cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protein expression redirects vesicular stomatitis virus RNA synthesis to cytoplasmic inclusions.

Positive-strand and double-strand RNA viruses typically compartmentalize their replication machinery in infected cells. This is thought to shield viral RNA from detection by innate immune sensors and favor RNA synthesis. The picture for the non-segmented negative-strand (NNS) RNA viruses, however, is less clear. Working with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), a prototype of the NNS RNA viruses, we examined the location of the viral replication machinery and RNA synthesis in cells. By short-term labeling of viral RNA with 5′-bromouridine 5′-triphosphate (BrUTP), we demonstrate that primary mRNA synthesis occurs throughout the host cell cytoplasm. Protein synthesis results in the formation of inclusions that contain the viral RNA synthesis machinery and become the predominant sites of mRNA synthesis in the cell. Disruption of the microtubule network by treatment of cells with nocodazole leads to the accumulation of viral mRNA in discrete structures that decorate the surface of the inclusions. By pulse-chase analysis of the mRNA, we find that viral transcripts synthesized at the inclusions are transported away from the inclusions in a microtubule-dependent manner. Metabolic labeling of viral proteins revealed that inhibiting this transport step diminished the rate of translation. Collectively those data suggest that microtubule-dependent transport of viral mRNAs from inclusions facilitates their translation. Our experiments also show that during a VSV infection, protein synthesis is required to redirect viral RNA synthesis to intracytoplasmic inclusions. As viral RNA synthesis is initially unrestricted, we speculate that its subsequent confinement to inclusions might reflect a cellular response to infection.
Experimental Turbulence Analysis of Fuel Bundle With Spacer Grids

Rod bundles are widely used in industry today with applications ranging from nuclear reactors, heat exchangers, and steam generators. Accurately modeling the inherently unsteady and turbulent flow within these rods is essential in order to design for optimal efficiency while controlling vibration, noise and heat transfer. The problem complicates further when spacer-grids are used within the rods to maintain separation and structural rigidity. Computational modeling can be a useful alternative to the costly process of manufacturing and testing prototypes, but its accuracy needs to be checked with detailed experimental data. This paper describes an experimental database obtained using two-dimensional Time Resolved Particle Image Velocimetry (TR-PIV) measurements within a 5 × 5 rod bundle with spacer-grids. One of the unique characteristic of this set-up is the use of the Matched Index of Refraction technique employed in this investigation which consists of immersing plastic rods with a similar index of refraction as the one for water to achieve optical transparency across the spacer grid. This unique feature allows flow visualization and measurement within the bundle without rod obstruction. This approach also allows the use of high temporal and spatial non-intrusive dynamic measurement techniques namely TR-PIV to investigate the flow evolution below and immediately above the spacer. The data base presented includes explanation of the various cases tested such as boundary conditions, rig dimensions, measurement zones, and the test equipment in order to provide a good base for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Turbulence analysis of the obtained data is provided in order to gain insight of the physical phenomena and to compare the possible results obtained from computational simulations.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Design and performance of a vertical drift chamber for heavy ion applications

A vertical drift chamber has been specifically designed and constructed as a focal plane detector for heavy ion applications. Tests were performed with 12C(129 MeV), 14N(176 MeV) and 16O(140 MeV) ions and a magnetic spectrometer. The operating characteristics at 50, 100 and 200 Torr were investigated using isobutane as the counter gas. The intrinsic precision of the drift cells was determined to be about 75 μm at 200 Torr with isobutane. This value is indicative of an intrinsic detector resolution of 0.1 mm (fwhm) in track position and 7 mrad (fwhm) in track angle, for angles between 30 and 44°. Slightly larger values were measured at the lower pressures. Measurements of the electron drift times, the wire identification resolution and the counter efficiency were made from multiple sweeps of the elastic peak across the counter by ramping the magnetic field of the spectrometer. Details of the detector design, operation and performance are presented.
Inversion of strong ground motion and teleseismic waveform data for the fault rupture history of the 1979 Imperial Valley, California, earthquake

A least-squares point-by-point inversion of strong ground motion and teleseismic body waves is used to infer the fault rupture history of the 1979 Imperial Valley, California, earthquake. The Imperial fault is represented by a plane embedded in a half-space where the elastic properties vary with depth. The inversion yields both the spatial and temporal variations in dislocation on the fault plane for both right-lateral strike-slip and normal dip-slip components of motion. Inversions are run for different fault dips and for both constant and variable rupture velocity models. Effects of different data sets are also investigated. Inversions are compared which use the strong ground motions alone, the teleseismic body waves alone, and simultaneously the strong ground motion and teleseismic records. The inversions are stabilized by adding both smoothing and positivity constraints. The moment is estimated to be 5.0 × 10^(25) dyne-cm and the fault dip 90° ± 5°. Dislocation in the hypocentral region south of the United States-Mexican border is relatively small and almost dies out near the border. Dislocation then increases sharply north of the border to a maximum of about 2 m under Interstate 8. Dipslip motion is minor compared to strike-slip motion and is concentrated in the sediments. The best-fitting constant rupture velocity is 80 per cent of the local shear-wave velocity. However, there is a suggestion that the rupture front accelerated from the hypocenter northward. The 1979 Imperial Valley earthquake can be characterized as a magnitude 5 earthquake at the hypocenter which then grew into or triggered a magnitude 6 earthquake north of the border.
The quantum query complexity of AC 0

