cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling and Forecasting Armed Conflict: AutoML with Human-Guided Machine Learning

Machine learning has made slow inroads into quantitative social science due to both a mismatch of machine learning’s strengths to the causal and inferential tasks domain researchers pursue [1] and also a lack of algorithmic training among many domain experts [2]. However, conflict research– the empirical examination of political unrest, violence and civil war–has seen a growing emphasis on prediction and forecasting models. We describe automated machine learning (AutoML) to identify models, and human-guided machine learning (HGML), and show how these can incorporate domain knowledge and research requirements into model selection and assessment, and provide high quality machine learning pipelines to domain experts comparable to state-of-the-literature solutions. We examine three peer-reviewed papers with predictive models of conflict [3, 4, 5] and run their data through our HGML system using multiple AutoML engines and find this system produces slightly elevated performance on each paper’s model, without any ML expertise required of the user. Our research has three takeaways for computational social science. First, predictive models of conflict would benefit from even minimal applications of AutoML; Secondly, human-guided machine learning offers the attractive option of constraining AutoML systems to address the kinds of questions conflict researchers assess with predictive models; Finally, current existing AutoML implementations produce divergent solutions and so can be productively harnessed in parallel.
The influence of race, gender, family, and employment status on probationer sanctioning for noncompliance

Although there is substantial attention to judicial decision-making during sentencing, fewer studies have examined decision-making post sentencing. Further, the interactions of probationer race and...
Dual-track Music Generation using Deep Learning.

Music generation is always interesting in a sense that there is no formalized recipe. In this work, we propose a novel dual-track architecture for generating classical piano music, which is able to model the inter-dependency of left-hand and right-hand piano music. Particularly, we experimented with a lot of different models of neural network as well as different representations of music, and the results show that our proposed model outperforms all other tested methods. Besides, we deployed some special policies for model training and generation, which contributed to the model performance remarkably. Finally, under two evaluation methods, we compared our models with the MuseGAN project and true music.
Management of Incidental Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules are often found incidentally on exam or during imaging of the neck. This teaching script leads the reader through a systematic approach to the evaluation of incidental thyroid nodules, including the importance of physical exam and thyroid function testing. This chapter also reviews appropriate thyroid imaging modalities and general indications for fine-needle aspiration.
Calcidius on Plato's Timaeus: Greek Philosophy, Latin Reception, and Christian Contexts

This is the first study to assess in its entirety the fourth-century Latin commentary on Plato's Timaeus by the otherwise unknown Calcidius, also addressing features of his Latin translation. The first part examines the authorial voice of the commentator and the overall purpose of the work; the second part provides an overview of the key themes; and the third part reassesses the commentary's relation to Stoicism, Aristotle, potential sources, and the Christian tradition. This commentary was one of the main channels through which the legacy of Plato and Greek philosophy was passed on to the Christian Latin West. The text, which also establishes a connection between Plato's cosmology and Genesis, thus represents a distinctive cultural encounter between the Greek and the Roman philosophical traditions, and between non-Christian and Christian currents of thought.
Globalization of culture and values: myth or reality?

Resumo: No discurso da globalizacao, deve-se ter o cuidado de nao simplificar a complexidade nem fazer uso de termos totalizadores, essencialistas e absolutizantes. Os valores culturais tornam-se uma arma aterrorizante se sua ambiguidade e ignorada, se a cultura se torna culturalismo sem considerar que os valores sempre foram, em qualquer momento da historia, construcoes da cultura e, portanto, sujeitos a reconstrucoes: um processo que testemunhamos agora sob o impacto de uma globalizacao economicamente dominada. Palavras-chave: culturalismo; estudos culturais; globalizacao. Abstract: In the discourse of globalization one should take great care not to simplify complexity, not to make use of totalistic, essentialistic, and absolutizing terms. Cultural values become a terrifying weapon if their ambiguity is ignored, if culture becomes culturalism without considering that values have always been, at any point in history, constructions of culture and therefore prone to re-constructions: a process we presently are witness to under the impact of economically dominated globalization. Keywords: culturalism; Cultural Studies; globalization.
Bacterial Growth and Metabolism

1 Growth of Bacteria 2 Structure and Organization of the Bacterial Cell 3 Biosynthesis of DNA, RNA, and Protein 4 Transport of Solutes into the Cell 5 Bacterial Catabolic Pathways 6 Biosynthetic Reactions 7 Respiration 8 Bacterial Photosynthesis 9 Metabolism among the Archaebacteria 10 Regulation of Physiological Processes 11 Acknowledgments Keywords: bacterial growth and metabolism; bacterial nutrition and culture media; liquid culture growth 304; bacterial growth phases and growth curve; continuous culture of bacterial cells; bacterial catabolic pathways; DNA, RNA, and protein biosynthesis; bacterial photosynthesis
Protease-Activated Receptors

