cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rapid retrieval and assimilation of ground based GPS precipitable water observations at the NOAA Forecast Systems Laboratory: Impact on weather forecasts

Since 1994, the NOAA Research-Forecast Systems Laboratory (NOAA/FSL) has been evaluating the utility of ground-based Global Positioning System (GPS) remote sensing techniques for operational weather forecasting, climate monitoring, atmospheric research, and other applications such as satellite calibration and validation. Techniques have been developed to acquire, process, distribute GPS integrated precipitable water vapor (IPW) retrievals and ancillary surface meteorological observations every 30-minutes with less than 15 minute latency. Techniques to assimilate these observations into the research version of the Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) numerical weather prediction assimilation/model system running hourly at NOAA/FSL have been developed, and the impacts of these observations on shortrange weather forecast accuracy have been evaluated since 1998 using a 60-km version of the system. These assessments consist of data denial experiments (parallel runs with and without GPS water vapor observations) to determine the impact that GPS-derived integrated (or total column) precipitable water vapor (IPW) retrievals have on short-range moisture and precipitation forecasts. The experiments have been conducted over a portion of the central United States that, from a meteorological perspective, is one of the best-observed areas on Earth. While this greatly facilitates the impact assessments, it also presents a special challenge to a new observing system under evaluation, such as GPS-Met, since relatively few measurements have to “compete” with an enormous number of other (conventional and nonconventional) observations of similar and related parameters. Despite this, five years of experiments in- dicate more or less continuous improvements in 3-hour relative humidity forecasts at pressure levels below 500 hPa. The greatest skill is seen during the cold season when moisture changes are dominated by synoptic-scale weather systems. Perhaps the most significant result is that the impact in improved forecast skill from assimilation of GPS-IPW data has increased each year as the number of stations has increased, suggesting that further increases in the network density over the United States will result in further forecast improvement.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy of the Shoemaker–Levy 9 Impact Sites with UKIRT: CO Emission from the L Site and Additional 5-μm Spectra

Abstract CO emission lines in the 4.7-μm fundamental vibrational band were detected from Jupiter at the Shoemaker–Levy 9 fragment L impact site on July 20, 1994 UT, 4 to 5 hr after impact. For an atmospheric model with a single temperature for the emitting CO, which is assumed to be in local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE), the CO temperature is estimated to beT(CO) = 280 ± 10 K. For this case, the CO column density isN(CO) = 1.2 × 1017cm−2and the estimated mass of CO in the L site is 1.6 × 1013g, with uncertainties of a factor five. The oxygen in this mass of CO can be plausibly explained as coming from material originally in the impactor. Larger amounts of cool CO below the emitting CO could have been present, however. The possible departure of the CO vibrational level populations from LTE and the effect on abundance estimates are discussed qualitatively. Spectra of other impact sites taken at times on the order of days after impact show no detectable changes in the CO absorption lines of impact sites vs nonimpact sites.
TARP modulation of synaptic AMPA receptor trafficking and gating depends on multiple intracellular domains

Previous work has established stargazin and its related family of transmembrane AMPA receptor regulatory proteins (TARPs) as auxiliary subunits of AMPA receptors (AMPARs) that control synaptic strength both by targeting AMPARs to synapses through an intracellular PDZ-binding motif and by modulating their gating through an extracellular domain. However, TARPs γ-2 and γ-8 differentially regulate the synaptic targeting of AMPARs, despite having identical PDZ-binding motifs. Here, we investigate the structural elements that contribute to this functional difference between TARP subtypes by using domain transplantation and truncation. We identify a component of synaptic AMPAR trafficking that is independent of the TARP C-terminal PDZ-binding motif, and we establish previously uncharacterized roles for the TARP intracellular N terminus, loop, and C terminus in modulating both the trafficking and gating of synaptic AMPARs.
Geomorphic disturbance and its impact on darter (Teleostomi: Percidae) distribution and abundance in the Pearl River drainage, Mississippi

We examined channel and point bar changes over time in the Pearl River, a meandering, Coastal Plain stream in Mississippi and Louisiana. We interpreted extreme changes in bar area as evidence of channel instability and related this to the diversity and abundance of darters in the river. Darters were less diverse and abundant in more disturbed reaches in comparison with relatively undisturbed reaches. Darter abundance was positively correlated with proximity to extreme bar-area changes. The relationship between channel instability and darter abundance observed here points to the importance of landscape level approaches to in-stream habitat management. The results suggest that river management practices that prevent or mitigate extreme changes in channel or sediment dynamics should be adopted for the benefit of benthic communities.
Polyester Composite Thermal Neutron Scintillation Films

