cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mediating photo collage authoring

The medium of collage supports the visualization of meaningful event summaries using photographs. It can however be rather tedious to author a collage from a large collection of photographs. In this work we present an approach that supports efficient construction of a collage by assisting the user with an automatic layout procedure that can be controlled at a high level. Our layout method utilizes a pre-designed template which consists of cells for photos and annotations applied to these cells. The layout is then filled by matching the metadata of photos to the annotations in the cells using an optimization algorithm. The user exercises flexibility in the authoring process by (a) maintaining high-level control through the types of constraints applied and (b) leveraging visual emphases supported by the layout algorithm. The user can of course provide fine-grained control of the final collage through direct manipulation. Off-loading the tedium of collage construction to a user controlled yet automated process clears the way for rapidly generating different views of the same album and could also support the increased sharing of digital photos in the form of compact collages.
Alterations in carbohydrate metabolism in response to short-term dietary carbohydrate restriction

Dietary carbohydrate restriction (CR) presents a challenge to glucose homeostasis. Despite the popularity of CR diets, little is known regarding the metabolic effects of CR. The purpose of this stu...
Individual differences that moderate the effectiveness of relational reasons for self-improvement

Two studies tested the hypotheses that relationally-autonomous reasons (RARs) for goals predict attainment, and that this relationship is stronger among highly relational and agreeable people than others. Study 1 (n = 134) assessed participants’ self-construal and Agreeableness, and their tendency to pursue subgoals for RARs, relationally-controlled reasons (RCRs), and personally-controlled reasons (PARs). One month later, they indicated the number of subgoals they had attained. RARs were positively correlated with attainment, and this relationship was stronger among highly relational and agreeable people than others. In Study 2 (n = 74), self-construal and Agreeableness were assessed then participants generated possible outcomes of 3 subgoals using a Goal Attainment Scale. They were then randomly assigned to a goal program that either emphasized RARs, RCRs, or PARs. One week later, participants indicated their level of attainment. Highly relational and agreeable people had higher levels of attainment than others in the program emphasizing RARs.
Tunable Plasmonic and Hyperbolic Metamaterials Based on Enhanced Nonlinear Response

We present here tunable and reconfigurable designs of linear and nonlinear plasmonic and hyperbolic metamaterials. Rich scattering features of multilayered composite nanoparticles are demonstrated, which include complex and exotic scattering signatures combining multiple dipolar Fano resonances and electromagnetic induced transparency (EIT) features. These dipole-dipole multi-Fano scattering responses can be further tuned through altering the plasmonic properties of the concentric layers or the permittivity of the core, for instance, by the presence of nonlinearities. Strong third-order nonlinear effects, such as optical bistability, may also be induced in the scattering response of nonlinear nanoparticles due to the highly enhanced and confined fields inside their core. Nonlinear hyperbolic metamaterial designs are also explored, which can realize tunable positive-to-negative refraction at the same frequency, as a function of the input intensity. Negative Goos-Hanchen shift is demonstrated based only on the hyperbolic dispersion properties of these layered metamaterials without the usual need of negative index metamaterials. The Goos-Hanchen shift may be tuned from positive-to-negative values, when the structure is illuminated with different frequencies. A plethora of applications are envisioned based on the proposed tunable metamaterials, such as ultrafast reconfigurable imaging devices, tunable sensors, novel nanotag designs, and efficient all-optical switches and memories.
General anesthesia and human brain connectivity.

Abstract General anesthesia consists of amnesia, hypnosis, analgesia, and areflexia. Of these, the mechanism of hypnosis, or loss of consciousness, has been the most elusive, yet a fascinating problem. How anesthetic agents suppress human consciousness has been investigated with neuroimaging for two decades. Anesthetics substantially reduce the global cerebral metabolic rate and blood flow with a degree of regional heterogeneity characteristic to the anesthetic agent. The thalamus appears to be a common site of modulation by several anesthetics, but this may be secondary to cortical effects. Stimulus-dependent brain activation is preserved in primary sensory areas, suggesting that unconsciousness cannot be explained by cortical deafferentation or a diminution of cortical sensory reactivity. The effect of general anesthetics in functional and effective connectivity is varied depending on the agent, dose, and network studied. At an anesthetic depth characterized by the subjects' unresponsiveness, a partial,...
Comparison of Frequency of Atrial Fibrillation After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in African Americans Versus European Americans

In the general population, African Americans experience atrial fibrillation (AF) less frequently than European Americans. This difference could also exist in the incidence of this arrhythmia after cardiac surgery, but this possibility has been insufficiently examined. To test the association of such an ethnic difference, we compared the incidence of postoperative AF in a consecutive series of 2,312 African Americans and 6,054 European Americans who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting from July 2000 to June 2007. Raw differences between the cohorts in the incidence of new AF were adjusted to take into account the baseline differences. Postoperatively, new-onset AF developed in 504 (22%) of 2,312 African-American patients and in 1,838 (30%) of 6,054 European-American patients (p
Atomistic formulation of a multiscale field theory for nano/micro solids

