cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Single-crystal magnetic-susceptibility measurements on the nearly two-dimensional Heisenberg system [ ( N H 3 C H 2 C H 2 ) 2 N H 2 ] [Cu Cl 4 ]Cl

The magnetic susceptibilities of both polycrystalline and single-crystal samples of the compound diethylenetriammonium chlorocuprate (II), [${(\mathrm{N}{\mathrm{H}}_{3}\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_{2}\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_{2})}_{2}$N${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$] [Cu${\mathrm{Cl}}_{4}$]Cl, have been measured from 1.6 to 160 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The compound undergoes a phase transition to an antiferromagnetic state at 11.8 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K with the $c$ crystallographic axis as the preferred axis. Above the transition, the magnetic properties of this material reflect its two-dimensional structural characteristics, with the predominate feature being a ferromagnetic alignment of spins within a network of isolated copper ions. The high-temperature polycrystalline data have been fitted to a variety of models for a quadratic lattice. When the data are fit to the two-dimensional Heisenberg model for the quadratic lattice, a value of $\frac{J}{k}=18.7$ \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K results. Although an excellent fit is achieved over a wide temperature range, the data are not able to discriminate between models in which there are variable degrees of anisotropy in the exchange. Finally, a comparison is made between [${(\mathrm{N}{\mathrm{H}}_{3}\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_{2}\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_{2})}_{2}$N${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$] [Cu${\mathrm{Cl}}_{4}$]Cl and the thoroughly studied ${[{\mathrm{C}}_{2}{\mathrm{H}}_{5}\mathrm{N}{\mathrm{H}}_{3}]}_{2}$Cu${\mathrm{Cl}}_{4}$.
Reaction time of pre-adolescent chimpanzee under conditions of negative reinforcement.

An “allowable interval” for responding has been arbitrarily used in animal reaction time studies, having no empirical basis in systematic investigations of an animal's optimal response capability. The results of this research, in which negative reinforcement (low amperage shock) was used, indicate that the reaction time of the pre-adolescent chimpanzee in an experimental situation approximating that of routine laboratory performance testing is highly similar to that of man. In programming tasks, which involve single or multiple stimuli to which a discrete response must be made, suggestions are made concerning the allowable time interval for responding.
Externally driven granular systems

Abstract A system of granular material resting in a bin is driven by creating voids in the bulk of the medium. Modeling the grains by a collection of mono-disperse discs, we simulate the two dimensional version of the system. Using a ‘pseudo dynamics’ to study the dynamics of the system, we observe that the system reaches a steady state in long times. We study different properties of the steady state.
Assembly of the N-cadherin complex during synapse formation involves uncoupling of p120-catenin and association with presenilin 1

N-cadherin is an adhesion receptor that participates in both interaction between immature pre- and postsynaptic neurons and in the stabilization and function of matured neuron-neuron synapses. To better understand how the N-cadherin complex contributes to synapse formation, we examined its distribution and composition during synapse formation in the chick ciliary neurons. It was found that at early phases of synaptogenesis, N-cadherin is distributed in small clusters on the cell surface and primarily associates with p120-catenin and beta-catenin. In contrast, as synaptic contacts matured, larger N-cadherin clusters were found localized adjacent to the active zone and associated with PS1 and gamma-catenin, while p120- and beta-catenin were dispersed among other cell regions, including axons. As it is known that PS1 binds gamma-catenin and that uncoupled p120-catenin can alter the cytoskeleton via its effect on Rho GTPases, these changes in the molecular composition of the N-cadherin complex (represented by the uncoupling of p120-catenin and association with PS1) may correspond to distinct functional states of the complex involved in synaptic maturation.
Design and evaluation of a coaxial transmission line fixture to characterize portland cement concrete

Abstract Electrical characterization of portland cement concrete (PCC) is necessary for reliable operation of many electromagnetic nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques. Examples of such techniques include ground penetration radar (GPR). For that purpose, PCC specimens were cast, and their complex permittivity and magnetic permeability were measured over a wideband of frequencies (1 MHz to 10 GHz) using both time domain and frequency domain measurement techniques. As part of an ongoing research project, three set-ups to measure the dielectric properties of PCC were designed. The measurements are carried out over a frequency range of 0.1 MHz to 10 GHz. The three different set-ups are parallel plate capacitor (0.1 MHz–40 MHz), coaxial transmission line (0.1 GHz–1 GHz), and TEM horn antenna (0.5 GHz– 10 GHz). This paper discusses the development of the coaxial transmission line fixture. It was designed to allow the evaluation of large PCC specimens and obtain an average effect of PCC components. A time domain reflectometry (TDR) setup was used in the design of the fixture and in testing its performance. A calibration scheme was developed and used to calibrate the fixture. Using a two-port S-parameter model, the complex permittivity and magnetic permeability of the PCC specimens were evaluated by frequency domain measurement. Time domain measurement techniques were based on one-port S-parameter model. Evaluation of the set-up using especially molded PCC specimens showed that curing status can be detected at a lower frequency using the imaginary component of the relative permittivity.
Recurrent Pulmonary Emboli Secondary to Right Atrial Thrombus Around a Permanent Pacing Catheter: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