Publisher Summary G-protein-coupled receptors have evolved a variety of mechanisms to acquire information about the environment of a cell. This chapter describes a subfamily of heptahelical receptors known as protease-activated receptors (PARs), which have evolved to sense proteases. Protease-activated receptors are a subfamily of related G-protein-coupled receptors that are activated by cleavage of part of their extracellular domain. It begins by describing the discovery of PARs, stating that PAR1, the prototype for the PAR family, was identified in the context of an effort to understand how the coagulation protease thrombin activates platelets and other cells. Following this, it explains the mechanism of action of PAR. Thrombin activates PAR1 by binding to and cleaving its amino terminal exodomain. Also, the mechanism of PAR1 activation is strikingly irreversible. To explain this, the study also provides an account of the mechanism of shutting off of PARs. It explains the properties of human PARs in a tabular form. Furthermore, it discusses the PARs under the umbrella of the protease-activated receptor family. Studies indicate that PAR1, PAR3, and PAR4 are activated by thrombin in vivo. Also, these receptors seem to account in large part for the ability of thrombin to activate platelets, and recent knockout studies suggest an important role in hemostasis and thrombosis. It is possible that other proteases are also physiological activators of PAR1, PAR3, and PAR4. Similarly, it is certainly possible that one or more of the PAR2-activating proteases listed above are its physiological activators, but this remains to be established.
The origin and clinical behavior of the parovarian tumor

This study of 132 benign parovarian cysts and eight parovarian neoplasms demonstrated that the majority of such lesions are of paramesonephric or mesothelial origin. Furthermore, adnexal neoplasms, not histologically associated with the tube or ovary, may arise in such parovarian structures or de novo from the pelvic mesothelium.
Dynamic E-business: Trends in Web Services

In the last couple of years, the concept of a web service (WS) has emerged as an important paradigm for general application integration in the internet environment. More particularly, WS is viewed as an important vehicle for the creation of dynamic e-business applications and as a means for the J2EE and .NET worlds to come together. Several companies, including Microsoft, have been collaborating in proposing new WS standards. The World Wide Web Consortium has been the forum for many WS-related standardization activities. Many traditional concepts like business process management, security, directory services, routing and transactions are being extended for WS. This extended abstract traces some of the trends in the WS arena. After the TES2002 workshop is over, more information could be found in the presentation material at http://www.almaden.ibm.com/u/mohan/WebServices_TES2002_Slides.pdf
Abstract 764: A role for GLI1 in the development of multidrug resistance in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cells

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA RMS is the most common sarcoma of childhood. About 30% of patients with localized tumors will recur following treatment. The outcome for patients with recurrent RMS remains poor. Therefore, development of chemotherapy resistance during RMS therapy represents an important problem and novel approaches to prevent or reverse drug resistance are essential. Activation of multidrug transporter genes, including MDR1, MRP1, LRP and TAP1 represents an important mechanism for drug resistance in RMS. However, the mechanism of expression of multidrug resistance genes in RMS is incompletely understood. Recent reports have suggested a role for the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway and its downstream mediator GLI1 in acquisition of a multidrug resistance phenotype in esophageal adenocarcinoma, glioblastoma, and myeloid leukemia. Since approximately 60% of embryonal RMS (ERMS) and more rarely alveolar RMS (ARMS) express HH pathway components, we hypothesized that HH pathway activation may up-regulate the expression of multidrug resistance genes in RMS. We demonstrated expression of HH pathway components, including GLI1, in ERMS (RD, Rh18 and Ruch-2) and ARMS (Rh30 and Rh41) cell lines by qRT PCR and/or Western blot. We found variable expression of MDR1, MRP1, LRP and TAP1 by qRT PCR in these cell lines. Treatment of RMS cells with GLI1 siRNA (RD, Rh18 and Rh41) or the GLI1 antagonist GANT61 (Rh18 and Rh30) caused down-regulation LRP and TAP1 expression. In addition, GLI1, MDR1, LRP and TAP1 expression was increased in vincristine resistant UKF Rhb-1 RMS cells compared with parental cells (obtained from Dr. Cinatl) by qRT PCR. Treatment of vincristine resistant UKF Rhb-1 cells with vincristine together with either GANT61 or Cpd#33 (GLI1 inhibitors), each at a dose, which did not reduce cell viability individually, significantly decreased cell viability by MTT assay. Our results suggest that GLI1 up-regulates a subset of multidrug resistance genes in RMS cells and that GLI1-inhibitors may reduce multidrug resistance. Citation Format: Joon Won Yoon, Marilyn Lamm, King-Fu Leong, Stephen Iannaccone, Philip Iannaccone, David Walterhouse. A role for GLI1 in the development of multidrug resistance in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 764. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-764
Identification of regions in the HOX cluster that can confer repression in a Polycomb-dependent manner

