cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Can Force Still Be Effective

The Dynamics of Coercion: American Foreign Policy and the Limits of Military Might. By Daniel Byman, Matthew Waxman. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2002. 298 pp., $44.95 cloth (ISBN: 0-521-80991-6), $23.00 paper (ISBN: 0-521-00780-1). In recent years we have witnessed the frequent use of US military might to deal with international threats (such as those from terrorist groups and rogue states) with arguably mixed results. The Dynamics of Coercion , a RAND study conducted by Daniel Byman and Matthew Waxman, looks beyond these experiences and asks generally why the vast superiority of US military power since the end of the Cold War has not consistently led to successful foreign policy. Specifically, Byman and Waxman attempt to explain why some US coercive efforts succeed and some do not. They show how the US style of coercion can inadvertently promote opportunities and incentives for counter-coercion by adversaries who cleverly exploit US vulnerabilities. Byman and Waxman define coercion as “the use of threatened force, and at times the limited use of actual force to back up the threat, to induce an adversary to change its behavior” (p. 1). Thus what is central to coercion is achieving external influence through the threat of military might rather than the actual application of brute force. The mechanisms of coercion that Byman and Waxman discuss include (1) power base erosion, reducing key support for a regime; (2) unrest, creating dissatisfaction with a regime; (3) decapitation, jeopardizing leadership security; (4) weakening, debilitating a country as a whole; and (5) denial, preventing battlefield success (p. 50). They also mention …
Arbitrary Metrics in Multiple-Indicator Models of Latent Variables:

It is well known that only ratios of lambda coefficients are identified from moments among measured variables in most covariance structure models with latent variables. Typically, researchers establish a metric for latent variables by fixing the lambda coefficient for an arbitrarily selected reference indicator. This paper demonstrates that this practice can produce arbitrary calibration of latent variables, undermine interpretation of metric parameters, and lead to invalid cross-population comparisons. The problem is illustrated with hypothetical examples. Analytical results are derived, and implications for sociological research are discussed.
The uptake and extrusion of monovalent cations by isolated heart mitochondria

The factors involved in the movement of monovalent cations across the inner membrane of the isolate heart mitochondrion are reviewed. The evidence suggests that the energy-dependent uptake of K+ and Na+ which results in swelling of the matrix is an electrophoretic response to a negative internal potential. There are no clear cut indications that this electrophoretic cation movement is carrier-mediated and possible modes of entry which do not require a carrier are examined. The evidence also suggests that the monovalent cation for proton exchanger (Na+ greater than K+) present in the membrane may participate in the energy-dependent extrusion of accumulated ions. The two processes, electrophoreti c cation uptake (swelling) and exchange-dependent cation extrusion (contraction) may represent a means of controlling the volume of the mitochondrion within the functioning cell. A number of indications point to the possibility that the volume control process may be mediated by the divalent cations Ca+2 and Mg+2. Studies with mercurial reagents also implicate certain membrane thiol groups in the postulated volume control process.
Prostaglandin and thromboxane biosynthesis inhibitors

All acidic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs suppress the activity of microsomal cyclo-oxygenase of arachidonic acid; therefore, these drugs are equipotent inhibitors of prostaglandin and thromboxane generation. A non-acidic anti-inflammatory agent, 1′- (isopropyl-2-indolyl)-3-pyridyl-3-ketone (L 8027), selectively inhibits biosynthesis of thromboxane A2 in blood platelets and in lungs.
Stick–slip motion in a friction oscillator with normal and tangential mode coupling

Abstract The note deals with a two-degree-of freedom frictional oscillator in contact with a surface moving at constant velocity. The mass of the system can oscillate freely on a vertical spring inside the slider. The contact between the slider and the surface is characterized by a constant friction coefficient. The paper describes the construction of solutions including those leading to a limit cycle with stick–slip. The conditions on the parameters that lead to the existence of these limit cycles are derived. This analysis shows that the coupling between normal and tangential vibrations can lead to stick–slip phenomena.
Benchmarking data mining algorithms

Data mining is the process of sifting through the mass of organizational (internal and external) data to identify patterns critical for decision support. Successful implementation of the data mining effort requires a careful assessment of the various tools and algorithms available. The basic premise of this study is that machine-learning algorithms, which are assumption free, should outperform their traditional counterparts when mining business databases. The objective of this study is to test this proposition by investigating the performance of the algorithms for several scenarios. The scenarios are based on simulations designed to reflect the extent to which typical statistical assumptions are violated in the business domain. The results of the computational experiments support the proposition that machine learning algorithms generally outperform their statistical counterparts under certain conditions. These can be used as prescriptive guidelines for the applicability of data mining techniques.
Dynamic Voltage Scaling for Multitasking Real-Time Systems With Uncertain Execution Time

Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling can save energy for real-time systems. Frequencies are generally assumed proportional to voltages. Previous studies consider the probabilistic distributions of tasks' execution time to assist dynamic voltage scaling in task scheduling. These studies use probability information for intratask voltage scheduling but do not sufficiently explore the opportunities for intertask scheduling to save more energy. This paper presents a new approach to combine intra- and intertask voltage scheduling for better energy savings in hard real-time systems with uncertain task execution time. Our approach takes three steps: 1) We calculate statistically the optimal voltage schedules for multiple concurrent tasks, using earliest deadline first scheduling for an ideal processor that can change the frequency continuously; 2) we then adapt the solution to a processor with a limited range of discrete frequencies, using a polynomial-time heuristic algorithm; and 3) finally, we improve our solution, considering the time and energy overheads of frequency switching for schedulability and energy reduction. Our simulation shows that the new approach can save more energy than existing solutions while meeting hard deadlines.
Aerobic exercise: effects on parameters related to fatigue, dyspnea, weight and body composition in HIV-infected adults

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on physiological fatigue (time on treadmill), dyspnea [rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and forced expiratory volume at 1 s (FEV 1 )], weight, and body composition in HIV-1-infected adults (200-499 X 10 6 CD4+ cells/l). Design: The study was a randomized, wait-listed, controlled clinical trial of aerobic exercise in HIV-1-infected adults on signs and symptoms associated with HIV-1 infection or its treatment. Methods: Sixty subjects were recruited and randomized to two groups. Experimental subjects completed a 12-week supervised exercise program. Control subjects continued usual activity from baseline to week 12 and were then were enrolled in the exercise program. Results: At baseline, the groups were similar in age, weight, body mass index [mean body mass index (BMI) > 271, time since diagnosis, number of symptoms, CD4+ cell count, and number on protease inhibitor therapy (n = 7). Despite disproportionate attrition from the exercise group (38%), exercise subjects were able to remain on the treadmill longer, lost weight, decreased BMI, subcutaneous fat, and abdominal girth when compared to controls. The improvement in weight and body composition occurred without a decrease in kilocalories consumed. Exercise did not seem to have an effect on RPE, a surrogate for dyspnea, and FEV 1 . There was no significant difference in either the change in CD4+ cell count, percentage or copies of plasma HIV-1 RNA between groups. Conclusions: We conclude that supervised aerobic exercise training safely decreases fatigue, weight, BMI, subcutaneous fat and abdominal girth (central fat) in HIV-1-infected individuals. It did not appear to have an effect on dyspnea.
Testosterone stimulates the biosynthesis of m-aconitase and citrate oxidation in prostate epithelial cells.

Abstract Mitochondria (m-)aconitase is a rate-limiting regulatory enzyme in prostate epithelial cells which minimizes citrate oxidation by these cells. This unique metabolic characteristic is responsible for the ability of the prostate to accumulate and secrete extraordinarily high levels of citrate. Testosterone is a major regulator of prostate growth and function, and stimulates citrate oxidation. Therefore, an important action of testosterone might be its stimulation of m-aconitase in prostate epithelial cells. Studies were conducted with rat ventral prostate (VP) epithelial cells to establish the effect of testosterone on the level of m-aconitase and corresponding citrate oxidation. Physiological concentrations (10−7–10−10 M) of testosterone in vitro markedly increased the level of m-aconitase in freshly prepared isolated prostate epithelial cells. This increase was apparent within 3 h of exposure to the hormone. The stimulatory effect of testosterone on m-aconitase was abolished by actinomycin D and by cycloheximide. Both the level of m-aconitase enzyme and the level of m-aconitase activity were similarly increased by testosterone treatment. Correspondingly, testosterone increased the rate of mitochondrial citrate oxidation while having no effect on the rate of isocitrate oxidation, thereby demonstrating that the action of testosterone is specifically targeted at the m-aconitase reaction. In vivo studies revealed that castration markedly decreased and testosterone administration increased the m-aconitase level of prostate epithelial cells. In contrast, neither liver nor kidney m-aconitase level was altered by castration. These studies demonstrate that testosterone regulates the biosynthesis of m-aconitase in prostate epithelial cells. It appears that this is a cell-specific effect since neither kidney nor liver m-aconitase was affected. The studies reveal that prostate epithelial cells contain a constitutive and an androgen-induced m-aconitase component; whereas, kidney and liver contain a constitutive but no androgen-induced m-aconitase. Unlike essentially all other cells, m-aconitase is a regulatory and regulated enzyme in prostate epithelial cells.
Stimulated emission of surface plasmons by electron tunneling in metal‐barrier‐metal structures

We show that correlation currents arising from the superposition of pairs of states on distinct sides of a potential barrier in metal‐barrier‐metal structures can result in inelastic tunneling through the emission of surface plasmons. Net gain of an externally excited plasmon field is possible.
American Pediatric Society 2011 Presidential Address: Earthquakes, Tectonic Shifts in Graduate Medical Education, and the Role of the APS in Finding Solid Ground

American Pediatric Society 2011 Presidential Address: Earthquakes, Tectonic Shifts in Graduate Medical Education, and the Role of the APS in Finding Solid Ground
Weibull modulus of hardness, bend strength, and tensile strength of Ni−Ta−Co−X metallic glass ribbons