We show that any quantum algorithm deciding whether an input function f from [n] to [n] is 2-to-1 or almost 2-to-1 requires Θ(n) queries to f. The same lower bound holds for determining whether or not a function f from [2n - 2] to [n] is surjective. These results yield a nearly linear Ω(n/log n) lower bound on the quantum query complexity of AC0. The best previous lower bound known for any AC0 function was the Ω((n/log n)2/3) bound given by Aaronson and Shi's Ω(n2/3) lower bound for the element distinctness problem [1].
Ultradispersive adaptive prism based on a coherently prepared atomic medium

We have experimentally demonstrated an ultra-dispersive optical prism made from a coherently driven Rb atomic vapor. The prism possesses spectral angular dispersion that is 6 orders of magnitude higher than that of a prism made of optical glass; such angular dispersion allows one to spatially resolve light beams with different frequencies separated by a few kilohertz. The prism operates near the resonant frequency of atomic vapor and its dispersion is optically controlled by a coherent driving field.
Phonon dispersion relations, effective interionic potential and liquid resistivity of Al

Abstract Phonon dispersion relations and effective interionic potential for solid Al are calculated using the nonlocal optimized model potential of Shaw screened with the improved self-consistent dielectric function of Vashishta and Singwi. A very good agreement is obtained between the calculated and experimental phonon frequencies. Comparison is made using three other dielectric functions. It turns out that in Al the interionic potential is very sensitive to the screening function. Also electrical resistivity of liquid Al has been calculated using the model potential when screened with the four different dielectric functions. Influence of the spatial distribution of depletion charge at the ion site is discussed. A comparative study of nonlocal and local potentials by taking two local potentials: (1) modified point-ion, and (2) empty core, screened with the self-consistent dielectric function, is also presented.
Glucose before Thiamine for Wernicke Encephalopathy: A Literature Review

Abstract Background The prevailing teaching in medical school curricula and in medical textbooks is that if thiamine deficiency is suspected, thiamine supplementation should be given before administering glucose. Objective We sought to evaluate the published evidence describing the commonly held belief that thiamine supplementation must be given before glucose in hypoglycemic patients to prevent Wernicke encephalopathy. Methods Articles were identified through computerized searches of MEDLINE and other online sources. Pertinent references were traced back to their sources and also included in the literature review. The quality and content of each article was evaluated by the authors using the American Academy of Emergency Medicine literature review guidelines. Results Nineteen papers were ultimately identified and evaluated. No evidence rose above the level of case report/series. There were 13 case reports/series, 4 animal studies, and 2 expert opinion articles. True clinical research about the question of whether or not a glucose load can precipitate acute onset of Wernicke encephalopathy is lacking. Conclusions Mounting case report evidence suggests that prolonged glucose supplementation without the addition of thiamine can be a risk factor for the development of Wernicke encephalopathy. Based on our findings, a delay in giving glucose to hypoglycemic patients cannot be recommended at this time, although prompt thiamine supplementation after or concurrent with a return to normoglycemia is recommended.
The energy calibration of neutron velocity spectrometers

Abstract Aspects of energy determination in the measurement of cross sections by neutron time-of-flight are described, with particular regard to the establishment of Zero Time. The value of intercomparison of data from different laboratories is explained and indications of the presence of the different types of systematic error are outlined. Prospects for the future of neutron time-of-flight studies are described. As an example of the use of a proton accelerator which produces neutrons for time-of-flight measurements, some characteristics of the Nevis Synchrocyclotron of Columbia University and projected improvements for it are outlined.
Roughness, impurities and strain in low-temperature epitaxial silicon films grown by tantalum filament hot-wire chemical vapor deposition

We grow epitaxial silicon films onto (100) silicon wafers from pure silane by hotwire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD). The films grow epitaxially for a thickness hepi before a-Si:H cones nucleate and expand. We study the dependence of hepi on growth rate and the differences between Ta and W filaments. The surface morphology of thin but completely epitaxial films are studied in order to correlate the surface roughness during growth with the eventual epitaxial breakdown thickness. Surface roughness, strain and H at the wafer/film interface are not likely to cause the observed breakdown.
Three new species of Gollumiella Hedqvist (Hymenoptera: Eucharitidae)