This report describes the management of a woman with multiple pulmonary emboli secondary to a large right atrial clot which had formed around her permanent transvenous pacemaker. She continued to have pulmonary emboli despite adequate anticoagulation. Removal of the catheter and pacing required right atriotomy under cover of cardiopulmonary bypass. Additionally, eight English language case reports of symptomatic pericatheter thromboses are reviewed. In these cases, pericatheter clot resulted either in right-sided inlet obstruction or pulmonary emboli. The mortality rate was 75%. Although the cause for our patent's thromboembolic events is uncertain, congestive heart failure was a predisposing factor in 75% of the other reported cases. We suggest that pacemaker patients in congestive heart failure might benefit greatly from chronic anticoagulation.
Buckling of Composite Panels Subjected to Biaxial Loading

Buckling loads and modes of flat composite laminates were measured and compared with theory. Laminates were subjected to simply supported boundary conditions and biaxial loading. Displacements were measured both mechanically using dial gages and optically using shadow moire. Predictions were obtained numerically using the Galerkin method. Buckling loads were measured during 49 tests. Overall, measurements confirmed expected trends. Buckling loads increased with an increase in transverse tensile loading as predicted. Measured buckling modes were also well predicted, including an observed increase in mode number with an increase in transverse tensile loading. Measured buckling loads were not as well predicted, and substantial error was encountered during individual tests. Discrepancies between measurement and prediction are reported in terms of the percentage error in prediction. The average and standard deviation in percentage error for 49 measurements was 1.6 percent ±15.4 percent. These discrepancies are thought to be due to specimen imperfections, difficulties in simulating truly “simply supported” boundary conditions and/or nonuniform loading of the composite panels.
Pressure Diffusion Waves In Porous Media

Pressure diffusion wave in porous rocks are under consideration. The pressure diffusion mechanism can provide an explanation of the high attenuation of low-frequency signals in fluid-saturated rocks. Both single and dual porosity models are considered. In either case, the attenuation coefficient is a function of the frequency.
Assessment of the stability of dalteparin sodium in prepared syringes for up to thirty days: An in vitro study

Abstract Background: If a low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) injectable formulation maintains its stability for up to 30 days, substantial cost reductions in hospital stay could be achieved with its use on an outpatient basis in patients who might otherwise be treated with IV heparin as inpatients. Objective: This study was designed to assess the stability for up to 30 days of injectable solutions of the LMWH dalteparin sodium when repackaged in plastic syringes. Methods: In the first part of the study, 1-mL and 3-mL plastic syringes were filled with the contents of a 10,000-IU/mL dalteparin ampule or a 25,000-IU/mL dalteparin multidose vial. In a separate part of the study, 1-mL and 3-mL syringes were filled with doses of 7500 IU and 10,000 IU, respectively, from a 10,000-IU/mL multidose vial. After the syringes were brought to room temperature or 4°C, the stability of dalteparin was assessed over 30 days by measuring anti-factor Xa levels. Results: No significant loss of dalteparin activity was found for up to 30 days in the syringes after storage at room temperature or 4°C. The solutions retained anti-factor Xa activity at room temperature and under refrigeration. Conclusion: Dalteparin is stable for up to 30 days when stored at room temperature or 4°C. The findings suggest that preparation of a postdischarge supply of dalteparin is feasible, contributing to more convenient and effective management of outpatients at risk for thrombotic complications.
At the Interface of Organic and Inorganic Chemistry: Bioinspired Synthesis of Composite Materials

The design of artificial models of the processes of biomineralization has resulted in the union of inorganic materials research and supramolecular organic chemistry. Recent work in this field of bioinspired synthesis of composite organic/inorganic materials is reviewed and prospects for the future are discussed. Attention is focused on the use of self-assembled organic superstructures to template inorganic materials with controlled morphologies.
Humanitarianism with a Sovereign Face: UNHCR in the Global Undertow:

This article examines the global forces that are responsible for the transformation of the meaning and practice of UNHCR's humanitarianism, and asks whether a transformation that enables the organization to become more deeply involved in the internal affairs of states is welcome or worrisome. I open by reviewing the changing relationship between multilateralism, sovereignty, and humanitarianism, and link that conceptual discussion to the international refugee regime. I then argue that the combination of state pressures and the normative principle of popular sovereignty enabled a more political and pragmatic UNHCR to widen its activities under the humanitarian banner and to become more deeply involved in the circumstances in the refugee-producing country. This expanding humanitarian umbrella, I suggest, might be a stealth agent for a policy of containment and a threat to refugee rights. This possibility is suggested by recent debates over the category of internally displaced peoples; the decided preference for repatriation; and UNHCR's involvement in reintegration activities. These developments generate the worrisome possibility that a more pragmatic UNHCR is potentially (though unwittingly) implicated in a system of containment. I conclude by reflecting on UNHCR's role in global politics and the dangers of a sovereignty-led humanitarianism.
Characteristic alterations of serum isoenzymes of amylase in diseases of liver, pancreas, salivary gland, lung, and genitalia

Abstract Multiple isoenzymes of amylase, demonstrable by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide, exist normally in human serum. These correspond, at least in part, to a number of tissue isoamylases and may originate in those tissues. In diseases affecting those tissues, including lung, liver, genital tract, pancreas, and salivary gland, total serum amylase often increases, and the particular isoamylases accounting for the increase have electrophoretic or isoelectric characteristics which permit identification. Analysis of isoenzymes of serum amylase is clinically useful when the cause for hyperamylasemia is uncertain.
Genetics of multidrug resistance.

