are credited with, legitimacy derived from the very relationship between the organizations. Any framework that assesses the legitimacy of these alliances needs to approach "derivative legitimacy" by examining that relationship. A framework must also address the particular concerns raised by these alliances, including marginalization, entrenchment, false legitimacy claims and abuse.This article suggests that derivative legitimacy should be evaluated by examining whether the international law-making alliances employ good procedures. Although process is not a perfect assessment tool, it is best suited to ensure that the relationship between law-making alliances fosters inclusion and effectiveness. Good procedures also ward against the negative consequences these alliances generate. Although the necessary procedures will depend upon the particular organizations involved and their goals, the available procedures include: participatory mechanisms (such as notice and comment procedures), transparency procedures, rules against corruption, and rules requiring explanation.
Peritoneal insufflation for laparoscopy with a Laerdal resuscitation bag

Abstract A technique for inducing pneumoperitoneum with an adapted Laerdal resuscitation bag is described. This technique, as compared to conventional methods, offers economy, simplicity, availability of parts, ease of repair, versatility, and potential greater safety. Room air may be used for insufflation. The technique may be useful in countries where conventional instrumentation is less available or economically prohibitive.
The role of caregiver social networks in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract Although the theoretical importance of social networks in alleviating caregivers' mental distress when a family member has Alzheimer's disease is well-established, empirical support has been less definitive. For 58 patient-spouse caregiver dyads, we used an array of network variables within a causal model of stress. We found that: caregiver networks are associated with severity of illness but not duration; increased illness severity was associated with network members assuming new roles; social networks had indirect effects but not direct or buffering effects on caregiver psychological distress; religious attendance had direct and indirect effects on caregiver psychological distress. These findings point to the important, but complex, role that social networks play in affecting caregivers. However, because of its cross-sectional nature and the relatively small sample size, this study will require replication on larger samples using longitudinal analyses.
Flurbiprofen Derivatives in Alzheimer's Disease : Synthesis, Pharmacokinetic and Biological Assessment of Lipoamino Acid Prodrugs

Flurbiprofen (FLU) lipophilic prodrugs with lipoamino acids (LAA) 6a- e were synthesized for brain delivery. Chemical and plasmatic stability of prodrugs 6a- e as well as pharmacokinetic distribution studies for the prodrugs 6b and 6d were carried out. FLU prodrugs 6a- e were compared to the parent drug for their ability to inhibit binding of [F-18]FDDNP to in vitro formed beta-amyloid protein (Abeta fibrils). FLU-LAA conjugates showed a typical prodrug stability profile, being stable in PBS at pH 7.4 and releasing the active drug in plasma. Compound 6d yielded a slow accumulation of FLU in the brain. In the in vitro inhibition assay, all prodrugs except for the prodrug with the longest alkyl side chain ( 6e) were effective as inhibitors of [F-18]FDDNP binding to Abeta fibrils with EC50 values in the 10-300 nM range. The different brain accumulation kinetics shown by FLU and its LAA conjugate 6d suggested a possible slow-releasing activity of FLU by these prodrugs in the brain or a differential pharmacological effect deserving further, detailed studies on their biodistribution and pharmacological profile.
Specific outgrowth from neurons of ventral mesencephalic grafts to the catecholamine-depleted striatum of adult hosts.

Abstract Grafts of fetal ventral mesencephalon including substantia nigra have been used to correct some motor deficits produced by unilateral destruction of the dopaminergic nigrostriatal pathway in rats. Histochemical studies have shown that dopaminergic neurons within the graft send processes from the graft to the host neuropil, wherein they form synapses. The results of numerous immunocytochemical studies indicate, however, that a large proportion of neurons in grafts are not catecholaminergic. Whether or not the nondopaminergic neurons in grafts project to the host brain in unknown. The purpose of the present study was to combine immunocytochemistry and retrograde tracing with fluorogold to identify the cell types which project from grafts to the host striatum. Tissue from the ventral mesencephalon of E15 fetuses was placed into the 6-hydroxydopamine denervated striatum of graft recipients. Six weeks to 6 months following transplantation, fluorogold was pressure injected under stereotaxic control immediately adjacent to the ventral mesencephalic grafts; after 4 days CNS tissue was prepared for light microscopic immunocytochemistry. Ventral mesencephalic grafts contained cell bodies immunoreactive for enkephalin, GAD, substance P, and serotonin in addition to those immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase. Some cells of each immunochemically defined type were retrogradely labeled by the fluorogold injection into the host brain. Nevertheless, more catecholaminergic and serotonergic cells projected from grafts to the fluorogold injection site than did other cell types. Since many of the nonmonoaminergic neurons in grafts are probably projection neurons, our results suggest that the extent of neurite outgrowth from grafted cells is influenced by the surrounding target tissue.
Economic outcomes associated with olanzapine versus risperidone in the treatment of uncontrolled schizophrenia.

