cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On complex formation in equimolar chloroform–benzene solution: A revisit by molecular dynamics simulation and orientational correlation states superposition

Abstract We present molecular dynamics simulations of the seventeen-atom system of chloroform equimolar in benzene on the basis of a previously proven Fortran code, Lennard–Jones potential parameters, fractional atomic charges, and complete molecular structure data between 248 and 498 K at a common density. Specifically, the generated l = 1 orientational auto-correlation functions of the tumbling and spinning–tumbling motions of chloroform in its benzene solution are combined, by established group-theoretical principles, to three linear combinations that quantitatively characterize for the benzene-dissolved chloroform molecules the time evolution of the average direction of their average rotation axis as well as that of the mean rotation angle around it. Based on these findings we conclude, first, that the probability density function of the average rotational motion of the dissolved chloroform molecules follows a memory-less process (Markoffian), second, that a previously proposed 1:1 chloroform–benzene complex, with the H atom of the C–H bond of its chloroform moiety pointing to the center of the plane of an adjacent benzene species, has a near-vanishing probability to prevail in the solution.
Characterization of the Promoter Region of the Human Apurinic Endonuclease Gene (APE)

Abstract Apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites are mutagenic and block DNA synthesis in vitro. Repair of AP sites is initiated by AP endonucleases that cleave just 5′ to the damage. We linked a 4.1-kilobase pair HindIII DNA fragment from the region upstream of the human AP endonuclease gene (APE) to the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene. Deletions generated constructs containing 1.9 kilobase pairs to 50 base pairs (bp) of the APE upstream region. Transient transfection studies in HeLa cells established that the basal APE promoter is contained within a 500-bp fragment. The major transcriptional start site in HeLa, hepatoma (HepG2), and myeloid leukemic (K562) cells was mapped to a cluster of sites 130 bp downstream of a putative “CCAAT box,” 130 bp 5′ of the first splice junction in APE. Deletion of 5′ sequences to within 10 bp of the CCAAT box reduced the CAT activity by only about half, and removal of the CCAAT box region left a residual promoter activity 9%. Deletion to 31 bp upstream of the transcriptional start site abolished APE promoter activity. DNA sequence analysis revealed potential transcription factor recognition sites in the APE promoter. Gel mobility-shift assays showed that both human upstream factor and Sp1 can bind their respective sites in the APE promoter. However, DNase I footprinting using HeLa nuclear extract showed that the binding of Sp1 and upstream factor is blocked by the binding of other proteins to the nearby CCAAT box region.
Exploring gender differences in trauma exposure and the emergence of symptoms of PTSD among incarcerated men and women

Our study examines gender differences in traumatic exposure and associated posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms reported by a 266 male and female inmates. In our sample, 94.7% of the inmates had experienced at least one traumatic event identified in Trauma History Questionnaire – Modified. Male inmates reported higher rates of witnessing harm to others in childhood (22.4%) and adolescence (43.25) and female inmates, higher rates of interpersonal sexual trauma in childhood (31.2%), adolescence (35.3%), and adulthood (27.7%). Women showed higher rates of PTSD (40.2%) when compared to men (12.5%), as measured by the total PTSD score of the Impact of Event Scale – Revised. The combined trauma types explained 12% and 16% of the total PTSD score in the female and male samples, respectively. In the female model, interpersonal sexual trauma was a significant predictor of PTSD symptoms; whereas in the male model, interpersonal nonsexual trauma was a significant predictor. We discuss these findings as they...
First Report of the Armillaria Root Disease Pathogen, Armillaria gallica, on Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) in Arizona

In August 2010, a mycelial fan (isolate AZ32F) of Armillaria sp. was collected from the root collar of a living Douglas-fir tree on the Mogollon Rim within the Coconino National Forest (approximate location 34°25′31.26″N, 111°20′41.04″W, elevation 2,293 m) in central Arizona. Mycelial fans under the bark of living trees are a sign of pathogenicity, and symptoms of the diseased tree included resinosis, sloughing bark, and thinning crown. The infected tree was located on a south-facing slope with approximately 30% tree cover, dominated by ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), with lesser components of Douglas-fir and Gambel oak (Quercus gambelii). Based on three replications of somatic incompatibility tests against 24 tester isolates representing seven North American Armillaria spp., isolate AZ32F showed 100% intraspecific compatibility (colorless antagonism) with all four A. gallica isolates, 22% compatibility with A. calvescens, and 0% compatibility with the remaining Armillaria spp. Based on GenBank BLASTn o...
Benefits of thermal energy storage option combined with CHP system for different commercial building types

Abstract A combined heat and power (CHP) system is investigated with and without a thermal energy storage option for eight different commercial building types located in Chicago, IL. The building’s electrical and thermal loads are simulated on an hourly basis over one year and a CHP system operating at a constant base load is modeled. The CHP system alone is compared with a CHP system which incorporates thermal storage in varying amounts. In each case, the CHP system reduces operational cost, primary energy consumption (PEC), and carbon dioxide emissions (CDE) with respect to the reference case without a CHP system. For six of the eight buildings, adding thermal storage provides further reductions in operational cost, PEC, and CDE. More thermal increases these benefits. However, the size of the supplemental boiler required by the building to satisfy the thermal load is not reduced except in the case of the large hotel. In addition, the sizing of the CHP system’s power generation unit is not significantly affected by the addition of thermal storage. Buildings which require higher ratios of power to heat will be less likely to benefit from the addition of thermal storage to a CHP system.
Dye-sensitized solar cells based on anatase TiO2 nanoparticle/nanowire composites.

