cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Making Learning Personally Meaningful: A New Framework for Relevance Research

Personal relevance goes by many names in the motivation literature, stemming from a number of theoretical frameworks. Currently these lines of research are being conducted in parallel with little synthesis across them, perhaps because there is no unifying definition of the relevance construct within which this research can be situated. In this paper we propose a new framework to synthesize existing research on relevance and provide a common platform for researchers to communicate and collaborate. In light of this new framework we review the role of relevance in three prominent theories in the motivation literature: the four-phase model of interest development (Hidi & Renninger, 2006), expectancy-value theory (Eccles et al., 1983), and self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985). We then explore eight relevance constructs commonly used in the literature and the educational interventions that derive from them. Finally, we offer a synthesis of these constructs and suggest some directions for future research.
Impact of palliative care referral on hospice enrollment: A single center analysis.

17Background: Despite ASCO’s recommendation to introduce palliative care services for all patients diagnosed with localized or metastatic pancreatic cancer, most patients’ care does not involve this multimodality approach. Transitioning patients to hospice at an appropriate time is essential in oncologic practice. The purpose of this study is to identify which variables affect acceptance of hospice services by patients. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients with pancreatic cancer treated at Upstate University Hospital from 2011-2015 was performed. We studied variables including age, sex, race, stage, insurance status, advance directives, performance status and laboratory values. We analyzed patients based on acceptance or rejection of hospice care in their disease course and conducted a univariate analysis on different factors to determine predisposing variables. p-values were calculated using Chi-Square test and t-test. Results: We reviewed 325 patients charts and found statistically signific...
Semi-supervised Bio-named Entity Recognition with Word-Codebook Learning.

We describe a novel semi-supervised method called WordCodebook Learning (WCL), and apply it to the task of bionamed entity recognition (bioNER). Typical bioNER systems can be seen as tasks of assigning labels to words in bioliterature text. To improve supervised tagging, WCL learns a class of word-level feature embeddings to capture word semantic meanings or word label patterns from a large unlabeled corpus. Words are then clustered according to their embedding vectors through a vector quantization step, where each word is assigned into one of the codewords in a codebook. Finally codewords are treated as new word attributes and are added for entity labeling. Two types of wordcodebook learning are proposed: (1) General WCL, where an unsupervised method uses contextual semantic similarity of words to learn accurate word representations; (2) Task-oriented WCL, where for every word a semi-supervised method learns target-class label patterns from unlabeled data using supervised signals from trained bioNER model. Without the need for complex linguistic features, we demonstrate utility of WCL on the BioCreativeII gene name recognition competition data, where WCL yields state-of-the-art performance and shows great improvements over supervised baselines and semi-supervised counter peers.
Monetary Policy in Developing Countries

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses monetary policy in developing countries. From the long-run point of view, the problem of desirable monetary policy reduces primarily to the desirable rate and form of inflation. Two intermediate steps lead to this identification: the recognition that monetary policy is concerned primarily with the quantity of money, not with the terms and availability of credit, and that inflation is always and everywhere a result of a rapid rate of increase in the quantity of money. The chapter discusses these two intermediate steps before turning to the relation between inflation and development. The best way to foster an effective and diversified financial structure is to let financial institutions develop in response to market forces. Repressing prices of goods and of labor, while no less frequently attempted than repression of exchange rate and interest rates, generally does less economic harm. The reason is that they tend to be easier to evade. However, they do great social harm. Given price controls, black markets serve a socially useful purpose by preventing the distortions that would otherwise develop. The effect of price controls is, therefore, to make socially and individually beneficial action that is morally repugnant because it involves breaking the law. The conflict tends to undermine the moral capital of a nation. Good monetary policy cannot produce development. Economic development fundamentally depends on much more basic forces: the amount of capital, the methods of economic organization, the skills of people, the available knowledge, the willingness to work and to save, and the receptivity of the members of the community to change.
Testing of Ball Bearings with Five Different Separator Materials at 9200 RPM in Liquid Nitrogen

The operation of ball bearings in cryogenic liquids is rather common practice to personnel engaged in the pumping of these liquids. Very little information has been published, however, that will aid others in the proper bearing selection. In some cases, bearing selection was purely trial and error until a combination of materials was found that would operate satisfactorily.
Sea Ice Sensing From GNSS-R Data Using Convolutional Neural Networks

