cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Functionalization of Cotton Fabric with Vinyltrimethoxysilane

The surface of cotton fabric was successfully functionalized with vinyltrimethoxysilane in order to impart water repellency and wrinkle recovery and to introduce surface vinyl groups (—CH=CH2) to the fabric, which could then be initiated for copolymerization reactions with various monomers. The introduction of active groups onto the fabric surface was evidenced from the universal attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (UATR-FTIR) spectrum of the treated fabric. The spectrum shows two peaks located at 1410 and 1600 cm—1 (C=C stretch). An additional peak located at 756 cm—1 attributed to Si—O—Si symmetric stretch was also observed. Excellent water contact angle and wrinkle recovery angle values were obtained.
An application of fuzzy dynamic integrated judgment to cotton allocation

In the manufacturing process of yarns for the textile industry, often encountered is the problem of how to select a substitute (from the warehouse) for a brand of cotton in the cotton allocation that is currently in use but running out of the raw material. A model that uses fuzzy dynamic integrated judgment (FDIJ) provides a very useful tool in solving this problem. In view of several factors in cotton allocations, the FDIJ is made for cotton selection according to the data feedback from previous production runs. The main objective of this paper is to explain how the data feedback can be stored in a fuzzy dynamic relationship dictionary which generates a fuzzy dynamic relation to be used in the learning ability in the problem of cotton allocation.
Iterative fluctuation charge model: a new variable charge molecular dynamics method.

In molecular simulations, calculation of environmentally dependent atomic charges is still a demanding task. Empirical and semiempirical methods have been proposed and applied to a wide range of problems with different success. In this paper, a new scheme based on the concept of electronegativity equalization is presented and its advantages over several other methods are discussed. This method is an extension of the fluctuation charge model [S. W. Rick, S. J. Stuart, and B. J. Berne, J. Chem. Phys. 101, 6141 (1994)]. By allowing multiple electronic iterations at each nuclear step, the condition of electronegativity equalization can be satisfied to a selected precision. Molecular dynamics simulations using this new method, as well as several other methods, are performed on α quartz. Analysis of the simulated results shows that it is advantageous to use the iterative fluctuation charge model in several different situations.
The Irreducibility of Personal Obligation

It is argued that claims about personal obligation (of the form “s ought to ϕ”) cannot be reduced to claims about impersonal obligation (of the form “it ought to be the case that p”). The most common attempts at such a reduction are shown to have unacceptable implications in cases involving a plurality of agents. It is then argued that similar problems will face any attempt to reduce personal obligation to impersonal obligation.
The bizarre pharmacology of the ATP release channel pannexin1

Pannexins were originally thought to represent a second and redundant family of gap junction proteins in addition to the well characterized connexins. However, it is now evident that pannexins function as unapposed membrane channels and the major role of Panx1 is that of an ATP release channel. Despite the contrasting functional roles, connexins, innexins and pannexins share pharmacological properties. Most gap junction blockers also attenuate the function of Panx1, including carbenoxolone, mefloquine and flufenamic acid. However, in contrast to connexin based gap junction channels, Panx1 channel activity can be attenuated by several groups of drugs hitherto considered very specific for other proteins. The drugs affecting Panx1 channels include several transport inhibitors, chloride channel blockers, mitochondrial inhibitors, P2X7 receptor ligands, inflammasome inhibitors and malaria drugs. These observations indicate that Panx1 may play an extended role in a wider spectrum of physiological functions. Alternatively, Panx1 may share structural domains with other proteins, not readily revealed by sequence alignments. This article is part of the Special Issue Section entitled 'Current Pharmacology of Gap Junction Channels and Hemichannels'.
Transplantation analyses of the immunogenicity of epidermal tumors generated in murine skin two-stage carcinogenesis protocols.

SSIN mice are very sensitive to tumor promoters in two-stage skin carcinogenesis protocols. It was recently reported that SSIN mice have fewer CD8+ T-cells than other strains of mice and develop a weaker cytotoxic T-cell response upon challenge with an allogeneic tumor transplant. The significance of this muted immune response to processes involved in two-stage carcinogenesis depends on the immunogenicity of the tumors generated in such protocols. Although they have low CD8+ T-cell contents, SSIN rejected a variety of subcutaneously transplanted allogeneic murine tumors. Analyses of the growth of primary papillomas derived from 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene–initiated/12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate–promoted SSIN mice and then subcutaneously transplanted into triple-deficient (bg-nu-xid), athymic nude and immune-competent and immunosuppressed SSIN mice revealed that few tumors took and tumor takes were not markedly influenced by the immumological status of the transplant recipient. Two tumor cell lines (RS1 and RS2) were derived from the transplantation studies and could be passaged in normal SSIN mice (H-2q haplotype). Both tumors were squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) by the second in vivo passage and were rejected in allogeneic mice (BALB/c) but grew in FVB/N mice, a strain having the H-2q haplotype. Transplantation studies revealed that prior exposure to RS1 and RS2 did not prime SSIN mice to reject a subsequent tumor challenge. Three primary SCC tumors derived from SSIN mice in a two-stage carcinogenesis protocol also grew when subcutaneously transplanted in SSIN mice and could be serially passaged. Consequently, the epidermal SCCs that develop in two-stage carcinogenesis protocols appear to be nonimmunogenic. Mol. Carcinog. 20:48–57, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Design and synthesis of hydroxyapatite composites containing an mPEG-dendritic poly(L-lysine) star polycaprolactone