Dye-sensitized solar cells were fabricated based on the composites of anatase TiO2 nanoparticles and single crystalline anatase TiO2 nanowires. Nanoparticle/nanowire composites can possess the advantages of both building blocks, i.e., the high surface area of nanoparticle aggregates and the rapid electron transport rate and the light scattering effect of single-crystalline nanowires. Three different composites were prepared with 5 wt %, 20 wt %, and 77 wt % nanowires, respectively. The performances of composite solar cells were compared with pure nanoparticle cells at a series of film thickness. With low nanowire concentrations (5 wt % and 20 wt %), the composite films maintain similar specific surface area as the pure nanoparticle films, while the composite cells show higher short-circuit current density and open-circuit voltage. An enhancement of power efficiency from 6.7% for pure nanoparticle cells to 8.6% for the composite cell with 20 wt % nanowires has been achieved under 1 Sun AM1.5 illumination (...
Optical properties of bulk GaN crystals grown from solution at moderate pressure and temperature

Abstract Structural and optical properties of GaN crystals grown from solution at moderate temperature (800 °C) and pressure (∼0.25 Mpa) have been investigated using Raman scattering and photoluminescence spectroscopies. The lineshape and linewidth of the first-order optical phonons measured at room temperature indicates good crystalline quality of the freestanding GaN crystals and epitaxial GaN layers. Low-temperature photoluminescence spectra are characterized by sharp and intense emission peaks at 3.47 eV, attributed to the annihilation of excitons bound to shallow donors, which confirms good crystalline quality of the grown crystals and the epitaxial grown layers. The intensities of the near-bandedge emission lines in the photoluminescence spectra are consistent with reduced incorporation of pervasive background impurities in the crystals as well as in the epitaxial layers.
A quotient ofC (w w ) which is not isomorphic to a subspace ofC(α),a < w 1

A quotient space ofC (w w ), the continuous functions on the ordinals not greater thanW w with the order topology, is constructed which is not isomorphic to a subspace ofC(α),a < w 1.
The influence of maternal immunization on light chain response to Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine.

Abstract The repertoire of human antibodies to Haemophilus influenzae type b polysaccharide (Hib PS) has been extensively characterized. In response to Hib PS vaccines, both IgG1 and IgG2 antibodies are produced. Based on the Vκ gene used for the antibodies, heamophilus antibodies can be divided into A2 and non-A2 antibodies. A2 antibodies account for the majority of heamophilus antibodies, are generally more functional, and are specific for heamophilus polysaccharide. In contrast, non-A2 antibodies cross-react with Escherichia coli K100. Studies of placental transfer showed that IgG1 antibodies cross the placenta better than IgG2 antibodies and the A2 antibodies better than non-A2 antibodies. Babies born to mothers who were immunized with a heamophilus vaccine had a high level of antibodies to Hib PS but the antibody level decreased during the first 6 months. The children also responded to a heamophilus conjugate vaccine.
A smoothed residual based goodness-of-fit statistic for logistic hierarchical regression models

We develop a goodness-of-fit measure with desirable properties for use in the hierarchical logistic regression setting. The statistic is an unweighted sum of squares (USS) of the kernel smoothed model residuals. We develop expressions for the moments of this statistic and create a standardized statistic with hypothesized asymptotic standard normal distribution under the null hypothesis that the model is correctly specified. Extensive simulation studies demonstrate satisfactory adherence to Type I error rates of the Kernel smoothed USS statistic in a variety of likely data settings. Finally, we discuss issues of bandwidth selection for using our proposed statistic in practice and illustrate its use in an example.
Analysis of 6-(2,2-Dichloroacetamido)chrysene interaction with the hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase from Trypanosoma cruzi.