Three new species of Gollumiella, G. buffingtoni sp. nov. from the People s Republic of China and Japan, G. ochreata sp. nov. from Malaysia (Malaya), and G. darlingi sp. nov. from Indonesia (Kalimantan) are described. The biology and phylogenetic position of Gollumiella is discussed.
Deposition of Sulfate Acid Aerosols in the Developing Human Lung

AbstractComputations of aerosol deposition as affected by (1) aerosol hygroscopicity, (2) human age, and (3) respiratory intensity are accomplished using a validated mathematical model. The interactive effects are very complicated but systematic. Few general observations can be made; rather, the findings presented within should be addressed on a case-by-case basis. The behavior of inhaled H2SO4 particles subsequent to water vapor uptake significantly influences their total deposition values and relative spatial distribution patterns within tracheobronchial and pulmonary airways. These results must be accounted for in risk assessment protocols, since compartments of the lung have different clearance processes and sensitivities to toxic materials. There is a critical size in the 0.2–0.4 μm range: For larger particles the influence of hygroscopicity is to increase total deposition, whereas for smaller particles the opposite occurs. The magnitudes of hygroscopic effects can be pronounced; for example, the dep...
After School Special Education: Rehabilitative Television, Teen Citizenship, and Compulsory Able-Bodiedness:

This article argues that ABC’s After School Specials (1972—95) employed a “rehabilitative approach” in representing teen problems and addressing teen viewers. The Specials represented coming of age by consistently linking heterosexuality with able-bodiedness and metaphorically representing adolescence as a process of “overcoming disability.” This rehabilitative approach united television’s “turn toward relevance” with educational and sexually themed programming strategies from the era to create hybridized television content and a narrative structure that addressed teen viewers and teen sexuality proactively rather than protectively. Articulating insights from disability studies to television studies, this article suggests that this strategy also rehabilitated television’s image: the Specials’ disability narratives redefined both teen television viewing and teen sexuality as productive rather than damaging. This article also historicizes the constitution of the “teen viewer” as a self-regulating proto-citi...
Fenofibrate treatment increases human serum proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 levels

Over the past several years, proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has gained significant attention as a key regulator of serum LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. In humans, gain-of-function mutations in PCSK9 cause a form of familial hypercholesterolemia, whereas loss-of-function mutations result in significantly decreased LDL-C and cardiovascular risk. Our laboratory was the first to demonstrate that atorvastatin increases PCSK9 serum levels, an observation that has since been confirmed by at least two other groups. In light of these observations, we studied the effect of another common lipid-lowering medication, fenofibrate, on circulating PCSK9 protein levels in patients treated with fenofibrate or placebo for 12 weeks. We observed that fenofibrate (200 mg per day) significantly increased circulating PCSK9 levels by 25% compared with baseline. Placebo treatment, in comparison, had no effect on PCSK9 levels. Interestingly, fenofibrate-induced increases in serum PCSK9 levels were highly correlated with fenofibrate-induced changes in HDL-C and triglyceride levels, as well as with fenofibrate-induced changes in LDL-C levels. These results suggest an explanation for why fibrates do not achieve as much LDL-C lowering as might otherwise be expected and indicate that the addition of a PCSK9 inhibitor to fibrate therapy may result in additional beneficial LDL-C lowering.
A cross-sectional investigation of the suicidal spectrum: typologies of suicidality based on ambivalence about living and dying

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the validity of assigning suicidal individuals into differing typologies of suicidality based on their reported wish to live and wish to die. Methods: One hundred five inpatients who reported suicidal ideation in the previous 48 hours completed a battery of assessments during inpatient psychiatric hospitalization. An algorithm was used to assign participants into 1 of 3 typologies of suicide: wish to live, ambivalent, or wish to die. Discriminant function analysis and group classification were used to predict group membership, followed by multiple analysis of variance and follow-up contrasts to measure between-group differences. Main Results: Group classification resulted in 76% accuracy for predicting typology of suicidality based on scores from suicide-specific measures. Self-perceived risk of suicide and hopelessness were the strongest variables at differentiating between the 3 groups. Patients in the wish to die typology were less likely to report having never made a suicide attempt. Conclusions: Creating typologies of suicidality may prove useful to clinicians seeking to better differentiate among suicidal patients within a limited period of assessment.
Numerical Simulation of the Gulf Stream and the Deep Circulation