This paper aims to formulate a field theory for the solution of classical N-body problem. In this paper, multi-length and time scale material behaviour is addressed from the viewpoint of lattice dynamics. A multiscale field theory that can work as an alternative to molecular dynamics simulation in studying statistical and finite temperature properties of materials is proposed. Atomistic definitions and the corresponding field representations of fundamental physical quantities are obtained. Time evolutions of conserved physical quantities are derived in terms of atomic variables and are expressed in terms of field quantities. The mathematical representation of conservation laws for a multiscale field theory is formulated.
A rapid method for preparation of bacterial plasmids

A method for isolating plasmids from Escherichia coli which requires less than 8 h from cell pellet to purified plasmid essentially free of protein, RNA, and chromosomal DNA is presented. By this procedure, amplified plasmid pBR322 was isolated from E. coli strain RR1. The final product had no detectable protein or RNA, and plasmid comprised approximately 99% of the total DNA. The procedure includes lysozyme treatment in hypertonic solution followed by lysis with a mild detergent in the presence of high salt and an RNase inhibitor--conditions which prevent unfolding of the bacterial nucleoid. After centrifuging out the nucleoid and cell debris, the nucleic acids are selectively precipitated with a neutral solution of sodium trichloroacetate and ethanol. RNA is degraded with RNase and the degradation products and RNase are eliminated through a second trichloroacetate/ethanol precipitation. Finally, the plasmid is resuspended and passed through a nitrocellulose filter to remove aggregates and any residual protein and single-stranded DNA--giving a plasmid preparation suitable for electrophoretic fractionation or cleavage with restriction nucleases.
Impact of Optimism Bias Regarding Organizational Dynamics on Project Planning and Control

Schedule delays and cost overruns in large-scale construction projects are caused by a variety of reasons including unrealistic expectations at the planning stage. This paper examines, through computer simulation, the phenomenon of optimism bias regarding organizational dynamics as a potential cause for unrealistic expectations on schedules and budgets. A theoretical framework is introduced to examine how optimism bias regarding organizational dynamics can affect the performance of construction processes. A variety of “what-if” scenarios is tested, and based on our results, we claim that managers who maintain an unbiased attitude during project planning tend to outperform those having either an optimistic or a conservative approach. Therefore, we argue that developing an explicit method for analyzing and taking into account organizational dynamics would be a stepping stone toward adding more realism to construction planning and control practice.
Modified Forms of Human Growth Hormone with Increased Biological Activities

A proteolytically modified form of human growth hormone, isolated from a pituitary extract, had a growth promoting potency of 6.9 IU/mg in the tibial line assay. The prolactin activity of the material, measured by the crop sac assay, was 14.5 IU/mg. Peptide mapping indicated that residues 135–146 were missing from the large disulfide loop of the protein. Data are presented also for two other modified forms of the hormone. One lacked residues 135–140; the other was missing residues 135–145 together with a number of amino acids COOH-terminal to the cleavages. These latter two forms also showed a marked increase in prolactin activity and some potentiation of growth stimulating ability. All three forms were indistinguishable from intact growth hormone by radioimmunoassay and did not react with antiserum to human prolactin. These results indicate that the most active form of human growth hormone, as measured by the tibial line and crop sac assays, is not the intact hormone. (Endocrinology 94: 883, 1974)
Fumonisin B1 Induces Apoptosis in LLC-PK1 Renal Epithelial Cells via a Sphinganine- and Calmodulin-Dependent Pathway

Fumonisins are a family of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium moniliforme, which is the most common mold found on corn throughout the world. These compounds are both toxic and carcinogenic for animals, and perhaps humans, with the kidney being the most sensitive organ to fumonisin toxicity. The molecular mechanism of fumonisin toxicity appears to involve disruption of de novo biosynthesis of sphingolipids and accumulation of sphinganine. The goals of this study were to determine whether fumonisin B(1) kills LLC-PK(1) renal kidney epithelial cells by inducing apoptosis and to identify genes affected by sphinganine that mediate fumonisin B(1)-induced cell death. Fumonisin B(1) produced morphological changes (i.e., cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing) and time-dependent increases in DNA fragmentation demonstrating that the toxin induces apoptosis. Simultaneously, fumonisin B(1) blocked sphingolipid biosynthesis and caused accumulation of sphinganine. To further investigate the role of sphinganine in fumonisin B(1)-induced apoptosis, beta-fluoroalanine (betaFA) was used to inhibit serine palmitoyltransferase, which catalyzes an earlier step in the sphingolipid biosynthetic pathway. betaFA blocked sphinganine accumulation and prevented fumonisin B(1)-induced DNA fragmentation, confirming that apoptosis induced by fumonisin B(1) is dependent upon accumulation of sphinganine. To examine gene expression, differential display reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (DDRT-PCR) was applied to RNA isolated after 16 h of exposure to fumonisin B(1). Differential expression in response to fumonisin B(1) of a gene identified as calmodulin has been verified by Northern analysis. Sphinganine appears to mediate the effect because betaFA reduces induction of calmodulin mRNA by fumonisin B(1). Fumonisin B(1) also increases calmodulin protein in a concentration-dependent manner and the calmodulin antagonist W7 blocks fumonisin B(1)-induced DNA fragmentation, supporting a role for calmodulin in fumonisin B(1)-induced apoptosis. In contrast, fumonisin B(1) had no effect on expression of bcl-2 family genes (bax, bcl-2, and bcl-x). These findings demonstrate that fumonisin B(1) kills LLC-PK(1) kidney cells by inducing apoptosis. Further, the results establish a sequence of events for fumonisin B(1)-induced apoptosis involving initial disruption of sphingolipid metabolism and accumulation of sphinganine (or a metabolite), which, in turn, induces expression of calmodulin.
Current sex role conceptions and conflict