Selective inhibition is needed for drugs targeting the hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase of Trypanosoma cruzi, etiologic agent of Chagas' disease. 6-(2,2-Dichloroacetamido)chrysene, was shown herein to be a selective inhibitor of the trypanosomal enzyme. SAR analysis revealed that the 6-amido moiety was essential, but the dichloroaceto moiety was not essential for achieving the low K i for this inhibitor. Understanding the molecular basis for these interactions could facilitate the design of selective inhibitors without a chrysene moiety.
The acceleration of charged particles in interplanetary shock waves

Consideration of the theoretical and observational literature on energetic ion acceleration in interplanetary shock waves is the basis for the present discussion of the shock acceleration of the solar wind plasma and particle transport effects. It is suggested that ISEE data be used to construct data sets for shock events that extend continuously from solar wind to galactic cosmic ray energies, including data for electrons, protons, alphas and ions with Z values greater than 2.0, and that the temporal and spatial evolution of two- and three-dimensional particle distribution functions be studied by means of two or more spacecraft.
Backward transmission of the left atrial V wave and premature pulmonary valve closure

Abstract The concept that premature pulmonary valve closure may result from severe mitral insufficiency is presented. Five patients with severe mitral valve insufficiency had pulmonary arterial mean pressure which exceeded simultaneously recorded right ventricular mean systolic pressure. A high delayed pressure wave was present in the pulmonary artery of these subjects, and in four subjects the pulmonary arterial pressure rose above the right ventricular pressure. In two of the five, the timing and morphology of this pressure wave were suggestive of early closure of the pulmonary valve by retrograde transmission of the left atrial “V” wave through the pulmonary vessels. Catheterization revealed low cardiac indices, marked left atrial systolic pressure elevation, and elevated pulmonary artery pressure. All subjects had high total pulmonary resistance, while pulmonary arteriolar resistance was normal in three and only moderately elevated in two. The respective roles played by pulmonary arteriolar resistance, compliance of the left atrium and pulmonary vasculature, the state of left ventricular function, and amount of mitral regurgitation in the production of this phenomenon are discussed.
Central gustatory lesions and learned taste aversions: Unconditioned stimuli

The efficacy of two different unconditioned stimuli (US) in producing conditioned taste aversion (CTA) was tested in rats after bilateral ibotenic acid (IBO) lesions of the gustatory nucleus of thalamus (TTAx) and the medial and lateral parabrachial nuclei (mPBNx, lPBNx). An initial study determined an equivalent dose for the two USs, LiCl and cyclophosphamide (CY), using non-lesioned rats. Subsequently, using a separate set of lesioned animals and their sham controls (SHAM), injections of CY were paired 3 times with one of two taste stimuli (CSs), 0.1 M NaCl for half the rats in each group, 0.2 M sucrose for the other half. After these conditioning trials, the CS was presented twice more without the US, first in a 1-bottle test, then in a 2-bottle choice with water. The acquisition and test trials had 2 intervening water-only days to assure complete rehydration. Two weeks later, the same rats were tested again for acquisition of a CTA using LiCl as the US and the opposite CS as that used during the CY trials. The SHAM and TTAx groups learned to avoid consuming the taste associated with either CY or LiCl treatment. The two PBNx groups failed to learn an aversion regardless of the US.
AN ANALYSIS OF 148 CONSECUTIVE TRANSITION ZONE CANCERS: CLINICAL AND HISTOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Purpose: To improve our understanding of transition zone cancer in terms of the diagnosis and biological behavior we examined all morphological and clinical variables in 148 consecutive cases of untreated transition zone cancer after radical retropubic prostatectomy. We matched 79 cases by total cancer volume to 79 of pure peripheral zone cancer with no secondary tumors.Materials and Methods: Using the Stanford technique of prospective 3 mm. step sections we identified 175 of 996 men (18%) with untreated transition zone cancer after radical retropubic prostatectomy who had the largest cancer volume in the transition zone. We excluded 27 patients from study due to previous transurethral prostatic resection or incomplete data. Preoperative serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) was determined by the Tosoh AIA-600††Tosoh, Foster City, California. PSA assay. Postoperatively a PSA of 0.07 ng./ml. and increasing represented biochemical failure when the assay was done in the ultrasensitive mode.Results: Of the 14...
Anatomy of an Extreme Event

AbstractThe record-setting 2011 Texas drought/heat wave is examined to identify physical processes, underlying causes, and predictability. October 2010–September 2011 was Texas’s driest 12-month period on record. While the summer 2011 heat wave magnitude (2.9°C above the 1981–2010 mean) was larger than the previous record, events of similar or larger magnitude appear in preindustrial control runs of climate models. The principal factor contributing to the heat wave magnitude was a severe rainfall deficit during antecedent and concurrent seasons related to anomalous sea surface temperatures (SSTs) that included a La Nina event. Virtually all the precipitation deficits appear to be due to natural variability. About 0.6°C warming relative to the 1981–2010 mean is estimated to be attributable to human-induced climate change, with warming observed mainly in the past decade. Quantitative attribution of the overall human-induced contribution since preindustrial times is complicated by the lack of a detected cent...
Experimental determination of reactor activity factors for structure-sensitive catalyst deactivation