The Gulf Stream system has been numerically simulated with relatively high resolution and realistic forcing. The surface fluxes of the simulation were obtained from archives of calculations from the Eta-29 km model which is an National Center for Environment Prediction (NCEP) operational atmospheric prediction model; synoptic fields are available every 3 hour. A comparison between experiments with and without surface fluxes shows that the effect of the surface wind stress and heat fluxes on the Gulf Stream path and separation is closely related to the intensification of deep circulations in the northern region. Additionally, the separation of the Gulf Stream and the downslope movement of the Deep Western Boundary Current (DWBC) are reproduced in the model results. The model DWBC crosses under the Gulf Stream southeast of Cape Hatteras and then feeds the deep cyclonic recirculation east of the Bahamas. The model successfully reproduces the cross-sectional vertical structures of the Gulf Stream, such as the asymmetry of the velocity profile, and this structure is sustained along the downstream axis. The distribution of Root Mean Square (RMS) elevation anomaly of the model shows that the eddy activity of the Gulf Stream is realistically reproduced by the model physics. The entrainment of the upper layer slope current into the Gulf Stream occurs near cross-over; the converging cross-stream flow is nearly barotropic.
Restoring Balance: Using Exotic Species to Control Invasive Exotic Species

Invasive species threaten natural habitats worldwide, and active human management is required to prevent invasion, contain spread, or remediate ecosystems following habitat degradation. One powerful technology for invasive species management in sensitive habitats is biological control, the use of carefully se- lected upper-trophic-level organisms that utilize the exotic pest as a resource, thereby reducing it to less harmful densities. Many in the conservation biology community view this pest-management technology as a high-risk enterprise because of potential collateral damage to nontarget species. The potential benefits arising from suc- cessful biological programs are reduced pesticide use, significant pest suppression, and a return to ecological conditions similar to those observed before the arrival of the pest. Biological control as a pest-management strategy has limitations: some pest species may not be suitable targets for biological control because natural enemies may not be sufficiently host-specific and may pose a threat to nontarget organisms. In some instances, substantial effects on nontarget species have occurred because generalist natural enemies established as part of a biological control program heavily utilized other resources in addition to the target pest. To minimize nontarget impacts, regulations governing releases of natural enemies are becoming more stringent, as evi- denced in New Zealand and Australia. Voluntary codes of good practice are being advocated by the Food and Agriculture Organization to promote wide adoption of safety measures, which, if followed, should result in the selection of agents with high levels of host and habitat fidelity. Biological control programs in support of con- servation have traditionally targeted weed species that threaten natural areas. More recently, exotic arthropod pests that compete with native wildlife or damage native plants have become targets of conservation-oriented biological control programs. Extension of biological control to new targets of conservation importance, such as invasive aquatic invertebrates and pestiferous vertebrates, is warranted. In many instances, once prevention, containment, and eradication options have been exhausted or deemed infeasible, carefully orchestrated bio- logical control programs against appropriately selected targets may be the only feasible way to control invasive species affecting communities under assault from exotic species.
Training stem cells for treatment of malignant brain tumors

The treatment of malignant brain tumors remains a challenge. Stem cell technology has been applied in the treatment of brain tumors largely because of the ability of some stem cells to infiltrate into regions within the brain where tumor cells migrate as shown in preclinical studies. However, not all of these efforts can translate in the effective treatment that improves the quality of life for patients. Here, we perform a literature review to identify the problems in the field. Given the lack of efficacy of most stem cell-based agents used in the treatment of malignant brain tumors, we found that stem cell distribution (i.e., only a fraction of stem cells applied capable of targeting tumors) are among the limiting factors. We provide guidelines for potential improvements in stem cell distribution. Specifically, we use an engineered tissue graft platform that replicates the in vivo microenvironment, and provide our data to validate that this culture platform is viable for producing stem cells that have better stem cell distribution than with the Petri dish culture system.
An action research strategy for selecting and conducting program evaluations.

Program evaluation is part of the expanding role of the professional school psychologist. Existing strategies for program evaluation, however, are insufficient to meet the needs of school psychologists interested in evaluating school-related programs. The diversity of educational programs necessitates a more comprehensive, integrated, and flexible model. In the present paper, dimensions of program evaluation—target, purpose, and stage—relevant to school psychologists are described and defined, and then combined into a conceptual framework indicating 48 different types of program evaluation. The present model incorporates relevant aspects of existing program evaluation strategies and action research, affording practitioners a strategy for selecting and conducting program evaluations. Suggested steps for implementing the action research strategy, as well as a hypothetical example of its use, also are offered.
Coordinating perception and action with an underwater robot in a shallow water environment