Novel $^{6}{\rm Li}$ -loaded polyester scintillation films have been designed and fabricated to detect thermal neutrons. Lithium fluoride crystals containing enriched $^{6}{\rm Li}$ were synthesized and integrated into polyethylene naphthalate polyester matrix containing appropriate luminescent molecules. Thermal neutron capture by $^{6}{\rm Li}$ ions produces charged particles with kinetic energy sufficient to ionize and subsequently excite the components of the polymeric matrix. This energy is transferred to secondary luminescent molecules, which produce net radioluminescence responses detectable by a photomultiplier tube. Design, production and characterization of these scintillation films are discussed herein. The films due to their thinness $( and low atomic number components have low susceptibility to gamma induced scintillation and thus are effective discriminators for thermal neutrons.
Ion-exchange pretreatment for scale prevention in desalting systems

Abstract Ion exchange pretreatment can protect dependably against scaling from calcium sulfate and alkaline deposits in desalting equipment, and against acid corrosion. When a feedwater is “softened” by ion exchange to replace most of its calcium by sodium, use of the sodium-rich reject brine from desalination to regenerate the exchanger makes the treatment chemically self-sufficient. An inexpensive vessel construction using salt-resistant reinforced concrete appears suitable for large-scale use. For moderate concentration factors (up to around 5 for seawater feed), and moderately low sulfate/chloride ratios, regeneration can be carried out in fixed-bed mode, preferably counterflow (upflow). At higher sulfate levels, precipitation occurs, and regeneration must be done in fluidized- (expanded-) bed mode to keep calcium sulfate from collecting in the bed. When weak-acid cation exchange with acidified exchanger is used to eliminate bicarbonate, feedwater acidity excursions are avoided, and the total-dissolved solids level is reduced rather than increased.
Modified delta-function potential for hyperfine interactions

A modification of the Fermi contact interaction is proposed in which the nuclear moment is represented by a uniformly magnetized spherical shell of radius ${r}_{0}$. In effect, the delta function $\ensuremath{\delta}(r)$ in the Fermi Hamiltonian is replaced by $\ensuremath{\delta}(r\ensuremath{-}{r}_{0})$. The Schr\"odinger equation for a hydrogenlike system thus perturbed is exactly solvable in terms of the Coulomb Green's function. Negative energy eigenvalues have the form ${E}_{\ensuremath{\nu}}=\ensuremath{-}\frac{{Z}^{2}}{2{\ensuremath{\nu}}^{2}}$, with $\ensuremath{\nu}$ a nonintegral quantum number. An asymptotic formula is derived for the quantum defect $\ensuremath{\delta}=\ensuremath{\nu}\ensuremath{-}n$. The $l=0$ eigenfunctions are multiples of the Whittaker functions: ${M}_{\ensuremath{\nu},}^{\frac{1}{2}}(\frac{2Zr}{\ensuremath{\nu}})$ for $rl{r}_{0}$ and ${W}_{\ensuremath{\nu},}^{\frac{1}{2}}(\frac{2Zr}{\ensuremath{\nu}})$ for $rg{r}_{0}$. Explicit forms are given by expansion of the Whittaker functions to first order in quantum defect. In the limit ${r}_{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0$ results pertaining to the original Fermi Hamiltonian are approached. It is shown that a repulsive delta function maintains the unperturbed Coulomb energy while an attractive delta function pulls all bound state energies to $\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\infty}$. Perturbation expansions are discussed and comparisons made with earlier calculations. It is shown that second-order and higher perturbation energies diverge as ${r}_{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0$.
Puerto Rican Poverty and Labor Markets: An Introduction

This article provides an introduction to the special issue of the Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences on Puerto Rican Poverty and Labor Markets. It proposes that the unifying theme of the articles included in this volume is the focus on how structural factors, particularly in the functioning of labor markets, affect Puerto Ricans'disadvantaged socioeconomic status in the United States. Among the most important factors presented in the volume are: the concentration of Puerto Ricans in cities and regions (e.g., New York City, Chicago) that have undergone a rapid transition from a goods-producing economy to a service-oriented one; limited opportunities in housing markets that, in turn, limit the kinds and numbers of job opportunities that are available, quality of schools, and the quality of public services; and, the persistence of racial and gender discrimination. Other important topics examined in the special issue are the conceptualization of poverty and the poor, and welfare dependency. The authors c...
Cyclization of diphenylacetylene on methylchromium σ-complexes II. Cyclic and linear condensations

Abstract The reactions of diphenylacetylene with methylchromium systems lead to the formation of condensation products, of which the following have been isolated and identified: cis , cis -1,2,3,4-tetraphenyl-1,3-butadiene; hexaphenylbenzene; 1,2,3-triphenylnaphthalene: 1-methyl-2,3,4-triphenylnaphthalene: 1,2,3,4-tetraphenyl-1,3-cyclopentadiene and 1,2,4,5-tetraphenylbenzene. It is evident that methyl groups of the chromium complex participate in these cyclic condensations via insertions of methylene (carbene) groups into the ring skeleton. These processes are also accompanied by hydrogen-transfer reactions.
Importance of accurate geometry in the study of the total cavopulmonary connection: computational simulations and in vitro experiments.

