cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gene regulation: when analog beats digital.

Summary Why do some genes seem to respond in a ‘digital', on/off manner to a graded signal, while others produce an ‘analog', graded response? A new study suggests that the DNA-binding properties of transcription factors can strongly influence the response patterns of gene networks.
Consumer satisfaction with shopping experiences and clothing products in the children's wear market

This study, utilizing a model of the satisfaction process in retail settings, analysed the relationship between problem disconfirmation and satisfaction with (i) shopping for children's clothing and (ii) the quality of children's clothing. In addition, the effect of shopping satisfaction on product satisfaction was also examined. The sample comprised 957 children's wear consumers from one mid-western state. Factor analysis and ordinary least-squares regression were the statistical techniques used to analyse the data. The results indicate that sizing and fit problems are significantly related to satisfaction with the shopping experience. Product attributes related to the lasting ability of a garment, as well as those specific to infants' wear, were significantly related to satisfaction with product quality. Satisfaction with the shopping experience was also found to affect product satisfaction. These results have tangible implications for apparel marketers.
"Protistan" nomenclature: analysis and refutation of some potential objections.

Abstract The nomenclature used for higher taxonomic categories of protista arose under the influence of the two-kingdom system, and is widely recognized as being evolutionarily misleading. The occurrence and promulgation of multiple, contradictory taxonomic systems have added to the confusion. Recently, we proposed a solution to this problem which involves identifying the largest taxa that are widely recognized to be monophyletic, and naming them using a commonly recognizable prefix and the suffix “−protista”. Thus, nomenclatural prejudice is eliminated, and, by keeping the system informal and thus circumventing the Linnaean system, our system remains flexible in accommodating new data yet should retain a great degree of stability. Here we discuss possible criticisms of our proposal, such as whether the introduction of more terms could lead to further taxonomic and nomenclatural instability, and conclude that our proposal remains a most reasonable solution to the problem of protistan nomenclature.
Nernstian and non-nernstian potentiometry

It is possible to perform a potentiomeric measurement in the gas phase in such a way that the formation of charge transfer complex between the gaseous species and semiconducting electrode results in chemical modulation of the Fermi level. In such a case the functional relationship is a generalized form of the Nernst equation in which the slope of the dependence of measured potential on partial pressure of gas assumes fractional values. It is shown that an entire new class of solid state gas sensors can be based on this principle.
Design and Quaternion-Based Attitude Control of the Omnicopter MAV Using Feedback Linearization

In this paper, we present the design of the Omnicopter, a micro aerial vehicle (MAV) with two central counter-rotating coaxial propellers for thrust and yaw control and three perimeter-mounted variable angle ducted fans to control roll and pitch. First, a dynamic model of the robot is established using the Euler-Lagrange formalism. Next, we focus on the attitude control for a special operating case of the Omnicopter with fixed vertical positions of the surrounding ducted fans. A nonlinear model is represented in state space using the quaternion and angular velocity as state variables, which simplifies the system dynamics. Based on this model, a feedback linearization controller is developed, which renders the system linear and controllable from an input-output point of view. The zero dynamics problem is also analyzed. Finally, simulations are carried out and the results illustrate that the attitude stabilization task for the Omnicopter is achieved.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Quantitative Estimation of Clay Mineralogy in Fine-Grained Soils

Stabilization design guidelines based on soil plasticity properties have certain limitations. Soils of similar plasticity properties can contain different dominant clay minerals, and hence, their engineering behavior can be different when stabilized with the same chemical additive and dosage. It is essential to modify stabilizer design guidelines by including clay mineralogy of the soil and its interactions with chemical additives used. Chemical properties of a soil including cation exchange capacity (CEC), specific surface area (SSA) and total potassium (TP) are dependent on clay mineral constituents, and an attempt is made in this study to develop a rational and practical methodology to determine both clay mineralogy distribution and dominant clay mineral in a soil by using three measured chemical soil properties and their analyses. This approach has been evaluated by determining and evaluating clay minerals present in artificial and natural clayey soils of known and unknown clay mineralogy. A total of twenty natural and six artificial soils were considered and used in the chemical analyses. Test results and subsequent analyses including the development of artificial neural network (ANN) based models are evaluated and described in this paper.
MicroRNAs in Liver Disease: Bench to Bedside

MicroRNAs (miRs) are small non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression by pairing with partially complementary target sequences in the 3′UTRs of mRNAs to promote degradation and/or block translation. Aberrant miR expression is associated with development of multiple diseases including hepatic diseases. The role of miRs in the regulation of gene expression and rapid progress in the field of microRNA research are resulting in momentum toward development of diagnostic markers and novel therapeutic strategies for human liver diseases. Recent studies provide clear evidence that miRs are abundant in the liver and modulate a diverse spectrum of biological functions, thereby supporting an association between alterations of miR homeostasis and pathological liver diseases. Here we review the role of miRs in liver as their physiological and pathological importance has been demonstrated in metabolism, immunity, viral hepatitis, oncogenesis, fatty liver diseases (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), drug-induced liver injury, fibrosis as well as acute liver failure.
A comparison of solids collected in sediment traps and automated water samplers