Despite major advances in the treatment of cancer, resistance to multiple chemotherapeutic agents remains a major cause of treatment failure. Some tumors are initially resistant to many ofthe most active antineoplastic agents. Other tumors that are initially sensitive to cytotoxic agents often recur and frequently develop resistance to a broad range ofchemotherapeutic agents including those used during the initial therapy. Both the intrinsic and acquired resistance to chemotherapeutic agents have been inherently difficult to study in the clinical setting. However, drug-resistant cell lines have provided a tool for studying the mechanisms underlying resistance to the drugs used in chemotherapy. Although drug-resistant cell lines are usually derived by selection for resistance to a single cytotoxic agent, they often develop cross-resistance to a broad spectrum of structurally and functionally unrelated compounds. This phenomenon has been termed multidrug resistance. Recently, an understanding of the biological basis of multidrug resistance has begun to emerge through the application of molecular genetics. This approach has led to the identification, isolation, and characterization of a gene family whose members include genes with the capacity to confer multidrug resistance on otherwise drug-sensitive cells. Molecular probes and antibodies developed as a consequence of genetic analysis promise a new and precise level of understanding of the role of this gene family in human physiology and tumor biology. This knowledge will in turn be crucial for the development of strategies for circumventing multidrug resistance in the clinical setting.
U2: combined ultrasonic microscopy and ultrafast optics for molecular imaging and therapy

We have developed an approach to molecular detection in which a nanoscale object, such as important biological macromolecules, is transduced by a very short (femtosecond) laser pulse into a microscale object directly detectable with ultrasound. We use ultrafast optics to transduce a nanoparticle into a microbubble. Nonlinear absorption of a light pulse, with high peak intensity but negligible pulse energy, produces highly localized disruption via laser-induced optical breakdown (LIOB). This process induces a broadband shock wave and a microbubble within the disruption site. Dendrimers are highly branched molecules serving as nearly ideal templates to form dendrimer nanocomposites (DNC). By trapping metallic domains, the LIOB threshold of the organic host in water and tissue can be considerably decreased. Of particular interest are biologically targeted DNCs. A combination of geometric targeting, through precise optical focusing, and biochemical targeting, with these nanoagents, represents a potentially attractive approach for molecular imaging and therapy. We use ultrasonic microscopy to monitor LIOB. Our results suggest that targeted photodisruption can operate in two regimes: one near threshold in which LIOB can be controlled to produce detectable microbubbles with little cellular injury (i.e., minimally invasive); the second at a different set of parameters where LIOB is highly destructive, killing labeled cells for therapy. There are numerous potential medical applications, including the significant problem of squamous cell carcinoma.
Comments on ‘A necessary and sufficient condition for the positive-definiteness of interval symmetric matrices’

Shi and Gao (1986) gave a necessary and sufficient condition for the positive-definiteness of interval symmetric matrices. We point out that their result is not new and the assumptions can be less restrictive.
Frequency shift filter-based multi-carrier transceiver

It is well known that orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is sensitive to carrier frequency offset (CFO) and suffers from a high peak-to-average ratio. In addition, the performance of OFDM is severely affected by strong co-channel interference and strong narrowband interference. To mitigate the limitations of OFDM, we propose a new multi-carrier transceiver based on frequency-shift filter. A frequency-shift filter can separate spectrally overlapping sub-carrier signals by exploiting the spectral correlation inherent in the cyclostationary modulated signals. To increase spectral efficiency, we increase the percentage of spectral overlap between two adjacent sub-channels. We derive an upper bound and a lower bound on the bit error rate performance of the proposed multi-carrier transceiver in additive white Gaussian noise channel and frequency-nonselective Rayleigh fading channel, respectively. Compared with OFDM, our simulation results show that the proposed multi-carrier transceiver is much less sensitive to CFO and has a lower peak-to-average ratio; moreover, without any additional interference suppression technique, the proposed transceiver has the advantage of being able to mitigate strong co-channel interference with CFO from the intended multi-carrier signal and mitigate strong narrowband interference in additive white Gaussian noise channel and in Rayleigh fading channel in which a large CFO between the transmitted signal and the received signal often occurs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Airborne Emissions of Mercury from Municipal Solid Waste. II: Potential Losses of Airborne Mercury before Landfill