In this letter, a scheme that uses convolutional neural networks (CNNs) is proposed for sea ice detection and sea ice concentration (SIC) prediction from TechDemoSat-1 Global Navigation Satellite System Reflectometry delay-Doppler maps (DDMs). Specifically, a classification-orientated CNN was designed for sea ice detection and a regression-based one for SIC estimation. Here, DDM images were used as input, and SIC data from Nimbus-7 Scanning Multi-Channel Microwave Radiometer and Defense Meteorological Satellite Program Special Sensor Microwave Imager-Special Sensor Microwave Imager/Sounder sensors were modified as targeted output. In the experimental phase, the CNN output resulted from inputting full-size DDM data (128-by-20 pixels) showed better accuracy than that of the existing NN-based method. Besides, both CNNs and NNs with further processed input data (40-by-20 pixels, and with a fixed position in each image) were evaluated and the performance of both networks was enhanced. It was found that when DDM data are adequately preprocessed, CNNs and NNs share similar accuracy; otherwise the former outperforms the latter. Further conclusion was thus drawn that CNNs were more tolerant to the data format changes than NNs.
Chronic Skull Base Erosion from Temporomandibular Joint Disease Causes Generalized Seizure and Profound Lactic Acidosis

This report displays a rare presentation of lactic acidosis in the setting of status epilepticus (SE). The differential diagnosis of lactic acidosis is broad and typically originates from states of shock; however, this report highlights an alternative and rare etiology, SE, due to chronic skull base erosion from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disease. Lactic acidosis is defined by a pH below 7.35 in the setting of lactate values greater than 5 mmol/L. Two broad classifications of lactic acidosis exist: a type A lactic acidosis which stems from global or localized tissue hypoxia or a type B lactic acidosis which occurs once mitochondrial oxidative capacity is unable to match glucose metabolism. SE is an example of a type A lactic acidosis in which oxygen delivery is unable to meet increased cellular energy requirements. This report is consistent with a prior case series that consists of five patients experiencing generalized tonic-clonic (GTC) seizures and lactic acidosis. These patients presented with a pH range of 6.8-7.41 and lactate range of 3.8-22.4 mmol/L. Although severe lactic acidosis following GTC has been described, this is the first report in the literature of chronic skull base erosion from TMJ disease causing SE.
The Girling of Development

In this first of two contextualizing chapters, I examine what Lyndsay Hayhurst dubbed the “girling of development” or the strategic emphasis on girls’ as agents of economic growth that serves as the potent rationale for Menstrual Hygiene Management. Through this lens, providing girls with access to menstrual care materials and menstrual health education is the key that unlocks girls’ potential. I trace a brief history of the girling of development trend, including the Nike Foundation’s introduction of “The Girl Effect” in 2009 followed by a discussion of feminist critiques of this approach. While centering on girls is a step forward, critics argue, the “the turn toward the girl” is often reductive, superficial, and potentially dangerous in the ways it insufficiently addresses the complicated web of factors that contribute to girls’ vulnerabilities and positions girls as economic resources.
Comprehensive Review of the Genetics of Albinism

IntroductionIt is important to understand albinism, since it is a disorder associated with visual impairment, predisposition to malignant melanomas, and social stigma. The main objective of this ar...
Advances in Documentation of Commingled and Fragmentary Remains

Commingled and fragmentary remains are found in numerous contexts worldwide. These assemblages typically require large scale, long term study to fully extract and contextualize meaningful data. However, when uncovered in CRM and foreign settings where remains cannot leave their country of origin, there is a need for quick, reliable data collection. Presented here is a recording system for use in field- and research-based laboratory settings. Utilizing visual forms and a minimal set of observations for skeletal elements from the cranium to the foot, the database facilitates data collection of fragment identification, age at death and sex estimation, dental observations, trauma recording, and taphonomic observations. A data dictionary is also provided, with definitions and value lists used in the database itself. The database has been used in field labs throughout the old world and by numerous researchers who have modified it to meet their own research needs. By presenting a minimal standard of data in a highly adaptable database, the recording system described here provides consistent baseline data in a user-friendly, quick-access format
In Memoriam: Ker-I Ko (1950-2018)

We write to celebrate the life of a colleague and friend, Ker-I Ko, who passed away peacefully from lung failure on December 13, 2018 in New York, with his wife and all three children by his side. His passing is a great loss to the theoretical computer science community.
School Nurses on the Front Lines of Health Care: “STICKS & STONES” May Hurt More Than Your Students’ Bones: A Guide to the Recognition of Bullying in Your Schools:

Although students commonly present to the school nurses' office with physical chief complaints, there are many mental health concerns in the school-age population associated with emotional and physical consequences. Bullying is considered to be a public health crisis, plaguing students across the nation. It is important to develop a framework for recognizing problematic social and emotional interactions between students, like bullying, given the dire consequences on a student's physical and emotional well-being. This article describes typical presentations of bullying through a case scenario, providing a mnemonic for recognition and resources for prevention.
First-principles Modeling of Thermal Transport in Materials: Achievements, Opportunities, and Challenges

Thermal transport properties have attracted extensive research attentions over the past decades. First-principles-based approaches have proved to be very useful for predicting the thermal transport properties of materials and revealing the phonon and electron scattering or propagation mechanisms in materials and devices. In this review, we provide a concise but inclusive discussion on state-of-the-art first-principles thermal modeling methods and notable achievements by these methods over the last decade. A wide range of materials are covered in this review, including two-dimensional materials, superhard materials, metamaterials, and polymers. We also cover the very recent important findings on heat transfer mechanisms informed from first principles, including phonon–electron scattering, higher-order phonon–phonon scattering, and the effect of external electric field on thermal transport. Finally, we discuss the challenges and limitations of state-of-the-art approaches and provide an outlook toward future developments in this area.
Fault diagnosis of motor rolling bearing based on IMF sample entropy and particle swarm optimization SVM