Sediment traps are being used in some pollution monitoring programs in the USA to sample suspended solids for contaminant analyses. This monitoring approach assumes that the characteristics of solids obtained in sediment traps are the same as those collected in whole-water sampling devices. We tested this assumption in the upper Mississippi River, based on the inorganic particle-size distribution (determined with a laser particle-analyzer) and volatile matter content of solids (a Surrogate for organic matter). Cylindrical sediment traps (aspect ratio 3) were attached to a rigid mooring device and deployed in a flowing side channel in Navigation Pool 7 of the upper Mississippi River. On each side of the mooring device, a trap was situated adjacent to a port of an autosampler that collected raw water samples hourly to form 2-d composite samples. Paired samples (one trap and one raw water, composite sample) were removed from each end of the mooring device at 2-d intervals during the 30-d study period and compared. The relative particle collection efficiency of paired samples did not vary temporally. Particle-size distributions of inorganic solids from sediment traps and water samples were not significantly different. The volatile matter content of solids was lesser in sediment traps (mean, 9.5%) than in corresponding water samples (mean, 22.7%). This bias may have been partly due to under-collection of phytoplankton (mainly cyanobacteria), which were abundant in the water column during the study. The poisoning of water samplers and sediment traps in the mooring device did not influence the particle-size distribution or total solids of samples. We observed a small difference in the amount of organic matter collected by water samplers situated at opposite ends of the mooring device.
Properties of Cu(In,Ga,Al)Se2 thin films fabricated by pulsed laser deposition

Cu(In,Ga,Al)Se2 (CIGAS) thin films were investigated as an alternative absorber layer to Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS). CIGAS thin films were prepared by pulsed laser deposition on SiO2/Si(100) and glass substrates at 150 °C with different Al contents. The compositions of all films were measured by electron probe micro-analyzer. X-ray diffraction studies indicate that all the films are oriented along the [112] direction and that the (112) peak shifts to higher 2θ value with increasing Al content. Scanning electron microscopy images show that dense and well-defined grains are formed as Al is incorporated into CIGS. Atomic force microscopy images indicate that the grain sizes and the roughness of the thin films decrease with increasing Al content. The bandgap of CIGAS thin films was determined from the optical spectra and was found to increase with increasing Al content.
Eye-Catching Eyebrows: Training and Evaluating Humans for Periocular Image Verification†‡§

High-quality periocular images have sufficient variability between people that they can be used for automated recognition. However, there are no standards for training people to compare periocular images in a forensic context. Potential methods for training people to compare eyebrow images are investigated in this article. Pairs of images were presented to volunteers who decided whether the images showed the same person or different people. A control group with minimal instruction and no training responded with 87.6% accuracy. A second group viewed 100 training pairs before the test and achieved 94.2% accuracy. A third group rated specific features in the images and had 0.1% improvement over the second group. Experimental results show that actively comparing at least thirty training images and receiving immediate feedback improves trainees' performance six to seven percent. If a quantitative quality score is needed, a linear combination of similarity ratings on different features may be used. Language: en
RNAi in the regulation of mammalian viral infections

Although RNA interference (RNAi) is known to play an important part in defense against viruses of invertebrates, its contribution to mammalian anti-viral defense has been a matter of dispute. This is surprising because all components of the RNAi machinery necessary for robust RNAi-mediated restriction of viruses are conserved in mammals, and the introduction of synthetic small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) into cells efficiently silences the replication of viruses that contain siRNA complementary sequences in those cells. Here, I discuss the reasons for the dispute, and review the evidence that RNAi is a part of the physiological defense of mammalian cells against viral infections.
New Developments in Accelerator Technology at LASL

The objective of the PIGMI (Pion Generator for Medical Irradiations) program at LASL is to develop the technology to allow the construction of smaller, less expensive and more reliable proton linacs for medical applications. Now in the final year of a three year program, a prototype accelerator is being prepared for beam tests. The high electric field gradients required have already been achieved in PIGLET, an accelerator test cavity. The injector for the prototype features a compact ion source and accelerating column assembly, a double frequency buncher, a tape wound edge cooled solenoid magnet and a series of versatile beam diagnostic boxes. The control system makes use of distributed microprocessor control with a powerful operators console. This system is currently being used to tune the injector and to develop diagnostic tools for evaluation of the performance of the prototype. The accelerating cavity itself is a copperplated 450-MHz structure featuring an alternating phase focused section followed by a transition to a conventional drift tube structure employing permanent magnet focusing. An exciting new rf quadrupole structure (RFQ) which provides an alternate technique for achieving low energy injection will be tested with beam using the PIGMI prototype as a test stand. The design features and current status of the PIGMI program are discussed.
The Role of Professional Development in Preparing Academic Leaders.

While the best professional development for aspiring administrators may simply be to spend time in the company of leaders, more formal experiences can entail internship, mentor alignment, and institutes.
Investigation of interpolation techniques for the reconstruction of the first dimension of comprehensive two-dimensional liquid chromatography-diode array detector data.