SUMMARYObjective: This study, based upon a database analysis, compares a one-year drug treatment course (duration of therapy, concomitant use of typical antipsychotics, anxiolytics/antidepressants or anti-Parkinsonians) and direct health care costs of uncontrolled schizophrenia patients initiated on olanzapine versus risperidone.Methods: The integrated medical and pharmacy claims of a large, geographically diverse, commercially insured population of 1.6 million employees, retirees and dependents were used to conduct this analysis. Patients who initiated outpatient treatment with either olanzapine or risperidone (no prescription for olanzapine or risperidone during a 1-year period prior to the initiation) and with uncontrolled schizophrenia were included. Drug treatment course and associated health care costs (calculated based on charges) during the subsequent 12-month period were examined using univariate and multivariate methods.Results: 431 patients initiated on risperidone and 142 initiated on olanzapi...
Gardiner C. Means’s Institutional and Post-Keynesian Economics

Gardiner Coit Means died on 15 February 1988 at the age of 91. A man of continuous activity in the public arena and not a professional academic,1 Means was one of the leading and most conspicuous economists of Franklin Roosevelt’s ‘new deal’. But scholars will long remember him as the co-author, with Adolf A. Berle, Jr, of one of the truly epochal books of the twentieth century, The Modern Corporation and Private Property (1932; 1933) and subsequently as a principal developer of the ideas of administered pricing and administered inflation. The impact which The Modern Corporation and Private Property had on people’s (and not only economists’) understanding of the modem economy is in the same class as that of John Maynard Keynes’s General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money (1936). Indeed, the relationship of Means’s theories to those of Keynes, and of post-Keynesian economics, is one facet of the historic interest in Means.
Effects of Black Oxide and a WC/a-C:H Coating on the Micropitting of SAE 52100 Bearing Steel

In this study, the capabilities of a WC/a-C:H coating and a black oxide surface treatment to affect the onset of micropitting in SAE 52100 bearing steel are examined. Experiments are conducted in which three pairs of contacts (steel on steel, black oxide on black oxide and steel on WC/a-C:H), and three sliding-to-rolling ratios of −10, 0 and +10 % are tested at high contact stress and in a low Λ regime. Results reveal that the WC/a-C:H coating can dramatically increase the micropitting resistance of the coated part, achieving a much higher number of contact cycles and higher levels of contact stress than the steel-on-steel contact. On the other hand, it is found that black oxide surface treatments provide no improvement in micropitting resistance over untreated steel–steel contacts. Specimens tested at the higher slide-to-roll ratios have lower rates of wear with the black oxide surface treatment than with the untreated steel–steel contacts.
Improving distributed system performance using machine availability prediction

In a distributed system, a set of networked machines provides a highly available service to remote clients. Traditional distributed systems like AFS [2] make a clear distinction between clients and servers. Client machines may be poorly administered, cheaply constructed, often offline, and possibly malicious. In contrast, servers are expected to be well-administered and almost always online. Highly available servers ensure the availability and reliability of the distributed service.
Reply to ``Comment on `First-principles calculation of the superconducting transition in MgB 2 within the anisotropic Eliashberg formalism' ''

The preceding comment by Mazin et al. on our work makes two claims: (1) the calculated variations of the superconducting energy gap within the $\ensuremath{\sigma}$ or the $\ensuremath{\pi}$ bands are not observable in real samples due to scatterings, and (2) the Coulomb repulsion $\ensuremath{\mu}(\mathbf{k},{\mathbf{k}}^{\ensuremath{'}})$ is negligibly small between $\ensuremath{\sigma}$ and $\ensuremath{\pi}$ states and thus should be approximated by a diagonal $2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}2$ matrix in the $\ensuremath{\sigma}$ and $\ensuremath{\pi}$ channels. Here, we point out that the former does not affect the validity of our theoretical work, which is for the clean limit, and that the latter is based on an oversimplified estimation of $\ensuremath{\mu}.$
Finite element model updating: Multiple alternatives