Aiming at the problem that it is difficult to effectively identify rolling bearing faults, a method for motor rolling bearing faults based on IMF sample entropy and particle swarm optimization SVM (PSO-SVM) is proposed. Firstly, the complementary collective empirical mode decomposition (CEEMD) is applied to the adaptive decomposition of bearing vibration signals to obtain a group of Intrinsic Modal Functions (IMFs). Then the sample entropy of the IMF component containing the main fault feature information was calculated to obtain the sample entropy matrix of the signal component, which was input as the feature vector into the particle swarm optimization SVM for training and testing. Through the analysis of simulation and experimental data, the method has a high identification accuracy for fault types.
Worker Classification in the Gig Economy: Do Businesses Pass the Test?

Abstract Making, taking, grading, and returning examinations is often a grueling process on instructors and students alike. What if students do poorly? Is it the instructor’s fault, e.g., poorly constructed and/or worded, too difficult, etc. or is it the student’s fault, e.g., lack of understanding the content, lack of effort, etc. In seeking higher order thinking and learning outcomes (Bloom, 1956; Krathwohl, 2002), the authors have added a written and an oral learning exercise to the testing process. Students are encouraged to take “voice” in reviewing the exam results to demonstrate how their content knowledge and prior experiences led them to interpret a test item differently than the instructor intended. Successful student rationales can be rewarded with additional points. The authors propose additional research into the applicability of this exercise to other courses. KEY WORDS: Testing, Exams, Written Communication, Oral Communication, Teamwork
Continuous glucose monitoring reduces pubertal hyperglycemia of type 1 diabetes

Background Physiologic hyperglycemia of puberty is a major contributor to poor glycemic control in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This study's aim was to determine the effectiveness of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to improve glycemic control in pubertal youth with T1D compared to a non-CGM cohort after controlling for age, sex, BMI, duration, and insulin delivery methodology. The hypothesis is that consistent CGM use in puberty improves compliance with diabetes management, leading to increased percentage (%) time in range (TIR70-180 mg/dL) of glycemia, and lowering of HbA1c. Methods A longitudinal, retrospective, case-controlled study of 105 subjects consisting of 51 T1D controls (60.8% male) age 11.5 ± 3.8 y; and 54 T1D subjects (48.1% male) age 11.1 ± 5.0 y with confirmed CGM use for 12 months. Pubertal status was determined by Tanner staging. Results were adjusted for baseline HbA1c and diabetes duration. Results HbA1c was similar between the controls and the CGM group at baseline: 8.2 ± 1.1% vs 8.3 ± 1.2%, p=0.48 respectively; but was significantly lower in the CGM group 12 months later, 8.2 ± 1.1% vs. 8.7 ± 1.4%, p=0.035. Longitudinal change in HbA1c was similar in the prepubertal cohort between the control- and CGM groups: -0.17 ± 0.98% vs. 0.38 ± 1.5%, p=0.17. In contrast, HbA1c increased with advancing age and pubertal status in the pubertal controls but not in the pubertal CGM group: 0.55 ± 1.4 vs -0.22 ± 1.1%, p=0.020. Percent TIR was inversely related to HbA1c in the CGM group, r=-0.6, p=0.0004, for both prepubertal and pubertal subjects. Conclusions CGM use significantly improved glycemic control in pubertal youth with T1D compared to non-CGM users.
Modeling and size control of CsPbBr3 perovskite quantum dots.

CsPbBr 3 perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have recently garnered a lot of attention owing to its applications in solar cells, next-generation displays, and other optoelectronic devices that can surpass the performance of currently existing semiconductors. By synthesizing NCs of sizes smaller than the Bohr-exciton diameter, one can control the photoluminescence peaks. However, at this quantum confinement level, there is a dearth of simulation studies to elaborate recent experimental studies on the chemical equilibrium as the major mechanism for the size control of NCs. Here, we present the first instance of a Kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) investigation to capture this phenomenon. We demonstrate that the size of NCs is inversely proportional to the solution phase Br concentration and is in a qualitative agreement with experimental results. The proposed modeling framework can be extended to other ABX 3 perovskite NCs.
Dancing Our Microbiome at the Science Museum: A Dance/STEAM Collaboration

This article describes dance/STEAM-based educational workshops for 3rd and 4th graders at a local science museum led by the artistic director and members of a professional dance company and support...
Rovibrational Quantum Chemical Treatment of Inorganic and Organometallic Astrochemicals.