Abstract An experimental basis is presented for the determination of reactor activity factors for the multiple reactions affected by structure-sensitive catalyst deactivation, which causes a different deactivation effect on different reaction paths. The reactor activity factor is the local catalytic activity specific to a given reaction path integrated over the reactor length. The soundness of the experimentally determined reactor activity factor is demonstrated using ethylene oxidation over a silver catalyst. The reactor activity factor is useful not only for the control of a reactor undergoing deactivation but more importantly for following the progression of catalytic activity loss when there is no detailed knowledge of catalyst deactivation as it affects different reaction paths differently.
IGSCC of grain boundary engineered 316L and 690 in supercritical water

Abstract This study evaluated the influence of a high fraction of special grain boundaries on the intergranular stress corrosion cracking susceptibility of 316L stainless steel and nickel base alloy 690 in supercritical water. By thermomechanically processing the alloys to create specimens with largely different special boundary fractions, it was possible to isolate the effects of the grain boundary structure on the intergranular stress corrosion cracking behavior. Constant extension rate tensile experiments were performed in 500 °C deaerated supercritical water, and SEM analysis of the cracking behavior was performed on the gage surfaces of the specimens. Results indicate that the fraction of cracked grain boundary length in the specimens with higher fractions of special boundaries is reduced for 316L and 690 by factors of 9 and 5 at 15% strain, and 3 and 2 at 25% strain, respectively. This reduction is due to the special boundaries, which at 25% strain have a frequency of cracking that is 9–18 times lower than that for a random high angle boundary.
SU-D-217BCD-01: Corrupted DICOM Image Recovering: A Clinical Experience.

Purpose: Colored DICOM secondary capture images generated from CT perfusion studies were corrupted if they were sent directly from a Siemens acquisition workstation to a GE viewing workstation. However, those images were properly displayed in the GE viewing workstation if they were transferred through a GE PACS first. The purpose of this work is to investigate the cause of image corruption and determine why passing through PACS corrected it. Methods: DICOM headers of corrupted and non‐corrupted (sent through the PACS) images were compared with a free DICOM software tool (http://DVTK.org); the differences were highlighted. Certain header tags were found in non‐corrupted images, but not in corrupted images. These tags were sequentially removed until the non‐ corrupted image became corrupted. Once a candidate tag was found, fresh corrupt images were modified by adding a ‘repair’ tag and tested. Results: It was found that the absence of Planar Configuration (0028, 0006) is the cause of image corruption. This attribute is used in the DICOM color image to specify whether the color pixel data are sent color‐by‐plane or color‐by‐ pixel and should be present if the Sample per Pixel (0028, 0002) tag has a value greater than 1. In our DICOM color images, the values of (0028, 0002) and Photometric Interpretation (0028, 0004) are 3 and RGB, respectively. Thus (0028, 0006) should equal 0 (color‐by‐pixel), which is used for uncompressed or lossless compressed transfer syntaxes. Adding this tag and setting the value to zero manually repaired corrupt images.Conclusions: Using open source DICOM tools and following the described process can be a valuable ally in the search for causes of image corruption. Comparing the headers and finding the handful of different tags rapidly led to an explanation that could be used by the vendor for a permanent fix.
Azithromycin versus Penicillin G Benzathine for Early Syphilis

The demonstration in Tanzania of equivalent efficacy of azithromycin and penicillin G benzathine for treating early syphilis and presumed early latent syphilis (rapid plasma reagin titer, ≥1:8) represents a potentially useful advance in syphilis control. In a randomized trial reported in this issue of the Journal, Riedner et al.1 achieved cure rates of 97.7 percent with 2 g of azithromycin given orally and 95.0 percent with 2.4 MU of penicillin G benzathine given intramuscularly. Positive or negative status with respect to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection did not influence the results of treatment. Titers on rapid plasma reagin tests fell . . .
A point mutation in the conserved hexanucleotide at a yeast 5′ splice junction uncouples recognition, cleavage, and ligation

Abstract We have constructed an actin- HIS4 gene fusion, such that expression of HIS4 requires proper splicing of the actin intron. Using this chimeric gene in an in vivo screen for splicing mutations, we have isolated a G to A transition in the fifth position of the yeast 5′ consensus sequence /GTAPyGT. This mutation still allows the junction to be recognized by the splicing machinery, albeit inefficiently. Surprisingly, the fidelity of the 5′ endonucleolytic cleavage is also reduced. This results in an incorrect cleavage 6 nucleotides 5′ of the 5′ junction, at the dinucleotide /AT. Cleavage at this abnormal site does not lead to the production of mature mRNA, although this species appears to be in a lariat structure. The behavior of this mutant argues that recognition of the 5′ junction and subsequent cleavage are separable events and, furthermore, that requirements for 3′ endonucleolytic cleavage may be more complex than previously imagined.
The effect of deformation on catalytic activity of platinum in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide

Abstract The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide has been studied on annealed and cold-worked platinum foils. The reaction was confirmed to be first order. The reaction rate constant was found to increase with the degree of cold work, and a direct relationship between the catalytic activity of the platinum and its deformation was established. The increase in activity is apparently due directly to deformation since the possible effects of preferred orientation and increased surface area proved to be negligible.
Dopamine interdependence between the caudate nuclei.