The design and synthesis of star polycaprolactone−hydroxyapatite films for use as a biodegradable matrix for bone tissue engineering will be presented. mPEG-dendritic-poly(l-lysine) terminated with glycolic acid residues serve as the star polymer cores for attachment of polycaprolactone by ring-opening polymerization of e-caprolactone. Initial studies involved testing physical blends of the tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) and glycolamide terminated dendrons, generations zero through six, with varying concentrations of hydroxyapatite (HA). The star polymer had not only drastically different solubility but also greatly improved film quality. Further improvements were made in film quality and homogeneity by utilizing the star polymers in the presence of a chemical synthesis of hydroxyapatite. The improved films were then tested for their mechanical strength properties. The star polymer from generation 6.5 and 20 wt % of hydroxyapatite exhibited good mechanical properties with an average Young's modulus of 1.77 MPa...
On Finding a Minimal Set of Diagnostic Tests

A method is described for constructing a set of input patterns able to detect every given failure of a combinational network. The result may not be a minimal set of tests, but it is surely a complete test.
Calcite–graphite isotope thermometry: a test for polymetamorphism in marble, Tudor gabbro aureole, Ontario, Canada

Graphitization and coarsening of organic material in carbonate-bearing metasedimentary rocks is accompanied by carbon isotope exchange which is the basis of a refractory, pressure-independent geothermometer. Comparison of observed isotopic fractionations between calcite and graphite (A13Ccal-Gr) with independent petrological thermometers provides the following empirical calibration over the range 400-800" C: A13CCal-Gr = 5.81 x lo6 x T-*(K) - 2.61. This system has its greatest potential in marbles where calcite + graphite is a common assemblage and other geothermometers are often unavailable. The temperature dependency of this empirical calibration differs from theoretical calibrations; reasons for this are unclear but the new empirical calibration yields temperature estimates in better agreement with independent thermometry from several terranes and is preferred for geological applications. Both calcite-graphite isotopic thermometry and calcite-dolomite solvus thermometry are applied to marble adjacent to the Tudor gabbro in the Grenville Province of Ontario, Canada. The marble has undergone two metamorphic episodes, early contact metamorphism and later regional metamorphism. Values of A13CCa,-Gr decrease regularly from c. 8%0 in samples over 2 km from the pluton to values of 3-4% within 200m of the contact. These samples appear to preserve fractionations from the early thermal aureole with the empirical geothermometer, and indicate temperatures of 450-500" C away from the intrusion and 700-750" C near the gabbro. This thermal profile around the gabbro is consistent with conductive heat flow models. In contrast, the distribution of Mg between calcite and dolomite has been completely reset during later regional metamorphism and yields uniform temperatures of c. 500" C, even at the contact. Graphite textures are important for interpreting the results of the calcite-graphite thermometer. Coarsening of graphite approaching the Tudor gabbro correlates with the decrease in isotopic fractionations and provides textural evidence that graphite crystallization took place at the time of intrusion. In contrast to isotopic exchange during prograde metamorphism, which is facilitated by graphitization, retrogressive carbon isotopic exchange appears to require recrystallization of graphite which is sluggish and easily recognized texturally. Resistance of the calcite-graphite system to resetting permits thermometry in polymetamorphic settings to see through later events that have disturbed other systems.
Interracial Marriages: Empirical and Theoretical Considerations

Interracial marriages have garnered attention periodically since the turn of the century. However, sociopsychological research in the area of intermarriage continues to be scant in spite of increased contact between the races in the 1960s. Social scientists have maintained the study of intermarriage may provide a precise, quantitative measurement of crucial and related questions such as the process of assimilation, the degree of internal cohesion in individual racial, religious, and ethnic groups, and the extent of social distance between groups of these types (Barron, 1946: 249). Little has been done, however, in the areas which promise so much in understanding social processes. What research that has been done has focused on: the incidence of interracial marriages; causal factors; sociopsychological characteristics; and, the problems encountered by the marriage partners and their children. This paper will summarize the small amount of research which has been done on interracial marriages in the areas mentioned in an attempt to update the body of information. It will also provide directives for future research which should lead to a better understanding of black-white marriages and their implications for black people and the larger society.
Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity in rabbit chondrocytes.