Abstract Waste distribution and compaction at the working face of municipal waste landfills releases mercury vapor (Hg0) to the atmosphere, as does the flaring of landfill gas. Waste storage and processing before its addition to the landfill also has the potential to release Hg0 to the air if it is initially present or formed by chemical reduction of HgII to Hg0 within collected waste. We measured the release of Hg vapor to the atmosphere during dumpster and transfer station activities and waste storage before landfilling at a municipal landfill operation in central Florida. We also quantified the potential contribution of specific Hg-bearing wastes, including mercury (Hg) thermometers and fluorescent bulbs, and searched for primary Hg sources in sorted wastes at three different landfills. Surprisingly large fluxes were estimated for Hg losses at transfer facilities (∼100 mg/hr) and from dumpsters in the field (∼30 mg/hr for 1,000 dumpsters), suggesting that Hg emissions occurring before landfilling may c...
Computer-Aided Instruction as Part of a Management Information System

This paper discusses the application of computer-aided instruction as part of a management information system. The computer presents displays which instruct the student on-line to exercise control of the computer system using a typewriter or a lightpen located at the console work station.
Teaching garbage collection without implementing compiler or interpreters

Given the widespread use of memory-safe languages, students must understand garbage collection well. Following a constructivist philosophy, an effective approach would be to have them implement garbage collectors. Unfortunately, a full implementation depends on substantial knowledge of compilers and runtime systems, which many courses do not cover or cannot assume.This paper presents an instructive approach to teaching GC, where students implement it atop a simplified stack and heap. Our approach eliminates enormous curricular dependencies while preserving the essence of GC algorithms. We take pains to enable testability, comprehensibility, and facilitates debugging. Our approach has been successfully classroom-tested for several years at several institutions.
Mechanism and site requirements for NO oxidation on Pd catalysts

Abstract Kinetic and isotopic methods were used to establish the identity and kinetic relevance of elementary steps and the effects of cluster size for NO oxidation on supported Pd catalysts. O 2 activation on vacancies within nearly saturated oxygen adlayers is the sole kinetically relevant step. Water, present in combustion effluents, inhibits NO oxidation via reversible adsorption on vacancies to form unreactive OH species. The coverage and chemical potential of oxygen are determined by the NO 2 /NO ratios prevalent during catalysis; they are rigorously described by O 2 virtual pressures accessible to measurement. At a given oxygen chemical potential, O 2 activation during 16 O 2 – 18 O 2 exchange and NO oxidation occurs at similar rates, indicating that NO-assisted O 2 activation is not required for NO oxidation turnovers. These findings confirm the rigor and relevance of O 2 virtual pressure as a measurable surrogate for the oxygen chemical potential during catalysis, as well as the role of mobile oxygen species, which allow O 2 dissociation to occur on isolated vacancies. Oxygen chemical potentials prevalent during NO oxidation cause active clusters to exist as PdO at all relevant conditions, consistent with steady-state turnover rates that are insensitive to reductive or oxidative treatments. NO oxidation turnover rates decrease as PdO clusters become smaller because of stronger oxygen binding and lower vacancy concentrations in small clusters. The catalytic consequences of size are similar on PdO and Pt clusters, despite their different oxidation state, consistent with a common requirement for surface vacancies in O 2 activation steps on both catalysts. Such requirements lead to strong NO 2 inhibition effects and to a marked increase in NO oxidation rates when NO 2 adsorbents, present as physical mixtures, decrease NO 2 concentrations near active sites.
Green's function for electron scattering and its applications in low-voltage point-projection microscopy and optical potential

The Green’s function is a powerful mathematical tool in developing the theory of condensed-matter physics. It is usually easy to write the equation in the form of G(r,r Â ), but the critical challenge is to ® nd its analytical or numerical solution. In this paper, the Green’s function for electron scattering is reviewed, and its general solution is given. The theory is extended into the regimes that are suitable for numerical calculations in diA erent scattering geometries, such as the images in the low-voltage lensless point-projection microscopy. An iterative calculation technique is introduced for computing the Green’s function using the Born series, and the result is applied to calculate the optical potential introduced in electron diA raction for recovering the multiple diA use scattering eA ects. With the Green’s function presented here and the theory reported previously by Wang (1996, Phil. Mag. B, 74, 733), quantitative analysis of electron diA use scattering due to short-range order of point defects and thermal diA use scattering is likely to be feasible.
Intra-accumbens injections of ACTH induce excessive grooming in rats

Rats with cannulas implanted into either the nucleus accumbens or the interventricular foramen were handled or handled and injected with 0, 20, 50, 80, or 1,000 ng of ACTH1–24 and then were observed for 1 h afterwards in small testing chambers. Excessive grooming was displayed in animals that had received 80 and 1,000 ng into the nucleus accumbens, but only the 1,000-ng dose was effective in eliciting excessive grooming in animals with intraventricular injections. The excessive grooming found after the 80-ng dose of ACTH in the nucleus accumbens was similar in amount and time course to that observed when 1,000 ng was injected into the ventricular system. The results indicate that the nucleus accumbens is an effective site for ACTH1–24 as it relates to excessive grooming.
Vasoactive Potential of the B1 Bradykinin Receptor in Normotension and Hypertension

