cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The critical challenge: Policy networks and market models for education

This paper reviews a number of approaches to considering how policy transfers through advocacy networks, focusing on education issues in general, and market-based policies in particular. While policymakers and private funders are demanding evidence on the effectiveness of proposed interventions in education, it is not at all clear that they themselves consider evidence in promoting particular policies. Instead, as is apparent with policy proposals for market-based reforms, quite often it is not rigorous research that advances policies, but effective advocacy. Indeed, evidence indicates that an infrastructure of rapid production and dissemination of data has emerged through advocacy organizations and networks, often to obscure or produce alternative evidence. While critical theorists have noted for some time the expansion of neoliberal reform models in education, those analyses offer little in terms of understanding the mechanisms behind the expansion and proliferation of such policies, much less effective ways to challenge their growth. The paper highlights limitations of one of the most popular theoretical perspectives for understanding such networks, and notes how, in the marketplace of ideas represented by new policy advocacy networks, critical scholars are poor at packaging their message, especially compared to intermediary organizations. The paper concludes by introducing a framework of economic transaction for understanding policy transfer. In doing so, it offers a challenge for critical scholars hoping to influence education policymaking.
Non-iterative angles-only initial relative orbit determination with J2 perturbations

Abstract An approximate solution to the angles-only initial relative orbit determination problem is developed and evaluated in the context of the two-body problem with J 2 perturbations. The algorithm is non-iterative and requires the singular value decomposition of a 6 × 6 matrix and the solution of a fifteenth-order polynomial. The performance of the algorithm is investigated for non-circular low-Earth orbits and near-circular geostationary orbits with and without measurement error.
An argument for human exploration of the moon and Mars.

Many scientists view the manned space program as a colossal waste of resources. The usual argument is that Neil Armstrong did nothing on the moon that a clever robot could not have done easier and cheaper (Van Allen 1986). At the same time, other scientists are unimpressed by the accomplish? ments of robotics and artificial intelli? gence. They tend to be rather amused by the general public's fascination with the notion that computers or robots might soon rival human abilities. Since these views are usually discussed in dif? ferent contexts, it rarely occurs to any? one that they might be inconsistent. The long-standing debate over the merits of human space missions was re? vived three years ago by the announce? ment of the Space Exploration Initiative. On July 21, 1989 (the 20th anniversary of the first landing on the moon), Presi? dent Bush proposed that the United States commit itself to establishing a permanent base on the moon and to an expedition to the planet Mars. Bush's speech emphasized the presence of peo? ple in space, but the initiative is taking shape as a program that integrates hu? man and robotic missions.
Clinical and Research Applications of Bone Mineral Density Examinations

For over a quarter of a century, various types of examinations measuring bone mineral density (BMD) yielded essential information about bone health and fracture risk and have made a significant impact on osteoporosis research as well as on patient management. Yet care must be exercised when interpreting the results of these, “densitometric,” examinations, as pitfalls are common and may be overlooked. Bone densitometric techniques allow quantitative measurement of BMD and are commonly divided into central and peripheral. Central methods allow measurement of BMD in the spine and proximal femur and include dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Peripheral methods allow measurement of BMD in the phalanges, forearm, tibia, or calcaneus and include peripheral dual X-ray absorptiometry (pDXA) and peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Although it does not measure BMD, quantitative ultrasound (QUS) is often included with peripheral methods. This chapter reviews these techniques and puts into perspective the utility of each of these measurements for evaluating bone health and fracture risk.
The Law of the Lever

Having been drawn into numerous digressions related to the science of falling bodies, Salviati and his friends finally planned, at the close of their first day of discussion, to return to the science of the strength of materials when they meet again. To this end, the Second Day of the Dialogues commences with a refresher course on the Law of the Lever, which had been known since ancient times. It is upon this law that Galileo bases his subsequent analysis of beam breaking.
A 28NM Integrated True Random Number Generator Harvesting Entropy from MRAM

This paper presents an integrated True Random Number Generator (TRNG) based on the random switching behavior of Magnetic Tunnel Junctions (MTJs) under low write current. A complete TRNG is designed with minimal overhead to an existing embedded MRAM in 28nm CMOS. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first experimental study of this random process and the first TRNG implemented with commercial STT-MRAM technology. The prototype adds only 180μm2 to a standard MRAM array for TRNG operation. It passes all NIST randomness tests across −25 to 100°C, while consuming 18pJ/bit with 66Mbps throughput at the nominal condition.
Decentralized Synchronization of AC-Stacked Voltage Source Converters

A decentralized control method is proposed for a system of multiple voltage source converters (VSC) stacked in series on the AC side. Using the proposed method, a group of low-voltage rated VSC modules can be utilized to implement converters for medium/high voltage grid-tied applications. Each converter module can maintain synchronization using only its local measurements without any communication or any form of centralized synchronization signal. A mathematical model of such a system consisting of $N$ number of VSC modules employing the proposed control scheme is presented and a linearized model is developed for small signal stability assessment. The proposed method is robust against grid frequency variation and can naturally correct power sharing errors among modules caused by sensor inaccuracies or reference mismatches. Real time simulation results are presented to validate the proposed controller.
Statistical Modeling and Aggregate-Weighted Scoring Systems in Prediction of Mortality and ICU Transfer: A Systematic Review.