Abstract In this study, the variations in mechanical properties of Ni−Co−Ta-based metallic glasses have been analyzed. Three different chemistries of metallic glass ribbons were analyzed: Ni45Ta35Co20, Ni40Ta35Co20Nb5, and Ni30Ta35Co30Nb5. These alloys possess very high density (approximately 12.5 g/cm3) and very high strength (e.g. >3 GPa). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the amorphicity of the ribbons. Mechanical properties were measured via a combination of Vickers hardness, bending strength, and tensile strength for each chemistry. At least 50 tests were conducted for each chemistry and each test technique in order to quantify the variability of properties using both 2- and 3-parameter Weibull statistics. The variability in properties and their source(s) were compared to that of other engineering materials, while the nature of deformation via shear bands as well as fracture surface features have been determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Toughness, the role of defects, and volume effects are also discussed.
Generalized implicit functions for computer graphics

We describe a method of generalizing implicit functions by use of modal deformations and displacement maps. Modal deformations, also known as free vibration modes, are used to describe the overall shape of a solid, while displacement maps provide local and fine surface detail by offsetting the surface of the solid along its surface normals. The advantage of this approach to geometric description is that collision detection and dynamic simulation become simple and inexpensive even for complex shapes. In addition, we outline an efficient method for fitting such models to three dimensional point data.
Dietary Anthocyanin-Rich Tart Cherry Extract Inhibits Intestinal Tumorigenesis in APCMin Mice Fed Suboptimal Levels of Sulindac

A promising approach for cancer chemoprevention might be a combination therapy utilizing dietary phytochemicals and anticarcinogenic pharmaceuticals at a suboptimal dosage to minimize any potential adverse side effects. To test this hypothesis, various dosages of anthocyanin-rich tart cherry extract were fed in combination with suboptimal levels of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug sulindac to APCMin mice for 19 weeks. By the end of the feeding period, fewer mice that were fed the anthocyanin-rich extract in combination with sulindac lost more than 10% of body weight than mice fed sulindac alone. Mice that were fed anthocyanin-rich extract (at any dose) in combination with sulindac had fewer tumors and a smaller total tumor burden (total tumor area per mouse) in the small intestine when compared to mice fed sulindac alone. These results suggest that a dietary combination of tart cherry anthocyanins and sulindac is more protective against colon cancer than sulindac alone.
Relationship of estrogen receptors and protein synthesis to the mitogenic effect of estrogens.

1,3,5(10)-Estratriene-3,16 alpha-diol (16 alpha-E2) is an estrogen which is ineffective in stimulating DNA synthesis in the prepuberal rat uterus when administered to rats in a single injection in doses up to at least 5 micrograms. However, it acquires the same high mitogenic potency as 1,3,5(10)-estratriene-3,17 beta-diol (17 beta-E2) if a 5-micrograms dose is administered over a 12-h period via sequential injections of 1 microgram each at 3-h intervals. In an attempt to explain this phenomenon we have found that the ability of an estrogen to maintain a stimulated rate of protein synthesis for 12 h correlates directly with its ability to stimulate DNA synthesis. A single injection of 16 alpha-E2 stimulates protein synthesis at 4 h to a degree comparable to 17 beta-E2. By 12 h when the effect of 17 beta-E2 is maximal, the effect of one injection of 16 alpha-E2 has diminished to control levels. However, if 16 alpha-E2 is administered via sequential injections at 3-h intervals, protein synthesis at 12 h is stimulated to the same extent achieved by a single injection of 17 beta-E2. We also have examined the fate of estrogen receptors in relationship to these changes in protein and DNA synthesis. The effects of a single injection of 16 alpha-E2 differ in four respects from those of 17 beta-E2: 1) the retention of receptors in the nuclear form is shorter; 2) replenishment of receptors to the cytosolic form is more rapid and greater than 80% complete within 3 h; 3) fewer receptors are processed, i.e. the loss of receptors detectable by exchange assay is smaller; and 4) the overshoot in receptor replenishment 24 h after an injection is smaller. Overall, the stimulation of DNA synthesis is positively related to the rate of protein synthesis 12 h after an injection of estrogen, the retention of receptors in the nuclear form, and the amount of receptor processing.
Wandering vector multipliers for unitary groups

A wandering vector multiplier is a unitary operator which maps the set of wandering vectors for a unitary system into itself. A special case of unitary system is a discrete unitary group. We prove that for many (and perhaps all) discrete unitary groups, the set of wandering vector multipliers is itself a group. We completely characterize the wandering vector multipliers for abelian and ICC unitary groups. Some characterizations of special wandering vector multipliers are obtained for other cases. In particular, there are simple characterizations for diagonal and permutation wandering vector multipliers. Similar results remain valid for irrational rotation unitary systems. We also obtain some results concerning the wandering vector multipliers for those unitary systems which are the ordered products of two unitary groups. There are applications to wavelet systems.
Volume changes in the critical solution region