ConspectusOur two groups have both independently and collaboratively been pushing quantum-chemical techniques to produce highly accurate predictions of anharmonic vibrational frequencies and spectroscopic constants for molecules containing atoms outside of the typical upper p block. Methodologies employ composite approaches, relying on various levels of coupled cluster theory-most often at the singles, doubles, and perturbative triples level-and quartic force field constructions of the potential portion of the intramolecular Watson Hamiltonian. Such methods are known to perform well for organic species, and we have extended this to molecules containing atoms outside of this realm.One notable atom that has received much attention in this application is magnesium. Mg is the second-most-abundant element in the Earth's mantle, and while molecules containing this element are among the confirmed astrochemicals, its further atomic abundance in the galaxy implies that many more molecules (both purely inorganic and organometallic) containing element 12 exist in astrophysical regions in chemical sizes between those of atoms and dust-sized nanocrystals. Our approach discussed herein is producing quality benchmarks and predicting novel data for magnesium-bearing molecules.The story is similar for Al and Si, which are also notably abundant in both rocky bodies and the universe at large. While Na, Sc, and Cu may not be as abundant as Mg, Al, and Si, molecules containing Na and transition metals have also previously been reported to be detected beyond the Earth. Consequently, the need to produce spectral reference data for molecules containing such atoms is growing. While several experimental groups (including, notably, the groups in Arizona, Boston, and France/Spain) have clearly led the way in detection of inorganic/organometallic molecules in space, computational support and even rational design can provide novel avenues for the detection of molecules containing atoms not typically studied in most laboratories. The application of quantum chemistry to other elements beyond carbon and its cronies at the top right of the periodic table promises a better understanding of the observable universe. It will also provide novel and fundamental chemical insights pushing the "central science" into new molecular territory.
Going the distance: Associations between adverse birth outcomes and obstetric provider distances for adolescent pregnancies in South Carolina.

PURPOSE Distances to obstetric care providers are a persistent concern, especially for rural pregnant adolescents. Births to adolescents are disproportionately affected by adverse birth outcomes (ABOs), yet little is known regarding how driving distances may impact ABOs. This study examines the association between driving distances to obstetric providers and ABOs among adolescent mothers in South Carolina. METHODS This retrospective cross-sectional study derived ZIP Code-level birth statistics from mothers aged 10-19 in South Carolina using 2013-2017 statewide birth certificate data. ABOs included preterm birth and/or low birthweight. Provider distance was calculated between an obstetric provider's ZIP Code tabulated area (ZCTA) centroid and a maternal resident's ZCTA centroid. Descriptive statistics and weighted generalized linear regression were conducted. RESULTS Mean provider distances to obstetric providers were similar between urban (11.76 miles) and rural adolescent mothers (12.04 miles). An increase in provider distance, on average, was associated with a decrease in ABO rates (-0.79, p= .0038); however, rural-urban differences were found. Living in a rural ZCTA was associated with a decrease in ABOs (4.94%, p = .0043). Urban ZCTAs showed a U-shaped association with provider distance, with ABO rates decreasing until approximately 17 miles away from a provider and then increasing. CONCLUSION Rural adolescent mothers with greater distance to providers had lower ABO rates, while, in urban ZCTAs, provider distance over 17 miles was associated with higher ABO rates. Understanding what mitigates the effects of driving distance on ABOs in rural South Carolina would help inform future policy planning in underserved communities.
Stem cell niche signaling goes both ways

Stem cell niches are well-characterized factories of signaling information, but niche cells themselves also rely on their neighbors for fate maintenance. In this issue of Developmental Cell, Herrera et al. reveal bi-directional communication between Drosophila testis niche "hub" cells and somatic cyst stem cells.
Grain Size Effect on Room Temperature Fatigue and Creep-Fatigue Behavior of OFHC Copper

The fatigue and creep-fatigue response of OFHC copper with three different grain sizes has been studied. Tests were carried out at room temperature and hold times were applied at maximum tensile an...
Computer‐Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA) of Epididymal Sperm from the Domestic Cat

Motion characteristics of epididymal sperm from domestic cats exhibiting a high (> 60%; normozoospermic; n = 21) or low (< 40%; teratozoospermic; n = 6) occurrence of structurally normal spermatozoa were correlated with morphology (MOR) using computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA). Mean values and standard errors for percent motility (MOT), curvilinear velocity (VCL), linearity (LIN), straight line velocity (VSL), and amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) were recorded for 3 hours. Average values for percent normal spermatozoa, MOT, VCL, VSL, and ALH were higher (P < 0.01) in samples from normozoospermic cats than from teratozoospermic cats at 0 hours, and there was no difference in motion parameters over the 3-hour incubation period in either group. Strong correlations (P < 0.01) existed between MOR and VCL, VSL, ALH, or MOT, but not LIN, upon regression analysis. We conclude that (1) motion parameters of domestic cat sperm are significantly correlated with morphology and (2) abnormal motion parameters associated with low fertility potential in other species are prevalent in samples from teratozoospermic cats. The correlation between morphology and altered sperm movement found in this study suggests that motion analysis of spermatozoa by CASA may be useful in evaluating fertilization potential in felids.
The Role of Esl in Bilingual Education