Polycomb Group (PcG)-mediated repression is critical for cell fate determination and maintenance of gene expression during embryonic development. However, the mechanisms underlying PcG recruitment in mammals remain unclear since few regulatory sites have been identified. We have identified and characterized two new potential PcG-dependent regulatory elements within the human HOXB and HOXC clusters. Their repressive activities are similar to a previously identified element in the HOXD cluster. The PcG proteins BMI1 and SUZ12 are recruited to a reporter construct in mesenchymal stem cells and confer repression that was dependent upon PcG expression. In addition, JARID2 was observed to localize to these three elements. Interestingly, the requirement for JARID2 is variable at the different regions despite its localization. We conclude that distinct regions of the mammalian HOX clusters can recruit components of the PcG complexes and confer repression and that JARID2 plays a role in the recruitment of PRC2.
Refinement of disparity estimates through the fusion of monocular image segmentations

The authors examine how estimates of three-dimensional scene structure, as encoded in a scene disparity map, can be improved by the analysis of the original monocular imagery. They describe the utilization of surface illumination information provided by the segmentation of the monocular image into fine surface patches of nearly homogeneous intensity to remove mismatches generated during stereo matching. These patches are used to guide a statistical analysis of the disparity map based on the assumption that such patches correspond closely with physical surfaces in the scene. Such a technique is quite independent of whether the initial disparity map was generated by automated area-based or feature-based stereo matching. Refinement results on complex urban scenes containing various man-made and natural features are presented, and the improvements due to monocular fusion with a set of different region-based image segmentations are demonstrated. >
Evaluation of new piezoelectric composite materials for hydrophone applications

Polymer-ceramic composites with different connectivity designs have been developed. The piezoelectric d and g coefficients of these composites in hydrostatic mode were characterized as a function of pressure, temperature, and frequency. All composite samples exhibited piezoelectric properties greatly improved over those of conventional piezoelectric ceramics. However, the introduction of soft polymer matrix caused the composite properties to be highly pressure-dependent. The effect of reinforced polymer matrix on the temperature and pressure dependences of the piezoelectric coefficients was also investigated. Prototype hydrophones containing the composite samples were designed and evaluated for their free-field voltage sensitivity. The potential use of polymer-ceramic composites for underwater acoustic applications is discussed.
Accurate headspace analysis of ƒCO2 in discrete water samples using batch equilibration

A high-accuracy, batch-equilibration, static-headspace technique for the determination of the fugacity of CO 2 (fCO 2 ) in discrete water samples is described. The technique was designed for monitoring small changes of CO 2 in the ocean and has accuracy and precision (<1% for water samples) comparable to that of the best techniques available. The method uses several novel approaches to maximize accuracy, requires only a small water sample (60 ml), and is very rapid (∼2 min per analysis). Precision of the calculated total alkalinity, based on the measured fCO 2 and C T , is comparable to or better than is generally attained using potentiometric titration. Compared with C T and total alkalinity measurements, the small sample volume and rapid analysis time makes it practical to perform analysis of multiple replicates in order to improve confidence in the result. The method is readily applicable to experimental studies such as incubations as well as to time-series measurements of in situ biological metabolism. Because the analysis employs gas chromatography, the technique can be adapted to measure simultaneously a suite of gases dissolved in seawater.
Repair of a complex body wall defect using polytetrafluorethylene patches

Techniques for repair of chest wall, abdominal wall, and diaphragm have been well described, but simultaneous repair of defects involving each of these three areas after tumor ablation provides the surgeon with a difficult technical problem. Repair of a large defect with two polytetrafluorethylene patches after resection of an osteosarcoma invading the lower chest wall, abdominal wall, and diaphragm is described.
Ultrastructural demonstration of nuclear bodies in primary ovarian cancer.

Abstract Nuclear bodies have been described in normal tissues. Some have postulated that they are normal organelles, and in the calf adrenal function as hormone receptors. They have been described in a large variety of tumors, DNA virus diseases, and to a lesser extent in some inflammatory disorders. Nuclear bodies have also been seen in tissues of patients receiving antimetabolite therapy. In this paper we described them in 4 cases of ovarian carcinoma—a site in which they had not been previously described. Their possible origin is discussed.
Numerical solution of the rotating beam equations I. Flapping equations

Abstract In this paper we consider the numerical simulation of the rotating beam equations. The latter are widely used as a model of helicopter rotor blade dynamics. Both spectral and finite element methods are studied, and numerical results are reported with both linear and nonlinear aerodynamic loading.
Radiosurgery for palliation of base of skull recurrences from head and neck cancers

Background. Seven patients received stereotaxic radiosurgery for 10 lesions at the base of the skull (BOS) from recurrent head and neck malignant neoplasms. Methods. A radiation dose of 17.5-35.0 Gy was delivered as a single fraction. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 14 months. Results. Nine lesions were symptomatic, and the symptoms improved in five and stabilized in four lesions. In addition, a significant radiographic response was observed in 4 of 10 recurrences. Cranial nerve signs developed in two patients, and an area of asymptomatic necrosis developed in one patient in the temporal lobe tip. From their brief experience, the authors conclude that stereotaxic radiosurgery may be a promising treatment in locally controlling recurrent head and neck cancers that involve the BOS. Cancer Conclusions. 1992; 70:1980-1984.
Standoff detection of explosive materials by differential reflection spectroscopy