Abstract This paper focuses on the model updating of complex structural systems. Traditional model updating techniques optimize an objective function to calculate one single optimal model that behaves similarly to the real structure and represents the physical characteristics of the structure. One can argue that due to numerical and identification errors, and the limited number of sensors in structures, a local minimum rather than the global minimum could be a better representation of the physical properties of the structure. The methodology proposed in this paper identifies physically different local minima, giving the analyst the power to decide what model would better describe the system base on his/her experience and engineering judgment. Two examples are used in the paper to explore the capabilities of the technique. First, a simple numerical example is used to demonstrate the existence and correct identification of local minima in a model updating objective function. The second problem identifies model updating alternatives for a finite element model of the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge. Acceleration records from the bridge’s permanent instrumentation are used to update the model.
Mantle-Lherzolite Xenoliths from Eastern China: Petrogenesis and Development of Secondary Textures

Spinel-lherzolite xenoliths in alkali basalts from eastern China have porphyroclastic to equigranular textures displaying varying degrees of deformation and subsolidus re-equilibration. The proportions of minerals in these xenoliths vary from 52 to 72% homogeneous olivine (Fo88-91); 11 to 26% orthopyroxene (Wo0.9.1.6; En88-90; Fs8.7.10.7), with minor discontinuous variations of Al2O3, FeO, and CaO; 6 to 19% clinopyroxene (Wo43.47; En49.51; Fs3.7.6.7); and 1 to 5% spinel, with similar Mg# (79.6 to 82.6), but wider variations of Al2O3 and Cr2O3 (100Cr/(Cr + Al + Fe3+) = 8.1 to 23.6). Although previous trace-element and isotopic studies have shown that at least two distinctly different mantle sources were sampled by Cenozoic basalts, mineralogical heterogeneities seem to be minor within the spinel-peridotite-facies lithosphere beneath eastern China. These xenoliths experienced limited interaction with the host basaltic magma during eruption. Symplectites of secondary, minute silicates, titanomagnetite, and s...
Reinforcing Isotope and Atomic-Weight Concepts in General Chemistry Using Internet-Based Mass-Spectral Data

This paper describes how isotope and atomic-weight concepts are enhanced for students using mass-spectral data from interactive Internet sites. The class considers mass spectra for compounds containing only monoisotopic elements and later for polyisotopic elements. Students calculate molecular weights based on data they acquire from mass spectra on the Internet.
A new approach to the method of nonlinear variation of parameters

A nonlinear variation of parameters method for ordinary differential equations is obtained, which generalizes existing techniques. The versatility of the method is demonstrated by studying the asymptotic behavior of solutions of perturbed equations.
PPP EXCHANGE RATE RULES, MACROECONOMIC (IN)STABILITY, AND LEARNING

In order to maintain competitiveness, governments in developing economies seem to have pursued purchasing power parity (PPP) exchange rate rules, by adjusting the nominal devaluation rate in response to real exchange rate deviations from an intermediate target. This article shows that these rules are likely to induce macroeconomic instability, as they generate sunspot-driven fluctuations that are in fact learnable by agents in the Expectational-Stability sense. It finds that the existence of these “learnable sunspots” depends, among others, on open economy features, including the degree of openness and the degree of exchange rate pass-through to consumer's import prices.
Magnetic and structural properties of Fe/sub 3/GeN/sub x/

Magnetic and structural properties of Fe/sub 3/GeN/sub x/ have been investigated. The FCC (face centered cubic) phase of FeGe absorbs nitrogen to x=0.24. As a result of absorption, the Curie temperature and room temperature magnetization decrease from 736 K and 137 emu/g to 614 K and 74 emu/g, respectively. The HCP (hexagonal close packed) phase of Fe/sub 3/Ge, however, transforms to either FCC tetragonal phase, or a combination of these upon nitrogenation. The tetragonal nitride phase forms at a reaction temperature of 600 degrees C to 650 degrees C in a flowing atmosphere of ammonia. The phase is paramagnetic at room temperature and appears to order antiferromagnetically below 100 K. >
On country risk: Some preliminary results