The effects of recombinant interleukin-1β (rIL-1β), recombinant tumor necrosis factor (rTNFα) and two growth factors, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) on PLA2 activity and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release were investigated using rabbit chondrocytes. Cellular PLA2 activity increased 2–10×above controls in the presence of 8×10−12M (5 U) rIL-1β or 5×10−9M rTNFα after 20 hr incubation. PLA2 activity remained constant with 1–50 ng/ml of either growth factor. PGE2 release significantly increased (p<0.05) when the chondrocytes were incubated with rIL-1β, bFGF and EGF alone, but not with rTNFα above. These data suggest PLA2 activity and PGE2 release are not coordinately regulated in rabbit chondrocytes.
Hamiltonian treatment of asymptotically anti-de Sitter spaces

Abstract The hamiltonian formalism for general relativity in an asymptotically anti-de Sitter space is developed. The generators of the asymptotic O(3,2) symmetry group are expressed as surface integrals in terms of the canonical variables. A set of O(3,2) invariant boundary conditions on the (off-shell) canonical variables which makes the surface integrals finite is exhibited. As an immediate consequence the surface integrals are shown to obey the O(3,2) algebra. The extension to supergravity is also discussed.
Improved calculations of compactness and a reevaluation of continuous compact units

A new method for calculating compactness (Z) that uses look-up table-based algorithms for area and volume computations is introduced. These algorithms can be used in any iterative area orvolume calculation, are more than 1000 times faster than the originalalgorithms, and have equal or better precision. With the faster algorithms it is now possible to calculate the compactness of all continuous units in a protein, and to precisely locate the optimal compact units without the screening functions and limited resolution used previously. These methods have been incorporated into a fully automatic domain finding algorithm, and this method has been applied to the 21 proteins originally analyzed as well as 12 additional proteins. This method is robust, and yields similar units even when applied to coordinates of protein crystals grown under different experimental conditions. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Baker Beach, San Francisco, California. Rip current-beach cusp coupled system: waves, currents, sediments and tides self-organize to form a self-maintaining geometrical coastal geomorphology

This report looks beyond waves and explores the probability that waves, currents, sediments and tides self-organize into a rip current-beach cusp coupled system to create a beach condition which endangers the lives of beach bathers. The coastal geography of Baker Beach is described, and information given on how, why, and where the greatest dangers occur.
A system for mapping DNA sequences in the chromosomes of Drosophila melanogaster.

Abstract Individual segments of the chromosomal DNA in D. melanogaster were isolated, and the sequences they contain were analyzed for repetition and mapped within the polytene chromosomes. Isolation was achieved by first constructing circular hybrid DNA molecules consisting of single chromosomal segments linked by poly(dA):poly(dT) joints to single molecules of the tetracycline resistance plasmid, pSC101. Tetracycline-sensitive E. coli were transformed to resistance by this heterogeneous population of hybrid molecules and homogeneous populations of different hybrids were isolated from the clones of transformants. Three hybrid plasmids (pDm 1, 2, and 4) were studied in detail. Each exhibits the structure expected from the method of construction and none exhibits internal sequence repetition detectable by reassociation kinetics. The D. melanogaster sequences in pDm2 and 4 belong to a single class defined by little or no repetition within the genome and localization to a single chromomeric region in the polytene chromosomes. The characteristics of this class, which also includes 4 of a second set of 6 hybrids, are not compatible with tandem repetition models for the chromomere. The sequences in pDm1 are repeated 90 times and are located in 15 different chromomeric regions and within the chromocentric β-heterochromatin. This distribution is of the kind predicted by certain regulatory models, for example, that of Britten and Davidson (1969).
Transmembrane Potential Measurements of Cells of Higher Plants as Related to Salt Uptake

Measurements of the difference in electropotential between the interior of the cell and the external solution have been made for the first time in cells of several crop plants ( 1 ). The interiors of cells of Avena, Pisum , and Zea seedling tissues all have potentials of about —80 to —115 mv relative to that of an external solution of 0.1 mmole of KC1 per liter, bathing the tissue. The potential difference of Avena coleoptiles varies with the concentration of external KC1 and is depressed by 2,4-dinitrophenol. The potential difference occurs between the cytoplasmic layer and the exterior; the potential of the vacuole does not appear to be significantly different from that of the cytoplasm. Obviously a relatively large cation accumulation ratio could be accounted for in plant cells by this large potential without invoking a chemical cation transport scheme.
Spinal Motor Neuronal Degeneration After Knee Joint Immobilization in the Guinea Pig