The B(1) type receptor of bradykinin (Bk B(1)R) is believed to be physiologically inert but highly inducible by inflammatory mediators and tissue damage. To explore the potential participation of the Bk B(1)R in blood pressure (BP) regulation, we studied mice with deleted Bk B(2)R gene with induced experimental hypertension, either salt-dependent (subtotal nephrectomy with 0.5% NaCl as drinking water) or renin/angiotensin-dependent (renovascular 2-kidney-1-clip). Compared with the wild-type controls, the B(2)R gene knockout mice had a higher baseline BP (109.7+/-1.1 versus 101.1+/-1.3 mm Hg, P:=0.002), developed salt-induced hypertension faster (in 19.3+/-2.3 versus 27.7+/-2.4 days, P:=0.024), and had a more severe end point BP (148+/-3.7 versus 133+/-3.1 mm Hg, P:<0.05). On the contrary, renovascular hypertension developed to the same extent (149.7+/-4.3 versus 148+/-3.6 mm Hg) and in the same time frame (14+/-2.2 versus 14+/-2.1 days). A bolus infusion of a selective B(1)R antagonist at baseline produced a significant hypertensive response (by 11.4+/-2 mm Hg) in the knockout mice only. Injection of graded doses of a selective B(1)R agonist produced a dose-dependent hypotensive response in the knockout mice only. Assessment of tissue expression of B(1)R and B(2)R genes by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction techniques revealed significantly higher B(1)R mRNA levels in the B(2)R knockout mice at all times (normotensive baseline and hypertensive end points). At the hypertensive end points, there was always an increase in B(1)R gene expression over the baseline values. This increase was significant in cardiac and renal tissues in all hypertensive wild-type mice but only in the clipped kidney of the renovascular knockout mice. The B(2)R gene expression in the wild-type mice remained unaffected by experimental manipulations. These results confirm the known vasodilatory and natriuretic function of the Bk B(2)R; they also indicate that in its absence, the B(1)R can become upregulated and assume some of the hemodynamic properties of the B(2)R. Furthermore, they indicate that experimental manipulations to produce hypertension also induce upregulation of the B(1)R, but not the B(2)R, in cardiac and renal tissues.
Thermodilution cardiac output determination with a single flow-directed catheter.

Abstract A single right heart catheter which allows simultaneous determinations of cardiac output, pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and right atrial pressure in critically ill patients is described. The catheter, which utilizes the thermodilution technique of cardiac output determination, may be rapidly and safely passed at the bedside without fluoroscopy.
Distinct Brain Vascular Cell Types Manifest Inducible Cyclooxygenase Expression as a Function of the Strength and Nature of Immune Insults

Induced prostanoid synthesis by cells associated with the cerebral vasculature has been implicated in mediating immune system influences on the CNS, but the cell type(s) involved remain unsettled. To determine whether this might derive from differences in the nature and intensity of the stimuli used to model immune insults, immunochemical and hybridization histochemical methods were used to monitor cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression alone, or in conjunction with endothelial, perivascular, and glial cell markers, in brains of rats treated with varying doses of interleukin-1 (IL-1) or bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Vehicle-treated animals displayed weak COX-2 expression in the meninges, choroid plexus, and larger blood vessels. Rats challenged intravenously with IL-1β (1.87–30 μg/kg) showed a marked increase in the number of vascular-associated cells displaying COX-2-immunoreactivity (ir). More than 90% stained positively for the ED2 macrophage differentiation antigen, identifying them as perivascular cells, whereas none coexpressed endothelial or glial cell markers. Low doses of LPS (0.1 μg/kg) elicited a similar response profile, but higher doses (2–100 μg/kg) provoked COX-2 expression in a progressively greater number of cells exhibiting distinct round or multipolar morphologies, corresponding to cells expressing endothelial (RECA-1) or perivascular (ED2) cell antigens, respectively. Similarly, ultrastructural analysis localized COX-2-ir to the perinuclear region of endothelial cells of LPS-treated but not IL-1-treated rats. We conclude that perivascular cells exhibit the lower threshold to COX-2 expression in response to either IL-1 or endotoxin treatment, and that enzyme expression by endothelial cells requires one or more facets of the more complex immune stimulus presented by LPS.
An incremental approach to structural testing of concurrent software

Structural testing of a concurrent program P involves the selection of paths of P according to a structure-based criterion. A common approach is to derive the reachability graph (RG) of P, select a set of paths of P, derive one or more inputs for each selected path, and force deterministic executions of P according to the selected paths and their inputs. The use of RG(P) for test path selection has the state explosion problem, since the number of states of RG(P) is an exponential function of the number of processes in P.In this paper, we present a new incremental approach to structural testing of P. Based on the hierarchy of processes in P, our incremental testing approach is to integrate processes in P in a bottom-to-top manner. When a set S of processes in P at the same level are integrated, we construct a reduced RG for S such that the reduced RG contains all synchronizations involving the processes in S and some of the synchronizations involving processes at lower levels in order to connect synchronizations involving processes in S. Based on the reduced RG for S, we can select test paths to focus on the detection of interface faults involving processes in S. After the selection of paths, RG(S) is further reduced in order to retain only some of the synchronizations involving processes in S that are needed in order to connect synchronizations between S and other processes in P. Our incremental approach alleviates the state explosion problem and offers other advantages.
Ligament and tendon oxygenation measurements using polarographic oxygen sensors