Background The clinical deterioration of patientsin general hospital wards is an important safety issue. Aggregate-weighted early warning systems (EWSs) may not detect risk until patients present with acute decline. Purpose We aimed to compare the prognostic test accuracy and clinical workloads generated by EWSs using statistical modeling (multivariable regression or machine learning) versus aggregate-weighted tools. Data sources We searched PubMed and CINAHL using terms that described clinical deterioration and use of an advanced EWS. Study selection The outcome was clinical deterioration (intensive care unit transfer or death) of adult patients on general hospital wards. We included studies published from January 1, 2012 to September 15, 2018. Data extraction Following 2015 PRIMSA systematic review protocol guidelines; 2015 TRIPOD criteria for predictive model evaluation; and the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines, we reported model performance, adjusted positive predictive value (PPV), and conducted simulations of workup-to-detection ratios. Data synthesis Of 285 articles, six studies reported the model performance of advanced EWSs, and five were of high quality. All EWSs using statistical modeling identified at-risk patients with greater precision than aggregate-weighted EWSs (mean AUC 0.80 vs 0.73). EWSs using statistical modeling generated 4.9 alerts to find one true positive case versus 7.1 alerts in aggregate-weighted EWSs; a nearly 50% relative workload increase for aggregate-weighted EWSs. Conclusions Compared with aggregate-weighted tools, EWSs using statistical modeling consistently demonstrated superior prognostic performance and generated less workload to identify and treat one true positive case. A standardized approach to reporting EWS model performance is needed, including outcome definitions, pretest probability, observed and adjusted PPV, and workup-to-detection ratio.
Integrin α3 is involved in non-enveloped hepatitis E virus infection

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes acute and fulminant hepatitis worldwide. Although enveloped (e) and non-enveloped (ne) forms of HEV have been discovered, host factors involved in infection, including receptors, remain to be elucidated. Here, we identified integrin α3 (encoded by ITGA3), a protein that binds and responds to the extracellular matrix, as an essential host factor for HEV infection. Integrin α3 expression was lower in four HEV-non-permissive cell subclones than in an HEV-permissive subclone. ITGA3 knockout cells lost HEV permissibility, suggesting that integrin α3 is critical for HEV infection. Stable expression of integrin α3 in an HEV-non-permissive subclone provided permissibility only to infection by neHEV; expression of integrin α3 lacking the ectodomain did not. Direct interaction between neHEV and the integrin α3 ectodomain was confirmed by co-precipitation using a soluble integrin α3-Fc. These results strongly suggest that integrin α3 is a key molecule for cellular attachment and entry of neHEV.
How Effective Is Foreign Aid at Improving Health Outcomes in Recipient Countries

Since the United Nations’ establishment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in 2000 the world has observed an increasing trend in foreign aid provided by more affluent countries to developing nations. This paper examined whether foreign aid (total foreign aid and health sector aid) has been effective in improving the health of citizens in recipient nations since establishment of the MDGs. Five facets of population health were examined: infant mortality, life expectancy, the annual death rate, and immunizations against measles and diphtheria. Using a panel data set covering 90 developing countries, observed annually over 2001–2015, fixed-effects multivariate regressions with alternative specifications were estimated for each of these measures. The findings reveal that foreign aid has had little to no effect on population health since 2000. We found some evidence that foreign aid has improved life expectancy in developing countries, however, the effect is very small. In light of these findings, continued monitoring of the relationship between foreign aid and health outcomes would be both valuable and prudent.
Process development, repair and reliability evaluation for inline Package on Package (PoP) assembly

Traditionally, most of the miniaturization for Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBA) has been accomplished by stacking bare dice inside the package, reducing the pitch of the package, and/or reducing the component and pad spacing on the Printed Circuit Board (PCB). There is a limit, however, on what can be done with regards to component pitch and spacing. Package on Package stacking (PoP) offers a new alternative for further miniaturization and densification of PCBA. This paper describes the PoP process requirement, and the impact on mechanical and thermo mechanical reliability using different pad layouts and with/without underfill.
Discrete Word Embedding for Logical Natural Language Understanding

We propose an unsupervised neural model for learning a discrete embedding of words. Unlike existing discrete embeddings, our binary embedding supports vector arithmetic operations similar to continuous embeddings. Our embedding represents each word as a set of propositional statements describing a transition rule in classical/STRIPS planning formalism. This makes the embedding directly compatible with symbolic, state of the art classical planning solvers.
A solution to temporal credit assignment using cell-type-specific modulatory signals