Abstract Objective This study used a unilateral knee joint immobilization model in adult guinea pigs to test the hypothesis that retrograde degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord is the result of attenuation of knee joint activities. Methods A total of 32 adult guinea pigs were used and divided into 8 groups based on the duration of knee joint immobilization. Light microscopic studies of Nissl, nitric oxide synthase immunohistochemistry, horseradish peroxidase, and fast blue were carried out to examine the neurons in the spinal cord. Electron microscopy was also performed to examine the neurons and axons. Results After various periods of knee joint immobilization, a variety of features of motor neuronal degeneration were observed. Specific characteristics included gradual increases in the expressions of neuronal nitric oxide synthase and ultrastructural changes in affected motor neurons including reduction of cell organelles, indentation of the nuclear envelop, and small compact clumps of chromatin in the nuclei. Observation of the peripheral nerve (femoral nerve) also revealed demyelination alterations in some axons innervating the muscles of the knee joint. Interestingly, motor neuronal degenerative changes and demyelination were reversible after the knee joint immobilization was removed and knee joint activity was restored. These findings may assist in further development of models for spinal dysfunction such as the chiropractic subluxation complex. Conclusion We conclude that motor neuronal degeneration in the spinal cord and axons in this study was the result of knee joint immobilization. Increases in motor neuronal nitric oxide-mediated oxidative stress level after reduction of target tissue activity may contribute to the mechanism for degenerative changes in the motor neurons in adult spinal cord of the guinea pig.
MATHEMATICAL ATTITUDE DEVELOPMENT FROM A VYGOTSKIAN PERSPECTIVE

An analysis of mathematical life history interviews, Vygotsky’s developmental theories, and research on attitudes toward mathematics, guided the creation of the attitudinal model presented in this paper. Examination and interpretation of the life histories of a sample of mathematics professors confirmed the model’s utility and the importance of four ‘bridging’ experiences: significant interactions with materials, mentoring experiences, significant peer interactions, and negative experiences. Implications of the model for curriculum planning and development are also explored.
The Study of Nursing Informatics

A framework for organizing the study of nursing informatics is presented. The management and processing of nursing data, information science and nursing science is proposed as an area for study. The premises for such study and the key concepts and relationships are discussed. Nursing informatics would support the practice of nursing and delivery of nursing care.
Effects of nerve growth factor and acetyl-L-carnitine arginyl amide on the human neuronal line HCN-1A

Abstract The HCN-1A clonal cell line, derived from the cortical tissue of a patient with unilateral megencephaly, was shown to differentiate into a mature neuronal-like state in the presence of the nerve growth factor, dibutyryl cyclic adenosine, 3′,5′-monophosphate and either 1-isobutyl-3-methylxanthine or forskolin. Differentiation was assessed by measuring the percentage of cells that displayed branched, varicose processes that stained for synaptophysin. Treatment of cultures with a cocktail containing forskolin increased immunocytochemical staining for gamma aminobutyric (GABA), neurofilament protein and the nerve growth factor receptor species p75 NGFR . Treatment with acetyl- l -carnitine alone had some effects on the cell morphology while acetyl- l -carnitine arginyl amide and nerve growth factor together increased the GABA content. Positive staining levels for the neurotransmitters gamma aminobutyric acid, glutamate, somatostatin, cholecystokinin and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide were measured quantitatively for HCN-1A under basal conditions.
Explaining voter turnout patterns: An information theory*

Voting research is rich in empirical regularities yet a parsimonious theory of voter turnout that can match the facts has proven to be elusive. This paper argues that voter turnout patterns can be explained by extending the traditional rational voter model to include limited information. A model is presented in which utility-maximizing consumers receive higher payoffs from voting the more confident they are of their vote choice. The model provides an explanation for the most important cross-sectional voter turnout patterns. In addition, it suggests a novel explanation for the post-1960 decline in U.S. participation.
Exploring the Use of Google Glass in Wet Laboratories

We present results from an exploratory field study of using Google Glass for training future scientists in wet laboratory work. Our goal is to investigate the potential of Glass for mitigating challenges of laboratory work and for increasing the confidence and efficiency of novice researchers. Our findings indicate how Glass is used in laboratory settings and highlight potential uses for Glass including hands-free interaction with experimental protocols and process documentation. We also discuss technical and usability limitations of using Glass in laboratory settings.
Pediatric Out-of-hospital Emergency Medical Services Utilization in Kansas City, Missouri

Objectives: The objective was to describe epidemiologic features and usage patterns of pediatric emergency medical services (EMS) transports in Kansas City, Missouri. Methods: The study consisted of a retrospective analysis of transports from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2004, for Kansas City, Missouri, residents younger than 15 years of age (excluding interfacility transports. Data included demographics, insurance, day and time of transport, patient zip code, chief complaint, and number of individual transports. Rates were calculated using intercensal estimates for the denominator. All rates were expressed as number of transports per 1,000 persons per year (PPY). Results: A total of 5,717 pediatric transports occurred in the 3-year study period. Transport rates were 18 PPY for all users, 42 PPY for those Language: en
Inhibition of denitrification by ultraviolet radiation