It is shown that 2, 4, 6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) displays strong and distinct structures in differential reflectograms, near 420 nm and 250 nm. These characteristic peaks are not observed from approximately two dozen organic and inorganic substances which we tested and which may be in or on a suitcase. This exclusivity infers an ideal technique for explosives detection in mass transit and similar locations. The described technique for detection of explosives is fast, inexpensive, reliable, portable, and is applicable from some distance, that is, it does not require contact with the surveyed substance. Moreover, we have developed a curve discrimination program for field applications of the technique. Other explosives such as 1, 3, 5-trinitro-1, 3, 5 triazacyclohexane (RDX), 1, 3, 5, 7-Tetranitro-1, 3, 5, 7- tetraazacyclooctane (HMX), 2, 4, 6, N-Tetranitro-N-methylaniline (Tetryl), Pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), and nitroglycerin have also been investigated and demonstrate similar, but unique, characteristic spectra. The technique utilizes near-ultraviolet to visible light reflected from two spots on the same sample surface yielding a differential reflectogram corresponding to the absorption of the sample. The origin of the spectra is attributed to the highest occupied molecular orbital to lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) transitions of the respective explosive molecule. Experiments using transmission spectrophotometry have also been performed to compliment and confirm the specific transitions. The results are supported by computer modeling of the molecular orbitals that yield UV and visible transitions.
Development of a sensitive and selective method for the quantitative analysis of cortisol, cortisone, prednisolone and prednisone in human plasma

A highly selective, sensitive and robust LC-MS/MS method was developed for the simultaneous quantification of cortisol, cortisone, prednisolone and prednisone in human plasma. Prednisolone, cortisol and cortisone have similar fragmentation pattern. These three compounds were chromatographically separated, thus eliminating the inherent interference that fragments derived from the M+2 and M isotopes of prednisolone contribute in the MRM channels of cortisol and cortisone, respectively. Additionally, by using a small particle (1.8 microm) analytical column, interferences present in the plasma samples from post-transplant recipients were successfully resolved from cortisol after a simple extraction consisting of protein precipitation, evaporation and reconstitution. The chromatographic separation was achieved on a Zorbax-SB Phenyl column under isocratic conditions during a run time of 8 min. Intra-run and inter-run precision and accuracy within +/-15% were achieved during a 3-run validation for quality control samples at five concentration levels in charcoal-stripped plasma as well as in normal plasma, over a 500-fold dynamic concentration range. The lower limit of quantitation was 0.500 ng/mL for cortisone and prednisone, 1.00 ng/mL for cortisol and 2.00 ng/mL for prednisolone. The performance of the small particle column was maintained during more than 1200 injections in terms of peak retention time, symmetry and backpressure.
The Western Viceroy butterfly (Nymphalidae: Limenitis archippus obsoleta): an indicator for riparian restoration in the arid southwestern United States?

Abstract Life history characteristics of the Western Viceroy (Limenitis archippus obsoleta), an obligate riparian nymphalid butterfly in the desert southwestern United States, are described and related to Colorado River riparian restoration efforts. Riverine disturbance regimes and associated fluvial and hydrological dynamics may provide resources critical to this butterfly. Puddling by adult butterflies may require flood-cleared surfaces and an obligate riparian plant, Gooddings willow, was a larval host plant. This butterfly needs a variety of resources that are only found in close proximity in naturally functioning riparian ecosystems. Habitat heterogeneity required for colony persistence depends largely upon the natural dynamic character of flowing water systems. Because of the links between this butterfly and riparian structure and function it may be a useful indicator for monitoring riparian ecosystem restoration in the area.
Development of an internet based system for modeling biotin metabolism using Bayesian networks

Biotin is an essential water-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining normal body functions. The importance of biotin for human health has been under-appreciated but there is plenty of opportunity for future research with great importance for human health. Currently, carrying out predictions of biotin metabolism involves tedious manual manipulations. In this paper, we report the development of BiotinNet, an internet based program that uses Bayesian networks to integrate published data on various aspects of biotin metabolism. Users can provide a combination of values on the levels of biotin related metabolites to obtain the predictions on other metabolites that are not specified. As an inherent feature of Bayesian networks, the uncertainty of the prediction is also quantified and reported to the user. This program enables convenient in silico experiments regarding biotin metabolism, which can help researchers design future experiments while new data can be continuously incorporated.
Influence of triple scattering on impact collision ion scattering spectroscopy at 135