It is usually difficult to use underwater robots for mapping, reconnaissance, and mine-clearing tasks in shallow water (10 to 80 foot depth) ocean environments. The shallow water environment is characterized by strong, intermittent wave surge which requires robot behaviors that are capable of riding out the surge and then repositioning the platform and re- acquiring the objects being sensed. The shallow water area is also characterized by water that is murky, making optical sensors useless for long range search, and which produces multiple paths for sonar returns, giving errant range readings. Teleoperation from a remote surface platform is not effective due to the rapid changes in the environment. A more promising approach would place reactive intelligence on-board the robot. This paper describes such an approach which uses high frequency acoustic and vision sensing and a situated reasoning software architecture to provide task-achieving capability to an underwater robot in a shallow water environment. The approach is demonstrated in the context of a shallow water marking task wherein a robot must locate and navigate to a moored object in shallow water depths, attach a buoyant marker, and then return to a destination location. The approach seeks to integrate selective perception with robust transit and hovering behaviors to overcome the natural problems associated with shallow water environments.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Incomplete song divergence between recently diverged taxa: syllable sharing by Orchard and Fuertes’ orioles

Orchard Orioles (Icterus spurius) and Fuertes' Orioles (I. fuertesi) recently diverged from each other, making them an ideal system for investigating trait evolution and mechanisms of reproductive isolation during the early stages of speciation. These taxa differ in adult male plumage coloration and in their breeding and wintering ranges, but quantitative comparisons of their song characteristics have revealed no discernible differences. We assessed evolutionary song divergence in this group by investigating patterns of syllable-type sharing within and between populations. Of 529 distinct syllable types, 142 (26.8%) were shared among individuals, and sharing appeared to decrease with geographic distance. The total number of syllables shared between Orchard and Fuertes' orioles (26; 4.9% of the total) was similar to levels of sharing between populations of Orchard Orioles. Furthermore, hierarchical cluster analyses showed individuals of the two taxa intermixed. Syllables also used as calls were shared more frequently within and between taxa, suggesting that they have evolved more slowly than those used exclusively in songs. Our results show that at least some aspects of song have not yet diverged between these incipient species, either due to cultural exchange or because songs have evolved relatively slowly compared to plumage colors. RESUMEN. La divergencia incompleta de canci´
The feasibility of water injection into the turbine coolant to permit gas turbine contingency power for helicopter application

It is pointed out that in certain emergency situations it may be desirable to obtain power from a helicopter engine at levels greater than the maximum rating. Yost (1976) has reported studies concerning methods of power augmentation in the one engine inoperative (OEI) case. It was found that a combination of water/alcohol injection into the inlet and overtemperature/overspeed could provide adequate emergency power. The present investigation is concerned with the results of a feasibility study which analytically investigated the maximum possible level of augmentation with constant gas generator turbine stress rupture life as a constraint. In the proposed scheme, the increased engine output is obtained by turbine overtemperature, however, the temperature of the compressor bleed air used for hot section cooling is lowered by injecting and evaporating water.
Synuclein: a neuron-specific protein localized to the nucleus and presynaptic nerve terminal

We used an antiserum against purified cholinergic synaptic vesicles from Torpedo and expression screening to isolate a cDNA clone encoding synuclein, a 143 amino acid neuron-specific protein. A cDNA clone was also isolated from a rat brain cDNA library that encodes a highly homologous 140 amino acid protein. The amino terminal 100 amino acids of both proteins are comprised of an 11 amino acid repeating unit that contains a conserved core of 6 residues. The synuclein gene is expressed only in nervous system tissue, not in electric organ, muscle, liver, spleen, heart, or kidney. In the electric organ synapse Torpedo synuclein-immunoreactive proteins are found in 3 major molecular-weight classes of 17.5, 18.5, and 20.0 kDa. In the neuronal cell soma the 17.5 kDa species is predominant and immunoreactivity is localized to a portion of the nuclear envelope.
HOXB13 Mediates Tamoxifen Resistance and Invasiveness in Human Breast Cancer by Suppressing ERα and Inducing IL-6 Expression

Most breast cancers expressing the estrogen receptor α (ERα) are treated successfully with the receptor antagonist tamoxifen (TAM), but many of these tumors recur. Elevated expression of the homeodomain transcription factor HOXB13 correlates with TAM-resistance in ERα-positive (ER+) breast cancer, but little is known regarding the underlying mechanism. Our comprehensive evaluation of HOX gene expression using tiling microarrays, with validation, showed that distant metastases from TAM-resistant patients also displayed high HOXB13 expression, suggesting a role for HOXB13 in tumor dissemination and survival. Here we show that HOXB13 confers TAM resistance by directly downregulating ERα transcription and protein expression. HOXB13 elevation promoted cell proliferation in vitro and growth of tumor xenografts in vivo. Mechanistic investigations showed that HOXB13 transcriptionally upregulated interleukin (IL)-6, activating the mTOR pathway via STAT3 phosphorylation to promote cell proliferation and fibroblast recruitment. Accordingly, mTOR inhibition suppressed fibroblast recruitment and proliferation of HOXB13-expressing ER+ breast cancer cells and tumor xenografts, alone or in combination with TAM. Taken together, our results establish a function for HOXB13 in TAM resistance through direct suppression of ERα and they identify the IL-6 pathways as mediator of disease progression and recurrence.
Combined modality treatment for rectal cancer