Recent theoretical and experimental studies suggest that (∂2V/∂x2)T, p and (∂2H/∂x2T, p vanish at the critical solution point. We report dilatometric measurements of volume changes in the system n-C6H14 + n-C6F14 at 21 compositions and eight temperatures in the region of its critical solution point at t0 = 22.71°C and xc = 0.35. By mixing two standard mixtures of mole fractions which bracket xc, the magnitude of the volume change is reduced by a factor of ten, permitting the use of a finer capillary. Qualitatively the curves of VEm against x become nearly flat as one approaches the critical point; associated with this is a large increase in the coefficient of thermal expansion. Curve fitting in the critical region is difficult, but analytical and graphical treatments give similar results. At the critical composition (∂2Vm/∂x2)T, p = − 16 cm3 mol−1 at 24.000°C and decreases in magnitude to about − 4 cm3 mol−1 at 22.715°C, about 0.01 K above the critical temperature. This latter value is closer to zero by a factor of about four than any value reported previously and lends further support to the view that the limiting value is in fact zero.
Multirate Estimation for the Machining Process Under Multirate Noise

Asynchronous measurement of process output characterizes a typical machining process in batch production. Various sensors are used for in-process measurement of process variables such as powers, forces, and vibration while the quality of parts and the tool conditions can be measured only by the postprocess inspection in most applications. The multirate scheme is being proposed as an efficient tool for integrating real-time sensor signals with postprocess inspection data for estimating immeasurable variables of the machining process. The machining process is subject to the process noise of varying frequencies including the within-cycle drift, cycle-to-cycle variation, and batch-to-batch variation. A multirate observer for simultaneous state and parameter estimation is built after the propagation of errors along a series of machining cycles is derived. Case studies with the grinding process demonstrate the efficacy of the developed algorithm.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Observations of eruptive activity at Santiaguito volcano, Guatemala

Abstract The study of active vent dynamics is hindered by the difficulty of directly observing features and processes during eruptive periods. Here, we describe some recent observations of the summit dome activity of Santiaguito volcano, Guatemala, from the vantage point of its parent, Santa Maria. We have taken 12 h of digital video of activity over a 3-year period, which includes 28 eruptions and numerous smaller gas exhalations. Santiaguito persistently extrudes a dacitic lava flow, and produces strombolian eruptions on the order of every 0.5 to 2 h; we have documented many of these eruptions as emitting from a ring-shaped set of fractures in the dome surface. The ring has apparently grown from 70 m diameter in 2002 to 120 m in 2004, which could reflect an increasing conduit opening. Eruptions typically consist of 30–60 s of vigorous emissions; measurements of emission exit velocities have ranged from 5 to 30 m/s. The observed ash bursts, correlated with measured extrusion rates, suggest an incremental plug flow through the conduit. Bubble generation and shearing at the conduit boundaries produce the ring-shaped ash and gas pulses. Continued field studies from this unique observation site may help relate summit emission characteristics to conduit geometry and eruption processes.
If I say I'll talk more, then I will. Correspondence training to increase peer-directed talk by socially withdrawn children.

Investigations of verbal control of behavior using correspondence training procedures have focused on the development of verbal control of nonverbal behavior. The present study targeted two sociall...
Complex Inhibition of OmpF and OmpC Bacterial Porins by Polyamines

The effects of four polyamines (putrescine, cadaverine, spermidine, and spermine) on the activity of bacterial porins OmpC and OmpF were investigated by electrophysiology. Membrane vesicles made from the outer membrane of Escherichia colistrains expressing only OmpC or OmpF were reconstituted into liposomes probed by patch clamp. The channel activity was recorded in control solutions and in the presence of increasing concentrations of a specific polyamine. In all cases, concentration- and voltage-dependent inhibitory effects were observed. They include both the suppression of channel openings and the enhancement of channel closures as well as the promotion of blocked or inactivated states. OmpF and OmpC, although highly homologous, have distinct sensitivities to modulation, especially by spermine. This compound inhibits OmpF in the nanomolar range, which is in agreement with its potency on eukaryotic channels. Putrescine was the least effective (upper millimolar range) and also had inhibitory effects qualitatively distinct from those exerted by the other polyamines. The compounds appear to bind to at least two distinct binding sites, one of which resides within the pore. The potencies to this site are lower when the polyamines are applied from the extracellular side than from the periplasmic side, suggesting an asymmetric binding site.
Efficiency of multiexciton generation in colloidal nanostructures.