The controversy over ESL and bilingual education in the U.S. may be seen as the result of confusion of terms. An examination of accepted definitions of both ESL and bilingual education reveals that both disciplines recognize the need to teach: 1) the students’ dominant language as a first language; 2) the content matter through the dominant language; 3) the history and cultural heritage of both linguistic groups; 4) English as a second language. Successful language instruction must be carefully planned and implemented by qualified teachers. Furthermore, if bilingual education is to become a permanent feature of American education, it is essential that teachers, administrators and community leaders unite behind the common cause. As a result of efforts by bilingual education and ESL professionals, the President’s Commission on Foreign Language and International Studies publicly recognized the relevance of ESL and bilingual education to its concerns. The need for professional cooperation cannot be overstress...
Spatially restricted actin-regulatory signaling contributes to synapse morphology.

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 852–860. Abstract The actin cytoskeleton in dendritic spines is organized into microdomains, but how signaling molecules that regulate actin are spatially governed is incompletely understood. Here we examine how the localization of the RacGEF kalirin-7, a well-characterized regulator of actin in spines, varies as a function of post-synaptic density area and spine volume. Using serial section electron microscopy, we find that extrasynaptic, but not synaptic, expression of kalirin-7 varies directly with synapse size and spine volume. Moreover, we find that overall expression levels of kalirin-7 differ in spines bearing perforated and non-perforated synapses, due primarily to extrasynaptic pools of kalirin-7 expression in the former. Overall, our findings indicate that kalirin-7 is differentially compartmentalized in spines as a function of both synapse morphology and spine size.
The Sources of Economic Growth of the East Asian Newly Industrialized Countries

Abstract The sources of economic growth of the East Asian newly industrialized countries are analyzed empirically using the aggregate meta-production function framework. The sample consists of nine countries—the four East Asian newly industrialized countries (Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan) and the Group-of-Five industrialized countries (France, West Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States). The results reaffirm the Boskin and Lau (Technical Paper 217, Stanford University, 1990) finding that technical progress can be represented as purely capital-augmenting in all countries. However, the hypothesis that there has been no technical progress during the postwar period cannot be rejected for the four East Asian newly industrialized countries. By far the most important source of economic growth of the East Asian newly industrialized countries is capital accumulation, accounting for between 48 and 72% of their economic growth, in contrast to the case of the Group-of-Five industrialized countries, in which technical progress has played the most important role, accounting for between 46 and 71% of their economic growth. An international comparison of the productive efficiencies of the Group-of-Five countries and the East Asian newly industrialized countries indicates no apparent convergence between the technologies of the two groups of countries. J. Japan. Int. Econ., September 1994, 8 (3), pp. 235-271. Department of Economics, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-6072.
Control of the Supply Line

How does the cell know when to turn up its machinery for making new proteins and when to turn it down? Roberts poses this problem in his Perspective and explains how data and a model described on p. 2092 of this issue by Gaal et al. propose to answer this question.
Bounds on the classification error of the nearest neighbor rule

Abstract The average classification error P of the nearest neighbor rule has been shown to be bounded (from above) by about twice the Bayes classification error when the sample set size is infinite and the likelihood functions of the input x with respect to its classification satisfy some reasonable smoothness constraints. Here, two new bounds are derived that apply to the practically interesting case of finite and specific sample set S. Also the case where S is infinite but specific is discussed. In general, the classification error Ps of the nearest neighbor rule given a sample set S is shown to be bounded from below by the Bayes error and from above by a bound that is equal to that derived for P plus a term that depends on S and the continuity of the likelihood functions. A sufficient assumption is Holder continuity of the likelihood functions of x with respect to its classification.
Unusual Membranous Structures in Minicells and Minicell-Producing Strains of Escherichia coli

Abstract Minicell-producing strains of Escherichia coli K-12 seem to produce extra membranous material yielding internal cross membranes, “piggy-back” minicell forms, and unusual vesicles.
The DNA damage response induces inflammation and senescence by inhibiting autophagy of GATA4

Cellular senescence is a terminal stress-activated program controlled by the p53 and p16(INK4a) tumor suppressor proteins. A striking feature of senescence is the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), a pro-inflammatory response linked to tumor promotion and aging. We have identified the transcription factor GATA4 as a senescence and SASP regulator. GATA4 is stabilized in cells undergoing senescence and is required for the SASP. Normally, GATA4 is degraded by p62-mediated selective autophagy, but this regulation is suppressed during senescence, thereby stabilizing GATA4. GATA4 in turn activates the transcription factor NF-κB to initiate the SASP and facilitate senescence. GATA4 activation depends on the DNA damage response regulators ATM and ATR, but not on p53 or p16(INK4a). GATA4 accumulates in multiple tissues, including the aging brain, and could contribute to aging and its associated inflammation.
More Money, More Problems? Can High Pay Be Coercive and Repugnant?