This pilot study was designed to investigate a new flexible polarographic oxygen sensor for intraarticular oxygen tissue tension monitoring, as a first step in designing a combined simultaneous oxygen and perfusion monitor. The tendoachilles in the sheep provided the initial testing model, which was followed by in vivo testing in the human knee. In the animal model, the tendoachilles was perforated by a single needle through which the new flexible multichannel polarographic oxygen sensor probe was passed. Variations in blood and oxygen delivery to the hindlimb were then produced by tourniquet and fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) changes. The oxygen sensors appropriately recorded current variations proportional to the hypothesized oxygen delivery. In the human model, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in five human knees was exposed during routine total knee replacement surgery and stripped of the fat pad and synovial attachments. The probe was inserted into the substance of the ligament from distal to proximal. Oxygen measurements were taken with the tourniquet elevated and then inflated, in an effort to evaluate the response of the oxygen sensors and to establish the degree of oxygenation that the bone blood supply provides to the ACL. In the sheep, 100% of the time (13 of 13 events), the current changed appropriately to a change in the FiO2. Ninety-four percent of the time (17 of 18 events), the current changed appropriately to a tourniquet change. In the human ACL, the probe was 83% sensitive (5 of 6 events) to a tourniquet change. The FiO2 changes were inconclusive owing to an insufficient amount of time allowed for tissue perfusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The Courts, the NAS, and the Future of Forensic Science

On a recent flight, the person next to me on the crowded airplane began to chat with me. When I told her about what I researched and studied, she looked at me with a big grin. “I LOVE forensic science,” she said. “I watch CSI whenever I can. They can do such amazing things. It’s all so high tech—and incredibly accurate! It’s almost like magic, isn’t it?” She leaned in a bit closer and looked at me intently. “Tell me, is it like that in real life?” I looked at her for a moment before answering. I felt a bit like the older child on the playground about to reveal to her younger friend that Santa Clause doesn’t really exist. I shook my head. “No, I wouldn’t say that CSI’s depiction is entirely realistic. In the real world, forensic science isn’t nearly so glossy. It isn’t nearly so speedy. And most important, it isn’t nearly so foolproof, either.” “Really? That’s too bad,” she told me. She looked at me directly for a brief moment, shook her head, and then looked away. “Well, to tell you the truth, I think I’d rather just keep believing in the television version.” Figuring that reality was not going to be any match for CSI, I shrugged, and went back to the book I was reading. In fact, that casual exchange on an airplane captures something quite important about the traditional forensic sciences, which find themselves at a crossroads. For many longused types of forensic science, including fingerprint identification, firearms identification, handwriting
Notch Strain Analysis of Crossbore Geometry

Many high-pressure components have intersecting bore geometries, such as fluid end module of fracture pumps. Imposition of compressive residual stresses at crossbore intersections can extend the fatigue life, thus approaches such as autofrettage are typically used. Understanding the stress–strain response during autofrettage in the crossbore is critical for fatigue life estimation and design. Crossbore geometry is frequently complex and no closed-form analytical solution is available for prediction of residual stresses. As such, numerical methods like FEA are frequently used. Applying FEA to complicated geometries requires extensive parametric studies which are computationally expensive and time consuming, thus notch strain analysis methods are promising. Elastoplastic stress–strain responses due to varying internal pressures in a crossbore geometry were evaluated using FEA and notch strain analysis formulas including both Neuber and Glinka approaches. To define the theoretical elastic stress concentration factor based on ratios between maximum Mises or hoop stress and pressure or nominal stress four different values were calculated and imported into the notch strain analysis formulas. It was observed that the results of Glinka approach match better to the FEA results particularly by applying the ratio between maximum Mises stress and nominal stress as elastic stress concentration factor.
Reduction of Field Loss by a Video Processing System.

Streaming of 60 de-interlaced fields per second digital uncompressed video with 720x480 resolution without a loss of video fields is one of the desired technologies by scientists in biomechanics. If it is possible to stream digital uncompressed video without dropped video fields, then a sophisticated computer analysis of the transmitted via IEEE 1394a connection video is possible. Such process is used in biomechanics when it is important to analyze athletes performance via streaming digital uncompressed video to a computer and then analyzing it using specific software such as Arial Performance Analysis Systems.
Toward Culturally-Aware, Next Generation Learning Ecosystems

Next generation learning ecosystems will be comprised of intelligent, adaptive environments that utilize one’s cultural footprints to co-create shared narratives and facilitate intercultural understanding. The present paper discusses why digital footprints, cultural signposts, intercultural agents, and transmedia learning are needed to realize relevant learning in virtual environments. The paper introduces notions that may impact the design of culturally-aware information technology for distributed learning are presented.
Universal Metrics of Interstructure Distance for Flexible and Intrinsically Disordered Proteins