Animals learn and form memories by jointly adjusting the efficacy of their synapses. How they efficiently solve the underlying temporal credit assignment problem remains elusive. Here, we re-analyze the mathematical basis of gradient descent learning in recurrent spiking neural networks (RSNNs) in light of the recent single-cell transcriptomic evidence for cell-type-specific local neuropeptide signaling in the cortex. Our normative theory posits an important role for the notion of neuronal cell types and local diffusive communication by enabling biologically plausible and efficient weight update. While obeying fundamental biological constraints, including separating excitatory vs inhibitory cell types and observing connection sparsity, we trained RSNNs for temporal credit assignment tasks spanning seconds and observed that the inclusion of local modulatory signaling improved learning efficiency. Our learning rule puts forth a novel form of interaction between modulatory signals and synaptic transmission. Moreover, it suggests a computationally efficient on-chip learning method for bio-inspired artificial intelligence.
An Analysis of Neonatal Intensive Care Daily Rounds in a Level IV Unit

Background: The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is a fast-paced, complex environment that involves numerous care providers. With each expert contributing to a neonate’s care plan, teamwork and communication are essential to achieve a common goal. A key mechanism in this communication is daily medical rounds. The Society of Critical Care Medicine endorses the utilization of multidisciplinary rounds as they have been proven to reduce both …
Turning the Page: A Career Construction Counseling Group Design for Mid-to-Late Career Unemployed Adults.

This article proposes a career counseling group design for mid-to-late career adults who have been unemployed for six months or longer. Career construction theory is the theoretical framework for t...
The Original Meaning of the Yijing: Commentary on the Scripture of Change.: Reply to: Hon Tze-ki, Review of Zhu Xi, Translated and edited by Joseph A. Adler (New York: Columbia University Press, 2020), Monumenta Serica 68 (2020) 2, pp. 575–578.

For the record, I would like to correct a couple of misstatements in Hon Tze-ki’s review of my translation of Zhu Xi’s commentary, The Original Meaning of the Yijing: Commentary on the Scripture of...
The US Military and Hydrogen in Missouri

The US military is a heavy user of energy both in mobile applications and for its large infrastructure base. One US installation, Fort Leonard Wood, is a training center for all the US services (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard) as well as a school center for the Corps of Engineers, Military Police, and “Chemical” (read as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives defense) branches of the Army. The installation is also an international crossroad with many nations’ officers training there and permanent military liaison missions from several NATO countries. The University of Missouri is located near the installation and operates a technology park on the military base. The University is engaged is a series of alternative energy projects with the US military to make Fort Leonard Wood an alternative energy “poster child” which means both a test bed and a model operation for emulation. The projects include the use of hydrogen as a transportation fuel. The hydrogen initiatives are to address the challenge of ensuring reliable, domestic, diverse energy sources while reducing US dependence on foreign oil and protecting the environment, the University of Missouri-Rolla (UMR) is establishing a Hydrogen Center to research and develop technologies for the next generation hydrogenpowered transportation systems.
Reduced-rank local distance metric learning

We propose a new method for local metric learning based on a conical combination of Mahalanobis metrics and pair-wise similarities between the data. Its formulation allows for controlling the rank of the metrics' weight matrices. We also offer a convergent algorithm for training the associated model. Experimental results on a collection of classification problems imply that the new method may offer notable performance advantages over alternative metric learning approaches that have recently appeared in the literature.
Magnetic field error measurements and effects on plasma in the MST reversed field pinch

The MST (Madison Symmetric Torus) has been in operation since June 1988. The vacuum vessel is 5-cm-thick aluminum, 1.5 m in major radius and 0.52 m in minor radius. The vessel serves as the toroidal field winding and conducting shell, with a single poloidal gap and a single toroidal gap. These gaps are a potential source of error fields if great care is not used in designing the winding system. The toroidal field system produces a vacuum error field with a dominant n=4, m=0 Fourier component of magnitude on the order of 0.2% of the toroidal field on axis, as expected. With the present temporary ohmic winding the maximum radial magnetic field at the poloidal gap for a typical plasma is about 60% of the poloidal field at the wall. Correction coils have been added to the poloidal gap to cancel the error field, which has a large m=1 component. With the correction coils the radial field is reduced to about 25%, and the plasma resistance is reduced. With correction a coherent precursor (m=1, n=6) on the SXR signals shows the rotation of these modes. Without correction the SXR precursors are not present and the magnetic coils do not show any coherent structure in most of the shots. >
Gender and International Security : Feminist Perspectives