Previous in vitro studies have shown that total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) models incorporating offset between the vena cavae are energetically more efficient than those without offsets. In this study, the impact of reducing simplifying assumptions, thereby producing more physiologic models, was investigated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and particle flow visualization experiments. Two models were constructed based on angiography measurements. The first model retained planar arrangement of all vessels involved in the TCPC but incorporated physiologic vessel diameters. The second model consisted of constant-diameter vessels with nonplanar vascular features. CFD and in vitro experiments were used to study flow patterns and energy losses within each model. Energy losses were determined using three methods: theoretical control volume, simplified control volume, and velocity gradient based dissipation. Results were compared to a simplified model control. Energy loss in the model with physiologically more accurate vessel diameters was 150% greater than the simplified model. The model with nonplanar features produced an asymmetric flow field with energy losses approximately 10% higher than simplified model losses. With the velocity gradient based dissipation technique, the map of energy dissipation was plotted revealing that most of the energy was dissipated near the pulmonary artery walls. © 2001 Biomedical Engineering Society.
ADAPTIVE-PASSIVE ABSORBERS USING SHAPE-MEMORY ALLOYS

Abstract The adaptive-passive vibration absorber shows promise for combining the stability and low complexity of passive tuned absorbers with the robust performance of active vibration control schemes. Previous adaptive tuned vibration absorbers (ATVA) had been complex and bulky. Shape memory alloys (SMA), with their variable material properties, offer an alternative adaptive mechanism. Heating an SMA causes a change in the elastic modulus of the material. An ATVA using spring elements composed of three pairs of SMA wires and one pair of steel wires was constructed and tested. On–off actuation of the SMA elements created an ATVA with four discrete tuned frequencies. Characterization testing of the absorber showed variation of the natural frequency of the ATVA of approximately 15%. The ATVA was applied to a primary system and the frequency response of the system at various states of ATVA actuation was determined. Manual tuning of the ATVA actuation during a stepped-sine base excitation of the primary system showed a wider notch of attenuation than was possible with a non-adaptive absorber. Results of the tests indicate that an adaptive absorber incorporating SMA as a tuning element has potential as a simple, high-performance adaptive-passive technique for vibration control.
Temporal considerations in the measurement of indoor mass transfer coefficients

Abstract Indoor pollutant mass transport, characterized by the “transport-limited deposition velocity”, v t , is dynamic and measurements of this mass-transfer coefficient can be influenced by changing conditions. We find that for large, but realistic, changes in indoor transport conditions during the sampling period, time-averaged measurements of v t can be in error by 40% or more. Measurements using a highly surface reactive species, such as nitric acid, incur the greatest error. The measurement error incurred for species that are moderately surface reactive, such as ozone, varies depending on the type of surfaces available for deposition. Further, the greater the magnitude and frequency in the fluctuations, the greater the error anticipated from time-averaged measurements of v t . An analysis of continuous flux measurements from field experiments in apartments, a lab and an office suggest that time-averaged measurements of v t will typically be in error by 5–15%.
CELLULASE ACTIVITY IN PEACHES DURING RIPENING

Cellulase activity and fruit firmness were studied during ripening of freestone peaches. There was very little cellulase activity in mature green peaches, but it increased during tree and postharvest ripening. The greatest increase in the enzyme activity occurred before the fruit began to soften. The data suggest that cellulase working in conjunction with other hydrolytic enzymes could play a vital role in the softening of peaches during ripening.
Ablation of Facial Scars by Programmed Dermabrasion

Revisions of scars, characteristically deferred for 6 to 12 months after wounds have healed, are performed to improve function and appearance. However, none of the techniques that has evolved to modify cicatrical deformities has afforded total, permanent effacement of scars already present. Evidence is presented here that dermabrasion of both surgical and accidental scars of the face, done 4 to 8 weeks after the primary wound, usually eliminates visible residual cicatrization.
Islet hormone pulse intervals are dependent upon sampling frequency.

Abstract Pulsatile insulin secretion has been reported from a variety of in vivo and in vitro systems. While it is agreed that insulin pulses exist, there is little agreement concerning the basal frequency or interpulse interval either within the same species in vivo, as both long and short term pulses have been reported, or between in vivo and in vitro preparations. We propose that the frequency of sampling may have profound effects upon the calculated pulse interval. Three systems were used to test this hypothesis: 1) artificial test data were designed to produce regular pulses with an exact 11 min period, (2) perfusate insulin concentration from isolated canine pancreata sampled at 1 min intervals and 3) peripheral blood insulin concentrations from human volunteers sampled every 2 and 5 min. Pulse parameters were determined at 1, 2, 5, 20, 15, 30 and 60 min sampling intervals for each data set by the use of the computer algorithms Pulsar and Cycle Detector. The results indicate that for insulin secretory pulses, sampling frequencies longer than 2 min may result in the production of spurious pulse trains with multiple longer term pulse periods. It is concluded that islet hormone secretory pulse period calculations are dependent upon the sampling frequency.
A role for delta opioid receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala in anxiety-like behaviors

Rationale Compounds acting on delta opioid receptors (DOR) modulate anxiety-like behaviors, yet the site of action underlying this effect is unknown. DOR mRNA and protein are expressed in the central nucleus of the amygdala, a region that plays an important role in processing fear, stress, and anxiety. We hypothesized that this brain region may contribute to the modulation of anxiety by DOR drugs.
SU-E-J-144: Recurrence Quantification Analysis of Lung Cancer Patients' Breathing Pattern.