Abstract Simulated and experimental data were used to measure the effectiveness of common interpolation techniques during chromatographic alignment of comprehensive two-dimensional liquid chromatography–diode array detector (LC × LC–DAD) data. Interpolation was used to generate a sufficient number of data points in the sampled first chromatographic dimension to allow for alignment of retention times from different injections. Five different interpolation methods, linear interpolation followed by cross correlation, piecewise cubic Hermite interpolating polynomial, cubic spline, Fourier zero-filling, and Gaussian fitting, were investigated. The fully aligned chromatograms, in both the first and second chromatographic dimensions, were analyzed by parallel factor analysis to determine the relative area for each peak in each injection. A calibration curve was generated for the simulated data set. The standard error of prediction and percent relative standard deviation were calculated for the simulated peak for each technique. The Gaussian fitting interpolation technique resulted in the lowest standard error of prediction and average relative standard deviation for the simulated data. However, upon applying the interpolation techniques to the experimental data, most of the interpolation methods were not found to produce statistically different relative peak areas from each other. While most of the techniques were not statistically different, the performance was improved relative to the PARAFAC results obtained when analyzing the unaligned data.
The Politics of Social Inclusion and Multiculturalism

This response to Dr. Frisby's “Promising Physical Activity Inclusion Practices for Chinese Immigrant Women in Vancouver, Canada” supports the generous spirit and intentions of multiculturalism and social inclusion that suffuse “Learning from the Local.” It also contrasts public policy in British Columbia (or more specifically, Vancouver) regarding Chinese immigrant women with its American analog, public policy regarding the treatment of Mexican immigrants in Arizona's legislation SB 1070 and the English-only proposals in several states. Several questions are posed to move Dr. Frisby's research project forward, and some research studies examining the potential of sport and physical activity to accomplish the social integration of immigrants are cited. The importance of considering social inclusion in a contextual way is emphasized.
Yields of β-Hydroxynitrates and Dihydroxynitrates in Aerosol Formed from OH Radical-Initiated Reactions of Linear Alkenes in the Presence of NOx

Yields of β-hydroxynitrates and dihydroxynitrates in aerosol formed from OH radical-initiated reactions of linear C8−C17 1-alkenes and C14−C17 internal alkenes in the presence of NOx were measured using a thermal desorption particle beam mass spectrometer coupled to a high-performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC) with UV−vis detector for identification and quantification. For 1-alkenes, total yields of β-hydroxynitrates normalized for OH radical addition to the C═C double bond increased with carbon number, primarily because of enhanced gas-to-particle partitioning, to a plateau of 0.140 ± 0.009 in the C14−C17 range, with 1-hydroxy/2-hydroxy isomer fractions of 0.7:0.3. When combined with yields measured by O’Brien et al. (O’Brien, J. M., Czuba, E., Hastie, D. R., Francisco, J. S., and Shepson, P. S. J. Phys. Chem. A 1998, 102, 8903) for reactions of smaller alkenes, the results for both 1-alkenes and internal alkenes indicate that the branching ratios for the formation of β-hydroxynitrates from the reactio...
An Empirical Analysis of Triple Bottom‐Line Reporting and its Determinants: Evidence from the United States and Japan

This paper investigates triple bottom-line (TBL) disclosures of 50 of the largest US and Japanese companies. Twenty disclosure criteria were developed for each of the TBL disclosure areas: economic, social, and environmental. Disclosure information was examined in annual reports, stand-alone reports, and special website reports. Regression analysis was used to examine empirically the determinants of TBL disclosure practice. Our results indicate that, for total TBL disclosure (combining economic, social, and environmental categories), the extent of reporting is higher for firms with larger size, lower profitability, lower liquidity, and for firms with membership in the manufacturing industry. Further analysis indicates that the results for the total TBL disclosure are primarily driven by non-economic disclosures. We also find that the extent of overall TBL reporting is higher for Japanese firms, with environmental disclosure being the key driver. This result could be attributed to the differences in national cultures, the regulatory environment, and other institutional factors between the United States and Japan.
Bypass flow, mean arterial pressure, and cerebral perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass in dogs.