Solar energy production, one of the world’s most important unsolved problems, has the potential to be a source of clean, renewable energy if scientists can find a way of generating cheap and efficient solar cells. Generation of multiple excitons from single photons is one way to increase the efficiency of solar energy collection, but the process suffers from low efficiency in bulk materials. An increase of multiexciton generation efficiency in nanocrystals was proposed by Nozik in 2002 and demonstrated by Schaller and Klimov in 2004 in PbSe nanocrystals. Since then, scientists have observed efficient multiexciton generation in nanostructures made of many semiconductors using various measurement techniques.Although the experimental evidence of efficient carrier multiplication is overwhelming, there is no complete theory of this phenomenon. Researchers cannot develop such a theory without a self-consistent description of the Coulomb interaction and a knowledge of mechanisms of electron and hole thermalizati...
The Properties of Three-Phase Systems Deduced With the Aid of Matrices

ANY MATHEMATICAL process, even though fully developed in theoretical form, takes on more meaning, and thereby becomes more useful, if it is applied to familiar concepts. If in this application certain conclusions can be reached with ease which ordinarily are reached with difficulty, the utility of the mathematical process is still more conclusively demonstrated.
708 WILSON'S DISEASE FIBROBLASTS–MUTANTS OF INTRACELLULAR COPPER TRANSPORT

Wilson's Disease (WD) and Menkes' Disease (MD) are two disorders of copper (Cu) metabolism. Cultured skin fibroblasts from patients of either disorder demonstrated elevated intracellular Cu. Different abnormal cytosolic Cu binding ligands have been demonstrated in these two types of cells indicating different molecular mechanisms. MD cultured fibroblasts have increased sensitivity to the cytotoxic effects of Cu. WD fibroblasts were cultured in MEM with 10% fetal bovine serum (average Cu content 50.2 ± 20.1 ng/ml). Cu (CuSO4) was added to media to make concentrations of 2,10,15,20,25,30,35 ug/ml. Confluent cultures were incubated in the Cu enriched media for 48 hours. At 15 hours in media with >30 ug Cu/ml, cytotoxic effects of Cu were observed in some cultures. At the end of the experimental period, cultures exposed to 30 ug Cu/ml exhibited cytotoxicity. This cytotoxic level is comparable to normal cells and higher than that of MD cells (10 to 25 ug Cu/ml). Determination of intracellular Cu content showed that the cytotoxic effect of Cu was observed in WD cells at an intracellular Cu concentration of 2200 ng/mg cell protein. This is comparable to that for normal cultured fibroblasts (1913 ± 608 ng/mg cell protein) and higher than that for MD cells (975 ± 331 ng/mg cell protein). These results show that the block in intracellular Cu transport in WD and MD cells occurs at different sites in the transport chain and further establishes the validity of the WD fibroblast as a model of Wilson's Disease.
Vibrational spectroscopy of perfluoropropionic acid in the region between 1000 and 11 000 cm−1

Abstract Fully fluorinated compounds, known as perfluorinated compounds, are widely used in industrial applications. Recently, some perfluorinated acids have been detected in the atmosphere and the tissues of animals. Some perfluorocarboxylic acids are emitted to the atmosphere from the thermolysis of fluoropolymers and the degradation of fluorotelomer alcohols. The gas phase vibrational spectrum of a representative perfluorocarboxylic acid in the region between 1000 and 11 000 cm −1 has been investigated, with emphasis on the vibrational overtone spectrum in the near-IR region. The most intense transition in the fundamental spectrum is the CF 3 stretch while in the overtone region, the O–H stretch carries most of the intensity. A comparison of the perfluorocarboxylic acid vibrational spectrum with the hydrocarbon analog acid is discussed.
Subpicosecond streak camera measurements at LLNL: from IR to x-rays

An ultra fast, sub-picosecond resolution streak camera has been recently developed at the LLNL. The camera is a versatile instrument with a wide operating wavelength range. The temporal resolution of up to 300 fs can be achieved, with routine operation at 500 fs. The streak camera has been operated in a wide wavelength range from IR to x-rays up to 2 keV. In this paper we briefly review the main design features that result in the unique properties of the streak camera and present its several scientific applications: (1) Streak camera characterization using a Michelson interferometer in visible range, (2) temporally resolved study of a transient x-ray laser at 14.7 nm, which enabled us to vary the x-ray laser pulse duration from ~2-6 ps by changing the pump laser parameters, and (3) an example of a time-resolved spectroscopy experiment with the streak camera.
Phytate and Zinc Contents of Coffees, Cocoas, and Teas

Several samples of coffee, both instant and percolated, hot cocoa mixes, and teas, both instant and brewed, were analyzed for phytate and zinc. Phytate:zinc molar ratios were calculated. An estimation of the phytate contribution from the beverages to the total diet presented. Depending upon the source selected and the strength and quantity of the beverage consumed, there is concern that a high take of these beverages may exacerbate an already marginal zinc status.
Crossed-beam dc slice imaging of chlorine atom reactions with pentane isomers

We present the first in a series of detailed investigations of the reaction of Cl atoms with hydrocarbons in crossed beams. This study focuses on reaction with the pentane isomers n-pentane, isopentane, and neopentane. These crossed-beam ion imaging experiments rely on “universal” 157 nm probe of the pentyl radical product, with dc sliced detection providing the scattering distributions directly. The results for the different target reactants were studied at two collision energies: ∼5 and ∼9 kcal/mol. The scattering results are quite similar for all reactants, suggesting that the nature of the abstraction site has surprisingly little influence on the dynamics. The angular distributions are broad with a backscattered peak at low collision energy and a sharp forward peak at high collision energy. The translational energy distributions are strongly coupled to the angular distributions and show, for the forward scattered products, a sharp peak at 80% of the collision energy for all reactants at both collision...
Non-nicotinic transmission during ganglionic block with chlorisondamine and nicotine.