Beliefs about role sharing or sex typing in occupations, positions of authority, the care of infants and children, housekeeping chores, responsibility for the economic support of the family, and the handling of family finances were investigated for 1,048 men and women residing in New York City. Beliefs about goals of the women's movement, about equality of the sexes, and about the elimination of sex typing in the socialization of children were also investigated. Questionnaires were distributed in the spring and fall of 1973 at several business firms, university campuses, shopping centers in black and white working class districts, and at a professional building. All of the independent variables — gender, age, marital status, occupation, educational level, religion, and ethnicity — were significantly related to beliefs about sex roles. Gender was the overriding independent variable, however. Significant differences in beliefs between the sexes persisted within the categories established by the other independent variables. For the total sample, discrepancies in the beliefs of men and women ranged from very highly significant to significant on almost all items on the questionnaire, although a majority of both sexes opted for more equality, less sex typing, and more role sharing. Role conflict, insofar as this stems from a lack of mutuality in role definitions and expectations, would appear to be a likely experience of many of the men and women interviewed. The role conflict model is a valuable tool that should be applied to actual interactional settings, involving men and women, in future research.
Creep-Fatigue Effects in Structural Materials used in Advanced Nuclear Power Generating Systems

We review various aspects of time-dependent fatigue behavior of a number of structural alloys in use or planned for use in advanced nuclear power generating systems. Materials included are types 304 and 316 stainless steel, Fe-2 1/4 Cr-1 Mo steel, and alloy 800H. Examples of environmental effects, including both chemical and physical interaction, are presented for a number of environments. The environments discussed are high-purity liquid sodium, high vacuum, air, impure helium, and irradiation damage, including internal helium bubble generation.
Parameter selection in the Green’s function parabolic equation

Abstract The accuracy of the Green’s function parabolic equation (GFPE) has already been confirmed for outdoor sound propagation over flat ground with a slowly varying sound speed profile and/or atmospheric turbulence. However, use of parabolic equation methods for prediction is generally limited to experts because of their dependence on numerous algorithm parameters that have significant impact on the accuracy of prediction. The present work offers a set of GFPE parameters, outlined in Table 1 , that will provide accurate results for a variety of physical situations involving atmospheric propagation. The guidelines are found by comparing GFPE results to analytical results for a variety of situations and parameter choices and noting which combinations of parameters lead to accurate (within 3 dB of the analytical solution) results and which do not. A significant source of error in GFPE results is inaccuracy in the starting field or inappropriate starting field selection. The selection criteria for starting field and other parameters are discussed here.
Characterization and identification of a lipoprotein lipase from Manduca sexta flight muscle.

Lipoprotein lipase (LpL) activity in Manduca sexta flight muscle tissue was measured using in vivo radiolabeled lipophorin as a substrate. LpL hydrolyses diacylglycerol in the low density lipophorin (that occurs during flight) at a higher rate than diacylglycerol in the high density lipophorin (present in the resting insect). LpL has a pH-optimum of 7.5 and is less sensitive to NaCl than mammalian LpL. LpL is inhibited by bovine albumin and chicken ovalbumin. LpL is inhibited by the serine protease inhibitors diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) and phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride (PMSF), which indicates the presence of an active site serine similar to mammalin LpL. Flight muscle LpL shows affinity for immobilized copper as well as for immobilized heparin. Using radiolabeled DFP, a protein of 37 kDa was identified (after SDS-PAGE) as the DFP-binding protein in a partially purified preparation of LpL. This 37 kDa protein is proposed to be the LpL or a subunit thereof.
Commentary: Another complication associated with rhBMP-2?