Abstract Objective: To determine if normal cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) pump flows maintain cerebral perfusion in the context of reduced mean arterial pressure at 33°C. Design: A prospective investigation. Setting: Animal CPB research laboratory. Participants: Seven dogs that underwent CPB. Interventions: Seven dogs underwent CPB at 33°C using α-stat management and a halothane, fentanyl-midazolam anesthetic. Cerebral blood flow was measured using the sagittal sinus outflow technique. After control measurements at 70 mmHg, cerebral physiologic values were determined under four conditions in random order: (1) mean arterial pressure of 60 mmHg achieved by a reduction in pump flow, (2) mean arterial pressure of 60 mmHg determined by partial opening of a femoral arterial-to-venous reservoir shunt, (3) mean arterial pressure of 45 mmHg by reduced pump flow, and (4) mean arterial pressure of 45 mmHg by shunt. A 9F femoral arterial-to-venous reservoir shunt was controlled by a screw clamp. Measurements and Main Results: Except for the controlled variables of mean arterial pressure and bypass flow, physiologic determinants of cerebral blood flow (temperature, PaCO2 and hematocrit) did not differ under any of the CPB conditions. Pump flow per se was not a determinant of cerebral perfusion. Cerebral blood flow and cerebral oxygen delivery did not differ with changes in pump flow if mean arterial pressure did not differ. Cerebral blood flow depended on mean arterial pressure under all pump flow conditions, however. Conclusions: Over the range of flows typical in adult CPB at 33°C, pump flow does not have an effect on cerebral perfusion independent of its effect on mean arterial pressure. A targeted pump flow per se is not sufficient to maintain cerebral perfusion if mean arterial blood pressure is reduced.
Passive Broadband High Dynamic Range Semiconductor Limiters

The principles of operation of semiconductor optical limiters which utilize two-photon absorption and free-carrier induced defocusing are described. We present a review of early work using psec pulses at 532 nm in ZnSe, in which the problem of damage in solid state limiters is overcome by optimizing the focusing geometry. Limiting energies as loW as 10 nJ are seen, and a dynamic range (damage energy divided by limiting energy) in excess of 104 is demonstrated. The somewhat complicated propagation theory is simplified into a set of scaling rules which are used to predict operating characteristics of semiconductor limiters at longer wavelengths and for shorter pulses. We present new limiting data obtained with longer pulses in ZnSe, in CdTe at 1.06 μm and InSb at 10.6 μm, and we compare these results with the scaling rules.
Apparent monomorphism of ALDH2 in seven American Indian populations

Abstract Deficiency of mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2) has been previously reported in South American Indians. We therefore assayed five individuals from each of five South American India populations (Quechua, Karitiana, Ticuna, Surui, Guahiba), and two North American populations (Maya and Moskoke) for the presence of the Oriental ALDH 2 2 variant. These samples were also surveyed for other alleles altering ALDH2 function. Allele-specific amplification assay (ASA) did not detect the ALDH 2 2 allele in any of the New World populations studied. The entire coding sequence of the ALDH2 cDNA was enzymatically amplified in partially overlapping fragments. Each fragment was digested using restriction endonucleases and subfragments 148–285 b.p. in length were analyzed by the single-stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) technique. No variants were detected within the coding region of the ALDH2 gene in any of the seven American Indian populations. Three potentially correct explanations for these results are suggested. First, an ALDH2 polymorphism is present but undetectable by SSCP; second, none of the studied individuals were ALDH2 negative; third, the polymorphism occurs beyond the coding region of ALDH2 gene.
Functional magnetic resonance and spectroscopy in drug and substance abuse.

Objectives:Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) were utilized to evaluate functional and metabolic brain changes in drug abusers.Methods:Functional neuroimaging studies in alcohol, cocaine, cigarette, and cannabis abusers were reviewed in t
The effects of dopaminergic antagonism by sulpiride on TRH and VIP-induced prolactin release in nonsuckled lactating rats☆

Prolactin (PRL) release was studied in female rats during midlactation using pharmacologic manipulations designed to mimic the hypothalamic effects of suckling. In the first experiment pituitary dopamine (DA) receptors were blocked by sulpiride (10 micrograms/rat i.v.). One hour later, thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH, 1.0 micrograms/rat i.v.) was given to induce PRL release. TRH released significantly more PRL following DA antagonism than when no DA antagonism was produced, suggesting that DA receptor blockade increased the sensitivity of the AP to TRH. In a second experiment, VIP (25 micrograms/rat) increased plasma prolactin 3-4 fold but this effect was not enhanced significantly by prior dopamine antagonism with sulpiride. We conclude that dopamine antagonism enhances the PRL releasing effect of TRH but not VIP in lactating rats.
Tuberculous pleural effusion : twenty-year experience

We reviewed the records of 1,738 cases of tuberculosis seen during the period from 1968 to 1988 in Mobile, Alabama. Seventy cases of tuberculous pleural effusion were identified and constituted 4.9 percent of all disease due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis during this period. Tuberculous pleural effusion was diagnosed if the patient had M tuberculosis cultured from sputum, pleura, or pleural fluid and had a roentgenographic pleural effusion without an alternative explanation for the presence of the effusion. The diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion was made in the absence of a positive culture if the patient had an undiagnosed lymphocytic exudative pleural effusion and all clinical and roentgenographic abnormalities resolved on antimycobacterial chemotherapy. The mean age of all patients was 47 ± 18.4 years. The 70 cases were evenly divided between 35 that were accompanied by roentgenographic pulmonary parenchymal infiltrates and 35 that occurred in the absence of parenchymal infiltrates. We conclude that cultures of all potentially diagnostic specimens (sputum, pleural fluid, and pleura) and an intermediate-strength skin test, are sensitive tests for the diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion. In addition, the age of patients with tuberculous pleural effusion appears to be increasing.
Next Generation of Ecological Indicators of Wetland Condition