Abstract Correlated triple scattering, in which a projectile ion interacts with the shadowing atom of a two-atom target both before and after the backscattering interaction, produces a strong dependence of the cross section on the target geometry for scattering near 180°. Correlated triple scattering can also occur at lower scattering angles when the projectile passes between the two atoms of a target pair. For 5 keV Ne+ scattered at nearly 135° along a [100] azimuth of Ag(001), the experimental backscattered angular distribution collected in impact collision ion scattering spectroscopy mode exhibits a feature that results from such triple scattering. Computer simulations show that the yield of triply scattered ions is much more sensitive to the scattering geometry than the yield from doubly scattered ions, which makes analysis of triple scattering features a potentially powerful tool for surface structure analysis.
A general framework for interoperability with applications to healthcare

Abstract Purpose The contribution of this paper is to provide a formalized methodology to define, specify or design a system of application modules that communicate information between the components. First this paper defines several types of interoperability. Second, it provides a framework for specifying and analyzing the interoperability of existing or proposed medical systems. Third, it provides a simple example of a provider ordering a prescription for a patient to illustrate the interoperability of the proposed healthcare application systems. Methodology Our theory-based methodology includes an extensive literature search on interoperability, practical experience in standardizing the Internet, and graph theory. Results Our results include a framework to specify, define, plan, and perform analysis on a set of applications that need to exchange information. Within this framework, an Interoperability Matrix and its associated Interoperability Flow Graph represent different types of interoperability between related applications. This formal representation is useful first to define the architecture and also provides the option of using graph algorithms that determine interoperability traits within a group of related applications. Conclusion In conclusion, this framework presents a formal methodology to define and classify interoperability within a set of related applications.
Preliminary evaluation of caspases-dependent apoptosis signaling pathways of free and HPMA copolymer-bound doxorubicin in human ovarian carcinoma cells

Abstract The purpose of the study was to examine the role of caspases in signaling pathways of apoptosis induced by free doxorubicin (DOX) and HPMA copolymer-bound DOX (P(GFLG)–DOX) in human ovarian carcinoma cells. Sensitive A2780 and DOX resistant A2780/AD cells were exposed to different doses of drugs within 12, 18, 24 and 36 h. Caspase activity, expression of genes encoding human caspases 1–10, Apaf-1 and bcl-2 proteins and apoptosis were studied. In sensitive cells both free and P(GFLG)–DOX activated caspases 3, 7 and 9. In addition, P(GFLG)–DOX activated caspases 6 and 8. In resistant cells apoptosis induced by free DOX depended on the activation of caspases 2, 7 and 9, while caspase 3 was not involved; this explains the low degree of apoptosis induced by free DOX in resistant cells. P(GFLG)–DOX triggered the additional caspases 3, 6 and 8. A more pronounced degree of caspase activation and apoptosis after the action of P(GFLG)–DOX depended on the inhibition of bcl-2-encoded cellular defensive mechanisms and a more significant activation of Apaf-1. It was concluded that HPMA copolymer-bound DOX induced additional caspase-dependent apoptosis signaling pathways and the degree of the induction was higher, which led to more pronounced apoptosis when compared to free DOX.
Temporal arteritis occurring in a Negro.

Abstract A case of temporal arteritis is presented. This is the first case reported in a member of the Negro race. The clinical course is characteristic with persistent low-grade fever, inflammation of the temporal arteries, and relief of pain by severance. The artery not severed apparently gave rise to persistent mild symptoms, with recurrence finally disappearing on section. The patient had a weakly positive serology on two occasions. He had an old history of syphilis. Definite arteriosclerotic changes are present in the patient including coronary insufficiency and funduscopic changes. The course was benign with complete subsidence of symptoms referable to temporal arteritis, but persistence of symptoms of moderate myocardial insufficiency and coronary artery disease, suggesting involvement of multiple arteries. The pathological picture of the arteries in this patient demonstrated round-cell infiltration of all layers with thickening, particularly of the intima and media. No eosinophilic or polymorphonuclear leucocytes were present. Scattered giant cells were detected.
Quantitative molecular spectroscopy using Coulomb explosions

Abstract A quantitative analysis of the influence of multiple scattering on fast molecules dissociating in solids is made using a Monte Carlo technique. The simulations allow the computation of asymptotic velocities of all of the fragments after Coulomb explosion including the effects of ion—solid interactions. Examples for deducing moleculat structure using this method are given for two well-known molecular ions.
Moving beyond defense-in-depth to strategic resilience for critical control systems

Critical control systems such as the North American Power Grid are undergoing significant modernization involving increased use of computer and communication systems. While these advances promise better capabilities, for example, an electric grid with increased reliability and efficiency, they also increase the risk to the control systems from cyber attacks. A significant effort is underway by government, industry, national labs and academia to develop and deploy security technologies that assess and mitigate this increased risk. This effort includes select programs funded by the US Departments of Energy1 and Homeland Security2, the US Reinvestment and Recovery Act, the National Institute of Standards and Technologies led Smart Grid Interoperability Panel3, and standard development bodies to name a few. The focus of this effort includes electric grid systems ranging from smart meters and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems to synchrophasor based Wide Area Measurement Systems4, oil and gas SCADA systems, and industrial control systems. A timely challenge in this environment, therefore, is to explore the right cyber security constructs and principles that can guide the effort and ultimately result in secure critical infrastructure for the nation. It is our contention that commonly employed defense-in-depth constructs centered on building layers of defense are insufficient to achieve that objective. Instead, there is a need to explore strategic resilience-based approaches that involve designing the systems to protect critical components and functions, strive to provide service in the face of cyber attacks, and ensure timely response and recovery if the attacks succeed.
Traffic accident statistics and risk perceptions in Japan and the United States.