COMMENTARY ON: Carragee EJ, Mitsunaga KA, Hurwitz EL, Scuderi GJ. Retrograde ejaculation after anterior lumbar interbody fusion using rhBMP-2: a cohort controlled study. Spine J 2011;11:511–6 ( in this issue ).
Comment on “proposed test for detection of nonlinear responses in biological preparations exposed to RF energy”

Balzano [2002] proposed a test to measure ‘‘. . . the nonlinear response of biological cells. . .’’ to 0.9 GHz electromagnetic fields. In our view, the proposal obfuscates the meaning of nonlinearity (N) and dulls appreciation of its true significance regarding the biological effects of electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Beginning in the 1950s, experimental evidence and theoretical considerations were advanced indicating that biological transduction of weak EMFs was more or less precluded, based on considerations of kT [Schwan, 1957; Schwan and Sher, 1969; Schwan, 1973; Schwan, 1982]. The argument has remained substantially unaltered despite the rising tide of the empirical evidence. At least two general approaches evolved in opposition to the antitransductionist viewpoint. In one approach, N was invoked, ultimately leading to the concepts of ‘‘windows’’ and ‘‘resonance’’ as devices to explain how weak EMFs could produce biological effects. The basic idea was that the biological response exhibited a power law or periodic dependence on the applied field (Fig. 1). A key point is that although such functions are algebraically nonlinear, they are dynamically linear because they are solutions to linear differential equations. Solutions to linear differential equations follow the law of superposition, and from this property springs the traditional Holy Grail of the experimentalist—reproducibility of data. The second approach was of an entirely different character because it did not address the kT argument, but rather the implicit claim of authority on which it was based. Those open to the possibility of transduction simply ignored the kT argument because, we think, at one level or another, it struck them as absurd that physics could explain biology, considering the conceptual simplicity of the former and the structural and functional complexity of the latter. The focus, in this approach, was on collecting empirical data. Although the dispute has remained unresolved, what may be a solution has appeared [Lorenz, 1963; Abarbanel, 1994, 1996]—the nature of which is illustrated in Figure 2. Assume that a biological response is measured continuously in three different animals and that, upon presentation of an EMF, two of the animals react in opposite directions and the third does not react. Such behavior is not possible in systems governed by linear differential equations, but it is theoretically possible if the system is governed by nonlinear differential equations (Fig. 3). Experimental evidence suggesting that such behavior (‘‘dynamic nonlinearity’’) can explain EMF induced bioeffects is described elsewhere [Marino, 1995; Marino et al., 2000; Marino et al., 2001a; Marino et al., 2001b; Marino et al., 2002].
Hurricane preparedness as anticipatory adaptation: A case study of community businesses

This paper examines adaptation to current storm surge flood risk as one indicator of anticipatory adaptation to climate change impacts. Focusing on community businesses, a web-based survey obtained information on hurricane preparedness and risk perceptions in Sarasota County, Florida. A model of current precautionary action that utilized previously identified business characteristics predictive of business preparedness and post-disaster recovery, a spatial variable indicating storm surge exposure, and items measuring the risk perception and information-seeking behavior of business owners explained a majority of the variance in current levels of preparedness. Use of online risk information sources and the geographic distribution of customers and were the strongest predictors of preparedness. Results indicate that the adaptive capacity of businesses may vary significantly with types of businesses, locations, and socio-cognitive characteristics of business owners. To encourage overall community resilience, risk communication efforts should be targeted based on specific elements that predict business preparedness.
Phase Behavior of Magnesium Stearate Blended with Polyethylene Ionomers

The phase behavior in blends of magnesium salts of long-chain fatty acids with magnesium-neutralized ethylene-based ionomers is described. Anhydrous magnesium stearate and magnesium stearate−palmitate, collectively termed MgSt(Pm), show a common phase behavior, consisting of a crystalline lamellar mesophase (LAM) bilayer phase at low temperatures, a liquid crystalline hexagonal (HEX) phase at intermediate temperatures, and a molten disordered (DIS) phase at high temperatures. Once heated into the HEX or DIS phase, neat MgSt(Pm) is kinetically prevented from reforming the LAM phase upon cooling. Blending an ionomer into MgSt(Pm) destabilizes the HEX phase in favor of DIS; an intimately mixed DIS phase is formed above the LAM and ionomer melting points, where the ionomer acts as an effective solvent for the MgSt(Pm). Quenching this solution forms co-crystals that incorporate alkyl tails from the fatty acid salt and ethylene sequences from the ionomer. Heating the blend to below the LAM melting point melts t...
Events and versions: Reconstructing event data analysis

International event datasets generally provide singular descriptions of the stream of international interactions. Each description represents one version of events. Yet, because events may be described in several ways, each reliant upon an alternative perspective or world version, these descriptions grossly underrepresent events. In its negative moment, this paper, “deconstructs,” after a fashion, the interpretations and versions that stand behind event codes, reviewing the widely‐suspected partiality of events datasets that threatens the validity of all subsequent analyses. In its positive moment, this paper outlines a reconstruction of the event‐data project as “computational hermeneutics.” This perspective takes seriously the plurality of world versions. It would construct reproducible models of textual accounts of international events and test hypotheses regarding the inferential effects of interpretive presuppositions embodied in alternative world versions. To initiate discussion, the paper proposes ...
Creating a flexible environment for testing scientific software