Proteins exist along a continuum from order to disorder, and many are now known to contain both folded and unfolded regions. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of intrinsically disordered proteins reveal deficiencies in most current analysis tools. Proteins with disordered regions lack stable references structures and analysis results are influenced by the underlying dependence of most structural measurements on molecule size and polymer length. Our solution (1) identifies an optimal measurement for comparing highly dissimilar conformations, (2) performs a pairwise structural comparison which does not require a reference structure [Fisher and Stultz. 2011], (3) uses an entropic chain model to estimate maximal protein motion, and (4) normalizes to the minimal thermal protein motion of folded proteins based on MD simulation data from the Dynameomics database [van der Kamp, et al. 2010]. This approach provides a universal measurement of interstructure distance (ISD). Per residue ISD provides an improved means of identifying regions of local disorder and flexibility. The output is analogous to root mean square fluctuation but resilient to the errors associated with fitting to a reference structure. Whole molecule ISD provides a basis for multidimensional scaling and conformational clustering. The tool g_isd implements a library of ISD analysis methods designed to be familiar to users of the Gromacs MD package [Hess, et al. 2008].
Does aluminum play well with others? Intrinsic Al-A alloying behavior in 211/312 MAX phases

The search for further control over the properties of MAX phases as well as the promise of discovering compounds with new functionalities has resulted in an increased interest in MAX solid solution...
Allais Theory Offers Explanation for Equity Premium Puzzle

Dynamic equilibrium models of the macroeconomy are often unable to replicate the asset returns observed in financial markets. Both Lucas [1978] endowment economies and equilibrium business cycle models typically predict either lower risk premiums or higher risk-free rates than those found empirically. The low risk premium was designated the “equity premium puzzle” by Mehra and Prescott [1985], and this puzzle has stimulated extensive research into alternative specifications for dynamic equilibrium models2. This paper shows that a model with nonexpected utility preferences can replicate the asset returns observed in financial markets.
CO2 activation on Cu-based Zr-decorated nanoparticles

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been applied to investigate the electronic and CO2 adsorption properties of 55-atom Cu-based nanoparticles (NPs) decorated with Zr atoms (Cu55−xZrx, x = 0–12). Our results revealed that the Zr atoms preferably reside on the surface of the Cu NPs generating sites that chemisorb and activate CO2 (linear to bent geometry and elongation of CO bonds). Importantly, we demonstrate that while the CO2 formation of the activated state on the Cu NPs is endothermic, it becomes barrierless and exothermic on the Zr-decorated NPs. The CO2 activation and chemisorption was attributed to charge transferred from the NPs to the CO2 molecule. We identified the local-site d-band center and, interestingly, the ionization potential of the NP as descriptors correlating with the CO2 chemisorption. As a result, we demonstrate that one can tune the ionization potential of the NPs and, in turn the CO2 chemisorption energy, by varying the Zr content of the NPs. Additionally, we investigated the activity of CuZr NPs as catalysts for CO2 dissociation to CO and determined that Cu54Zr was a very efficient catalyst compared to Cu55. Overall, this work highlights how surface decoration can change the electronic properties of the NPs and result in CO2 activation, which are important steps for designing catalysts that capture and convert CO2 to fuels and chemicals.
Genome‐wide meta‐analysis identifies a novel susceptibility signal at CACNA2D3 for nicotine dependence

Nicotine dependence (ND) has a reported heritability of 40-70%. Low-coverage whole-genome sequencing was conducted in 1,889 samples from the UCSF Family study. Linear mixed models were used to conduct genome-wide association (GWA) tests of ND in this and five cohorts obtained from the database of Genotypes and Phenotypes. Fixed-effect meta-analysis was carried out separately for European (n = 14,713) and African (n = 3,369) participants, and then in a combined analysis of both ancestral groups. The meta-analysis of African participants identified a significant and novel susceptibility signal (rs56247223; p = 4.11 × 10-8 ). Data from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) study suggested the protective allele is associated with reduced mRNA expression of CACNA2D3 in three human brain tissues (p < 4.94 × 10-2 ). Sequence data from the UCSF Family study suggested that a rare nonsynonymous variant in this gene conferred increased risk for ND (p = 0.01) providing further support for CACNA2D3 involvement in ND. Suggestive associations were observed in six additional regions in both European and merged populations (p < 5.00 × 10-6 ). The top variants were found to regulate mRNA expression levels of genes in human brains using GTEx data (p < 0.05): HAX1 and CHRNB2 (rs1760803), ADAMTSL1 (rs17198023), PEX2 (rs12680810), GLIS3 (rs12348139), non-coding RNA for LINC00476 (rs10759883), and GABBR1 (rs56020557 and rs62392942). A gene-based association test further supported the relation between GABBR1 and ND (p = 6.36 × 10-7 ). These findings will inform the biological mechanisms and development of therapeutic targets for ND.
Retrospective Analysis of Seasonal Ocean Growth Rates of Two Sea Winter Atlantic Salmon in Eastern Maine Using Historic Scales