Purpose: To demonstrate that Recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) can be used as a quantitative decision making tool to classify patients breathing pattern and select treatment strategy for maneuvering the tumor motion : (a) MIP based treatment (b) 4D treatment using non‐linear prediction only (c) 4D treatment non‐linear control prediction and breathing control.Method and Materials: In our previous work we established that breathing patterns can be described as a 5–6 dimensional nonlinear, stationary and deterministic system that exhibits sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Recurrence plots enable one to investigate an m‐dimensional state space trajectory through a two‐dimensional representation of its recurrences where the value of a specific pixel is 1 if the distance between the two corresponding trajectory points is less than a threshold value e. Important measures calculated are: Recurrence Rate (RR), %Determinism, Divergence, Shannon Entropy, LMean, and Renyi entropy (K2). Time Resolved RQA: By implementing a sliding window design, each of the above calculated parameters is computed multiple times. Alignment of those parameters with the time series reveals details not obvious in the 1 ‐dimensional time series data. The breathing pattern for seven randomly chosen volunteers were recorded using the RPM system for 15 minutes.. Non‐linear prediction was performed and the normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) was calculated for each of the volunteer data. Results: The threshold value e was chosen such that the Recurrence Rate was equal to 1%. There is a strong correlation of NRMSE with Entropy, Determinism and LMean. Time resolved RR locates strong Unstable Periodic Orbits(UPOs), i.e. patterns of uninterrupted equally spaced diagonal lines. Conclusions: RQAs could prove to be a very powerful tool for design of personalized treatment regimen. Entropy, Determinism in conjunction with strong UPOs can be used to determine if patients are suitable candidates for prediction and chaos control.
SURFACE TENSION MEASUREMENTS ON MOLTEN GLASS BY A MODIFIED DIPPING CYLINDER METHOD

Surface tension measurements have been made on a series of both calcite and dolomite lime glasses by using a modified dipping cylinder method. The measurements cover the temperature range from 1100° to 1400°C. and the viscosity range from logarithm viscosity = 1.65 to logarithm viscosity = 3.30 (45 to 2000 poises). Measurements on ordinary liquids, of known surface tensions were made for check purposes. The results obtained on the glasses agree well with published data obtained by the maximum bubble-pressure method. The temperature coefficient of surface tension is approximately —0.02 dyne per cm. per degree C. The surface tension of glass at a particular temperature may be represented as a linear function of composition on a mol. fraction basis.
Studies on the biosynthesis and turnover of carnitine.

Abstract To investigate the biosynthesis of carnitine, a number of labeled intermediates, among them acetate, formate, glycine, glucose, some essential amino acids, and 3-hydroxy-4-aminobutyric acid, were injected into rats, and carnitine was isolated after 24 hr. No radioactivity was detectable in that compound. The turnover of carnitine was determined and found to be very slow (half-life, 67 days, body pool about 36 mg./100 g. rat). In long-term experiments (9 days), the methyl groups of methionine were found to be incorporated into the methyl groups of carnitine, and carbon 1 of glycine into the chain to a very small extent. A new synthesis of labeled 3-hydroxy-4-aminobutyric acid is described, as well as methods for degradation, isolation, and assay of carnitine.
Combined effects of oxygen and hydrogen on tensile properties of a Nb-10 at. Pct V alloy

The addition of oxygen to a Nb-10 at. pct V alloy results in linear hardening and an increase in the strain rate sensitivity with increasing concentration. Hydrogen induces a minimum in the reduction of area, a temperature dependent hardening, and a maximum in the strain rate sensitivity of Nb-10V at ≈150 K. The strengthening and accompanying low temperature softening by hydrogen below 150 K are explained by a strain-induced ordering of hydrogen atoms around dislocations. Indications are, however, that hydrogen interacts only weakly, if at all, with the oxygen. A ductility minimum and associated return-of-ductility due to hydrogen are attributed to the high strain rate that occurs in the necked region during deformation.
Evidenced Formal Coverage Index and universal healthcare enactment: A prospective longitudinal study of economic, social, and political predictors of 194 countries.