When writing scientific modeling and simulation software, frequent regression tests can expose bugs that would otherwise create future obstacles. For this reason, regression testing should be a fundamental part of any development process in medium to large-sized projects. In order to implement a flexible solution to this problem, a software testing framework that is based on simple one-to-one comparisons was designed. The comparisons are performed between two different representations of a simulation with one representation considered valid and the other unknown. Using a simple framework has proven to be advantageous in several ways. One of the biggest advantages is that of portability for testing other software. Implementing standardized design patterns allows a degree of flexibility which keeps it from being bound to specific software. For output, the framework is designed to use the eXtensible Markup Language (XML). This results in the ability to publish results in several different formats, archive into a database, and maintain compatibility with other simulation outputs. The preliminary results of implementing this framework have proven promising. Using object-oriented design has not only simplified development but has allowed for a more user friendly approach to testing. Future improvements include user-customized test cases, ad hoc queries for archived results, and automatic test result publication.
Physical, behavioral, and body image characteristics in a tri-racial group of adolescent girls

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate physical characteristics, nutrient intake, physical activity level, and body image in white (CC), African-American (AA), and Hispanic-American (HA) female adolescents. Research Methods and Procedures: High school volunteers were solicited for this study. Self-reported information was used to determine subject characteristics, family income, physical activity, body image, and nutrient intake. Physical evaluations were used to determine body mass index, percent body fat, fat distribution, resting heart rate, and blood pressure (BP). Results: Results showed that AA girls displayed significantly higher diastolic BP than HA girls (p = 0.029). CC adolescents showed greater physical activity (p = 0.010) and lower adiposity than HA adolescents (p = 0.048), as well as lower subscapular skinfold than AA adolescents (p = 0.018). AA adolescents selected a higher ideal body size than CC girls (p = 0.038). There was also a significant difference in percentage carbohydrates (p < 0.034) and cholesterol consumed (p < 0.016) among groups, with CC girls showing the highest values for carbohydrates and lowest values for cholesterol intake among groups. Discussion: Given our findings of higher adiposity and lower physical activity levels in HA adolescents and greater diastolic BP levels and subscapular skinfold in AA adolescents, more interventions should be targeted toward improving health-related variables among minority populations.
Operative technique for open rotator-cuffrepair: multi-suture technique

Open treatment of full-thickness rotator-cuff repairs remains the “gold standard” for operative treatment. Rotator-cuffrepair is successful in resolving pain in up to 85–95% patients with full-thickness rotator-cuff tears. Our technique involves the use of multiple sutures through bone tunnels to reconstruct the torn rotator-cuff tendon. The use of multiple, small sutures allow a larger area for distribution of force across the repaired tendon than the use of fewer, larger sutures. This modification of rotator-cuff reconstruction has been used by the senior author since 1986, and has yielded excellent results.
Effect of feeding frequency on food consumption, growth, size variation, and feeding pattern of age-0 hybrid sunfish

Abstract Four treatment groups of age-0 hybrid sunfish (female green sunfish Lepomis cyanellus×male bluegill L. macrochirus) were fed to satiation at one of four frequencies (one, two, three or four meals per day) for 30 days. Fish fed three and four times daily showed the greatest consumption and growth rates; food conversion ratios did not differ among the four treatments (P>0.05). Because growth and food conversion were not enhanced when feeding was increased from three to four times daily, the optimal feeding frequency for growth was considered to be three times per day. However, the extent of inter-individual size variation (% change in CV) declined with increasing number of daily feedings (P
Identification and characterization of 3.8 min 134mI

Abstract The γ -ray spectra of iodine fractions rapidly separated from the products of slow neutron fission of 235 U were studied. A 3.8 ± 0.2 min species was found and was identified as 134m I from observations of corresponding growth in the intensities of the prominent 847 and 884 keV γ-rays of 53 min 134 I. This isomer is analogous to the 2.9 h isomer 134m Cs and decays by the sequence 134m I ( J π = 8 − )( J π = 5 + ) 134 I ( J π = 4 + ) by transitions of 271.9 ± 0.2 keV (t 1 2 = 3.8 min ; α k and 44.4 ± 0.1 keV( t 1 2 ns ; α k ), respectively. For a 316 keV cross-over γ-ray an upper limit of 1 % was obtained, and is near the intensity predicted by M4 systematics. A low-intensity γ-ray of 234.3 ± 0.5 keV was found This γ-ray is interpreted as evidence for β-decay (2%) of the isomer, possibly to the 0.29 sec 7 − isomeric level in 134 Xe.
A unifying framework for duality and modeling in robust linear programs

Abstract In this paper, our major theme is a unifying framework for duality in robust linear programming. We show that there are two pair of dual programs allied with a robust linear program; one in which the primal is constructed to be “ultra-conservative” and one in which the primal is constructed to be “ultra-optimistic.” Furthermore, as one would expect, if the uncertainly in the primal is row-based, the corresponding uncertainty in the dual is column-based, and vice-versa. Several examples are provided that illustrate the properties of these primal and dual models. A second theme of the paper is about modeling in robust linear programming. We replace the ordinary activity vectors (points) and right-hand sides with well-known geometric objects such as hyper-rectangles, parallel line segments and hyper-spheres. In this manner, imprecision and uncertainty can be explicitly modeled as an inherent characteristic of the model. This is in contrast to the usual approach of using vectors to model activities and/or constraints and then, subsequently, imposing some further constraints in the model to accommodate imprecision and uncertainties. The unifying duality structure is then applied to these models to understand and interpret the marginal prices. The key observation is that the optimal solutions to these dual problems are comprised of two parts: a traditional “centrality” component along with a “robustness” component.
Resonance Raman Probes of the Internal Binding Pocket of Dehaloperoxidase from Amphitrite ornata