Abstract When chlorisondamine was infused i.v. into cats, stimulation of the preganglionic cervical nerve caused the appearance of two non-nicotinic responses of the nicitating membrane, designated the late response (LR) and the late, late response (LLR). The LR reached a maximum after a brief period of stimulation (10 sec) had been terminated, and was blocked by small i.v. doses of atropine. The component of the LR which occurred during a 10 sec period of stimulation was reduced or abolished by eserine, but the component that occurred after determination of the stimulation was potentiated. The LLR reached a maximum about 2 min after cessation of a 40 sec volley to the preganglionic nerve and was unaffected by pretreatment with atropine or eserine. Similar late responses of the nictitating membrane were observed with hexamethonium, mecamylamine, or desensitizing doses of nicotine. It is concluded that the LR results from activation of ganglionic muscarinic receptors, and the LLR results from a non-cholinergic stimulation of ganglionic neurons.
Ramsey method for Auger-electron interference induced by an attosecond twin pulse

We examine the archetype of an interference experiment for Auger electrons: two electron wave packets are launched by inner-shell ionizing a krypton atom using two attosecond light pulses with a variable time delay. This setting is an attosecond realization of the Ramsey method of separated oscillatory fields. Interference of the two ejected Auger-electron wave packets is predicted, indicating that the coherence between the two pulses is passed to the Auger electrons. For the detection of the interference pattern an accurate coincidence measurement of photo- and Auger electrons is necessary. The method allows one to control inner-shell electron dynamics on an attosecond timescale and represents a sensitive indicator for decoherence.
Cognitive distortion and disability in chronic low back pain

Numerous authors have suggested that cognitions play an important role in the development, maintenance, and treatment of chronic low back pain (CLBP). However, little evidence exists to support the association between cognitive variables and the CLBP problem. The present study examined the relationship of cognitive distortion, as measured by the Cognitive Error Questionnaire, to disability, as measured by the Sickness Impact Profile, in a sample of 138 CLBP patients. As predicted, cognitive distortion was consistently related to several aspects of disability. The cognitive variables accounted for variance in disability beyond that accounted for by severity of pain, number of pain treatments, and depression. Also as predicted, cognitive distortion concerning low back pain situations was more closely correlated with disability than was distortion concerning general, nonpain situations. Overgeneralization was the specific cognitive error most closely and consistently correlated with disability. The results are interpreted as consistent with a cognitive-behavioral model of CLBP.
Fatal bleeding due to acquired factor IX and X deficiency: a rare complication of primary amyloidosis; case report and review of the literature.

Amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis is a clonal plasma cell disorder, resulting in tissue and organ immunoglobulin deposits. Often multiple organ systems are involved, but occasionally it can impact predominantly one organ. Extensive amyloid involvement of the spleen can present with an acquired factor deficiency associated hemorrhage due to the selective clotting factor adsorption of the amyloid fibrils. Life-threatening bleeding due to deficiencies of individual or combinations of clotting factors is, fortunately, a relatively unusual problem in the context of AL amyloidosis, but presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Though publications documenting successful resolution of amyloidosis-associated factor deficiency after splenectomy are scarce (seven cases reviewed in our study), the present lack of robust alternative therapies suggests consideration of splenectomy in the case of refractory bleeding with exhausted conservative measures in the context of biopsy-negative but clinically likely amyloidosis (findings of MGUS, splenomegaly, and unexplained acquired coagulation factor deficiencies). In the absence of tissue diagnosis, other rare causes of factor X deficiency should be considered, including liver disease, certain tumors (spindle cell thymoma, renal/adrenal carcinoma, gastric carcinoma), and mycoplasma pneumonia (a rare association with transient factor X deficiency). The low sensitivity associated with tissue biopsies in splenic predominant amyloidosis may be due to lower amyloid burden in other, more commonly biopsied tissues. As splenectomy itself can be a high-risk procedure, obtaining multiple fat aspirates looking for AL deposition in an effort to obtain tissue proven diagnosis is a prudent and low-risk diagnostic necessity.
The influence of test parameters on TEM cell measurements of ICs

The IEC 61967-2 TEM cell standard allows for variations in test parameters which may cause variations in the measured emissions from integrated circuits (ICs). To test the impact of these parameters, two printed circuit boards were designed within the IEC standard using ldquopoorrdquo PCB design strategies and using ldquogoodrdquo design strategies. Emissions from three pin-for-pin compatible 8051 microcontrollers were tested. Emissions were measured using both PCBs, changing the PCB configuration, and changing test parameters like the program running on the IC, the rise time of the input clock, and I/O switching. Emissions from the ldquopoorrdquo PCB were about 3-8 dB higher than emissions from the ldquogoodrdquo PCB. A change in the program run by the IC, the clock rise-time, and I/O caused a 4-15 dB change in emissions. Emissions differed considerably among the ICs. Possible causes for variations in emissions with the test parameters are discussed.
Self-Triggering Under State-Independent Disturbances