Abstract Determinants of universal healthcare (UHC) are poorly empirically understood. We undertook a comprehensive study of UHC development using a novel Evidenced Formal Coverage (EFC) index that combines three key UHC elements: legal framework, population coverage, and accessibility. Applying the EFC index measures (legislation, ≥90% skilled birth attendance, ≥85% formal coverage) to 194 countries, aggregating time-varying data from 1880–2008, this study investigates which macro-economic, political, and social indicators are major longitudinal predictors of developing EFC globally, and in middle-income countries. Overall, 75 of 194 countries implemented legal-text UHC legislation, of which 51 achieved EFC. In a country-year prospective longitudinal analysis of EFC prediction, higher GDP-per-capita (per GDP-per-capita doubling, relative risk [RR] = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.49–2.10), higher primary school completion (per +20% completion, RR = 2.30, 1.65–3.21), and higher adult literacy were significantly associated with achieving EFC. Results also identify a GDP-per-capita of I$5000 as a minimum level for development of EFC. GDP-per-capita and education were each robust predictors in middle-income countries, and education remained significant even controlling for time-varying GDP growth. For income-inequality, the GINI coefficient was suggestive in its role in predicting EFC (p = 0.024). For social and political indicators, a greater degree of ethnic fractionalization (per +25%, RR = 0.51, 0.38–0.70), proportional electoral system (RR = 2.80, 1.22–6.40), and dictatorships (RR = 0.10, 0.05–0.27) were further associated with EFC. The novel EFC index and this longitudinal prospective study together indicate that investment in both economic growth and education should be seen of equal importance for development of UHC. Our findings help in understanding the social and political drivers of universal healthcare, especially for transitioning countries.
Spectrophotometric determination of palladium using 4-methyl-l ,2-cyclohexanedionedioxime

A procedure for the determination of palladium with 4-methyl-1,2-cyclohexanedionedioxime by an extraction -spectrophotometric method has been developed. Interference by coppcr(II), cobalt(Il), iron(II), or iron(III) can be eliminated by suitable masking agents. Ruthenium(III) must be absent or separated prior to the determination of palladium. The molar absorptivity of the bis(4-methyl-1,2-cyclohexanedionedioximato-N,N') palladium(II) complex has been calculated and found to be 1.51⋯104 1/moles-cm in chloroform at 280 mμ.
Selling or Advertising: Strategies for Providing Digital Media Online

Media and network companies are increasingly providing digital media online. We develop a model to examine optimal strategies for media providers to utilize the online channel to distribute digital media. We examine a number of options for media providers. Our results suggest that media companies should sell programs online when content quality is relative high and online access cost is low. When online access cost is relative high, media providers could use the advertising strategy. Overall, companies are better off providing both pricing and advertising options to consumers. We derive the optimal price and advertising level, and analyze the factors that affect the price and advertising decisions. We find that as advertisement revenue rate increases, advertising level should be kept low. In addition, media companies should set online price and advertising level with consideration of the traditional channel in order to avoid channel cannibalization. We also analyze the advertising level in the traditional channel. Our results suggest that as digital video recorder technologies provide more convenience to consumers, media companies should increase, rather than decrease, revenues from advertising.
Requirements analysis for PACS

The implementation of Picture Archival and Communication Systems (PACS) within the contemporary radiology department is a complex procedure. Given the complexity of the total PACS environment with its advanced technology requirements, most sites will find it impractical to implement a filmless department with a total PACS solution at this time. Although many technical problems make a total PACS solution impractical in many situations, small, clinically useful, partial PACS (''miniPACS'') can be developed now and can provide experience for future development of more complete PACS. Planning for PACS and creating a supporting infrastructure are important and complex procedures. This paper describes an analysis performed as a neuroradiology PACS system was designed and implemented. Network bandwidth and image storage were evaluated; interfaces were specified; databases were designed; and plans were made to accommodate physical equipment requirements.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Prediction of Long-Term Mortality in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis according to Simple Questionnaire and Joint Count Measures

Objective: To describe mortality over 15 years in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, according to a simple questionnaire and joint count. Design: A cohort study with 15 years of follow...
Using a choice experiment framework to value conservation-contingent development programs: An application to Botswana

Community Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programs in Botswana have had limited conservation effect because the provision of development benefits is not contingent on wildlife conservation. Building on existing discussions about which development initiatives these programs should implement, we use choice experiment data to empirically determine what value CBNRM community members place on both private and quasi-public development interventions. We show that these interventions are sufficient to incentivize households to engage in anti-poaching enforcement, revegetation of wildlife habitat and wildlife monitoring. Our methodology may be adapted to investigate a range of potential development interventions for which in-kind labor contributions are required.
Removal of salts from aromatic amino acids, their metabolites and related compounds using an xad-4 resin

Abstract Previous studies using XAD-4 columns for desalting purines, pyrimidines and nucleosides have been extended to other compounds. In the present study, procedures are described for using these columns as adsorbents for aromatic amino acids, their metabolites and other related compounds. Elution of these compounds from the column is carried out with either water or aqueous ethanol. Since salts are not retained by the XAD-4 resin, these column procedures provide an effective means of desalting solutions of the different compounds. In the present report, studies of approximately thirty compounds are described to provide a total of about sixty compounds studied in the two reports. Recoveries have been uniformly high (98%).
A comprehensive readiness assessment framework for identity theft safeguards in web-based electronic government systems

Identity theft is becoming more commonplace as the number of criminals taking advantage of the World Wide Web to lure their victims increases. The users of web-based electronic government systems are certainly not immune to this trend although the governmental organisations of various levels (federal, state and local governments) are taking steps to adopt the best possible safeguards to prevent identity theft on their websites. Despite their enthusiasm to protect citizens, governmental organisations currently lack assessment methods specifically designed to measure the effectiveness of safeguards they deploy. To address this problem, we propose a comprehensive readiness assessment framework.
A computer-based information system to aid in undergraduate advisement and curriculum development