Abstract It has been shown that UV-A (λ = 320– 400 nm) and UV-B (λ = 280 – 320 nm) inhibit photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation and nitrification. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects, if any, on denitrification in a microbial community inhabiting the intertidal. The community studied is the microbial mat consisting primarily of Lyngbya that inhabits the Pacific marine intertidal, Baja California, Mexico. Rates of denitrification were determined using the acetylene blockage technique. Pseudomonas fluorescens (ATCC # 17400) was used as a control organism, and treated similarly to the mat samples. Samples were incubated either beneath a PAR transparent, UV opaque screen (OP3), or a mylar screen to block UV-B, or a UV transparent screen (UVT) for 2 to 3 hours. Sets of samples were also treated with nitrapyrin to inhibit nitrification, or DCMU to inhibit photosynthesis and treated similarly. Denitrification rates were greater in the UV protected samples than in the UV exposed samples the mat samples as well as for the Ps. fluorescens cultures. Killed controls exhibited no activity. In the DCMU and nitrapyrin treated samples denitrification rates were the same as in the untreated samples. These data indicate that denitrification is directly inhibited by UV radiation.
Mechanisms for Enhancing Cellular Reprogramming

During development, the genome adopts specific chromatin states to establish and maintain functionally distinct cell types in a well-controlled environment. A select group of transcription factors have the ability to drive the transition of the genome from a pluripotent to a more specialized chromatin state. The same set of factors can be used as reprogramming factors to reset the already established chromatin state back to pluripotency or directly to an alternative cell type. However, under the suboptimal reprogramming conditions, these factors fall short in guiding the majority of cells to their new fate. In this review, we visit the recent findings addressing the manipulation of chromatin structure to enhance the performance of transcription factors in reprogramming. The main emphasis is on the mechanisms underlying the conversion of somatic cells to pluripotency using OSKM. This review is intended to highlight the windows of opportunities for developing mechanistically based approaches to replace the phenotypically guided methods currently employed in reprogramming, in an attempt to move the field of cell conversion towards using next generation technologies.
A methodology to optimize design pattern context size for higher sensitivity to hotspot detection using pattern association tree (PAT)

Pattern based design rule checks have emerged as an alternative to the traditional rule based design rule checks in the VLSI verification flow [1]. Typically, the design-process weak-points, also referred as design hotspots, are classified into patterns of fixed size. The size of the pattern defines the radius of influence for the process. These fixed sized patterns are used to search and detect process weak points in new designs without running computationally expensive process simulations. However, both the complexity of the pattern and different kinds of physical processes affect the radii of influence. Therefore, there is a need to determine the optimal pattern radius (size) for efficient hotspot detection. The methodology described here uses a combination of pattern classification and pattern search techniques to create a directed graph, referred to as the Pattern Association Tree (PAT). The pattern association tree is then filtered based on the relevance, sensitivity and context area of each pattern node. The critical patterns are identified by traversing the tree and ranking the patterns. This method has plausible applications in various areas such as process characterization, physical design verification and physical design optimization. Our initial experiments in the area of physical design verification confirm that a pattern deck with the radius optimized for each pattern is significantly more accurate at predicting design hotspots when compared to a conventional deck of fixed sized patterns.
Statins and their potential targets in multiple sclerosis therapy.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a CNS-demyelinating disease characterised by relapsing and chronic neurological impairment. While traditionally CNS autoantigen-specific CD4+ T cells have been considered the culprits in the initial phase of the disease, recent observations have altered this concept. It is now recognised that other T lymphocyte subclasses can initiate CNS demyelination. In addition, other cell types and molecules may play an important role in MS pathogenesis. There is overwhelming evidence that MS is a dynamic process, in which recurrent episodes of blood–brain barrier disruption and CNS inflammation play a crucial role in early disease stages, leading eventually to the largely irreversible changes of demyelination, gliosis and axonal degeneration. These observations may have important therapeutic implications. Within the last ten years, several medications have been approved for MS treatment. These agents, all of which are given parenterally, are only partially effective and are often associate...
Temperature dependent sensitivity of isolated guinea-pig atria to sympathomimetic amines.