Penn State Cooperative Wetlands Center, Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, 302 Walker Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA Center for Statistical Ecology and Environmental Statistics, Department of Statistics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, 204 T.P. Cooper Building, Lexington, KY 40546-0073, USA Statistics Department, Oregon State University, 44 Kidder Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA School of Forest Resources, Pennsylvania State University, Forest Resources Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA Center for Water and the Environment, Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1900 East Camp Street, Ely, MN 55731, USA
Pregnancy: Ultrasonographic features of uterine blood flow during the first 16 weeks of pregnancy

Uterine blood flow volume has been thought to increase in a linear fashion throughout pregnancy, but previous studies in early pregnancy may have not been performed often enough or in sufficient numbers of patients. We measured uterine artery blood flow volume, average velocity, vessel cross-sectional area, resistance index, and spiral artery resistance index with Doppler ultrasound at 1-3 week intervals from gestational (post-menstrual) weeks 5-6 to week 16 in 44 normal, spontaneous, single pregnancies. Uterine artery blood flow volume and velocity increased gradually until the end of week 9, and then rapidly from weeks 10-16. Uterine artery vessel size increased linearly. The uterine artery resistance index was the inverse of volume and velocity, in contrast to the spiral artery resistance index, which decreased linearly. These findings indicate that early pregnancy changes in uterine and spiral artery blood flow occur by different mechanisms, and that when investigating uterine blood flow in early pregnancy, studies need to begin by week 6 and need to be performed at least biweekly.
Theoretical Analysis of Subtractive Color Mixture Characteristics III-Realistic Colorants and Single Tristimulus Dimension

Continuing our work to further understand the characteristics of stimulus values of a single tristimulus dimension in colors obtained by subtractive color mixture, discussions proceed related to realistic colorants. New theorems are intended to provide for the establishment of bounds for realistic colorants in mixtures when stimulus measurements of the constituent single-colorant samples and the illuminant are obtainable. Related to the new theorems, a formulation is derived for the calculation of the bounds of realistic colorants whose spectral transmittances are represented by weighted combinations of basic functions. By solving the formulation, numerical illustrations are provided for various conditions. The results contribute toward a comprehensive modeling of subtractive color mixture. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 30, 354–362, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/col.
Skeletal muscle adaptations with age, inactivity, and therapeutic exercise.

One of the remarkable features of skeletal muscle is its adaptability. Skeletal muscle adaptations are characterized by modifications of morphological, biochemical, and molecular variables that alter the functional attributes of specific skeletal muscle fiber types. Skeletal muscle adaptation is diverse and the magnitude of change is dependent on many factors, such as activity pattern, age, and muscle fiber type composition. The adaptation of skeletal muscle in the adult population is well described. In contrast, the adaptation of skeletal muscle in the older population is less documented, especially in the area of inactivity-induced alterations. Age-related changes in skeletal muscle may play a significant role in the magnitude of change with inactivity and influence the rehabilitation process for the older adult. A consistent feature of age and inactivity is limb muscle atrophy and the loss of peak force and power. Differences exist in the rate and mechanisms of muscle wasting and in the susceptibility ...
791–5 Physician Profiles of Coronary Revascularization in the Emory Angioplasty vs Surgery Trial: Understanding Physician Differences Using Resource-based Relative Values

Understanding the reasons for variations in physician resource utilization in coronary angioplasty (PTCA) and coronary surgery (CABG) is essential to efficiently organizing, managing, and paying for these procedures. To evaluate the extent of variations in physician resource utilization for CABGs and PTCAs and the reasons for these variations, the resource-based relative value scale (RBRVS), an index of relative weights for physician work and practice costs, is used to evaluate physician practice patterns. Given their extensive clinical review, RBRVS weights represent new, unique, comprehensive measures of physician resource utilization where 1 unit value is equivalent to an intermediate office visit for an established patient. Our investigation uses 3 years of clinical and financial data on 392 randomized patients with multivessel coronary artery disease (EAST data). receiving the initial therapy of either CABG or PTCA. RBRVS weights are assigned to each procedure code (CPT) and the distribution of RBRVS units and their allocation among different types of services are analyzed. Results show significant differences in physician resources for both CABGs and PTCAs. Among CABG patients, nearly a ninefold variation in physician resource units is evident (108 ± 46) and, for PTCA, a 29-fold variation exists (66 ± 54). At three years, the average physician resource utilization for CABG is 64% greater than PTCA. Significant differences are also evident in surgical, laboratory, imaging, and consult resources even after accounting for casemix. The findings demonstrate that the RBRVS is a viable and useful analytical tool for managerial and clinical personnel.
Chaotic behavior and period doubling in plasmas.