This paper outlines the salient features of a computer-based undergraduate student information system. The system is being designed and implemented by this author in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a Master of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi (USM). The major thrust of this paper is the description of the proposed system's capabilities rather than an eludication of the various design strategies and theory.
Solubility and stability characteristics of a series of methotrexate dialkyl esters

Abstract A series of methotrexate (MTX) dialkyl esters were examined for their solubility in an aqueous and a co-solvent medium (20%) (Co-solvent solubility-stability relationship; Dimethylformamide/water co-solvent (DMF)-aqueous buffer) as a function of pH. The pH-solubility relationship showed an unusual increase at pH values above the pK8 of these weak bases. The stability of this series of compounds was also studied in the same 20% DMF medium. The rate constant for diester loss decreased as the series was ascended and additional stability resulted from the branching of the diisopropyl ester. Also, the stability of the MTX methyl ester was studied as a function of pH, with the resulting pH-stability profile showing a typical V-shaped pattern. The maximum aqueous stability of dimethyl ester was shown to be between pH 4 and 5.
Efficient parallel out-of-core matrix transposition

This paper addresses the problem of parallel transposition of large out-of-core arrays. Although algorithms for out-of-core matrix transposition have been widely studied, previously proposed algorithms have sought to minimize the number of I/O operations and the in-memory permutation time. We propose an algorithm that directly targets the improvement of overall transposition time. The I/O characteristics of the system are used to determine the read, write and communication block sizes such that the total execution time is minimized. We also provide a solution to the array redistribution problem for arrays on disk. The solution to the sequential transposition problem and the parallel array redistribution problem are then combined to obtain an algorithm for the parallel out-of-core transposition problem.
Fluconazole transport into Candida albicans secretory vesicles by the membrane proteins Cdr1p, Cdr2p, and Mdr1p.

A major cause of azole resistance in Candida albicans is overexpression of CDR1, CDR2, and/or MDR1, which encode plasma membrane efflux pumps. To analyze the catalytic properties of these pumps, we used ACT1- and GAL1-regulated expression plasmids to overexpress CDR1, CDR2, or MDR1 in a C. albicans cdr1 cdr2 mdr1-null mutant. When the genes of interest were expressed, the resulting transformants were more resistant to multiple azole antifungals, and accumulated less [3H]fluconazole intracellularly, than empty-vector controls. Next, we used a GAL1-regulated dominant negative sec4 allele to cause cytoplasmic accumulation of post-Golgi secretory vesicles (PGVs), and we found that PGVs isolated from CDR1-, CDR2-, or MDR1-overexpressing cells accumulated much more [3H]fluconazole than did PGVs from empty-vector controls. The Kms (expressed in micromolar concentrations) and Vmaxs (expressed in picomoles per milligram of protein per minute), respectively, for [3H]fluconazole transport were 0.8 and 0.91 for Cdr1p, 4.3 and 0.52 for Cdr2p, and 3.5 and 0.59 for Mdr1p. [3H]fluconazole transport by Cdr1p and Cdr2p required ATP and was unaffected by carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), whereas [3H]fluconazole transport by Mdr1p did not require ATP and was inhibited by CCCP. [3H]fluconazole uptake by all 3 pumps was inhibited by all other azoles tested, with 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50s; expressed as proportions of the [3H]fluconazole concentration) of 0.2 to 5.6 for Cdr1p, 0.3 to 3.1 for Cdr2p, and 0.3 to 3.1 for Mdr1p. The methods used in this study may also be useful for studying other plasma membrane transporters in C. albicans and other medically important fungi.
The inflammatory response: friend or enemy for muscle injury?

Limiting certain aspects of inflammation may be a useful new treatment for sport related muscle injury.
Sense-making activities and interpersonal conflict, II: The effects of communicative intentions on internal dialogue

It is argued that intended communication partner and concern for following social rules determine whether internal dialogue, when anticipating communication about relational conflict, involves self‐deprecation. In the present study, the extent to which communicative intentions evoked self‐deprecating thoughts was contingent on concern for following social rules; however, this effect was not influenced by characteristics of the anticipated partner as predicted. A subsidiary study revealed that the association between concern for following social rules and communication goals does not depend on intended partner. Examination of assessments of disputes indicated that internal dialogue is related to conflict evaluations; however, the predicted effects of anticipating communication, intended partner, and concern for following social rules on these judgments were not supported. Implications for interpersonal communication about conflict are noted.
CAP-ORIFICE AS A FLOW REGULATOR FOR RAIN GARDEN DESIGN