Abstract The alteration of the dopamine concentration in the caudate nuclei and the substantiae nigrae was studied following unilateral partial destruction of the nigrostriatal axon terminals and the striatonigral neurons. Brain tissue from the head of the caudate nuclei was obtained by biopsies, from the substantiae nigrae by dissection postmortem. In the acute experiments the biopsies on the two caudate nuclei were performed within 25–30 min, and a rise in the dopamine values in the caudate nuclei opposite to the side of the initial lesions occurred. The dopamine concentration pointed to a possible increase also in the dissected substantiae nigrae. In the chronic experiments the dopamine concentration of the contralateral caudate nuclei decreased, as seen 21–28 days after first biopsies. In this series of experiments, the dopamine values in the dissected substantiae nigrae of one or both sides were reduced relative to the values observed in the acute experiments.
Experimental disease models of influenza virus infections: recent developments

Abstract Influenza continues to be an important public health threat, and a need continues for models in which the disease, its prevention and treatment modalities can be studied. New colorimetric assay procedures, use of modified viral neuraminidase assays, branched DNA technology for quantifying the negative strand RNA of the viral gene, and polarity-specific viral RNA are among the in vitro assays considered. Studies in mice have focused on models of virus-induced encephalopathies, new disease parameters, and immunosuppression. Significant in vitro and in vivo models of influenza virus infection reported in the past two years are reviewed.
Societal cost of workplace homicides in the United States, 1992–2001

BACKGROUND: The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI) reported 8,672 workplace homicide victims between 1992 and 2001. Although rarely calculated, cost estimates are important for prevention and research efforts. METHODS: Societal costs were estimated using the cost-of-illness approach applied to CFOI data. The cost calculation model incorporated medical expenses, future earnings summed from the year of death until the year the decedent would have been 67, and household production losses (includes activities such as child care and housework). RESULTS: Workplace homicide had a total cost of nearly $6.5 billion dollars and a mean cost of $800,000 between 1992 and 2001. The retail trade industry division had the highest number of homicides and total cost, $2.1 billion, for males and $556,000 for females. CONCLUSIONS: Estimates of the cost of work-related homicides can be used to improve occupational injury prevention and control program planning, policy analysis, evaluation of safety and health interventions, and advocacy for a safer work environment.
A new species of Cosmocerca (Nematoda, Cosmocercidae) and other helminths from Barygenys atra (Anura, Microhylidae) from Papua New Guinea

Cosmocerca oroensis sp. nov. (Ascaridida, Cosmocercidae) from the large intestine of Barygenys atra (Anura, Microhylidae) is described and illustrated. Cosmocerca oroensis represents the 26th species assigned to the genus and the 7th from the Australo-Papuan biogeographical region. Cosmocerca oroensis sp. nov. differs from the previously described Australo-Papuan species in number of plectanes: C. oroensis with 2 pairs; C. australis, 3–4 pairs; C. archeyi, C. tyleri and C. zugi, 4 pairs; C. limnodynastes and C. novaeguineae, 5 pairs. In addition to the new nematode species, Meteterakis crombiei (Nematoda, Heterakidae) was also found.
Comparison of stripping coil and condensate techniques for the collection of gas-phase hydrogen peroxide, with applications of condensate collection in and off the coast of North Carolina

Hydrogen peroxide concentrations obtained by a commonly used stripping coil method were compared with data obtained by the method of collection and analysis of atmospheric condensate. Good agreement was achieved between gas-phase hydrogen peroxide concentrations obtained by each method over the concentration range from 0.1 to 1.8 ppb; the average deviation between the analytical results and the mean of those results was 10%. The deviations between concentrations obtained by each method were random, suggesting no systematic differences. Because of this analytical agreement and the versatility of the condensate collection technique, this method was employed in several field applications. Gas-phase hydrogen peroxide concentrations were determined from condensate samples collected during the summers of 1994 and 1995 in and near Wilmington, NC. Concentrations were not statistically different (t-test, p < 0.05) in samples collected at the Wilmington reference site relative to a nearby salt marsh. Gas-phase hydr...
Evaluation of a digital echo sounder system for detection of submersed aquatic vegetation

A technique is presented for rapid detection of submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) using a high-frequency, high-resolution digital echo sounder linked with global positioning system equipment. The acoustic reflectivity of SAV allows for detection and explicit meaqsurement of canopy geometry using a digital signal processing algorithm described here. Comparing output data from this system with physical measurements shows good detection and measurement performance over a wide range of conditions for freshwater tape grass (Vallisneria americana) and seagrasses (Thalassia testudinum, Halodule wrightii, andSyringodium filiforme) in a sandy-bottom, south Florida estuary. The range of environmental conditions for which the system can be used is defined. Based on these measured performance data and a review of existing literature, this system appears to fill a gap in the inventory of established methods for measuring the distribution and abundance of submersed macrophytes.
Judicial legitimacy and legal interpretation in the debate between Brutus and Publius