Abstract IRBs can disallow high incentives they deem coercive. A vignette study on MTurk concerning participation in medical trials shows that a substantial minority of subjects concurs. They think...
Plastic optical fiber based components for LAN and data communication applications

The authors describe the design philosophy and performance of a newly developed low cost, robust, high-performance plastic-optical-fiber (POF)-based connection system designed for LAN (local area network) and data communication applications. System requirements, optical end finishing techniques, connection system components, termination procedure, and connector performance are discussed. This connection system will provide the benefits of fiber optics for short-distance applications at a cost significantly below what is available with glass fiber technology. The hot plate process and unique ferrule design result in a robust, high quality, repeatable optical finish that can be accomplished in either an automated fashion or with simple hand-held tools. As a result, POF has become a viable alternative to glass fiber for medium-distance data transmission and LAN applications. >
Modes of entering foreign markets

Abstract This article presents a four-step strategic model for industrial multinational firms to use to make decisions concerning modes of operations in foreign markets. International managers concerned about long-term entry structures need to determine the feasible modes of operation, arrange modes of operation in a continuum, choose a mode of operation substitution pattern, and choose mode of entry.
The effect of cobalt chloride administration on the synthesis of hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450

Abstract Cobalt chloride administration to rats stimulates erythropoesis but inhibits the synthesis of hepatic microsomal P-450 and ethylmorphine N-dealkylase activity by hepatic microsomes. No effect on NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity was observed. Phenobarbital induction of P-450 and ethylmorphine N-demethylation are prevented by simultaneous administration of cobalt chloride but phenobarbital induction of NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity is not affected. Hexobarbital oxidation by the perfused rat liver is also inhibited by prior administration of cobalt chloride. Since cobalt treatment of rats has no effect on hepatic protein synthesis over the course of these experiments, cobalt administration may be valuable as a tool for studying the role(s) of P-450 in various biological reactions.
Attitude Importance and the False Consensus Effect

Numerous studies have demonstrated that the attitudes people consider personally important have an enhanced impact on cognition and behavior. This article explores the possibility that importance may regulate the magnitude of the false consensus effect as well. The authors report on six experiments that involved a variety of subject samples (college students and the general population), data collection methods (telephone interviewing and selJ-administered questionnaires), and political issues (e.g., abortion, gun control, defense spending). Meta analyses summarizing the results of 12 tests revealed a strong false consensus effect but no reliable relation between its magnitude and attitude importance. These results are inconsistent with the assumption that the false consensus effect is a result of attitudes directly or indirectly influencing perceptions of others, and they lend support to explanations of the false consensus effect that posit other mechanisms (i.e., attribution and object construal).
Normal values for manometry performed with swallows of viscous test material

Objective. Esophageal function testing with combined multichannel intraluminal impedance and manometry (MII-EM) is performed using ten 5-ml liquid and viscous swallows. Diagnosis of bolus transit abnormalities identified by impedance is based on both liquid and viscous swallows. Manometric diagnosis is based solely on liquid swallows. The aim of this study was to establish the normal values for manometry performed with a viscous bolus. Material andmethods. MII-EM studies performed in 80 healthy volunteers were analyzed. The analyzed manometric parameters included contraction amplitude and duration, distal onset velocity and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) residual pressure. Results. Mean distal esophageal amplitude (DEA) (mmHg) for liquid swallows was 104 (±44) and for viscous swallows 102 (±51). Viscous versus liquid swallows were characterized by higher contraction amplitudes at 10 cm above the LES, slower distal onset velocities and higher LES residual pressures. Duration of contractions was similar b...
Low threshold MBE-grown AlInGaAs/AlGaAs strained multiquantum-well lasers by rapid thermal annealing

With post-growth rapid thermal annealing (RTA), 824 nm strained Al/sub 0.15/In/sub 0.25/Ga/sub 0.6/As multiquantum-well (MQW) lasers grown by solid source molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) showed a record low threshold current density of 83 A/cm/sup 2/ per well. Ridge waveguide lasers fabricated from the same material exhibited pulsed threshold current of 5 mA and 62% external quantum efficiency without facet coating. In addition, 1.4 K photoluminescence (PL) study suggests that RTA is very effective in removing nonradiative centres in the active region.
Hypomorphic Alleles Reveal FCA-Independent Roles for FY in the Regulation of FLOWERING LOCUS C