Several recent studies have concluded that Japan and the US have different risk cultures. This study examines the actual risk environments faced by citizens in the two countries, in the domain of traffic safety, as a possible source of differences in risk perceptions. The study contrasts traffic-accident risks from several points of view (e.g. car drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians) and risk statistics (e.g. death rates, relative fatality risks, and accident lethality). Results clarify the traffic risks in the two countries and confirm their potential for explaining cross-national differences in risk perceptions.
Simplifying CE−MS Operation. 2. Interfacing Low-Flow Separation Techniques to Mass Spectrometry Using a Porous Tip

A robust, reproducible, and single-step interface design between low flow rate separation techniques, such as sheathless capillary electrophoresis (CE) and nanoliquid chromatography (nLC), and mass spectrometry (MS) using electrospray ionization (ESI), is introduced. In this design, the electrical connection to the capillary outlet was achieved through a porous tip at the capillary outlet. The porous section was created by removing 1-1.5 in. of the polyimide coating of the capillary and etching this section by 49% solution of HF until it is porous. The electrical connection to the capillary outlet is achieved simply by inserting the capillary outlet containing the porous tip into the existing ESI needle (metal sheath) and filling the needle with the background electrolyte. Redox reactions of water at the ESI needle and transport of these small ions through the porous tip into the capillary provides the electrical connection for the ESI and for the CE outlet electrode. The etching process reduces the wall thickness of the etched section, including the tip of the capillary, to 5-10 microm, which for a 20-30 microm i.d. capillary results in stable electrospray at approximately 1.5 kV. The design is suitable for interfacing a wide range of capillary sizes with a wide range of flow rates to MS via ESI, but it is especially useful for interfacing narrow (<30 microm i.d.) capillaries and low flow rates (<100 nL/min). The advantages of the porous tip design include the following: (1) its fabrication is reproducible, can be automated, and does not require any mechanical tools. (2) The etching process reduces the tip outer diameter and makes the capillary porous in one step. (3) The interface can be used for both nLC-MS and CE-MS. (4) If blocked or damaged, a small section of the tip can be etched off without any loss of performance. (5) The interface design leaves the capillary inner wall intact and, therefore, does not add any dead volume to the CE-MS or nLC-MS interface. (6) Bubble formation due to redox reactions of water at the high-voltage electrode is outside of the separation capillary and does not affect separation or MS performances. The performance of this interface is demonstrated by the analyses of amino acids, peptide, and protein mixtures.
Multidimensionality and item bias in item response theory

This paper demonstrates empirically how item bias indexes based on item response theory (IRT) identify bias that results from multidimensionality. When a test is multidimensional (MD) with a primary trait and a nuisance trait that affects a small portion of the test, item bias is defined as a mean difference on the nuisance trait between two groups. Results from a simulation study showed that although IRT-based bias indexes clearly distinguished multidimensionality from item bias, even with the presence of a between-group dif ference on the primary trait, the bias detection rate depended on the degree to which the item measured the nuisance trait, the values of MD discrimination, and the number of MD items. It was speculated that bias defined from the MD perspective was more likely to be detected when the test data met the essential unidimensionality assumption. Index
Organ space infection following ileocolectomy for Crohn's disease: a National Surgical Quality Improvement Project study

Abstract Background Organ space infection (OSI) rates post ileocolectomy for Crohn's disease are relatively high. The aim of this study was to determine which factors predispose to OSI in this patient cohort. Methods Data for 2,618 Crohn's patients undergoing ileocolectomy between 2005 and 2011 were obtained from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project database. Primary outcome was an OSI within 30 days of discharge. Univariate analysis using chi-square and Student t tests and a logistic multivariate analysis were performed. Results Preoperative weight loss (odds ratio [OR] 2.11, P = .002), extended operating time (OR 1.57, P = .016), open procedures (OR 1.47, P = .043), and contaminated/dirty wounds (OR 1.95, P = .008) conferred an increased risk for OSI on multivariate analysis. Rates of stoma creation and steroid use were not significantly different between the groups. Conclusions Weight loss is a preoperative, potentially modifiable variable associated with OSI in Crohn's patients undergoing ileocolectomy and OSI-associated operative factors which may be noted to identify high-risk patients include extended operating time and open procedures.
Iron-transferrin complex formation.