Significant gains have been achieved in the integration of radiation therapy (RT) and chemotherapy with surgery in the management of patients with localized rectal cancer. Treatment combinations of RT and chemotherapy with surgery have evolved to neoadjuvant approaches of these modalities to enhance sphincter preservation, tumor control, and reduction of acute and late treatment-related morbidity. Although 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy in combination with RT remains the standard adjuvant therapy for rectal cancer, the integration of novel chemotherapeutic agents and biologic modulators is being actively investigated.
Proliferation centres of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma have enhanced expression of MYC protein, which does not result from rearrangement or gain of the MYC gene

Keywords: chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma; CLL/SLL; MYC gene; MYC protein; B-cell receptor
Media Impact on Women in Sport and Sport Leadership

(1991). Media Impact on Women in Sport and Sport Leadership. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 62, No. 3, pp. 45-47.
Unconscionable Quandary: UCC Article 2 and the Unconscionability Doctrine

When the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Rule 2-302 introduced the innovative unconscionability doctrine in the 1960s, the undefined concept created a wild card in contract law. A blurred doctrine designed to address extreme unfairness, unconscionability has been the focus of endless commentary but has not been a frequent basis for relief. This article explores unconscionability in terms of where it has been, where it is going, and how the Article 2 revisions process has affected the concept’s outlook. It begins with a brief overview of the doctrine’s controversial birth as part of Article 2 nearly forty years ago. Part I next examines unconscionability’s development under case law and commentary. Part II explores how the Article 2 revisions process has addressed unconscionability, including the drafting committee’s various substantive approaches. Giving special attention to the version almost approved in 1999, the article weighs that aborted effort against the more conservative “status quo” content of the current draft. Part III addresses the larger picture, concluding that the failed revisions process may not be a failure for contract law and that the very subtle changes in the current Section 2-302 may actually assist the natural development of a doctrine renowned for its mysterious qualities. In short, this unconscionable quandary may ultimately yield quite comfortable results.
Financial incentives to promote cardiac rehabilitation participation and adherence among Medicaid patients.

Abstract Purpose Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) improves medical outcomes after myocardial infarction or coronary revascularization. Lower socioeconomic status (SES) patients are less likely to participate in and complete CR. The aim of this study was to test whether financial incentives may increase participation and adherence to CR among lower-SES patients. Methods Patients eligible to participate in CR with Medicaid insurance coverage were approached for inclusion. Patients were placed on an escalating incentive schedule of financial incentives contingent upon CR attendance. CR participation was compared to a usual care group of 101 Medicaid patients eligible for CR in the 18 months prior to the study. Attendance (participating in ≥ one CR sessions) and adherence (sessions completed out of 36) were compared between groups. The study was conducted in Vermont, USA, 2013–2015. Results Of 13 patients approached to be in the study and receive incentives, 10 (77%) agreed to participate. All 10 patients completed at least one session of CR, significantly greater than the 25/101 (25%) in the control condition (p Conclusions Financial incentives may be an efficacious strategy for increasing CR participation and adherence among Medicaid patients.
Oriental Fruit Fly: Ripening of Fruit and Its Effect on Index of Infestation of Hawaiian Papayas

Hawaiian papayas, Carica papaya L., were infested selectively by Dacus dorsalis Hendel at a 145.3-ha area in a commercial papaya orchard at Pohoiki, Hawaii, where the mean population density of the female fruit fly was ca. 992 flies per ha from November 1975 to October 1976. The infestation of papayas varied with ripeness, population densities of the new and old fruit flies, rainfall, and the minimum and maximum air temperatures during daytime. The significant factors were ripeness of papaya, population density of new members of D. dorsalis , and the maximum air temperature. Induced oviposition of papaya at 24.8°C decreased from 10.8 times in ripe fruit to 1.7 times in mature green fruit. The stadium of the 1st instar was lengthened by 1 to 2 days in green fruit. The result of the natural environmental factors, fruit fly behavior, and resistance of papayas was a low index of D. dorsalis infestation of 0, 0, 0, 0.06, or 3.85 larvae per fruit for a sample of 620 mature green, color-turning, quarter-, half-color, or ripe papayas, respectively.
Experimental Analysis of All Optical Lens De-multiplexer for Spatial Domain Multiplexed Communication Systems