We report the first experimental observation of chaotic behavior and period doubling in a pulsed plasma discharge sensitive to initial and boundary conditions. The Feigenbaum constants have been measured experimentally in one of the observed chaotic discharge routes.
Effects of spray characteristics on critical heat flux in subcooled water spray cooling

Abstract Effects of spray parameters (mean droplet size, droplet flux, and droplet velocity) on critical heat flux (CHF) were studied while these parameters were systematically varied. The effect of each parameter was studied while keeping the other two nearly constant. The mean droplet velocity ( V ) had the most dominant effect on CHF and the heat transfer coefficient at CHF ( h c ), followed by the mean droplet flux ( N ). The Sauter mean diameter ( d 32 ) did not appear to have an effect on CHF. By increasing V , CHF and h c were increased. This trend was observed when all other spray parameters were kept within narrow ranges and even when relaxed to wider ranges, indicating the dominant effect of V . The effect of N , although not so much as V , was also found to be significant. Increasing N resulted in an increase in CHF and h c when other parameters are kept in narrow ranges. A dilute spray with large droplet velocities appears to be more effective in increasing CHF than a denser spray with lower velocities for a given N . The mass flow rate was not a controlling parameter of CHF.
Market segmentation for penetrating deeper into the contact lens market

Purpose – This paper aims to present the importance of market segmentation and how it can be used to strategize effectively to penetrate deeper into the contact lens market. Design/methodology/approach – Market segment is a group of consumers with common needs, priorities or characteristics. Each market segment is different, and a business must target these different market segments with different marketing strategies. This paper highlights the role of market segmentation in creating an ideal target segment for contact lens market and designing a unique strategy to reach the targeted segment. Findings – Adolescents or teenagers seem to be an ideal segment to penetrate deeper into the contact lens market and to realize immediate gains. A unique or different marketing strategy is required to target and occupy adolescents. Practical implications – Targeting adolescents, who form the most promising category to penetrate the market, with a unique marketing mix will likely increase profit, revenue and return of investment.
Characterization of drug delivery systems utilizing receptor-mediated transport

Receptor-mediated pathways offer the ability to transport therapeutics across cellular monolayers that would otherwise block them. However, current characterization methods have been found to be inadequate in their ability to adequately describe the full benefit of these drug delivery systems. In this report, we describe a novel way to define their transport using receptor-ligand kinetic models.
Trophogram, an immunohistochemistry-based algorithmic approach, in the differential diagnosis of trophoblastic tumors and tumorlike lesions

Recent histopathologic and molecular studies of trophoblastic cells in the normal placenta and in a variety of trophoblastic diseases have revealed that the latter recapitulate the differentiation of normal trophoblast in the early developing placenta. This new knowledge, especially the identification and characterization of the protein markers expressed in human trophoblast, not only helps elucidate the pathogenesis of trophoblastic lesions but also provides a repertoire of immunohistochemical markers that may facilitate the diagnosis of various trophoblastic diseases. This article reviews the recent advances in the trophoblast-associated markers that have been reported to be useful in the differential diagnosis of trophoblastic tumors and tumorlike lesions. Moreover, a "trophogram," which is a stepwise and rational immunohistochemistry-based approach, will be introduced. The trophogram may prove to be useful in assisting the differential diagnosis of various trophoblastic diseases in diagnostic pathology.
The Effect of Group Size on Interfaith Marriage Among Catholics1

This article examines the relationship between the religious composition of Catholic dioceses and interfaith marriage rates among Catholics. Building on Blau's (1977) theory of intergroup relations and previous research on intermarriage, we argue that Catholics are most likely to marry outside their group when they comprise a relatively small percent of the population in their dioceses. They are most likely to marry other Catholics when they are a large percentage of the population. Research in the 1940s and 1950s supports this hypothesis, as do diocesan-level data reported in the 1960, 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, and 1995 editions of the Official Catholic Directory. We conclude with a discussion of what these findings imply for future research on interfaith marriage among Catholics and among members of other religious groups.
Trinuclear first row transition metal complexes of a hexapyridyl, trialkoxy 1,3,5-triarylbenzene ligand

Trinuclear complexes of MnII, FeII, CoII, NiII, CuII, and ZnII were synthesized using a ligand architecture based upon a 1,3,5-triarylbenzene core decorated with six pyridines and three alkoxide moieties. Characterization viaX-ray diffraction, NMR, and magnetism studies is discussed.
Pneumococcal vaccine improves pulmonary clearance of live pneumococci after splenectomy

Abstract The efficacy of pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide vaccines after splenectomy to decrease the incidence of postsplenectomy pneumococcal sepsis is controversial. We examined the effect of pneumococcal vaccine on clearance of live pneumococci from lungs of splenectomized and sham-operated mice following an aerosol challenge of pneumococci. Splenectomy impaired clearance of pneumococci from mouse lungs and allowed for increased translocation of pneumococci to tracheobronchial lymph nodes compared to shams (P
SU-GG-T-149: 4D IMRT Quality Assurance (QA) by Dynamic Log File Analysis