Abstract The rate of formation of the chelated Fe(III)-transferrin complex was examined using Fe 3+ and Fe 2+ . Fe 2+ salts show smooth stoichiometric reaction above pH 6.5 and the rate increases with rise in pH. The reaction rate is unaffected by the presence of reducing agents such as hydrazine salts but is increased greatly by the action of oxidizing agents such as equivalent amounts of K 3 Fe(CN) 6 at pH 5.4. and above. Fe 3+ salts show initial high rates of complex formation at pH 5.0 and above but the yield of complex is less than theoretical and tends to decrease with rise in pH value, probably due to competitive hydrolysis of the Fe 3+ salt. Because of this difference in behavior of Fe 3+ and Fe 2+ salts, titration at constant pH of the reaction mixture was reexamined. The formation of the chelated complex is accompanied by liberation of approx. 3 protons per Fe atom bound when Fe 2+ salts are used. The same number of protons was titrated with Fe 3+ salts but since only a fraction of the complex was formed correlation could not be made. Parallel results were obtained with conalbumin.
Modulus measurements in ordered Co-Al, Fe-Al, and Ni-Al alloys

The composition and/or temperature dependence of the dynamic Young's modulus for the ordered B2 Co-Al, Fe-Al, and Ni-Al aluminides has been investigated using the piezoelectric ultrasonic composite oscillator technique (PUCOT). The modulus has been measured in the composition interval 48.49 to 52.58 at. pct Co, 50.87 to 60.2 at. pct Fe, and 49.22 to 55.95 at. pct Ni for Co-Al, Fe-Al, and Ni-Al, respectively. The measured values for Co-Al are in the temperature interval 300 to 1300 K, while those for the other systems are for ambient temperature only. The data points show that Co-Al is stiffer than Fe-Al, which is stiffer than Ni-Al. The data points for Fe-Al and Ni-Al are slightly higher than those reported in the literature.
Emissions and Cost Implications of Controlled Electric Vehicle Charging in the U.S. PJM Interconnection.

We develop a unit commitment and economic dispatch model to estimate the operation costs and the air emissions externality costs attributable to new electric vehicle electricity demand under controlled vs uncontrolled charging schemes. We focus our analysis on the PJM Interconnection and use scenarios that characterize (1) the most recent power plant fleet for which sufficient data are available, (2) a hypothetical 2018 power plant fleet that reflects upcoming plant retirements, and (3) the 2018 fleet with increased wind capacity. We find that controlled electric vehicle charging can reduce associated generation costs by 23%–34% in part by shifting loads to lower-cost, higher-emitting coal plants. This shift results in increased externality costs of health and environmental damages from increased air pollution. On balance, we find that controlled charging of electric vehicles produces negative net social benefits in the recent PJM grid but could have positive net social benefits in a future grid with suff...
Role of the conidium in dimorphism of Blastomyces dermatitidis.

Fine details of yeastlike cell development of Blastomyces dermatitidis from its conidium are described and illustrated by electron micrographs. When cultured in an enriched medium at 37 °C, conidia of two strains of B. dermatitidis readily underwent ultrastructural changes consistent with mycelial to yeast dimorphism. Although hyphal cells contained in the conversion cultures were observed consistently to undergo profound degenerative changes, the conidia rapidly germinated to give rise to short germ tubes which subsequently enlarged to form intermediate yeast mother cells (YMC). The wall of the germ tube arose from the innermost layer of the wall of the germinant. During the transition globoid osmiophilic inclusions of unknown origin and function were observed in vacuolated areas of the germ tube and YMC cytoplasm. Yeastlike daughter cells then budded from the intermediate YMC. Since transformation was readily accomplished under in vitro conditions favoring mycelial to yeast dimorphism, it is suggested that the conidium of B. dermatitidis represents the primary infective unit of this pathogenic fungus.
Long-range magnetic order in the quasi-1D metalloporphyrin family of molecule-based magnets

Abstract The unusual magnetic properties of various members of the quasi-1D manganese-porphyrin family are reviewed. Typical members of the family consist of spin S = 2 Mn III porphyrin ions alternating with trans-μ 2 -bonded spin s = 1/2 acceptors [C 2 (CN) 4 ] − or [C 4 (CN) 6 ] − . All members exhibit 1D behavior at high temperatures as evidenced by their similarities to predictions for mixed quantumclassical ferrimagnetic chains. Below approximately 50 K, deviations from one-dimensionality are observed due to the effects of interchain interactions. The competition between interchain exchange, single-ion anisotropy, and dipolar interactions are considered when examining the remarkable differences in the low temperature magnetic states of the various compounds.
A "new Hamas" through its new documents