Experimental analysis of a multi lens de-multiplexer for spatial division multiplexing is presented. Data for 635 nm as well as 1550 nm laser sources including coupled power and estimated errors is tabulated and presented.
Performance Characteristics of Hemolysis Index on Roche Cobas 8000 Automated Analyzers Including Correlation of Hemolysis Index With Free Hemoglobin Concentration in Plasma

Hemolysis is a common specimen abnormality that can interfere with many laboratory tests and lead to erroneous results and interpretations and to inappropriate medical decisions. Determination of the hemolysis index (HI), a dimensionless measure, is one method to assess for this interference. Our goals in this study were to: 1) validate our HI measurements as we transition to new core …
Social Network Privacy: Issues and Measurement

Social networks are becoming pervasive in todays world. Millions of people worldwide are involved in different form of online networking, with Facebook being one of the most popular sites. Online networks allow individuals to connect with friends and family, and share their private information. One of the reasons for the popularity of virtual communities is the perception of benefits received from the community. However, problems with privacy and security of the users information may also occur, especially when members are not aware of the risks of posting sensitive information on a social network. Members of social networking sites could become victims of identity theft, physical or online stalking and embarrassment as a consequence of malicious manipulation of their profiles data. Although networking sites often provide features for privacy settings, a high percentage of users neither know nor change their privacy preferences. This situation brings to consideration about many important aspects of social network privacy, such as what are the privacy issues in social networks? what are common privacy threats or risks in social networks? how privacy can be measured in a meaningful way? and how to empower users with knowledge to make correct decisions when selecting privacy settings? The goal of this paper is twofold. First, we discuss potential risks and attacks of social network site users privacy. Second, we present the measurement and quantification of the social privacy, along with solutions for privacy protection.
Activation of Two Sequential H-transfers in the Thymidylate Synthase Catalyzed Reaction.

Thymidylate synthase (TSase) catalyzes the de novo biosynthesis of thymidylate, a precursor for DNA, and is thus an important target for chemotherapeutics and antibiotics. Two sequential C–H bond cleavages catalyzed by TSase are of particular interest: a reversible proton abstraction from the 2′-deoxyuridylate substrate, followed by an irreversible hydride transfer forming the thymidylate product. QM/MM calculations of the former predicted a mechanism in which the abstraction of the proton leads to formation of a novel nucleotide-folate intermediate that is not covalently bound to the enzyme (Wang, Z.; Ferrer, S.; Moliner, V.; Kohen, A. Biochemistry 2013, 52, 2348–2358). Existence of such an intermediate would hold promise as a target for a new class of drugs. Calculations of the subsequent hydride transfer predicted a concerted H transfer and elimination of the enzymatic cysteine (Kanaan, N.; Ferrer, S.; Marti, S.; Garcia-Viloca, M.; Kohen, A.; Moliner, V. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2011, 133, 6692–6702). A key t...
Prevalence of clinically silent corticotroph macroadenomas

SummaryObjective The prevalence of clinically silent corticotroph macroadenomas is unknown. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of clinically silent corticotroph macroadenomas among all pituitary macroadenomas. Design Patients scheduled to have transsphenoidal surgery for any sellar mass were prospectively evaluated clinically and biochemically. Patients Adults who were scheduled for transsphenoidal surgery for a sellar mass at a single academic medical centre. Measurements Patients were assessed clinically prior to surgery and graded as having typical, mild or no Cushingoid features. They were assessed biochemically by plasma ACTH and 24-h urine free cortisol (UFC). Excised tissue was examined histologically, and pituitary macroadenomas, examined by immunohistochemistry. Patients with corticotroph macroadenomas were classified as clinically silent if they exhibited no Cushingoid features but had elevated plasma ACTH and/or 24-h UFC. They were classified as totally silent if they exhibited neither Cushingoid features nor elevated plasma ACTH or 24-h UFC. Results Of 124 patients who had pathologically confirmed pituitary macroadenomas, 20 (16%) had corticotroph macroadenomas. Eight (40%) of these were clinically silent, in that they had no Cushingoid features but could be identified biochemically by elevated plasma ACTH (seven) and/or 24-h UFC (three). Five (25%) were totally silent. Conclusions A substantial minority (16%) of pituitary macroadenomas treated surgically are corticotroph adenomas. Of these, 40% are clinically silent but can be recognized by elevated plasma ACTH and/or 24-h UFC. Recognizing these adenomas may influence the surgical approach and provide a marker by which to follow the response to treatment.
Abstract 1743: Sedentary behavior and breast cancer in the Black Women's Health Study