1. Introduction Laura Sjoberg Part 1: Gendered Lenses Envision Security 2. Theses on the Military, U.S. National Security, War, and Women Judith Stiehm 3. War, Sense, and Security Christine Sylvester 4. Gendering the State: Performativity and Protection in International Security Jonathan Wadley Part 2: Gendered Security Theories 5. Gendering the 'Cult of the Offensive,' Lauren Wilcox 6. Gendering Power Transition Theory Laura Sjoberg 7. The Genders of Environmental Security Nicole Detraz Part 3: Gendered Security Actors: Women in International Security 8. Loyalist Women Paramilitaries in Northern Ireland: Beginning a Feminist Conversation about Conflict Resolution Sandra McEvoy 9. Securitization and De-Securitization: Female Soldiers and the Reconstruction of Women in Post-Conflict Sierra Leone Megan MacKenzie 10. Women, Militancy, and Security: The South Asia Conundrum Swati Parashar Part 4: Gendered Security Problematiques 11. Feminist Theory and Arms Control Susan Wright 12. Beyond Border Security: Feminist Approaches to Human Trafficking Jennifer Lobasz 13. When Are States Hypermasculine? Jennifer Maruska 14. Peace Building through a Gender Lens and the Challenges of Implementation in Rwanda and Cote d'Ivoire Heidi Hudson
Optimal Low-Thrust Interception and Deflection of Earth-Crossing Asteroids

The spectacular collision of the Shoemaker-Levy 9 asteroid with Jupiter in July 1994 was a dramatic reminder of the inevitability of such catastrophes in the Earth’s future unless steps are taken to develop methods for Earth-approaching object detection and possible interdiction. In this work optimal (minimum-time) very-low-thrust trajectories using electric propulsion are determined for the interception of asteroids which pose a threat of collision with the Earth. At the time of interception the system state transition matrix is found and used to indicate the direction in which an impulse should be applied to the asteroid to maximize the subsequent deflection.
Promoting social–emotional competence: An evaluation of the elementary version of Second Step®.

Research has consistently linked social-emotional skills to important educational and life outcomes. Many children begin their school careers, however, without the requisite social and emotional skills that facilitate learning, which has prompted schools nationwide to adopt specific curricula to teach students the social-emotional skills that enable them to maintain optimal engagement in the learning process. Second Step® is one of the most widely disseminated social-emotional learning (SEL) programs; however, its newly revised version has never been empirically evaluated. The purpose of this study was to conduct a randomized controlled trial investigating the impact of the 4th Edition Second Step® on social-behavioral outcomes over a 1-year period when combined with a brief training on proactive classroom management. Participants were kindergarten to 2nd grade students in 61 schools (321 teachers, 7300 students) across six school districts. Hierarchical models (time×condition) suggest that the program had few main effects from teacher-reported social and behavioral indices, with small effect sizes. The majority of significant findings were moderated effects, with 8 out of 11 outcome variables indicating the intervention-produced significant improvements in social-emotional competence and behavior for children who started the school year with skill deficits relative to their peers. All the significant findings were based on teacher-report data highlighting a need for replication using other informants and sources of data. Findings provide program validation and have implications for understanding the reach of SEL programs.
Endoluminal stent reconstruction of low-grade, symptomatic carotid plaques: a treatment alternative-report of two cases.

Introduction: Medical treatment of low-grade (<50% luminal narrowing) symptomatic carotid stenosis has been the treatment of choice since trial data showed no evident benefit to carotid endarterectomy for these patients. Such patients may have recurrent neurological symptoms despite adequate medical therapy owing to recurrent plaque rupture. In such cases, carotid stenting may represent an option for treatment but has not been tested in trials due to previous failure of carotid endarterectomy to demonstrate any benefit for patients with low-grade carotid stenosis. The cases presented here illustrate the perioperative safety and potential benefit of carotid stenting for such patients with persistent neurological symptoms despite adequate medical therapy. Case Material: Two patients with low-grade stenosis and recurrent transient ischemic attack or stroke despite antiplatelet therapy were treated with carotid stenting. Both patients were treated after recent ipsilateral neurological events in the absence of an evident cardioembolic source. Carotid plaque ulceration thought to be related to the ischemic events was present in both cases. No perioperative complications were noted. On follow-up, the patients showed resolution of symptoms and had no new neurological events. Conclusion: Carotid stenting of low-grade but symptomatic carotid plaque refractory to medical management represents a surgical option for treatment. Further studies may be warranted to evaluate stenting as a suitable treatment option.
Structural Snapshots of Full-Length Jak1, a Transmembrane gp130/IL-6/IL-6Rα Cytokine Receptor Complex, and the Receptor-Jak1 Holocomplex

The shared cytokine receptor gp130 signals as a homodimer or heterodimer through activation of Janus kinases (Jaks) associated with the receptor intracellular domains. Here, we reconstitute, in parts and whole, the full-length gp130 homodimer in complex with the cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), its alpha receptor (IL-6Rα) and Jak1, for electron microscopy imaging. We find that the full-length gp130 homodimer complex has intimate interactions between the trans- and juxtamembrane segments of the two receptors, appearing to form a continuous connection between the extra- and intracellular regions. 2D averages and 3D reconstructions of full-length Jak1 reveal a three lobed structure comprising FERM-SH2, pseudokinase, and kinase modules possessing extensive intersegmental flexibility that likely facilitates allosteric activation. Single-particle imaging of the gp130/IL-6/IL-6Rα/Jak1 holocomplex shows Jak1 associated with the membrane proximal intracellular regions of gp130, abutting the would-be inner leaflet of the cell membrane. Jak1 association with gp130 is enhanced by the presence of a membrane environment.
The metabolism of 2-amino-2-methylpropanol in young rats.