The autonomous floral promotion pathway plays a key role in the regulation of flowering in rapid-cycling Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) by providing constitutive repression of the floral inhibitor FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC). As a result, autonomous pathway mutants contain elevated levels of FLC and are late flowering. Winter annual Arabidopsis, in contrast, contain functional alleles of FRIGIDA (FRI), which acts epistatically to the autonomous pathway to up-regulate FLC and delay flowering. To further explore the relationship between FRI and the autonomous pathway, we placed autonomous pathway mutants in a FRI-containing background. Unexpectedly, we found that a hypomorphic allele of the autonomous pathway gene fy (fy null alleles are embryo lethal) displayed background-specific effects on FLC expression and flowering time; in a rapid-cycling background fy mutants contained elevated levels of FLC and were late flowering, whereas in a winter annual background fy decreased FLC levels and partially suppressed the late-flowering phenotype conferred by FRI. Because FY has been shown to have homology to polyadenylation factors, we examined polyadenylation site selection in FLC transcripts. In wild type, two polyadenylation sites were detected and used at similar levels. In fy mutant backgrounds, however, the ratio of products was shifted to favor the distally polyadenylated form. FY has previously been shown to physically interact with another member of the autonomous pathway, FCA. Interestingly, we found that fy can partially suppress FLC expression in an fca null background and promote proximal polyadenylation site selection usage in the absence of FCA. Taken together, these results indicate novel and FCA-independent roles for FY in the regulation of FLC.
Resolving independent ion and ion displacement transport mechanisms in ion channels

Abstract Univalent metal ion fluxes in gramicidin channels in bilayer membranes produce linear current–voltage plots. Both independent ion models with first-order rate constants or ion–ion displacement models with pseudo-first-order rate constants reproduce the linear current–voltage behavior. To differentiate the mechanisms, the anomalous behavior of the system at low thallous ion mole fractions is studied using a potential ramp protocol. Under these conditions, the current–voltage plots separate into three linear segments with a low conductance segment at lower potentials and parallel outer segments with higher conductance whose voltage axis intercepts are displaced from zero potential. This displaced threshold potential varies with thallous ion mole fraction but has a constant electrochemical potential for all mole fractions. The current–voltage plots and their properties suggest a low conductance mechanism where thallous ion exclusion from the channel obeys Boltzmann statistics in the electrochemical potential. The higher conductance outer segments for electrochemical potentials that exceed the threshold obey a multi-ion displacement.
Is Vancomycin Ototoxicity a Significant Risk

Forouzesh and colleagues recently reported an increase in vancomycin ototoxicity in parallel with the increasing use of higher vancomycin doses ([4][1]). The report suggests an overall incidence of vancomycin-induced ototoxicity of 12%, doubling historic estimates ([3][2]). This is a surprisingly
Pachysolen tannophilus: Properties and process considerations for ethanol production from d-xylose

Abstract d -Xylose comprises nearly one-third of the reducing sugars obtained from lignocellulose hydrolysis. Despite its relative abundance in crop and forest residues, xylose has been found unfermentable by most yeasts. A process for efficient xylose fermentation is expected to have significant impact on the future economics of converting lignocellulose to ethanol and may also provide additional profit for existing wood processing industries releasing xylose-rich waste streams, i.e. paper mills producing sulphite liquor . Pachysolen tannophilus was the first yeast discovered capable of significant ethanol production from xylose and has served as a model for studies of other yeasts mediating this conversion. Current knowledge about biochemical pathways involved in xylose utilization by this yeast is reviewed. Factors involved in regulating carbon flow to products are discussed in conjunction with process considerations for optimizing ethanol accumulation. Finally, the prospect of more efficient ethanol production through genetic strain improvement is considered .
Global smoothness and uniform convergence of smooth Poisson-Cauchy type singular operators

In this article we introduce the smooth Poisson-Cauchy type singular integral operators over the real line. Here we study their simultaneous global smoothness preservation property with respect to the L"p norm, 1=
MO-F-16A-01: Implementation of MPPG TPS Verification Tests On Various Accelerators

Purpose: To demonstrate the implementation of the Medical Physics Practice Guideline (MPPG) for dose calculation and beam parameters verification of treatment planning systems (TPS). Methods: We implemented the draft TPS MPPG for three linacs: Varian Trilogy, TomoHDA and Elekta Infinity. Static and modulated test plans were created. The static fields are different than used in commissioning. Data was collected using ion chambers and diodes in a scanning water tank, Delta4 phantom and a custom phantom. MatLab and Microsoft Excel were used to create analysis tools to compare reference DICOM dose with scan data. This custom code allowed for the interpolation, registration and gamma analysis of arbitrary dose profiles. It will be provided as open source code. IMRT fields were validated with Delta4 registration and comparison tools. The time for each task was recorded. Results: The tests confirmed the strengths, and revealed some limitations, of our TPS. The agreement between calculated and measured dose was reported for all beams. For static fields, percent depth dose and profiles were analyzed with criteria in the draft MPPG. The results reveal areas of slight mismatch with the model (MLC leaf penumbra, buildup region.) For TomoTherapy, the IMRT plan 2%/2 mm gamma analysis revealed poorest agreement in the low dose regions. For one static test plan for all 10MV Trilogy photon beams, the plan generation, scan queue creation, data collection, data analysis and report took 2 hours, excluding tank setup. Conclusions: We have demonstrated the implementation feasibility of the TPS MPPG. This exercise generated an open source tool for dose comparisons between scan data and DICOM dose data. An easily reproducible and efficient infrastructure with streamlined data collection was created for repeatable robust testing of the TPS. The tests revealed minor discrepancies in our models and areas for improvement that are being investigated.
Memristor crossbar memory for hybrid ultra low power hearing aid speech processor