Rain gardens have been recognized as an effective device for on-site runoff volume reduction and storm water quality enhancement. A rain garden is designed as an infiltration basin with a shallow, wide water storage volume. The subbase underneath the basin bottom is structured as a two-layered filtering medium. The upper sand layer provides the required filtering process and then the lower gravel layer provides a reservoir for a gradual release of the stored water through a perforated underdrain pipe. A newly constructed rain garden can have a high-infiltration capacity. After several years of service, the accumulation of solids intercepted in the filtering layer will develop a clogging effect or the infiltration capacity in the subbase continues decreasing. When the drain time exceeds the safety criteria, the rain garden needs to be replaced. Coping with a decaying infiltration rate, a rain garden needs to reduce its flow release in the early years. In this study, it is suggested that a cap-orifice be in...
Synthesis of a Further Improved Porous Polymer for the Separation of Nitrogen, Oxygen, Argon, and Carbon Monoxide by Gas Chromatography

A further improvement has been made in the synthesis of an N-type porous polymer for the separation of permanent gases. Changing the ratios of reactants and diluting the Hi-DVB with styrene led to a porous polymer gas chromatographic packing which is superior to commercial products and to the author's own previously reported custom-made polymer.
Goals and responses to failure: Knowing when to hold them and when to fold them

The ability to disengage from hopeless situations is critical to goal attainment and effective self-regulation. Two experiments investigated the effects of striving to attain success (approach goals) versus striving to avoid failure (avoidance goals) on persistence. Participants completed anagrams designed so that less persistence during an initial set of unsolvable anagrams was beneficial. In Study 1, participants reported how motivated they were by approach and avoidance goals. In Study 2, participants were primed to set approach or avoidance goals. Participants with avoidance goals persisted longer during failure, with more intense and enduring emotional distress, than those with approach goals. Greater anger predicted spending more time on subsequent unsolvable anagrams and accounted for differences in persistence. The results suggest that people with approach goals are better able to identify when they should disengage during failure, and disengage more completely, than people with avoidance goals.
Pediatric sport-related concussion: a review of the clinical management of an oft-neglected population.

Athletic concussion is a growing focus of attention for pediatricians. Although numerous literature reviews and clinical guidelines are now available pertaining to athletic concussion, few have focused on the pediatric athlete in particular. Sportrelated concussions occur relatively frequently in children and adolescents, and primary health care providers are often responsible for coordinating clinical management. Here we summarize the scientific literature pertinent to the care of young athletes. We examine how concussion affects younger and older athletes differently at biomechanical, pathophysiological, neurobehavioral, and contextual levels. We also discuss important issues in clinical management, including preparticipation assessment, concussion evaluation and recovery tracking, and when and how to return pediatric athletes to play sports. We also briefly cover non‐sportrelated interventions (eg, school support). With proper management, most children and adolescents sustaining a sport-related concussion can be expected to recover fully.
A New Familism Scale for Use with Latino Populations

The goal of this study was to develop an attitudinal familism scale that can be used with relatively less acculturated Latinos and that assesses all relevant aspects of the construct. An 18-item scale composed of original items and adapted items from previous scales was tested on a sample of 124 Latino adults. An exploratory factor analysis revealed the following four factors, accounting for 51.23% of the total variance: Familial Support, Familial Interconnectedness, Familial Honor, and Subjugation of Self for Family. Cronbach’s alpha for the scale was found to be .83. Validity analyses revealed significant negative correlations between some aspects of familism and acculturation scores and indicators of exposure to the U.S. culture, confirming previous findings on the subject.
SIV-Induced Instability of the Chimpanzee Gut Microbiome

Summary Simian immunodeficiency virus of chimpanzees (SIVcpz) is the ancestor of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), the etiologic agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in humans. Like HIV-1-infected humans, SIVcpz-infected chimpanzees can develop AIDS-like symptoms. Because SIVcpz/HIV-1 may disrupt regulation of the gut microbiome and because it has not been possible to sample individual humans pre- and postinfection, we investigated the influence of infection on gut communities through long-term monitoring of chimpanzees from Gombe National Park, Tanzania. SIVcpz infection accelerated the rate of change in gut microbiota composition within individuals for periods of years after the initial infection and led to gut communities marked by high frequencies of pathogen-containing bacterial genera absent from SIVcpz-negative individuals. Our results indicate that immune function maintains temporally stable gut communities that are lost when individuals become infected with SIVcpz.
Distributed and fault-tolerant computation for retrieval tasks using distributed associative memories

The distributed associative memory (DAM) model is proposed for distributed and fault-tolerant computation related to retrieval tasks. The fault tolerance is with respect to noise in the input key data and/or local and global failures in the memory itself. Working models for fault-tolerant image reconfiguration and database information retrieval have been developed and backed up by experimental results that show the feasibility of such an approach. >
The origins of the Achaean War