Abstract The metabolic fate of tritium-labeled 2-amino-2-methylpropanol administered into rats receiving normal and choline-deficient diets was investigated. The radioactivity in the serum, urine, and ethanol extracts of different tissues was followed with time up to 96 hr after injection. The tissues investigated were brain, heart, intestine, kidney, liver, spleen, and skeletal muscle. It was shown that 2-amino-2-methylpropanol was recovered unchanged in form as an excretion in urine and was recovered unchanged as a hydrolysis product from the lipid fractions. Tissues from choline-deficient rats had a greater retention of the amino alcohol than normal rats. The most striking difference was observed in the livers. It was also observed that the radioactivity incorporated into the mitochondrial and microsomal phospholipid fractions of liver from choline-deficient rats increased with time while the radioactivity in the corresponding fractions in normal rats decreased with time.
Use of Second- and Third-Generation Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: An Evolving Treatment Paradigm

Although imatinib remains the gold standard for first-line treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), increasing recognition of imatinib resistance and intolerance has led to the development of additional tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which have demonstrated effectiveness as salvage therapies or alternative first-line treatments. Although additional options represent progress, the availability of 3 second-generation TKIs (dasatinib, nilotinib, and bosutinib) and 1 third-generation TKI (ponatinib) has added complexity to the treatment paradigm for CML, particularly CML in the chronic phase. Two second-generation agents (dasatinib and nilotinib) are approved for use as first-line and subsequent therapy. Thus, the appropriate sequencing of TKIs is a frequent quandary, and is incompletely addressed in clinical guidelines. Here, we review studies that might guide selection of a second- or third-generation TKI after failure of TKI therapy in patients with chronic-phase CML. These studies evaluate prognostic factors such as first-line cytogenetic response and BCR-ABL1 mutation status, which might help physicians identify patients who are likely to respond to second-generation TKIs, and those for whom ponatinib or an investigational agent might be more appropriate. We summarize evidence to date that suggests that use of a second-generation TKI as third-line therapy confers limited value in most CML patients, and we also explore the utility of current event-free survival versus traditional outcomes to predict long-term benefits of sequential TKI use. Finally, we present 3 case studies to illustrate how prognostic factors and other considerations (eg, tolerability) can be used to individualize subsequent therapy in cases of TKI resistance or intolerance.
The Correctorium Controversy and the Origins of the Usus Pauper Controversy

La controverse, au sein du franciscanisme, sur l'usus pauper (commencant vers 1279): les voeux impliquent-ils un usage restreint des biens (ainsi Pierre de Jean Olivi), ou interdisent-ils seulement la propriete? Dans cette controverse, Olivi en appelle non seulement a Bonaventure et a Pecham, mais a Guillaume de la Mare et a son Correctorium Fratris Thomae, qui combat la critique de la regle franciscaine par les Dominicains en developpant un critere de separation entre precepte et conseil.
Surface Ocean-Lower Atmosphere Processes

[1] No system exists in isolation, and the ocean is no different. Understanding the mechanics directing a system as complicated as the ocean takes an interdisciplinary effort and well-controlled studies. The Surface Ocean–Lower Atmosphere Study (SOLAS) program is an international effort to make sense of the physical and biogeochemical interactions that take place between the air and the sea. Having scientists ready to dissect these interactions will be increasingly important as the world begins to consider deliberately manipulating the system in an attempt to combat climate change. The AGU Monograph Surface Ocean–Lower Atmosphere Processes, edited by Corinne Le Quere and Eric S. Saltzman, looks at the increasingly important interactions occurring at the boundary between these two systems. In this interview, Eos talks to Corinne Le Quere.
Pharmacodynamic measurements of methyl nicotinate percutaneous absorption: the effect of aging on microcirculation.

SUMMARY The penetration of drugs through aged skin is important both in terms of transdermal delivery to elicit systemic pharmacological effects, and for topical treatment. Cutaneous microcirculation efficiency, an integral parameter in the overall process of percutaneous absorption, was studied in young (20–34 years) and old (64–86 years) individuals. Cutaneous erythema as induced by topical administration of methyl nicotinate to the ventral forearm, was monitored non-invasively using laser-Doppler flowmetry. Dose-response behaviour was characterized by five parameters: (i) the time of onset of action; (ii) the time to reach maximum response; (iii) the magnitude of the maximum response; (iv) the area under the response-time curve; and (v) the time to decay to 75% of the maximum response. Additionally, the sensitivity and efficiency of the cutaneous microcirculation in both age groups was evaluated using a pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model. Statistical analysis of all data showed no significant differences between the age groups for the same concentrations. The results indicate that microvessel reactivity to the applied stimulus is comparable in the ventral forearm of both young and old populations.
THERMAL DISSOLUTION OF FACE SPECIFIC Al-OXIDE LAYERS IN THE PRESENCE OF ELECTRIC FIELDS - OBSERVATION OF COMPENSATION EFFECTS