Since Hamas won the Palestinian legislative elections in January 2006, its political positions as presented in the Western media hark back to its 1988 charter, with almost no reference to its considerable evolution under the impact of political developments. The present article analyzes (with long verbatim extracts) three recent key Hamas documents: its fall 2005 electoral platform, its draft program for a coalition government, and its cabinet platform as presented on 27 March 2006. Analysis of the documents reveals not only a strong programmatic and, indeed, state building emphasis, but also considerable nuance in its positions with regard to resistance and a two-state solution. The article pays particular attention to the sectarian content of the documents, finding a progressive de-emphasis on religion in the three.
Do graphical search interfaces support effective search for and evaluation of digital library resources

This paper explores the cognitive processes and online behaviors in which preservice teachers engage when seeking educational resources for classroom instruction. Participants used graphical and keyword search interfaces provided by a large-scale digital library (NSDL.org) and a keyword search interface from a large, commercial search engine (Google.com) to complete searches for online materials that would support classroom instruction. Overall, findings from the current work indicate that a graphical search interface can support comprehension by providing a conceptual organization of domain content during digital search and evaluation. Findings also show that digital libraries allow users to offload processing related to resource trustworthiness, thereby increasing cognitive capacity for other purposes.
The kinetic energy density in the troposphere, stratosphere and mesosphere: A preliminary study using the Poker Flat MST radar in Alaska

Continuous observations of the wind field obtained using the MST radar at Poker Flat, Alaska, over the past 5 years enable a determination of kinetic energy density (Joules per m−3) height profiles in the troposphere, stratosphere and mesosphere. Three specific frequency intervals of the horizontal wind velocity spectrum are processed to yield height profiles of kinetic energy density corresponding roughly to periods of gravity waves, tides and planetary waves (although the wind fluctuations do not necessarily correspond to wavelike processes). Preliminary results of this analysis are presented here for both summer and winter periods.
Metal binding sites of rat liver Cu-thionein

Abstract Cu-thionein purified from rat liver contains 10 g atoms Cu per mole protein. EPR and NMR bulk susceptibility studies indicate that the copper ions are bound in a diamagnetic state. Purification of the metalloprotein anaerobically results in a sample in which 18 cysteines can be titrated by 2,2-dithiodipyridine. Only 10–12 cysteines could be titrated in aerobically prepared samples. The copper ions in aerobically prepared Cu-thionein are more easily removed by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid than are the ions in the anaerobically purified protein. Likewise, the Cu ions in aerobically prepared Cu-thionein molecules have the ability to reactivate aposuperoxide dismutase and to bind to apocarbonic anhydrase whereas the metal ions in anaerobically prepared Cu-thionein molecules do not. A qualitative correlation was found between the extent of sulfhydryl oxidation in Cu-thionein and the reactivity of thionein-bound Cu ions with chelators such as the apometalloenzymes. The reconstitution assay system represents a sensitive indicator of the reactivity of Cu-thionein. The results suggest that rat liver Cu-thionein is very susceptible to oxidation and the Cu-binding affinity varies accordingly.
Teachers Designing Curriculum as Professional Development: A Model for Transformational Science Teaching.

We have designed a model for transformational science teaching focused on linking theory and practice through curriculum decision making that has been the framework for professional development sessions for middle-grade science teachers during the past 5 years. Interviews with teachers revealed that their experiences with curriculum development were of significant value in making decisions concerning the design of classroom environments. As teachers reflected on current research about teaching and learning, in collaboration with university scientists and science educators, they were informed by theoretical perspectives which held implications for their practice. Curriculum development became a vehicle for professional development and school reform; however, it was vital that the teachers were in clear communication with their administrators and communities concerning reform issues. Students and teachers from schools implementing the model and from control sites were interviewed to determine the model's influence on instructional practices and student attitude and achievement in science. The five-phase model for transformational science teaching is discussed here, accompanied by teacher comments about tensions experienced at each phase. This discussion is followed by an analysis of teacher and student interview data that reveals teachers' use of instructional strategies and students' attitudes toward science. Results and analysis of student performance on a mandated end-of-grade science test are also included. From this evidence, we recommend a new design for professional development opportunities for teachers that engages them in decision making as they reflect about the connections between theory and practice and the value of continually testing, revising, and reevaluating curriculum and instructional issues. J Res Sci Teach 34: 773–789, 1997.
Perceived Discrimination Among African American Adolescents and Allostatic Load: A Longitudinal Analysis With Buffering Effects

This study was designed to examine the prospective relations of perceived racial discrimination with allostatic load (AL), along with a possible buffer of the association. A sample of 331 African Americans in the rural South provided assessments of perceived discrimination from ages 16 to 18 years. When youth were 18 years, caregivers reported parental emotional support and youth assessed peer emotional support. AL and potential confounder variables were assessed when youth were 20. Latent growth mixture modeling identified two perceived discrimination classes: high and stable, and low and increasing. Adolescents in the high and stable class evinced heightened AL even with confounder variables controlled. The racial discrimination to AL link was not significant for young adults who received high emotional support.