An extraordinary growth in foreign investment by U.S. firms has generated a need for forecasting country risk. We present a behavorial decision model. Expert information is used to identify salient risk factors, and experts provide judgmental ratings of these variables for a sample of countries. A linear model that is able to simulate the experts' decisions is developed from the data.
Association of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 with adipocyte number, insulin resistance and liver function markers

Background—Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) is an inflammatory chemokine known to induce adipocyte dedifferentiation and insulin resistance. Inflammation, insulin resistance, and obesity have been implicated in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods—Fasting plasma from 43 baboons were assayed for MCP-1, insulin, glucose, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Adipocyte number and volume were measured via biopsies of omental adipose tissue. The homeostatic model assessment method (HOMA) was used to estimate systemic insulin resistance. Results—Sex and age adjusted correlations were significant for MCP-1 with adipocyte number (r = −0.42; P = 0.01), adipocyte volume (r = 0.38; P = 0.02), HOMA (r = 0.45; P = 0.004), ALT (r = 0.46; P = 0.03) and AST (r = 0.45; P = 0.03). Conclusions—These results suggest that MCP-1 is related with adipocyte dedifferentiation and systemic insulin resistance, thereby potentially contributing to the development of NAFLD.
A comparative study of the chemical kinetic characteristics of small methyl esters in diffusion flame extinction

The diffusive extinction limits of a series of methyl ester flames, from methyl formate to methyl decanoate, have been measured in the counterflow configuration. Kinetic and transport effects are decoupled by use of the transport-weighted enthalpy term and reveal that the smaller methyl esters (C2 to C4) exhibit unique behavior while methyl esters inclusive and larger than methyl butanoate exhibit similar global reactivity to that of the n-alkanes. In order to interpret the experimental observations, a previous kinetic model for methyl butanoate and methyl decanoate has been extended to encompass the oxidation of the smaller methyl esters. Model rate of production analyses highlight the chemical kinetic specificities of methyl formate, methyl ethanoate, and methyl propanoate, through distinctive fuel reaction channels in methanol elimination, methyl radical production, and H atom production respectively. The similarity of global reactivity among the larger methyl esters and n-alkanes is elucidated based on the formation of formaldehyde and ethylene, which drive indifferently the growth of the radical pool at high temperature, thus the flame oxidation rate is similar at the global level.
Silicon is Deposited in Leaves of New Guinea Impatiens

Although silicon (Si) is not considered to be an essential plant nutrient because most plants can complete their life cycle without it, many investigators have shown a positive growth effect, such as increased disease resistance, if Si is present. The effect of Si on many ornamental and greenhouse crop species has not been extensively studied. In greenhouse culture, plants are not exposed to Si from mineral soil, so Si should be added to the fertilizer solutions with mineral soil or soil amendments if there are benefits of Si. The initial step in determining potential benefits of Si requires the documentation of Si uptake and localization within the plant. We grew New Guinea impatiens for four weeks and exposed them to 2.0 mM Si in the form of K 2 SiO 4 . Using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis, we detected Si deposits on the leaf margins in unique, Si-filled cells, primarily near hydathodes. We did not detect Si in the xylem. This report is the first documentation of Si uptake or accumulation in any species of the Balsaminaceae family.
Longitudinal and Hall conductances in model alkali fullerides A 3 C 60

We have calculated the low-temperature, low-field longitudinal and transverse conductivities for various tight-binding models intended to represent the conduction band in ${A}_{3}{\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ compounds, by directly applying the Kubo-Greenwood formula to finite clusters. It turns out that the ``universal'' dependence of Hall coefficient on lattice constant found for ${\mathrm{K}}_{3}{\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ and ${\mathrm{Rb}}_{3}{\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ [L. Lu et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 74, 1637 (1995)] cannot be accounted for by appealing to two types of disorder, one of which (merohedral disorder) has an energy scale that varies strongly with lattice constant and another of which (that we model as Anderson disorder) does not. The calculations also reveal enormous violations of Matthiessen's rule: it is even possible to decrease the resistivity by introducing merohedral disorder into a system which had only Anderson disorder.
Effects of the substrate on the determination of hardness of thin films by the nanoscratch and nanoindentation techniques: A comparative study for the cases of soft film on hard substrate and hard film on soft substrate.