The thermal dissolution of Al-oxide monolayers on W {110} and of deposit double layers on W and Mo has been studied between 700 and 1200K in a field strength range of -45 to +105 MV/cm. The field strength dependence of the activation energy, EFo, and of the pre-exponential factor, AFo, could be measured and the existence of compensation effects could be established. Each of the two dissolution mechanisms (diffusion at low F's ; ion desorption at high F's) shows its own characteristic isokinetic point. The experimental values of Eo and E+ together with the corresponding isokinetic temperatures, *T, allow the calculation of the entropy changes, Ɗ*S, for the phase changes solid layer → diffusion laye and solid layer → ion gas phase (both at unit pressure, T=*T, and F=0). A comparison with corresponding theoretical entropy values shows good agreement.
Constraints on rift thermal processes from heat flow and uplift

The implications of heat flow data available from five major Cenozoic continental rift systems for the processes of continental rifting are discussed, and simple thermal models of lithospheric thinning which predict uplift are used to further constrain the thermal processes in the lithosphere during rifting. Compilations of the heat flow data are summarized and the salient results of these compilations are briefly discussed. The uplift predictions of the slow and rapid thinning models, in which thinning is assumed to occur at a respectively slower and faster rate than heat can be conducted into the lithosphere, are presented. Comparison of uplift rates with model results indicates that the lithosphere is in a state between the two models. While uplift is predicted to continue after thinning has ceased due to thermal relaxation of the lithosphere, the rapid thinning model is always predicted to apply to surface heat flow, and an anomaly in this flow is not predicted to develop until after thinning has stopped.
Optimal Supervisory Control of Discrete Event DynamicalSystems

The notion of optimal supervisory control of discrete event dynamical systems (DEDSs) is formalized in the framework of Ramadge and Wonham. A DEDS is modeled as a state machine and is controlled by disabling some of its transitions. Two types of cost functions are defined: a cost of control function corresponding to disabling transitions in the state machine, and a penalty of control function corresponding to reaching some undesired states or not reaching some desired states in the controlled system. The control objective is to design an optimal control mechanism, if it exists, so that the net cost is minimized. Since a DEDS is represented as a state machine---a directed graph---network flow techniques are naturally applied for designing optimal supervisors. It is also shown that our techniques can be used to solve supervisory control problems under complete as well as partial observation. In particular, for the first time, techniques for computing the supremal controllable and normal sublanguage and the infimal controllable and normal/observable superlanguage without having to perform alternate computations of controllable and normal/observable languages are obtained.
The Impact of Race and Ethnicity on Student Opinions of Capital Punishment

ABSTRACT Much of the research on public opinion and the death penalty indicates demographic differences in the levels of support and opposition to the use of capital punishment in America. This article explores the relationship between race/ethnicity group membership and support for the death penalty. We find that not only does the receptivity to information and mutability of opinion on the death penalty vary from White, Hispanic/Latino(a), and Asian samples but the foundations of the value-expressive rational differ between the groups. In addition, the nature of value expression has significant effects on the receptivity and mutability by race/ethnicity.
Feeding by Northern Brook Lamprey (Ichthyomyzon fossor) on Sestonic Biofilm Fragments: Habitat Selection Results in Ingestion of a Higher Quality Diet

Abstract This study examined interrelationships among habitat type, selective feeding, diet quality, assimilation efficiency, and condition in larval northern brook lamprey ( Ichthyomyzon fossor ) in three lower order streams in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Larvae were less abundant in sand (site means = 0.2 to 0.5 larvae / 2,500 cm 2 ) than in organic sediment (0.5 to 2.85 / 2,500 cm 2 ). Within patches of organic sediment, larvae aggregated at sites where obstacles to flow caused localized accumulation of flocculent material (≤ 26 larvae / 2,500 cm 2 ). Ingestion was selective, with both amino acid and total organic matter higher in foreguts than in seston. Habitat type selected by a larva had relatively minor consequences for organic matter and amino acids in the diet, but had major consequences for assimilation efficiency for both nutrients with highest efficiencies in depositional areas where larvae aggregated. Condition factors (weight per length) were similarly highest in these depositional areas. Variation in diet composition over time suggests an annual cycle of seston production resulting from biofilm sloughing from solid surfaces as controlled by stream discharge and the availability of light to support algal production.
Pathways of de novo phospholipid synthesis in reticulocytes