This note extends the prior work in L2 stability of self-triggered feedback systems, where the next task release time and finishing time are predicted based on the sampled states. A self-triggering scheme is proposed, which relaxes the assumption in the prior work that the magnitude of the process noise is bounded by a linear function of the norm of the system state. We show that the sample periods generated by this scheme are always greater than a positive constant. We also provide state-based deadlines for delays and propose a way that may enlarge those deadlines without breaking L2 stability.
Consolidation, Concentration, And Valuation In The Banking Industry

We assess whether gains in wealth associated with bank consolidation are the result of reduced competition by examining effects of merger announcements on values of bidders, targets and rivals. The results suggest that gains in wealth are not due to increases in market power at the level of individual banks. Specifically, we find that returns to bidders, targets and rivals are unrelated to the effects of mergers on concentration.
Excessive yawning and thermoregulation: two case histories of chronic, debilitating bouts of yawning

Background This report details the case histories of two women who suffer from chronic and debilitating episodes of excessive yawning in the absence of sleep problems.
Beyond the Textbook: An Approach to Facilitating Student Understanding of Organizational Culture in Organizations

Organizational culture has been likened to an onion, an umbrella, sticky glue, and an iceberg. Due to the multifaceted nature of the subject matter, presenting and explaining this topic to students can be a daunting task. This article describes an assignment that allows students to discover and understand organizational culture by conducting a cultural analysis of organizations. Student groups collaboratively complete this assignment by locating a research site, administering a questionnaire, processing quantitative data using a statistical analysis software package, analyzing qualitative data using content analysis with analytic coding, developing a formal written report, and making an oral presentation to representatives of the organization under study. The various components of the exercise allow students to practice critical and reflective thinking skills, explore quantitative and qualitative research methods, refine written and oral communication skills, apply knowledge and skills from various softwa...
Applying Numerical Algebraic Geometry to Kinematics

Many problems from kinematics are questions about mappings between algebraic spaces. This chapter presents a mathematical framework for such problems and discusses how numerical algebraic geometry, a computational approach based mainly on polynomial continuation, can be applied to solving them. Publicly available software for numerical algebraic geometry, such as the Bertini package, facilitates the solution of such problems, allowing kinematicians to solve with ease problems that were previously considered extremely difficult or intractable.
High-Performance Energy-Efficient Multicore Embedded Computing

With Moore's law supplying billions of transistors on-chip, embedded systems are undergoing a transition from single-core to multicore to exploit this high-transistor density for high performance. Embedded systems differ from traditional high-performance supercomputers in that power is a first-order constraint for embedded systems; whereas, performance is the major benchmark for supercomputers. The increase in on-chip transistor density exacerbates power/thermal issues in embedded systems, which necessitates novel hardware/software power/thermal management techniques to meet the ever-increasing high-performance embedded computing demands in an energy-efficient manner. This paper outlines typical requirements of embedded applications and discusses state-of-the-art hardware/software high-performance energy-efficient embedded computing (HPEEC) techniques that help meeting these requirements. We also discuss modern multicore processors that leverage these HPEEC techniques to deliver high performance per watt. Finally, we present design challenges and future research directions for HPEEC system development.
GridAnt: a client-controllable grid workflow system

Process management is an extremely important concept in both business and scientific communities. Several workflow management tools have been proposed in recent years offering advanced functionality in various domains. In the business world, workflow vendors offer commercial and customized solutions targeting specific users. In the scientific world, several open-source workflow management tools are freely available. However they are directed toward service aggregation rather than distributed process management. Little consideration is given to the needs of the client in terms of mapping the process flow of the client. In the grid community it is essential that the grid users have such a tool available enabling them to orchestrate complex work-flows on the fly without substantial help from the service providers. At the same time it is important that the grid user not be burdened with the intricacies of the workflow system. With the perspective of the grid user in mind, an extensible client-side workflow management system, called GridAnt, has been developed. This paper discusses the design principles, functionality, and application of the proposed GridAnt workflow manager.
IMMIGRANT ARAB AMERICANS AND ALCOHOL USE: LONGITUDINAL STUDY

English proficiency is associated with alcohol use in some immigrants groups, but little is known about its association among Arab Americans. Ethnographic work suggests gender, religion, education, and age influence prevalence of alcohol use among Arab Americans. Two years prospective study of recent Iraqi refugees and non-Iraqi Arab immigrants in Michigan using bilingual surveys and interviewers. At Time 1, prevalence of lifetime alcohol use was 20.5 % with males, Christians, better educated, older, and those with greater proficiency in English more likely to report ever drank. At Time 2, lifetime prevalence of drinking had increased to 34.0 %. In analysis of male new drinkers, risk factors were Christian, older age and greater proficiency in English. This study confirms drinking among recent immigrant Arab Americans varies by subgroups and suggests English proficiency may contribute to the increase in prevalence over time.
Infrastructures and Their Discontents: Implications for Ubicomp