Hardness values of Au/Fused Quartz and SiO2/Al systems, which correspond to the cases of soft film on hard substrate and hard film on soft substrate, were measured using both the nanoindentation and nanoscratch techniques. The effect of substrate interaction on the measurement of hardness using the nanoscratch technique is found to be much less pronounced compared to that of the nanoindentation technique. Such reduction in substrate effect is attributed to the features used in the nanoscratch analysis: (a) direct imaging of residual profile allows for the effect of pile-up/sink-in to be considered, (b) lower normal loads applied as compared to the nanoindentation, (c) effect of elastic recovery of the plastically deformed surfaces is included in the nanoscratch analysis, whereas the nanoindentation analysis is based solely on the load-displacement data. Moreover, experiments with residual scratch depths as shallow as 3 nm are used to estimate hardness of thin films; a promising indication for the use of such technique in the measurements of ultra-thin films.
Row Width and Plant Density Effect on Corn Forage Hybrids

Information is needed on the agronomic factors that maximize yield and quality of recently developed corn (Zea mays L.) forage hybrids. This study was conducted to determine the effect of row width (76, 56, and 38 cm) and plant density (64 200, 79 000, and 88 900 plants ha -1 ) on forage yield and quality of forage specialty corn hybrids and a dual-purpose hybrid. Two of the forage hybrids evaluated were leafy hybrids, and the other one was characterized as a nutridense hybrid. The increase in forage dry matter (DM) yield when row width was narrowed from 76 to 38 cm was similar for the forage hybrids and the dual-purpose hybrid (1.1 and 0.9 Mg ha -1 , respectively). However, there were significant differences in response to decreased row width between the two leafy hybrids evaluated. The narrow row production system did not impact corn forage quality nor was there a hybrid × row width interaction. As plant density increased from the lowest level to the highest, forage DM yield increased by 1.6 Mg ha -1 , DM digestibility decreased from 652 to 641 g kg -1 , crude protein decreased from 76 to 72 g kg -1 , add detergent fiber increased from 259 to 270 g kg -1 , and neutral detergent fiber increased from 441 to 456 g kg -1 , In addition, there was no hybrid × plant density interaction for these parameters. It was concluded that these forage hybrids will react to changes in row width and plant density similar to dual-purpose hybrids.
Crystal and molecular structure of hydroxyjatrophone C

The structure of the title compound has been established by means of the x-ray diffraction method on a single crystal. The crystals are othorhombic, space groupP212121 (No. 19) witha=10.222(4),b=10.622(2),c=16.434(3) A,z=4. Full-matrix least squares refinement led toR=4.9%. The molecular stereochemistry, bond distances, bond angles, torsion angles, and hydrogen bond scheme have all been determined.
Virtual reality surgery: neurosurgery and the contemporary landscape.

Objective Virtual reality-simulated environments have been used for the training of personnel, most notably for military applications, for more than 35 years. The advantages conferred by being able to train novice personnel in a low- to no-risk simulated environment have long been appreciated by the medical community. The recent availability of affordable gigahertz-range microprocessors (once the exclusive domain of the Cray supercomputer) has made photorealistic graphical rendering and manipulation of virtual surgical substrates a reality. Concomitant advances in artificial intelligence systems and the portability of patient-specific magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomographic scanning, and angiographic image data presage the emergence of the surgical simulator as a modern surgical training adjunct. An overview of the status of surgical simulation with regard to its adaptability to current surgical training regimens is presented. Methods Extensive MEDLINE, Internet, and other database searches spanning the years 1960 to 2002 were conducted in an effort to delineate the status of simulated surgical environments. Results As would be expected, most articles addressing surgical simulation as their primary focus have been published in the past decade. A review of this literature demonstrates the broadest application in the field of endoscopic (and laparoscopic) procedures, most likely as a result of the reduced engineering burden with respect to incorporation of a haptic interface. Conclusion The realization of ergonomically acceptable haptic interfaces remains elusive. Improvements in graphical rendering and the incorporation of artificial intelligence functions signal the certain emergence of surgical simulators as a viable supplement to the Halstedian method of surgical training.