Purpose: 4D IMRT was a technique developed to account for dosimetry errors from intra‐fraction motion, especially from anatomy transformation caused by respiration. To perform 4D IMRT dose validation some dynamic phantoms are used. Measurements with dynamic phantom involve the complex setting procedure. In order to simplify the QA procedure and quickly check the IMRT plan, a 4D IMRT verification tool was developed. The delivered fluence map to a moving target can be simulated from dynamic log (Dynalog) files using this tool. Method and Materials: A 4D CT was acquired for the patient. The breathing cycle was divided into 10 phases. An IMRT plan was generated for the exhale phase, and its leaf sequence was exported. The original leaf sequence was modified by superimposing the tumor trajectory onto the leaf trajectory in a two dimensional beam's eye view plane. The modified leaf sequence was delivered by Varian 2100 CD with Millenium 120 leaf MLC. After dose delivery Dynalog files were analyzed by an in‐house software to simulate the fluence map of a moving target. The fluence map measured by the dynamic phantom was compared with the simulation of delivered fluence map. Results: The comparison between the measured fluence map using the dynamic phantom and the simulated fluence map by Dynalog files shows that the difference of isodose lines was within 3mm and the difference of line profiles was within 3%. Conclusion: A 4D IMRT QA tool was developed to simulate the delivered fluence map to a moving target. The simulated fluence map shows a good agreement with the measured fluence map based on dynamic phantom measurements. When compared to phantom measurement, this tool can assist to quickly check the 4D IMRT plan and handle irregular tumor trajectories.
History, Culture, and the Mexican‐American War: Robert Lewis Taylor's Two Roads to Guadalupé

Contrairement a d'autres evenements historiques, les recits sur la guerre de 1847 entre le Mexique et les Etats-Unis sont peu nombreux dans la production litteraire ou cinematographique des Etats-Unis, et elle est peu traitee dans les manuels scolaires, situation paradoxale qui interroge la perception que les Americains ont de cette guerre. Pourquoi ce peu d'interet pour la guerre mexicaine ? Pourquoi si peu de romans publies sur cette guerre ? Et, parmi les romans qui existent, quelle est leur qualite du point de vue litteraire et du point de vue historique ? L'A. examine le recit de la guerre et la representation de la culture mexicaine donnes par Robert Lewis Taylor dans son roman Two Roads to Guadalupe (1964). Il suggere que Taylor connaissait bien les faits historiques et qu'il qu'il avait egalement une connaissance directe de la culture mexicaine. Malgre quelques commentaires negatifs sur les Mexicains, le message de Taylor est que les deux pays ont un heritage commun a partager.
Lower Prostate Specific Antigen Outcome Than Expected Following Radical Prostatectomy in Patients With High Grade Prostate and a Prostatic Specific Antigen Level of 4 Ng/Ml. or Less

Purpose: We report the estimates of 10-year prostate specific antigen (PSA) outcome following radical prostatectomy in patients with or without grade 4 or 5 disease in the needle biopsy or prostatectomy specimen stratified by the presenting PSA level.Materials and Methods: From 1989 to 2001, 2,254 patients treated with radical prostatectomy for clinically localized prostate cancer comprised the study cohort. PSA outcome was estimated using the actuarial method of Kaplan and Meier, and was stratified by the presenting PSA level and needle biopsy and prostatectomy Gleason score.Results: The 10-year estimates of PSA outcome declined significantly (p ≤0.002) for patients with biopsy or prostatectomy Gleason score 6 or less as the presenting PSA level increased. This trend was observed for biopsy and prostatectomy Gleason score 7 or higher except for the PSA 4 or less group which did significantly worse (46% versus 62%, p = 0.03) compared to the PSA greater than 4 to 10 ng./ml. group. This finding may be expla...
An Angle Dependent SSC Model for Relativistic Jet Sources

We report on the development of a numerical code to calculate the angle-dependent synchrotron + synchrotron self-Compton radiation from relativistic jet sources with partially ordered magnetic fields and anisotropic particle distributions. Using a multi-zone radiation transfer approach, we can simulate magnetic-field configurations ranging from perfectly ordered (unidirectional) to randomly oriented (tangled). We demonstrate that synchrotron self-Compton model fits to the spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of extragalactic jet sources may be possible with a wide range of magnetic-field values, depending on their orientation with respect to the jet axis and the observer. This is illustrated with the example of a spectral fit to the SED of Mrk~421 from multi-wavelength observations in 2006, where acceptable fits are possible with magnetic-field values varying within a range of an order of magnitude for different degrees of B-field alignment and orientation.
Identification of a Membrane Ig-Induced p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Module That Regulates cAMP Response Element Binding Protein Phosphorylation and Transcriptional Activation in CH31 B Cell Lymphomas