Abstract The pathways of de novo lipid synthesis from precursor glycerol and acetate were examined in mammalian reticulocytes. 70% of precursor glycerol is incorporated into the 3-carbon backbone of phospholipids, mainly phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. There is little labeling of sphingomyelin and phosphatidylserine. Approximately equal amounts of the remaining 30% of precursor glycerol are incorporated into fatty acids and cholesterol after shunting through the Emden-Meyerhof pathway. The amount of glycerol incorporated into reticulocyte membrane phospholipids is only 10 pg/ml of cells per h at 37 °C, representing less than 0.1% of the total membrane phospholipid content. Although the majority of precursor acetate is incorporated into neutral lipids, a significant amount of acetate is incorporated into the 3-carbon glycerol backbone of phospholipids via the Emden-Meyerhof pathway. Incorporation of both acetate and glycerol into reticulocyte lipids is temperature dependent and requires energy, and does not take place in mature erythrocytes. Reticulocytes can synthesize both cholesterol and phospholipids de novo from either acetate or glycerol, utilizing interlocking pathways which are common to other mammalian cells.
On the determinants of quasi-option value

Abstract Quasi-option value is a concept or notion which suggests that resource decisions based on expected values of random variables may be biased in favor of development, if development is irreversible and the passage of time yields information on future expectations. This paper compares the limited and analytically divergent literature on the subject, derives the specific components of a measure of quasi-option value and speculates on the potential for quasi-option value becoming an operational component of analysis undertaken by governmental resource management agencies.
A method for preparing cross sections of films on wear surfaces for transmission electron microscopy study

Abstract A method for preparing cross sections of surface layers which exist on bulk metal substrates for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study is described. The surface layer or film is protected by a vacuum-deposited or sputtered coating of a suitable metal. A mask is placed over the surface and non-masked areas are subjected to ion beam etching until the substrate is exposed. A thick electroplated layer is then applied to the surface. This layer adheres well to the ion-etched substrate and seals the coated surface film against damage during the usual slicing and grinding steps which are required for the preparation from bulk materials of thin foils for TEM study. The method was developed specifically for the analysis of boundary and extreme pressure lubrication films on wear surfaces together with the near-surface region of the substrate. However, it is also applicable to the investigation of oxide, corrosion and other surface films.
Material homogeneity and structural dynamics in polymer–electrolyte composite microparticles

Abstract We describe optical diffraction, or 2D angle-resolved light scattering, measurements for probing structure and morphological dynamics of isolated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) microparticles doped with NaCl or CaCl 2 . Of specific interest was the effect of dopant salt concentration and polymer host molecular weight on composite microparticle homogeneity (phase-separation behavior) and evaporation dynamics determined from changes in both microparticle size and refractive index with time. In general the drying rate was higher for microparticles doped with CaCl 2 , and only in the case of CaCl 2 doped microparticles was PEG molecular weight found to effect the drying rate. Furthermore, CaCl 2 doped microparticles had a higher concentration threshold with regard to homogeneity when compared with NaCl doped microparticles. The results are discussed in terms of the known structures for monovalent electrolytes doped into PEG thin films and polymer-like oligomers in the gas phase, and on possible modifications of these structures due to differences in the intermolecular interactions of the two cationic species with the residual solvent and the polymer matrix.
In Vivo Progesterone Treatment Enhances [3H\Estradiol Retention by Neural Tissue of the Female Rat

[3H]Estradiol retention was examined for neural tissues of ovariectomized rats as a function of various progesterone pretreatments. Short-term progesterone pretreatment (6 or 24 h) with a 50 mg pellet of progesteron sc resulted in increased in vivo retention of [3H]estradiol when measured at 6 or 24 h following withdrawal of the progesterone source. This increase was greatest in arcuate-median eminence tissue. A less pronounced increase was seen in the preoptic-anterior hypothalamus and cerebral cortex, and no increase was seen in the amygdala or mammilary bodies. Following long term progesterone pretreatment increased [3H]estradiol retention was observed in vivo at 48, 72, 96 or 120 h in the continued presence of the progesterone source for arcuate-median eminence, preoptic-anterior hypothalamus, amygdala and cerebral cortex. Also, when progesterone pretreatment was 24 h, [3H]estradiol retention was still increased at 36, 48, 60 and 72 h following removal of the progesterone source for arcuate-median eminence, preoptic-anterior hypothalamus, amygdala and cerebral cortex. Our demonstration that progesterone pretreatment can significantly increase [3H]estradiol retention by neural tissue suggests a possible mechanism by which progesterone can regulate the timing of ovulation and sex behavior. Furthermore, our observations are in keeping with the finding that progesterone has little or no effect at the organismal or tissue level unless estrogen is present.
The relation of plasma gastrin to the circadian rhythm of gastric acid secretion in man

24-hour basal gastric acid collections were obtained from 10 healthy, young (ages 22–27) male volunteers. The hourly secretory pattern, which described a circadian periodicity (low morning, high eveni
The mouse Chrna4 A529T polymorphism alters the ratio of high to low affinity α4β2 nAChRs