Infrastructures (persistent socio-technical systems over which services are delivered) are normally taken for granted by their users, but are powerful forces of constraint and enablement with implications for the design, use, and adoption of ubiquitous computing. To approach the study of infrastructure from an ethnographic perspective, we conducted an exploratory field study of people for whom infrastructure had become visible due to some form of active engagement (rejecting, augmenting, or caretaking). From considering together individuals as disparate as homeschoolers, gated community dwellers, and voluntary simplicity advocates, a number of challenges and opportunities for ubicomp emerged in terms of appropriation, empowerment, and reflection.
Study of energy and performance of space-time decoding systems in concatenation with turbo decoding

Recent studies have shown that using space-time code is an effective approach to increase the data rate over wireless channels. Space-time turbo (ST-Turbo) codes formed by concatenating space-time codes with turbo codes, take advantage of both the high diversity order of space-time systems and the randomness of the turbo codes. In this paper, we compare two ST-Turbo codes, i.e., simple space-time turbo codes (SiSTT) and turbo trellis-coded modulation space-time block codes (TTCM-STBCs), and their approximate versions with respect to performance and energy consumption for both general-purpose processor and synthesized implementations. The approximations are aimed at reducing the computational complexity and include reduction in the number of paths, number of iterations, and datapath computations. Analysis of the simulation results show that SiSTT-based versions should be used for higher SNR applications where low energy consumption is the primary design objective, and TTCM-STBC-based versions should be used where performance is the primary design objective. Finally, four ST-Turbo algorithms (i.e., baseline SiSTT and its energy-efficient approximate version and the baseline TTCM-STBC and its energy-efficient approximate version) have been synthesized in 0.18-/spl mu/m CMOS technology and the implementations compared with respect to area, power, and latency.
Geropsychiatric Nursing: The State of the Science:

Increasing longevity, a rising prevalence of psychiatric and medical comorbidities, and dramatic changes in the nature and organization of health care delivery systems have direct implications for ...
Testing Human Hair for Drugs of Abuse. II. Identification of Unique Cocaine Metabolites in Hair of Drug Abusers and Evaluation of Decontamination Procedures

Two unique metabolites of cocaine, cocaethylene and norcocaine, were identified by GC/MS in the hair of cocaine users. Their presence cannot be explained by environmental contamination; thus, their presence together with cocaine provides convincing evidence that cocaine is excreted in hair after active cocaine administration. The amount of cocaine in hair predominated over all metabolites generally by a factor of 5-10. Two washing procedures were evaluated for their efficiency in removal of cocaine from environmentally contaminated hair. Neither procedure completely removed cocaine, suggesting that false positives can result from environmental contamination. Analysis of the methanolic wash of the hair of cocaine users also revealed the presence of cocaine metabolites, indicating that washing removes cocaine from the interior as well as from the exterior surface of hair during decontamination procedures,
Inhibition of myocardial apoptosis reduces infarct size and improves regional contractile dysfunction during reperfusion

Objective: Myocardial apoptosis is primarily triggered during reperfusion (R) through various mechanisms that may involve endonuclease to cleavage genomic DNA in the internucleosomal linker regions. However, the relative contribution of myocardial apoptosis to development of myocardial injury during R remains unknown. In the present study, we examined whether inhibition of apoptosis with aurintricarboxylic acid (ATA), an endonuclease inhibitor, during R reduces infarct size and improves regional contractile function. Methods and Results: In two groups of chronically-instrumented dogs, 1 h of left anterior descending (LAD) coronary occlusion was followed by 24 h of R with infusion of saline (control, n = 8) or ATA (1 mg/kg/h, n = 8) into the left atrium starting 5 min before R and continuing for 2 h. ATA significantly reduced apoptotic cells (TUNEL staining) in the peri-necrotic myocardium (12±1%* vs. 36±4%), consistent with the absence of DNA laddering. To confirm inhibition of apoptosis with ATA, densitometrically, Bcl-2 (% of normal myocardium) was significantly increased vs. control (102±12* vs. 68±9) and Bax as well as the activated caspase-3 were significantly reduced vs. control (108±17* vs. 194±42 and −29±4* vs. 174±43, respectively). ATA significantly improved segmental shortening (3.3±1.2* vs. −1.8±0.7%) and segmental work (79.3±11.3* vs. 7.1±5.8 mmHg/mm) in area at risk myocardium, and reduced infarct size (TTC staining, 27±0.2* vs. 37±0.5%), confirmed by lower plasma creatine kinase activity. In addition, myocardial blood flow (0.9±0.1* vs. 0.4±0.1 ml/min/g) and endothelial-dependent maximal vascular relaxation (119±6* vs. 49±8%) were significantly improved. Myeloperoxidase activity in area at risk myocardium, a marker for neutrophil accumulation, was also significantly reduced (17±4* vs. 138±28 ΔAbs/min). Conclusions: These data suggest that the inhibition of apoptosis during R is associated with a reduction in infarction, improvement in regional contractile and vascular endothelial functions as well as augmentation in myocardial blood flow. * P <0.05 vs. control group.