The cAMP response element (CRE) binding protein (CREB) is emerging as a key regulatory factor of gene transcription in B lymphocytes; however, the postreceptor pathways that regulate CREB activity and CRE-dependent gene transcription remain largely undefined. We investigated B cell Ag receptor (BCR)-mediated phosphorylation and activation of CREB in the surface IgM+ CH31 B cell lymphoma, which undergoes Ag-dependent cell death. The activity of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was increased in response to BCR ligation. Phosphorylation of CREB on serine 133, a modification that positively regulates its trans-activation, was concomitantly increased. Inhibition of p38 MAPK by pretreating CH31 B cells with the highly specific bicyclic imidazole inhibitor, SB203580, reduced BCR-induced CREB phosphorylation. BCR cross-linking also led to increased MAPK-activated protein kinase-2 activity, an enzyme that lies immediately downstream from p38 MAPK; MAPK-activated protein kinase-2 immune complexes phosphorylated a peptide substrate containing the CREB serine 133 phosphoacceptor motif. Given the role of CREB in regulating junB gene expression in mature B lymphocytes, we examined whether p38 MAPK activity was necessary for CRE-dependent junB transcription in CH31 B cells. BCR ligation led to increased junB mRNA levels, which were significantly reduced in CH31 B cells pretreated with SB203580. Activation of a CRE-dependent junB promoter/chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) reporter gene by the BCR was also blocked by SB203580. Similarly, inhibition of p38 MAPK in surface IgM+ WEHI-231 B cell lymphomas resulted in reduced BCR-induced junB mRNA expression and junB promoter activation. The results implicate a p38 MAPK pathway in BCR-mediated CREB phosphorylation and junB transcriptional activation in B cell lymphomas.
Immunochemical studies of antitoxin produced in normal and allergic individuals hyperimmunized with diphtheria toxoid. IV. Differences between human precipitating and non-precipitating skin-sensitizing diphtheria antitoxin as shown by electrophoresis.

Electrophoresis on a starch-supporting medium was used to fractionate sera containing human diphtheria antitoxin of the following varieties ( a ) precipitating antitoxin, ( b ) non-precipitating skin-sensitizing antitoxin, and ( c ) mixtures containing precipitating and skin-sensitizing antitoxins. Aliquots of the protein fractions thus separated were tested for activity using the rabbit toxin neutralization test, precipitin techniques, and passive transfer tests in human skin. Non-precipitating, skin-sensitizing diphtheria antitoxin migrated largely as a fast moving gamma (γ 1 ) globulin. Passive transfer studies of isolated antitoxic fractions showed that they were as potent as whole serum in the ability to cause immediate wheal reactions. These fractions were not precipitable using appropriate quantities of purified toxoid. Precipitating diphtheria antitoxin migrated largely as a slow moving gamma (γ 2 ) globulin. Isolated antitoxic fractions of appropriate strength obtained from representative sera were precipitable by toxin and were unable to cause immediate wheal reactions upon toxoid challenge in human recipients. Mixtures of skin-sensitizing and precipitating antitoxins were separable by the technique of starch electrophoresis. The individual components removed from mixtures by this method retained the properties by which they could be characterized in whole serum.
Making tracks: The ontology of rock music

listens is the result of two quite distinct groups of actions. First, the composer creates the work by writing a score. Then, a performing artist or group of artists performs the work, of necessity producing an interpretation of it.1 Often, the composer is closely involved in at least the first performance of a new work, but even then his or her contributions as a composer are clearly distinguishable from those made as a performer. Shortly after World War II, some classical composers began focusing on producing works that did not require any performance. Using technology developed to record and reproduce the sounds of performances, they began creating tapes that when played back produced sound events that could not be considered an accurate record of any performance occurring in the studio, in any sense. Any authentic copy of the master tape produced an authentic instance of the work when played back.2 In such "electronic music," the sound of the work, in an important sense, came straight from the composer, without the mediation of a performing artist. The end of traditional compositional techniques was solemnly predicted. In fact, in the classical tradition, electronic music remains a minority culture. It was a different musical tradition that took up the recording studio as its workshop.
Results of a large-scale randomized behavior change intervention on road safety in Kenya

Road accidents kill 1.3 million people each year, most in the developing world. We test the efficacy of evocative messages, delivered on stickers placed inside Kenyan matatus, or minibuses, in reducing road accidents. We randomize the intervention, which nudges passengers to complain to their drivers directly, across 12,000 vehicles and find that on average it reduces insurance claims rates of matatus by between one-quarter and one-third and is associated with 140 fewer road accidents per year than predicted. Messages promoting collective action are especially effective, and evocative images are an important motivator. Average maximum speeds and average moving speeds are 1–2 km/h lower in vehicles assigned to treatment. We cannot reject the null hypothesis of no placebo effect. We were unable to discern any impact of a complementary radio campaign on insurance claims. Finally, the sticker intervention is inexpensive: we estimate the cost-effectiveness of the most impactful stickers to be between $10 and $45 per disability-adjusted life-year saved.
Analyzing Technology Interactions

Presented at the 6th AIAA Aviation Technology, Integration and Operations Conference (ATIO), Wichita, Kansas, Sep. 25-27, 2006.
Fat and sodium content of school lunch foods: calculated values and chemical analysis

A pilot study was conducted to assess whether calculated nutrient analyses obtained from a computerized nutrient database could adequately reflect the chemical analysis determinations of 60 school ...