Using Resonance Raman spectroscopy and activity assays we have determined that there are potent inhibitors of DHP activity and these inhibitors play a major role in the biology of DHP. Resonance Raman spectroscopy can detect substrate or inhibitor binding by monitoring shifts in the core size marker modes, ν2 and ν3, and the vinyl substituent mode, νC=C, of the heme. Para-halogenated phenols bind internally, displacing the sixth position water molecule of the iron (in agreement with X-ray crystallography) resulting in a 5-coordinate high spin heme. Tri-halogenated phenols bind externally, forcing the distal histidine into the closed conformation (also in agreement with X-ray crystallography) resulting in a 6-coordinate high spin heme. The internal and external binding sites are supported by NMR data. X-ray crystallography shows when para-halogenated phenols bind internally, the halogen plugs into a hydrophobic cavity just above the back edge of the distal pocket that is analogous to the xenon 4 binding site in Sperm whale met-myoglobin often referred to as a “packing defect.” Analysis of the X-ray crystal structures of the 4-iodo-, 4-bromo-, and 4-chlorophenol/DHP complexes show a general trend in the position of the halogenated phenol with 4-iodophenol binding farthest into the cavity followed by 4-bromophenol, and 4-chlorophenol. Using RR spectroscopy, we demonstrate that the dissociation constants of the para-halogenated phenols mimic the trend observed in X-ray crystallography with 4-iodophenol being the most tightly bound in the distal pocket. DHP clearly demonstrates the importance of the hydrophobic cavity as an inherent selector for substrates entering the distal pocket by making use of the cavity-halogen hydrophobic interaction concomitantly preventing non-halogenated substrates from binding. Using activity assays, we demonstrate that internal binding of mono-halogenated phenols inhibits the function of DHP on the externally bound tri-halogenated substrates.
Risk analysis for worker exposure to benzene

Cancer risk factors (characterized by route, dose, dose rate per kilogram, fraction of lifetime exposed, species, and sex) were derived for workers exposed to benzene via inhalation or ingestion. Exposure at the current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) and at leaking underground storage tank (LUST) sites were evaluated. At the current PEL of 1 ppm, the theoretical lifetime excess risk of cancer from benzene inhalation is ten per 1000. The theoretical lifetime excess risk for worker inhalation exposure at LUST sites ranged from 10 to 40 per 1000. These results indicate that personal protection should be required. The theoretical lifetime excess risk due to soil ingestion is five to seven orders of magnitude less than the inhalation risks.
People Locator: A System for Family Reunification

After a large-scale disaster, many people go missing. Survivors often turn up in refugee camps or hospitals, where information is gathered and stored in a database. The People Locator technology processes this information for family reunification.
Accumulating Disadvantage: The Growth in the Black–White Wage Gap Among Women

Between 1980 and 2002, the black–white wage gap among women tripled, climbing steadily despite improving economic conditions in the 1990s. Relative distribution analysis shows an increasingly dense accumulation of black women’s wages in the lowest deciles of white women’s wage distribution over time. Although the transition to an “office economy” rewarded both black and white women with wage gains, white women reaped greater benefits. During the 1990s, black managers and professionals lost ground relative to white women, but also relative to other black women workers. Regardless of the economic climate, then, black women accumulated disadvantage, suffering most in the chilly economic climate of the 1980s, and benefiting least during the economic expansion of the 1990s.
Gamma‐Irradiation of CIostridium botulinum Inoculated Turkey Frankfurters Formulated with Different Chloride Salts and Polyphosphates

The effects of gamma-irradiation doses (0, 0.5, and 1.0 Mrad) on C. botulinum toxin production in turkey frankfurters formulated with three different chloride salts (NaCl, KCl, and MgCl2) at isoionic strength (equal to 2.5% NaCl) and three types of phosphates added to 2.0% NaCl frankfurters were studied. The use of 2.5% NaCl together with 0.5 or 1.0 Mrad was substantially more effective at inhibitinlg botulinal toxin production when frankfurters were incubated at 27°C than the combination of irradiation with KCl or MgC12 (40, 9, and 4 days, respectively, when treated with 1 Mrad). Phosphate addition revealed that 0.4% sodium acid pyrophosphate addition was the most inhibitory for botulinal toxin production followed by hexametaphosphate and tripolyphosphate addition.
Capital Rationing and Organizational Slack in Capital Budgeting