In the model of legal interpretation and judicial legitimacy which emerges from Publius’ replies to Brutus and his fellow Anti‐federalists, legal interpretation is seen not as an application of formal hermeneutic methods to ascertain exclusively the empirical semantic meaning of rules, or the historical psychological intentions of legislators, but as a rhetorical process in which controversial arguments provide a basis for the judicial determination of a legal meaning which results in a normatively justifiable application of the law. The formal derivation of law from the legislative process, and of judicial decisions from the common meaning of the law, can only provide a prima facie legitimation which must be able to withstand critical arguments related to the ultimate norms which provide the substantive justification for government and law. To guard against judicial arbitrariness in deciding among the claims of conflicting visions of justice and the public good, the first stage of the rhetorical process ...
A New Form of the Pressey Multiple-Choice Board

There is considerable recent growth of interest in "teaching machines," self-instruction devices, and the importance of providing students immediate information as to the correctness of their efforts as they take tests and pursue assigned work. W e have developed a quite simple and inexpensive device which might be of general interest. I t is an adaptation of an early invention of Pressey ( 1950). Pieces of %-in. thick duolux masonite, 1% in. wide by 5 % in. long, are prepared with one face containing 11 rows of %-in. holes, five holes in a row. In each row four of the holes are 1/64 in. deep and one hole is 3/32-in. deep. (These depths have been shown empirically to work well.) By attaching a slip of paper to the masonite with cellophane tape so that circles on the paper exactly cover the holes in the masonite, we have a simple "multiple-choice board." W e have also used other sizes. For instance, 150 rows of holes were placed in a piece of masonite the size of the standard IBM multiple-choice answer sheet and the holes were lined up behind the alternatives on the IBM sheet. For brief quizzes the instructor explains that when the student punches his pencil through the correct hole his pencil point will go down further and make a larger hole in the paper than when an incorrect choice is made. The students are then instructed to punch out the circles in the first (unnumbered) row and to note the difference in the case of one of the five. This device, accompanied by a mimeographed page of 10 multiple choice questions, provides an automatic scoring and immediate feedback test that is relatively foolproof, inexpensive, and convenient.
Improved initial data for black hole binaries by asymptotic matching of post-Newtonian and perturbed black hole solutions

We construct approximate initial data for nonspinning black hole binary systems by asymptotically matching the 4-metrics of two tidally perturbed Schwarzschild solutions in isotropic coordinates to a resummed post-Newtonian 4-metric in ADMTT coordinates. The specific matching procedure used here closely follows the calculation in [N. Yunes, W. Tichy, B. J. Owen, and B. Bruegmann, gr-qc/0503011.], and is performed in the so-called buffer zone where both the post-Newtonian and the perturbed Schwarzschild approximations hold. The result is that both metrics agree in the buffer zone, up to the errors in the approximations. However, since isotropic coordinates are very similar to ADMTT coordinates, matching yields better results than in the previous calculation [N. Yunes, W. Tichy, B. J. Owen, and B. Bruegmann, gr-qc/0503011.], where harmonic coordinates were used for the post-Newtonian 4-metric. In particular, not only does matching improve in the buffer zone, but due to the similarity between ADMTT and isotropic coordinates the two metrics are also close to each other near the black hole horizons. With the help of a transition function we also obtain a global smooth 4-metric which has errors on the order of the error introduced by the more accurate of the two approximations we match. Thismore » global smoothed out 4-metric is obtained in ADMTT coordinates which are not horizon penetrating. In addition, we construct a further coordinate transformation that takes the 4-metric from global ADMTT coordinates to new coordinates which are similar to Kerr-Schild coordinates near each black hole, but which remain ADMTT further away from the black holes. These new coordinates are horizon penetrating and lead, for example, to a lapse which is everywhere positive on the t=0 slice. Such coordinates may be more useful in numerical simulations.« less
Effects of code rate and channel estimation on OFDM and OFDM-CDMA waveforms

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) is a widely used technique for data transmission on multipath fading channels. The multipath component of these types of channels causes a phenomenon known as frequency selective fading. This type of fading can severely degrade or completely eliminate the signal energy of many of the OFDM tones producing an irreducible error rate, even when no noise is present. In the early 1990's, researchers combined some of the characteristics of Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Spread Spectrum (SS) with OFDM in order to create a more robust modulation scheme capable of surviving frequency selective fading without the need for forward error correction (FEC) techniques and thus OFDM-CDMA was born. This paper will investigate how the code rate and channel estimation affect the performance of coded OFDM and OFDM-CDMA waveforms on various HF multipath/fading channels.
The role of interfacial interactions on the crystallinity and nanomechanical properties of clay–polymer nanocomposites: A molecular dynamics study