Abstract The role of neuronal uptake of sympathomimetic amines in the temperature-dependent supersensitivity to norepinephrine has been investigated at 37°C and at 26°C in isolated guinea-pig atria. Measurement of the uptake of 14C-dl-norepinephrine showed a significantly lower tissue-to-medium ratio at 26°C as compares to 37°C. Preincubation with 1 × 10−5 M cocaine, a concentration which reduces the tissue-to-medium ratio to approximately 1 at both temperatures, does not prevent temperature-induced supersensitivity to the positive chronotropic effect of norepinephrine. Furthermore, at the lower bath temperature, supersensitivity to the positive chronotropic effect of isoproterenol was found under control conditions and also after preincubation with cocaine. The results are discussed in relation to the mechanism or mechanisms responsible for production of temperature-dependent supersensitivity.
FOREIGN‐CURRENCY OPTIONS, EX ANTE EXCHANGE‐RATE VOLATILITY, AND MARKET EFFICIENCY: AN EMPIRICAL TEST

“The currency option's attraction results from the volatility of foreign-exchange markets, where rates can move as much as 3 percent in a day” (M. Sesit, Wall Street Journal, April 20, 1984, p. 25). This study compares the foreign-exchange rate implicit volatility of call options and put options that are written on a foreign currency. These implicit volatilities should be equal, and equal to the volatility of the proportional change in the exchange rate, given that option prices are efficient and that the foreign-currency option pricing model described by Biger and Hull holds. The foreign-currency options that are examined in this study are the British pound, Canadian dollar, Japanese yen, Swiss franc, and West German mark. The results of this study support the notions of market efficiency and put-call parity.
Rationale and consequences of reclassifying obesity as an addictive disorder: Neurobiology, food environment and social policy perspectives

The rapid increase in the prevalence of obesity is a priority for investigators from across numerous disciplines, including biology, nutritional science, and public health and policy. In this paper, we systematically examine the premise that common dietary obesity is an addictive disorder, based on the criteria for addiction described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders of the American Psychiatric Association, version IV, and consider the consequences of such a reclassification of obesity for public policy. Specifically, we discuss evidence from both human and animal studies investigating the effects of various types and amounts of food and the food environment in obese individuals. Neurobiological studies have shown that the hedonic brain pathways activated by palatable food overlap considerably with those activated by drugs of abuse and suffer significant deficits after chronic exposure to high-energy diets. Furthermore, food as a stimulus can induce the sensitization, compulsion and relapse patterns observed in individuals who are addicted to illicit drugs. The current food environment encourages these addictive-like behaviors where increased exposure through advertisements, proximity and increased portion sizes are routine. Taking lessons from the tobacco experience, it is clear that reclassifying common dietary obesity as an addictive disorder would necessitate policy changes (e.g., regulatory efforts, economic strategies, and educational approaches). These policies could be instrumental in addressing the obesity epidemic, by encouraging the food industry and the political leadership to collaborate with the scientific and medical community in establishing new and more effective therapeutic approaches.
The impact of institutional factors on officially reported sexual assaults in prisons

Not only has research on prison sexual assault been rather scarce the past four decades, but few of these studies have ascertained the number of officially reported inmate-on-inmate sexual assaults. In addiition, no study exists which has rigorously examined which, if any, institutional factors impact the number of officially reported inmate-on-inmate sexual assaults in prisons. Using data from a national sample of 226 prison wardens, this study examines the impact of institutional factors on officially reported sexual assaults. The most salient variables in the study were current number of inmates and wardens’ perceptions of inmate fear of sexual assault. Wardens overseeing institutions with higher numbers of inmates were more likely to report that inmates had been sexually assaulted and those who ran minimum-security prisons were less likely to report sexual assaults within their facilities.
Plasmonic Notch Filter Design Based on Long-range Surface Plasmon Excitation Along Metal Grating

A single notch plasmonic spectral filter design using evanescently coupled resonant ultrathin metal grating is numerically studied in this article. Due to excitation and coupling of long range surface plasmon between the metal grating nanowires, a deep and narrow reflection spectrum dip can be obtained. Narrower spectral bandwidth is achieved through decreased damping from the existence of large dielectric gaps between the grating nanowires. This physical explanation is confirmed by the field distribution calculation. As an example, a single notch filter design with full width half maximum band width less than 3 nm centered at 808 nm is presented.
Ruble convertibility: demand responsive exchange rates in a goal-directed economy

Abstract This essay shows how the ruble can be made partially convertible without radically changing the Soviet economic system. It demonstrates that the necessary and sufficient conditions for trade enhancing convertibility merely require that incentive maximizing enterprises be permitted to engage in import and export activities, and be authorized to participate in foreign currency auctions organized by the State. Additional conditions required for a significant improvement in foreign trade efficiency are then examined, and it is shown that although numerous micro and macroeconomic disequilibria do pose difficulties, partial ruble convertibility could improve East-West trade efficiency if properly designed and implemented.
Exciton annihilation and dissociation dynamics in group II-V Cd3P2 quantum dots.

Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) have emerged as a new class of light harvesting materials for solar energy conversion due to their unique size-dependent properties. Most recent studies have focused on II–VI group (such as CdX, X = S, Se, and Te) QDs and lead salt (such as PbS, PbSe, and PbTe) QDs. In this paper, we investigate exciton dissociation and annihilation dynamics of Cd3P2 QDs, a low bulk band gap (0.55 eV) II–V group material, to explore their potential application as a light harvesting component for photoreduction systems. For Cd3P2 QDs with 1S exciton band at 650 nm, a long-lived single exciton state with lifetime of 259 ns and a high emission quantum yield of 65% were observed. In Cd3P2 QD–rhodamine B (RhB, an electron acceptor) complexes, excitons in QDs could be dissociated by ultrafast electron transfer to RhB (6.2 ps), and the charge separated state had a long lifetime (31 ns). Although the photoinduced electron transfer rate in QD–RhB complexes decreased with increasing QD size, electro...
The National Library of Medicine: Evolution of a Premier Information Center

From a small collection of medical publications in the Surgeon General's Office in 1836, the National Library of Medicine has developed into the leading repository of medical information in the world. Despite strong opposition and impediments from certain quarters, involving considerable machinations and intrigue, the determination of interested medical leaders and sympathetic members of Congress triumphed in having this remarkable institution established on the campus of the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md. As a participant in many of the negotiations preceding that decision, I have happily witnessed the transformation of the Library, long housed in cramped, makeshift quarters, to its present magnificent structures in the heart of our nation's foremost medical research center. Its prodigious collection of print, audiovisual, and electronic information; its imaginative research projects; its excellent outreach program; and its innovative services and products are indispensable to all practicing health professionals, scientists, and medical educators, as well as to journalists, government officials, and others. The ultimate beneficiary, of course, is the patient. ( JAMA . 1991;266:1252-1258)
Who is on the Driver Seat? The Evolution of Collaboration Organizations

This paper presents a historical review of the evolution of management thinking and collaboration technologies. This review shows that the gap between management ideas and the functionality available in collaboration technologies has been steadily narrowing since the late 1960s, opening up new opportunities for developers and integrators of these technologies as well as companies that use them. Management ideas have preceded and likely driven the development and use of collaboration technologies up until the early 1990s. This situation has been reversed since the mid-1990s due to circumstances related to the advent of the World Wide Web. One caveat associated with this new state of affairs is that it makes it difficult for companies to achieve or sustain a competitive advantage in their industries, particularly if they use standard technologies that are also available to their competitors. From a traditional management perspective, this is the equivalent to placing the "cart in front of the horses", so to speak. We argue that, to overcome difficulties associated with this situation companies need to instill a new management model into their management ranks. Based on the results of business process redesign projects involving over 10 companies in the Philadelphia Metropolitan Region, we provide a first step toward the development of a generic management model that takes advantage of features of modern collaboration technologies.
Computer Simulations of Local Concentration Variations in Miscible Polymer Blends

The dynamics of the two different components of thermodynamically miscible polymer blends can have very different temperature dependences (“thermorheologically complex”) in some cases, while in oth...
Recent approaches to the archeological study of mortuary practices

O'Shea, John M. Mortuary Variability: An Archaeological Investigation. New York: Academic Press, 1984. xii + 338 pp. including references and index. $49.00 cloth.
The Hitch‐Hiker's Guide to SCILSnet

SCILSnet is the term which has been applied by Suffolk County Information and Library Service (SCILS) to its application of the Geac Library Information System.
Electrocardiographic safety profile and monitoring guidelines in pediatric psychopharmacology

A number of medications commonly used in pediatric psychopharmacology can prolong the QTc interval of the electrocardiogram. QTc prolongation can in turn predispose to torsades de pointes, a sometimes deadly arrhythmia. These considerations are clinically relevant given documented, if still controversial, reports of sudden deaths associated with the use of the tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) desipramine in children. While most reports of QTc prolongation have involved adult patients, this adverse effect can occur in children. After discussing the QTc parameter's derivation, accuracy, and limitations, this article reviews current knowledge about the propensity of the antipsychotics (both atypical and traditional), TCAs, and alpha agonists to prolong the QTc interval in young patients. Based on the literature reviewed, guidelines are provided for clinical and electrocardiographic monitoring in pediatric psychopharmacology.
Rapid thermal characterization of the high thermal conductivity film layers by the film-on substrate technique

Lack of an efficient thermal management strategy and system can often lead to overall system failure in advanced microprocessors. This can be avoided by utilization of the high thermal conductivity materials, as heat spreader/sink, in compact packaging systems. The diamondlike dielectric materials, such as diamond, silicon nitride (Si 3 N 4 ), aluminum nitride (AlN), silicon carbide (SiC), etc., are the likely choices. However, thermal characterization of such high thermal conductivity materials has proven to be challenging due to variations in the fabrication processes and, therefore, their microstructures as well as the practical difficulties in measuring small temperature gradients during the characterization. In this paper, we will report on a novel film on substrate technique that can be used conveniently for repeated measurements of the lateral thermal conductivity of the high thermal conductivity film layers, with thicknesses between 100 and 500 μm.
Giant cell tumor of the thoracic spine: case report and review of the literature