This paper reconciles three stylized facts about capital budgeting in firms and shows that they are tied to the presence of asymmetric information among the several members of the firm, each with his or her own objectives and decisions. The facts of interest are: 1. The existence of organizational slack. 2. The "rationing" of resources within organizations. 3. The stated "cut off rate" for accepting capital projects in firms is often greater than the market rate of interest. Organizational slack is defined as the excess of resources allocated over the minimum necessary to accomplish the tasks assigned. Resource rationing is defined as the under-allocation of resources; i.e., an increase in the amount allocated would generate revenues in excess of its costs. Rationing and slack are both manifestations of ex post inefficiencies. An LP model is used to show that these inefficiencies can occur in ex ante efficient organizational designs when asymmetric information is present. The optimal allocation policy involves a hurdle rate criterion in which the hurdle rate is strictly in excess of the cost of capital, thus inducing rationing in some states of the world. Typically, resources are optimally allocated such that slack exists in other states. The optimal allocation policy trades off these two inefficiencies.
Individual interphase chromosome domains revealed by in situ hybridization

The position and arrangement of individual chromosomes in interphase nuclei were examined in mouse-human cell hybrids by in situ hybridization of biotinylated human DNA probes. Intense and even labeling of human chromosomes with little background was observed when polyethylene glycol and Tween-20 were included in hybridization solutions. Human interphase chromosomes were separated from each other in the nucleus, and were confined to well localized domains. Hybrid cells with a single human chromosome showed a reproducible position of this chromosome in the nucleus. Some chromosomes appeared to have a characteristic folding pattern in interphase. Optical section as well as electron microscopy of labeled regions revealed the presence of 0.2 μm wide fibers in each interphase domain, as well as adjacent, locally extended 500 nm fibers. Such fibers are consistent with previously proposed structural models of interphase chromosomes.
Examination of acoustic behavior of negative poisson's ratio materials

Abstract Negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) foams have been predicted to have unusual acoustic properties. To measure these, polyurethane foam was chosen to serve as a model system. Negative Poisson ratios were produced in open cell, reticulated polyurethane foams by heat setting the foam which had been three-dimensionally compressed 3·7-fold. Acoustic reflection measurements were made on unconverted foam, NPR uncovered foam, and on NPR foam with an unattached and attached cover. Foams tested had pore densities ranging from 25·4 to 254 pores per linear cm. NPR foams absorbed better than unconverted foams at all frequencies. Smaller pore-size NPR foams absorbed sound more efficiently at frequencies above 630 Hz than did those with larger pores, and those with covers were better sound absorbers in the frequency range 250–1000 Hz than the uncovered NPR foams. Unidirectional compression to one quarter of the original thickness reduced the Poisson ratio to zero and caused the foam to absorb nearly as well as did creation of the negative Poisson's ratio.
Effects of roadside deicer salts and ozone on red maple progenies

Abstract Significant differences were found among three red maple progenies in their height growth response to salt, to ozone and to salt and ozone combined. Seedlings from a Maine seed source showed the lowest degree of foliar injury in response to all treatments and were also least suppressed in their total height growth. Demonstrated genetic tolerance or susceptibility of red maple to ozone and salt supports the validity of selection programmes for trees capable of withstanding pollution-related stresses.
Rapid separation of oligomers of polysialic acid by high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract A rapid procedure utilizing high-performance liquid chromatography was developed for the separation of homooligomers of sialic acid (N-acetylneuraminic acid). The method utilizes the anion exchanger Mono-Q HR 5 5 and can resolve sialyl oligomers with degrees of polymerization (DP) from 2 to 20 in 25 min. Previous methods required 1 to 9 days. Recoveries are quantitative and the method can be used either analytically to analyze the enzymatic digestion products of polysialic acid or semipreparatively to prepare sialyl oligomers of defined length. The method is potentially useful for analyzing other anionic oligosaccharides.
Optical Coating Absorption Measurement For High Power Laser Systems

A novel method has been developed for measuring surface absorption of optical coatings used in high power laser systems. Advantages of the method, which uses an infrared thermal camera to measure surface temperature and a detailed computer model of heat loss mechanisms to calculate surface absorption, include real time, non-contact measurement and in situ monitoring of optics under operational conditions. Surface absorptions ranging as low as 10/sup -5/ of the incident laser power can be measured with a 50 W test beam. The technique is used routinely to easily and quickly acquire data for coating performance sensitivity testing, coating development and for quality assessment of purchased optics. More importantly, it can identify hot absorbing coatings that are likely to fail in service or to become optically distorted in an operating laser system.
Occupational injury risk by sex in a manufacturing cohort