Background: Rates of breast cancer incidence among African American women are increasingly similar to rates among Caucasian American women. Lifestyle behaviors, such as sedentary time, may contribute to differences in breast cancer incidence, but have not been well studied among African American women. Sedentary activities (physically inactive tasks that require little to no additional energy expenditure beyond basal metabolic rate) account for a large proportion of time per day in the United States and are more prevalent among African American women. Sedentary behavior may contribute to cancer risk independently of physical activity, but has not been well studied among African American women. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between sedentary behaviors over time on breast cancer incidence in the Black Women9s Heath Study. Methods: In this ongoing prospective cohort of African American women (analytic cohort N = 55,629), 2,482 incident breast cancer cases were diagnoses between baseline (1995) and 2013. Questionnaire data (collected every two years since 1995) was used to calculate time spent sitting. Time spent sitting at work and sitting doing recreational activities (watching TV, using internet) was summed to total sedentary time. A time-varying analytic approach was utilized (Anderson-Gill method) to reduce within-person variation and better represent long-term habits. Results: Among women in this cohort, 23.8% reported spending Conclusions: Our findings suggest that high sedentary time may increase risk for breast cancer among African American women. Additionally, leisure time physical activity levels and body size did not change associations, suggesting sedentary time may confer additional risk. Previously reported frequent sedentary behavior among African Americans could contribute to breast cancer disparities and should be explored further in future studies. Citation Format: Sarah Nomura, Chiranjeev Dash, Jeffrey Yu, Julie Palmer, Lynn Rosenberg, Lucile L. Adams-Campbell. Sedentary behavior and breast cancer in the Black Women9s Health Study. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 1743.
DISTRIBUTED PARAMETER SYSTEMS WITH A MULTIPLICATIVE FRACTIONAL GAUSSIAN NOISE

Abstract A fractional Gaussian noise is used in a stochastic differential equation in a Hilbert space to model a stochastic distributed parameter system. An explicit solution is given for this stochastic differential equation.
Average packet delay in Dual-Mode EEE: An analytical model

An analytical model is developed for the average packet delay for Dual-Mode Energy Efficient Ethernet to complement the power consumption model for Dual-Mode EEE developed previously. The model can be used for determining the tradeoff between power reduction and performance degradation caused by utilising the method. The analytical mode's results closely match the results from simulation.
External validation of a prehospital risk score for critical illness

Identification of critically ill patients during prehospital care could facilitate early treatment and aid in the regionalization of critical care. Tools to consistently identify those in the field with or at higher risk of developing critical illness do not exist. We sought to validate a prehospital critical illness risk score that uses objective clinical variables in a contemporary cohort of geographically and temporally distinct prehospital encounters. We linked prehospital encounters at 21 emergency medical services (EMS) agencies to inpatient electronic health records at nine hospitals in southwestern Pennsylvania from 2010 to 2012. The primary outcome was critical illness during hospitalization, defined as an intensive care unit stay with delivery of organ support (mechanical ventilation or vasopressor use). We calculated the prehospital risk score using demographics and first vital signs from eligible EMS encounters, and we tested the association between score variables and critical illness using multivariable logistic regression. Discrimination was assessed using the AUROC curve, and calibration was determined by plotting observed versus expected events across score values. Operating characteristics were calculated at score thresholds. Among 42,550 nontrauma, non-cardiac arrest adult EMS patients, 1926 (4.5 %) developed critical illness during hospitalization. We observed moderate discrimination of the prehospital critical illness risk score (AUROC 0.73, 95 % CI 0.72–0.74) and adequate calibration based on observed versus expected plots. At a score threshold of 2, sensitivity was 0.63 (95 % CI 0.61–0.75), specificity was 0.73 (95 % CI 0.72–0.73), negative predictive value was 0.98 (95 % CI 0.98–0.98), and positive predictive value was 0.10 (95 % CI 0.09–0.10). The risk score performance was greater with alternative definitions of critical illness, including in-hospital mortality (AUROC 0.77, 95 % CI 0.7 –0.78). In an external validation cohort, a prehospital risk score using objective clinical data had moderate discrimination for critical illness during hospitalization.
Molecular disk in S106

Aperture synthesis maps of HCN emission (J = 1-0, 88.631 GHz) toward the bipolar nebula S106 have been obtained with the Berkeley millimeter-wavelength interferometer. Spectral and spatial resolution were 4 km s/sup -1/ and 13''. The HCN emission has a linear structure coincident with the dust lane seen in optical and infrared images of the nebula. The molecular gas bisects the two lobes of radio continuum emission from the ionized gas and is centered on the position of the infrared point source which is presumed to be the exciting star. The HCN maps show a velocity gradient of 0.08 km s/sup -1/ arcsec/sup -1/ over a distance of 35'' in the E-W direction. In the N-S direction the emission is barely resolved.