Polymer clay nanocomposites (PCN) show enhanced mechanical, thermal, liquid or gas barrier properties in comparison to pure polymer. However, the mechanisms for enhancement of these physical properties of PCN are not well understood. This knowledge is important for tailoring the properties of PCN to desired specifications. Our earlier study showed that organic modifiers have significant influence on the crystallinity and nanomechanical properties of PCN. For quantitative evaluation of the influence of organic modifiers on the crystallinity and nanomechanical properties of PCN, molecular models of three intercalated PCNs containing same polymer and clay but with three different organic modifiers are constructed in this work. Using molecular dynamics simulations, the interaction energies among the different constituents of PCNs are evaluated. This study reveals that the interactions between polymer, organic modifiers, and intercalated clay are critical factors in controlling the crystallinity and enhancement of nanomechanical properties of PCN. We have described the possible mechanisms leading to change in crystallinity and nanomechanical properties. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
On some problems of diffusion towards a circular disk

Abstract Solutions to several problems of diffusion towards a freely suspended circular disk, or towards a circular disk embedded in an insulating plane, are given in analytical form. The results obtained are illustrated numerically, by computer evaluation of the integrals involved, for the steady-state a.c. response. The problems treated are pertinent to measurements on e.g. lipid bilayer membranes in Mueller-Rudin or Takagi-Montal-Mueller cells, rotating disk electrodes, and some optically transparent thin layer cells.
Generalized anxiety disorder is associated with overgeneralization of classically conditioned fear.

Background Meta-analytic results of fear-conditioning studies in the anxiety disorders implicate generalization of conditioned fear to stimuli resembling the conditioned danger cue as one of the more robust conditioning markers of anxiety pathology. Due to the absence of conditioning studies assessing generalization in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), results of this meta-analysis do not reveal whether such generalization abnormalities also apply to GAD. The current study fills this gap by behaviorally and psychophysiologically assessing levels of conditioned fear generalization across adults with and without GAD. Methods Twenty-two patients with a DSM-IV-Text Revision diagnosis of GAD and 26 healthy comparison subjects were recruited and tested. The employed generalization paradigm consisted of quasi-randomly presented rings of gradually increasing size, with extreme sizes serving as conditioned danger cues (CS+) and conditioned safety cues. The rings of intermediary size served as generalization stimuli, creating a continuum of similarity between CS+ and conditioned safety cues across which to assess response slopes, referred to as generalization gradients. Primary outcome variables included slopes for fear-potentiated startle (electromyography) and self-reported risk ratings. Results Behavioral and psychophysiological findings demonstrated overgeneralization of conditioned fear among patients with GAD. Specifically, generalization gradients were abnormally shallow among GAD patients, reflecting less degradation of the conditioned fear response as the presented stimulus differentiated from the CS+. Conclusions Overgeneralization of conditioned fear to safe encounters resembling feared situations may contribute importantly to the psychopathology of GAD by proliferating anxiety cues in the individual's environment that are then capable of evoking and maintaining anxiety and worry associated with GAD.
Cosmetic neurology The controversy over enhancing movement, mentation, and mood

Advances in cognitive neuroscience and neuropharmacology are yielding exciting treatments for neurologic diseases. Many of these treatments are also likely to have uses for people without disease. Here, I review the ways in which medicine might make bodies and brains function better by modulating motor, cognitive, and affective systems. These potential "quality of life" interventions raise ethical concerns, some related to the individual and others related to society. Despite these concerns, I argue that major restraints on the development of cosmetic neurology are not likely. Neurologists and other clinicians are likely to encounter patient-consumers who view physicians as gatekeepers in their own pursuit of happiness.
Reduced hedonic capacity in major depressive disorder: Evidence from a probabilistic reward task

Objective Anhedonia, the lack of reactivity to pleasurable stimuli, is a cardinal feature of depression that has received renewed interest as a potential endophenotype of this debilitating disease. The goal of the present study was to test the hypothesis that individuals with major depression are characterized by blunted reward responsiveness, particularly when anhedonic symptoms are prominent.
Free-space photon storage with variable time delays

We discuss a high-efficiency “digital” photon storage system using multiple optical cavities to create variable storage times.
Fiber-Tracking Method Reveals Sensorimotor Pathway Involvement in Stroke Patients

Background and Purpose— We tested the feasibility of a new MRI technique that provides visualization of the sensorimotor tracts in vivo in a group of stroke victims. Summary of Report— Fourteen patients with small infarctions involving the white matter of the supratentorial brain were evaluated. Sensorimotor tracts on the lesional and contralesional sides were successfully depicted in all cases. The position of the sensorimotor tracts relative to the infarct was in good agreement with clinical symptoms. The overall sensitivity and specificity for sensorimotor tract involvement were 100% and 77%, respectively. Conclusions— Our proposed fiber-tracking method was shown to be a clinically feasible technique that correlates well with clinical symptoms.
The Effective Elementary Classroom Literacy Environment: Examining the Validity of the TEX-IN3 Observation System:

We report on the development and validation of the TEX-IN3, a research tool and protocol designed to assess the quality of the classroom literacy environment. The TEX-IN3 is described in terms of i...
A rapid spectroscopic technique for determining honey adulteration with corn syrup

A combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with multivariate procedures was used for determining the level of sugar addition to honey. Spectra of honey adulterated with different levels of glucose, fructose, sucrose, and corn syrup were recorded in the mid-infrared range using the attenuated total reflectance accessory. The standard error of prediction (SEP) in validation set was between 1.99% and 2.22% using partial least square (PLS) on first derivative transformed data. Results showed that the combined model for 3 different varieties of honey gave lower correlation. It is demonstrated that Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has good potential for detecting corn-syrup adulteration in honey in less than 5 min. Le miel est tres utilise en industrie alimentaire, il peut etre produit pour une consommation directe ou etre utilise en tant qu'ingredient dans des produits transformes. L'authenticite du miel est importante pour des raisons commerciales mais aussi de sante. L'objectif de cette etude est de developper une procedure de spectroscopie simple et rapide pour detecter l'adulteration du miel par du sirop de mais. Pour cela, elle utilise la spectroscopie infra rouge a transformee de Fourier pour determiner le taux d'addition de sucre (glucose, fructose, saccharose et sirop de mais) a du miel. Elle demontre que cette technique a une bonne potentialite de detection de l'adulteration du miel par du sirop de mais en moins de 5 mn.
The learning-paradigm campus: From single- to double-loop learning

Since the 1980s, advocates for change in higher education have called for double-loop learning. One of the main criticisms of the evaluation of colleges and universities was that they measured inputs rather than the outputs. Higher education now needs to apply the lessons of learning and change to campus leadership and organization.
Effects of Introduced Groundwater on Water Chemistry and Fish Assemblages in Central Florida Lakes

We assessed effects of groundwater pumping to elevate lake levels on lake water chemistry and fish population metrics at seven Florida lakes. Following groundwater pumping, lake level fluctuation was reduced and lake water samples increased in mean pH, total alkalinity, total phosphorus, chloride and Secchi depth compared to historical means, indicating a close resemblance to the chemistry of aquifer water in the region. Fish community metrics from the augmented lakes were compared to 36 non-augmented lakes in Florida. The mean values for catch per unit effort, species richness and biomass of harvestable fishes, determined by electrofishing, were lower in augmented lakes compared to non-augmented lakes. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) indicated a high probability of a low abundance of individual species in augmented lakes compared to a majority of non-augmented lakes. The augmented lake with the lowest pumping rate exhibited less of a shift in limnological variables from historical values, and had fish population characteristics more closely resembling those of non-augmented lakes. Thus, reduced volumes of groundwater introduction could lower impacts to limnological and fish population characteristics. Augmentation allows for lakes to be utilized for recreational activities, and without augmentation some lakes in central Florida would likely go dry due to groundwater withdrawals for water supply. Therefore, allowing more natural water level fluctuations and possible reductions in total pumpage are recommended to reduce impacts to limnological and fish population characteristics, while still allowing sufficient groundwater pumping to preserve lake habitats.
488 Solutions to the XOR Problem

A globally convergent homotopy method is defined that is capable of sequentially producing large numbers of stationary points of the multi-layer perceptron mean-squared error surface. Using this algorithm large subsets of the stationary points of two test problems are found. It is shown empirically that the MLP neural network appears to have an extreme ratio of saddle points compared to local minima, and that even small neural network problems have extremely large numbers of solutions.
Control of Retinal Sensitivity : III. Lateral Interactions at the Inner Plexiform Layer

Both the "on" and the "on-off" ganglion cells in the mudpuppy retina generate graded responses over a narrow range of log test intensities. Sustained full field or surround backgrounds change the range of center log test intensities that elicits the graded response for both cell types. The on-off, but not the on ganglion cells are further affected by moving or flashing surround backgrounds. These cells are hyperpolarized, threshold is elevated, and the entire graded range of response is elicited by a higher range of log center test intensities. Depolarizing activity is elicited in amacrine cells by moving backgrounds that affect the on-off ganglion cells, but bipolar activity is unaffected. These results suggest that the amacrine cells at the inner plexiform layer mediate a third stage of sensitivity control in the retina, increasing threshold for response to change specifically in the on-off ganglion cells.
Health services administrator role delineation methodology: an institutional long-term care example.

Health services administrators (HSA) are the cynosure of much current research because of their pivotal positions vis-a-vis quality of care and cost-effective policies. Role delineation methods used to date are too simple and/or too subjective to reflect the actual complexities of these roles. Dimensional anahl sis, as used to delineate complex organizational processes, more succinctly and accuratetly relfects these complexities and is more objetive. The inherent weakness of dimensional analisis in devising the initial list of tasks can be counteracted by, the use offact analysis. A set of L TC administrator tasks from a national study is dimensionally analized to produce a role delineation and the subroles are validated through Criterion analyses and amplified through reference to the literature. A similar strategy could usefully and readily be applied to extant data sets for other HSAs.