Objectives This study expands previous research comparing injury risk for women and men in a cohort of 24 000 US aluminium manufacturing workers in 15 facilities from 2001 to 2010. Methods We compared injury rates (all injury, first aid, medical treatment, restricted work and lost work time) by sex and by job and sex. Using a mixed effect modelling approach, we calculated ORs and 95% CIs adjusting for age, job tenure, ethnicity and year as fixed effects and person, job and plant as random effects. Additionally, we modelled the data stratified by plant type to examine potential differences in injury risk between smelter (generally recognised as more hazardous) and fabrication production environments. Results Risk of injury was higher for women in four out of the five injury outcomes: all injuries combined (OR: 1.58, CI 1.48 to 1.67), injuries requiring first aid (OR: 1.61, CI 1.54 to 1.70), injuries requiring medical treatment (OR: 1.18, CI 1.03 to 1.36) and injuries requiring restricted work (OR: 1.65, CI 1.46 to 1.87). No difference in the risk of lost time injury by sex was found in this cohort. Analyses stratified by plant type showed similarly elevated injury risk for women, although the risk estimates were higher in smelters than fabrication plants. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the largest single-firm study examining injury risk by sex with sufficient data to appropriately adjust for job. We show a consistently higher injury risk for women compared with men in the smelting and fabrication environments.
28. Investigating motivations for participation in an anal cancer screening trial (IMPACT)

Background The efficacy of preventing anal cancer by treating the anal cancer precursor, anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), has not yet been demonstrated. The AIDS Malignancy Consortium’s (AMC) 076 protocol is a 2-year randomised controlled trial (RCT) of infrared coagulation to treat HSIL compared with observation only. The goal of the present study was to understand motivations for participation in AMC 076 in preparation for a larger 5-year study of the efficacy of HSIL treatment in prevention of anal cancer. Methods: AMC 076 participants (n = 17) from three clinical sites were recruited for telephone interviews at 3 months and 12 months after enrolment. Topics covered included motivations for participating in the clinical trial, randomisation, preferences for treatment versus monitoring, understanding of HSIL diagnosis, tolerability of the clinical procedures and treatment sequelae. Results: Participants reported a desire to contribute to research to help the HIV community as motivation for joining the study. Regardless of their assigned study arm, participants valued frequent monitoring of their HSIL. Those in the monitoring arm expressed trust that the provider would treat them upon early signs of cancer. Concerns expressed about participating in a 5-year trial were more often related to transportation issues than randomisation or tolerability of clinical procedures. Conclusions: Trust in providers’ clinical assessment is vital for willingness to be observed without treatment for pre-cancerous anal lesions. The experience of living with HIV appears to condition participants to trust providers’ treatment advice, value frequent screening, and to live with the ambiguity of test results.
Comparison of Two Scanning Radar Detectors: The Moving Window and the Feedback Integrator

A comparison is made between the moving window and feedback integrator detectors for a scanning radar. Detection probabilities and position estimates are calculated by using a Monte Carlo simulation. The moving window is a slightly better detector than the feedback integrator: it provides 0.5-dB better detection capability and 8 percent more accurate estimate of position. However, the feedback integrator can be implemented more easily.
Health Warnings and the Addicted Smoker: Comment on Ho

Abstract Ho (1989) has suggested that anti-smoking campaigns which emphasise the addictive nature of nicotine may be counterproductive. He argued that existing smokers may be encouraged to adopt the “addicted” label to justify their behaviour, and this could lead to an unintended reinforcement of their perception of the difficulty of quitting. This argument was based on data collected in a survey of self-reported reasons for smoking and perceptions of the difficulty of giving it up. Because Ho did not include in his survey a measure of the respondents' actual physical dependence, his finding of a relationship between smokers' descriptions of themselves as “addicted” and their perceived chances of giving up do not justify the conclusions he drew. Other research suggests any relationship between the two measures is likely to have been due to their common association with physical dependence.
Anomalous Acoustic Dispersion in Centrosymmetric Crystals with Soft Optic Phonons

A careful study of the dispersion of the transverse acoustic phonons and the low-frequency transverse optic phonons in KTa${\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ has been carried out by inelastic neutron scattering. In addition to the well-known temperature dependence of the optic-mode frequencies, both the acoustic-phonon frequencies and the neutron-scattering cross sections of the TO and TA phonons with q along [100] show a marked temperature dependence. This anomalous behavior is not, however, revealed in ultrasonic velocity measurements. By means of a long-wavelength expansion of the lattice-dynamical equations, we show that these phenomena are the result of quasiharmonic coupling of optic- and acoustic-like excitations. In centrosymmetric crystals, this interaction vanishes as the wave vector q\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0, in such a way as to leave the limiting acoustic velocity unaffected. The existence of this interaction suggests the possibility of a soft Brillouin-zone-center optic phonon precipitating an instability in a mode with mixed acoustic-optic character and nonzero wave vector, giving rise to an antiferroelectric (or microtwinned ferroelectric) phase.
Combined One-Stage Coronary Artery and Valvular Surgery A Clinical Evaluation

Fifty patients underwent correction of one or two valvular lesions with concomitant insertion of one to three aortocoronary vein bypass grafts. Hospital mortality was 14% and late mortality was 10%. Factors influencing operative mortality were: (1) mitral valve replacement after myocardial infarction; (2) complete obstruction of a coronary artery preoperatively; (3) high left ventricular end-diastolic pressure at rest preoperatively in patients with mitral valve disease; and (4) use of a single aortocoronary graft in the presence of multiple-vessel disease. For patients with significant associated valvular and coronary artery disease, combined correction yields results that appear sufficiently encouraging, judged by mortality and follow-up, to warrant its continued use in selected cases.