The Achaean war against Rome in 146 continues to provoke befuddlement and perplexity. Few problems in antiquity have proved so intractable to solution. The event was of major import: the last futile outburst of Greek resistance to Roman power, calling forth a new era, an enforced reorganisation of Greece and its subjugation, for all practical purposes, to the Roman governor of Macedon. Greek independence was thereafter chimerical. Yet the origins and motivations for that fateful struggle remain as puzzling as ever. Understandably so. A half century earlier, the Achaean League had thrown off allegiance to Macedon and opted for collaboration with Rome. A formal alliance followed in subsequent years. Relations between the two powers were sometimes rocky, but never issued in overt conflict during that half-century. In the three great eastern wars of the second century, against Philip V, Antiochus III, and Perseus, Rome and Achaea were on the same side. Yet in 146, when Rome's military might should have been incontestable, the Achaeans engaged her in a suicidal and ruinous war that brought the dissolution of the old League and the overlordship of Rome. Small wonder that the episode causes bafflement.
Analytic considerations in the theory of NMR microscopy

Nuclear magnetic resonance microscopy poses fundamental as well as practical challenges. The Torrey‐Bloch equation obeyed by the magnetization density is basic to this field. We discuss exact solutions of the equation from a generalization that addresses the motion of the nuclear spins towards an attractive center with an arbitrary time dependence in the attractive (harmonic) potential. The solutions provide an analytic way to interpret observations made with gradient magnetic fields of arbitrary (finite) pulse duration and to study the simultaneous effect of spin diffusion and timedependent magnetic fields. r 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Chloro[(1,2,5,6H)‐1,5‐cyclooctadiene] (H5‐2,4‐Cyclopentadiene‐1‐yl) Ruthenium

[97913-63-8] C13H17RuCl (MW 310) (catalyzes the coupling reaction between alkenes and alkynes to yield Alder ene-type products) InChI = 1S/C8H12.C5H5.ClH.Ru/c1-2-4-6-8-7-5-3-1;1-2-4-5-3-1;;/h1-2,7-8H,3-6H2;1-5H;1H;/q;;;+1/p-1/b2-1-,8-7-;;; InChIKey = MXIPJYKRGCEPCN-PHFPKPIQSA-M Physical Data: air- and light--sensitive golden orange solid, mp 230–235°C. Solubility: soluble in water and various organic solvents including alcohols, DMF and acetone. Form Supplied in: readily synthesized in high yield.1
Efficient Video Dissemination in Structured Hybrid P2P Networks

In this paper, we propose a structured hybrid P2P mesh for optimal video dissemination from a single source node to multiple receivers in a bandwidth-asymmetric network such as digital subscriber line (DSL) access network. Our hybrid P2P structured mesh consists of one or more supernodes responsible for node and mesh management and a large number of streaming nodes, Peers. The peers are interconnected in a special manner designed for streaming and real-time video dissemination and are responsible for the actual data delivery. Our proposed hybrid P2P structured mesh is designed to achieve scalability, low delay and high throughput. Our experimental Internet-wide system consisting of PlanetLab nodes demonstrates the aforementioned qualities
Activation of Mitochondrial ATP-Sensitive K+ Channel for Cardiac Protection Against Ischemic Injury Is Dependent on Protein Kinase C Activity

Protein kinase C (PKC) is involved in the second messenger signaling cascade during ischemic and Ca(2+) preconditioning. Given that the pharmacological activation of mitochondrial ATP-sensitive K(+) (mitoK(ATP)) channels also mimics preconditioning, the mechanisms linking PKC activation and mitoK(ATP) channels remain to be established. We hypothesize that PKC activity is important for the opening of the mitoK(ATP) channel. To examine this, a specific opener of the mitoK(ATP) channel, diazoxide, was used in conjunction with subcellular distribution of PKC in a model of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Langendorff-perfused rat hearts were subjected to 40-minute ischemia followed by 30-minute reperfusion. Effects of activation of the mitoK(ATP) channel and other interventions on functional, biochemical, and pathological changes in ischemic hearts were assessed. In hearts treated with diazoxide, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and coronary flow were significantly improved after I/R; lactate dehydrogenase release was also significantly decreased. The morphology was well preserved in diazoxide-treated hearts compared with nontreated ischemic control hearts. The salutary effects of diazoxide on the ischemic injury were similar to those of Ca(2+) preconditioning. Administration of sodium 5-hydroxydecanoate, an effective blocker of the mitoK(ATP) channel, or chelerythrine or calphostin C, an inhibitor of PKC, during diazoxide pretreatment or during continuous presence of diazoxide in the ischemic period, completely abolished the beneficial effects of the diazoxide on the I/R injury. Blockade of Ca(2+) entry during diazoxide treatment by inhibiting the L-type Ca(2+) channel with verapamil also completely reversed the beneficial effect of diazoxide during I/R. PKC-alpha was translocated to sarcolemma, whereas PKC-delta was translocated to the mitochondria and intercalated disc, and PKC-epsilon was translocated to the intercalated disc of the diazoxide-pretreated hearts. Colocalization studies for mitochondrial distribution with tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester (TMRE) and PKC isoforms by immunoconfocal microscopy revealed that PKC-delta antibody specifically stained the mitochondria. ATP was significantly increased in the diazoxide-treated hearts. Moreover, the data suggest that activation and translocation of PKC to mitochondria appear to be important for the protection mediated by mitoK(ATP) channel.