Abstract Previously, a missense polymorphism was identified in the mouse nicotinic receptor α4 subunit gene, Chrna4. This polymorphism leads to an Ala/Thr variation at amino acid position 529 of the α4 subunit. Chrna4 A529T is associated with several measures of acute sensitivity to nicotine as well as with mouse strain differences in nicotine-stimulated 86Rb+ efflux from synaptosomes. Here, we report that the variant forms of the mouse α4 subunit confer functional differences when expressed with the β2 subunit in a heterologous system. α4β2 receptors containing the T529 variant of the α4 subunit exhibited a higher EC50 value for the high affinity receptor population and an apparent reduced sensitivity to blockade by DHβE relative to α4β2 receptors containing the A529 variant of the α4 subunit. Moreover, the proportion of the total agonist-elicited current contributed by the high affinity α4β2 receptor population was greater for α4β2 receptors containing the α4(T529) variant (64%) than the α4β2 receptors containing the α4(A529) variant (41%). These data suggest that the polymorphism in the mouse α4 subunit is located in a previously unidentified functional domain of the receptor subunit that influences receptor function, including regulation of the affinity population ratio of α4β2 receptors.
Is rehabilitation dead? The myth of the punitive public

After a decade of empirical and ideological attacks on treatment philosophy and in light of a 'get tough' movement that has sponsored harsh renovations of criminal codes, a number of commentators have been moved to ask, Is rehabilitation dead? The present study attempted to assess whether treatment has in fact been sufficiently tarnished that it no longer constitutes a viable rationale for criminal sanctioning. Based on a survey of an Illinois community, the analysis revealed that, although support for punitive justifications is widespread, rehabilitation continues to retain substantial legitimacy. This conclusion was reinforced by data from polls conducted in other states and on national samples. Finally, the authors argue that the existence of a 'punitive public' is a myth that functions to limit the policy alternatives that state officials see as politically feasible.
Prey productivity effects on the impact of predators of the mussel, Mytilus californianus (Conrad)

The relationship of increasing prey productivity, a measure incorporating prey settlement and body growth, to changes in the relative impact of two predator groups, birds and the sea star, Pisaster ochraceus (Brandt) on a competitively dominant mussel, Mytilus californianus were examined. The purpose of this experiment was twofold, 1) to determine if the separate effects of each predator group on prey abundance increased as prey productivity increased and 2) to determine if the relative impacts of the two predator groups diverged as prey productivity increased. In this experiment, the separate impact of each predator group increased with increasing prey productivity. However, the relative impact of each predator group did not diverge with increasing prey productivity. Unlike previous studies that suggested with increasing prey productivity the relative effect of two predator groups should diverge, this experiment suggested that communities can have more redundant predator groups than originally thought. The results of an analysis using a proportional hazards model suggested that despite increasing prey productivity, birds and the sea star were equal in their ability to curb population increases by M. californianus. These results highlight the need to carefully consider what type of species to species comparisons to make when attempting to discern the relative roles of different predator groups in a community.
C‐kinase manipulations disrupt activity‐driven retinotopic sharpening in regenerating goldfish retinotectal projection

Regenerating optic axons initially branch over a wide area in tectum to form a crude retinotopic map. The map is sharpened, and retinotopically appropriate synapses are stabilized via NMDA receptors that detect, via summation of EPSPs, the coincident activity of neighboring ganglion cells that make synapses onto common tectal cells. Sharpening shares a number of properties with long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampus. This study tested whether protein kinase C (PKC) activation is necessary for sharpening as it is for LTP. Intraocular (IO) or intracranial (IC) injections of kinase inhibitors or activators were made every other day from 19 to 37 days postcrush (sensitive period), and the projections formed were later recorded. Retinotopic sharpening was prevented by IC injection of the following agents: (1) general kinase inhibitors sphingosine and H7 (100-200 microM in fluid above brain), (2) active but not inactive phorbols (TPA, 1 microM), and (3) calphostin C (1 microM), a specific and irreversible PKC inhibitor. The mature projection on the opposite tectum, however, when examined was not unsharpened. Lack of sharpening was reflected in multiunit fields at each tectal point that averaged 27 degrees-30 degrees versus 11 degrees in Ringers and inactive phorbol control regenerates. Intraocular injections of either TPA (1 microM), or calphostin C (1 microM) also prevented sharpening (26 degrees and 32 degrees multiunit fields), suggesting action on PKC axonally transported to the presynaptic terminals. Calphostin C had no noticeable effect on the firing patterns of retinal ganglion cells. The endogenous activator of PKC, arachidonic acid (AA), disrupted sharpening at 20 microM or higher (IC injection, 32 degrees multiunit fields), while a control fatty acid, elaidic acid, had no effect. Although AA at 5 microM showed no effect, and diacylglycerol at 5 microM exhibited only small effects, together they produced a large synergistic effect (32 degrees multiunit fields). Such synergy mirrors the synergy in the activation of several isoforms of PKC. Actual concentrations in the extradural fluid around the brain were assayed via injections of 3H-AA. Levels fell about sixfold after a day and by an additional fivefold the second day before the next injection. The results confirm that activity-driven retinotopic sharpening is very sensitive to manipulations of kinases, especially PKC.