Abstract Background Giant cell tumors are benign tumors of the bone that most commonly occur at the ends of the long bones; they are rarely found in the spine above the sacrum. The management of patients with giant cell tumors of the spine represents a challenge, and the clinical approach to this problem continues to evolve with improvements in surgical and adjunctive therapies. Case Description A 19-year-old woman with localized back pain and a spinal compression deformity was found to harbor a giant cell tumor of the T7 vertebral body. The patient was first treated with arterial embolization of the hypervascular region observed on angiography. Subsequently, the patient underwent a one-stage transthoracic T7 corpectomy followed by anterior spinal reconstruction and stabilization. Postoperatively, the patient's kyphotic deformity was corrected. To optimize local disease control, the patient underwent IMRT delivered to the site of tumor resection. She remains neurologically intact at 1 year postoperatively without evidence of disease recurrence. Conclusion The literature and approaches to the management of spinal giant cell tumors are reviewed.
Central bank intervention and exchange rate volatility

Abstract This paper explores the effects of foreign exchange intervention by central banks on the behavior of exchange rates. The G-3 central banks have undertaken an unprecedented number of both coordinated and unilateral intervention operations in the last 10 years. Existing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of intervention is mixed: studies using data from the 1970s suggest that intervention operations that do not affect the monetary base have, at most, a short-lived influence on exchange rates, but more recent studies indicate that the intervention operations that followed the Plaza Agreement influenced both the level and variance of exchange rates. This paper examines the effects of US, German and Japanese monetary and intervention policies on dollar-mark and dollar-yen exchange rate volatility over the 1977–1994 period. The results indicate that intervention operations generally increase exchange rate volatility. This is particularly true of secret interventions, which are those undertaken by central banks without notification of the public. Overt interventions in the mid-1980s appear to have reduced exchange rate volatility, but in other periods, and for the 1977–1994 period as a whole, central bank intervention is associated with greater exchange rate volatility.
Sexual Coercion, Verbal Aggression, and Condom Use Consistency Among College Students

Abstract Objective: The relationship between condom use and 2 less visible categories of intimate partner violence (IPV), sexual coercion and verbal aggression, was examined among college students. Methods: In March 2007 a random cross-sectional sample of undergraduates from the southeast region of the United States was taken to collect information about sexual coercion and verbal aggression, in addition to condom use consistency. Alcohol use was also assessed. Results: Of the 142 participants, 31.7% reported being victims of sexual coercion, and 78% reported having verbally aggressive partners. Participants who reported experiencing sexual coercion in their relationship were significantly less likely to consistently use condoms. Additionally, alcohol use before or during episodes of verbal aggression was negatively associated with condom use. Alcohol use was also significantly associated with heightened incidents of coercion and aggression. Conclusions: Results indicate that among college students, the p...
Weight gain in captive chimpanzee infants: Comparisons by sex, rearing, and colony

Weight gain has been monitored for 13 years in a mixed longitudinal study of captive chimpanzee growth and development. This report presents results of a comparative analysis of weight relative to age in 175 animals during the first 24 months in four sex/rearing groups (hand-reared females, hand-reared males, mother-reared females, and mother-reared males) from three colonies with different physical, nutritional, and social environments (Primate Foundation of Arizona, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Department of Veterinary Resources, Bastrop, TX, and White Sands Research Center, Alamagordo, NM). The Lowess method is used to generate fits of weight vs. age for each group and colony, with which individual animals at these and other colonies may be compared for assessment of developmental status. Comparisons of the curves, using the jackknife approach, show that there are significant differences between the curves, indicating that rearing and environmental parameters may be factors in weight gain rate and must be considered in such an assessment. Rearing effects may be the dominant of these factors in weight gain. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An Evaluation of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy for Detecting Organic Solvents in Expired Breath

The aim of this study was to test the performance of gas-phase FTIR analysis on human breath samples. Ten volatile organic compounds (VOC) were examined for applicability to FTIR spectroscopy (ethanol, ethylbenzene, n-hexane, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl tert-butyl ether, m-xylene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, and toluene). Three sets of detection limits (LOD) were determined for comparison. LOD 1 were generated from partial least squares (PLS) calibration methods using spectroscopic software, LOD 2 from spiked breath samples, and LOD 3 from blank breath samples. Mixed expired breath samples from four subjects were spiked at varying levels with four different VOC (hexane, methyl ethyl ketone, m-xylene and 1,1,1-trichloroethane) to validate spectral data and test overall accuracy. Breath samples spiked with m-xylene also were validated by GC/FID analysis. PLS-derived LOD 1 ranged from 0.06-2.47 ppm. Spiked breath sample LOD 2 ranged from 0.52-1.21 ppm. Blank breath LOD 3 me...