AbstractSubstantial declines of anadromous Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar have occurred throughout its range, with many populations at the southern extent of the distribution currently extirpated or endangered. While both one sea winter (1SW) and two sea winter (2SW) spawner numbers for the North American stocks have declined since the 1950s, the decline has been most severe in 2SW spawners. The first months at sea are considered a period of high mortality. However, early ocean mortality alone cannot explain the more pronounced decline of 2SW spawners, suggesting that the second year at sea may be more critical than previously thought. Atlantic Salmon scales collected by anglers and the state agency from 1946 to 2013 from five rivers in eastern Maine were used to estimate smolt age and ocean age of returning adults. Additionally, seasonal growth rates of maiden 2SW spawners were estimated using intercirculi measurements and linear back-calculation methods. Generalized linear mixed models (Gaussian family, lo...
Using the robust design framework and relative abundance to predict the population size of pallid sturgeon Scaphirhynchus albus in the lower Missouri River.

Several population viability models were constructed to aid recovery in endangered Scaphirhynchus albus, but these models are dependent upon accurate and precise input parameters that are not provided with standard catch per unit effort (CPUE) indices. Nine years of sampling efforts, under the robust design framework, provided 1223 unique captures with an 18·3% recapture rate. The annual population estimates varied from 4·0–7·3 fish rkm−1 for wild and 8·4–18·4 fish rkm−1 for hatchery-reared S. albus. The relationship between abundance (N) and annual trot-line CPUE indices (x = 70.726y + 2·533, R2 = 0·91, P < 0·001) was used to predict an abundance of 13 616 ± 7142 s.e. S. albus in the lower Missouri River. The use of small-scale intensive sampling to develop a relationship with relative abundance indices reported here, may provide a framework for other fisheries management applications where large-scale intensive sampling is not feasible, but catch data are available.
Subject Responses to Electrochromic Windows

Forty-three subjects worked in a private office with switchable electrochromic windows, manuallyoperated Venetian blinds, and dimmable fluorescent lights. The electrochromic window had a visible transmittance range of approximately 3-60%. Analysis of subject responses and physical data collected during the work sessions showed that the electrochromic windows reduced the incidence of glare compared to working under a fixed transmittance (60%) condition. Subjects used the Venetian blinds less often and preferred the variable transmittance condition, but used slightly more electric lighting with it than they did when window transmittance was fixed.
South African ‘know-how’ and Israeli ‘facts of life’: the planning of Afridar, Ashkelon, 1949–1956

In 1949, in the newly founded state of Israel, South African architects Norman Hanson and Roy Kantorowich planned the city of Ashkelon and, within it, the exclusive neighbourhood unit Afridar. Mana...
Legal aspects of ecosystem services: An introduction and an overview

Abstract This introductory contribution to a Special Issue (SI) titled “Legal Aspects of Ecosystem Services” intends to provide both a short introduction on the SI-topic as well as a brief overview on the content of each paper therein. The introduction aims to provide an overall entry point into the topic from a legal as well as an interdisciplinary perspective. It first offers initial insights into the relationship between the rule of law as one socially constructed normative framework and ecosystem services. Furthermore, it also points out interrelations among rule-focused, economic-focused and information-focused incentives, all with the potential to influence human behaviour with regard to ecosystem services. The overview delivers as a sort of short-cut a table of authors, levels of the geopolitical scale addressed, types of analysis implemented and themes focused upon within the Special Issue. It further provides an overview of the main direction of each contribution to this SI. The conclusions strive to provide a brief summary of the “why”, the “when”, the “where”, the “how” and the “what” of current and future research on legal aspect of ecosystem services.
Constitutive Material Models for High Strain Rate Behavior of Cementitious Materials from Material Chemistry—Molecular Dynamics Modeling Methodology with Illustrative Application to Hydrated Calcium Silicate Hydrate Jennite

Significant interest exists in the materials and mechanics research community in predictive constitutive material models, understanding material behavior and characteristics starting from material chemistry molecular representations following molecular dynamics modeling methodologies. Constitutive material models for high strain rate (HSR) loading are mostly phenomenological models obtained from experimental investigations. In this chapter, a computational molecular dynamics modeling methodology based on material chemistry for relevant constitutive material models for behavior under HSR loading, with an illustrative application to hydrated cement paste constituent calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) represented by mineral Jennite molecular structure, is presented.
A Modular Approach to the Synthesis of gem-Disubstituted Cyclopropanes

A diastereoselective, Pd-catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction of geminal bis(boryl)cyclopropanes has been developed. The reaction offers a highly modular approach to the synthesis of tertiary cyclopropylboronic esters. The resulting boronic esters may be further functionalized to afford a range of gem-disubstituted cyclopropanes, which represent an important structural motif in the pharmaceutical industry. Sequential Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions of gem-bis(boryl)cyclopropanes are also reported. The coupling protocols are compatible with a broad range of functionalized aryl and heteroaryl bromides.