Memristive memories are known for their high data density, small read/write delay, and relatively lower power dissipation. This makes them a good fit for biomedical devices. Here, we demonstrate a 2 kb memristive crossbar memory and interface it with an ultra-low power sub-threshold Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filter bank for hearing aid applications. The memory operates optimally at 0.8V supply level and is turned off while not in use. The filter system operates in sub-threshold to maximize power savings. The entire system operates at 0.96MHz clock frequency and consumes 744pJ per FIR operation.
Thermal denaturation and aggregation of chicken breast muscle myosin and subfragments

To elucidate the roles of the head and tail portions of chicken breast muscle myosin in gelation, the thermal stability and aggregation behavior of myosin and seven subfragments in 0.6 M NaCl, pH 6.5, were investigated, namely, myosin heavy chain (MHC), light chains (LC), heavy meromyosin (HMM), light meromyosin (LMM), rod, subfragment 2 (S-2), and subfragment 1 (S-1). Myosin had four independent cooperative endothermic transitions (Tm) at 47, 54, 57, and 63 °C and aggregated from 50 to 70 °C. The MHC endotherm had peaks at 46, 54, and 64 °C and aggregated between 45 and 63 °C. S-1 unfolded in a single transition, having a Tm of 47.7 °C, and aggregated from 49 to 53 °C. The rod melted between 30 and 63.3 °C and continuously aggregated over this temperature range. Initial unfolding of the rod occurred in the LMM region. S-2 was primarily responsible for denaturation and aggregation above 55 °C. Transition temperatures of 48 and 57 °C were recorded for LC; however, no aggregation occurred. The rod had the b...
Infectious and Ischemic Complications from Percutaneous Closure Devices Used after Vascular Access

The introduction of percutaneous closure devices (PCDs) to seal arteriotomy sites following percutaneous vascular access (PVA) can lead to greater complications than those with manual compression. The aim of this study was to compare complications and outcome between patients requiring surgery after receiving a PCD and those undergoing standard manual compression. This retrospective study evaluated 56 patients (mean age, 63 years) requiring surgical intervention from January 1, 1998 to April 30, 2002, following complications of PVA. Operative indications were pseudoaneurysm, hemorrhage, infectious complications, and limb ischemia. Patients were divided into two groups for comparison: group I (n = 15, PCD) and group II (n = 41, no PCD). In group 1 patients there were 18 limbs in which 20 Perclose® devices were used and 1 limb in which a Duett® device was used. From the outcomes in these two groups we concluded that patients undergoing surgical intervention following complications of PVA are at a significantly increased risk for infectious and ischemic complications and require more complex vascular repair when percutaneous closure devices are used.
Expression of functional chemokine receptors by rat cerebellar neurons.

Abstract In this study, we examined chemokine receptor expression and function in rat cerebellar neurons. Calcium imaging experiments demonstrated that a wide variety of chemokines elicited [Ca 2+ ] i transients in acutely isolated and cultured cerebellar Purkinje and granule neurons. In many cases, these chemokine responses were pertussis toxin (PTX) insensitive. In addition, chemokines activated the Ca 2+ and cAMP-dependent transcription factor CREB and the extracellular response kinases ERK1/ERK2. Chemokines increased the survival of Purkinje neurons deprived of their trophic support. Thus, the presence of chemokine receptors and the signaling pathways they activate suggest that chemokines play a role in the control of cerebellar neuron survival and development and may mediate communication between the CNS and the immune system.
Individualism-Collectivism and Personality

This paper provides a review of the main findings concerning the relationship between the cultural syndromes of individualism and collectivism and personality. People in collectivist cultures, compared to people in individualist cultures, are likely to define themselves as aspects of groups, to give priority to in-group goals, to focus on context more than the content in making attributions and in communicating, to pay less attention to internal than to external processes as determinants of social behavior, to define most relationships with ingroup members as communal, to make more situational attributions, and tend to be self-effacing.
Antifungal phenanthrenes in yam tubers

Abstract An extract from the peel of yams ( Dioscorea rotundata ) showed anti-fungal activity towards both Cladosporium cladoporioides and a variety of ya
the emergence of the waged life course on the United States‐Mexico border

Histories of families repatriated from the United States to Mexico in the 1930s reveal conflicts between older and younger generations over residence, consumption, and work. These conflicts were caused by the emergence of a life course based on the principle that an individual is responsible to the market for selling labor, a life course which could no longer be reconciled with the traditional obligations of generational succession. This model of life courses may be useful in studying the differences between cyclical and permanent working classes. [U.S.-Mexico border, wage labor, working classes, life courses, material culture]