cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Human erythrocytes shed exocytic vesicles in vivo.

Studies were designed to demonstrate whether red cells (RBCs) lose membrane segments in vivo. Plasma separated from fresh blood collected in citrate-phosphate-dextrose-adenine-one was passed through 0.8 mu nitrocellulose filters to remove residual RBCs and formed elements. Exocytic vesicles were separated by centrifugation at 70,000 × g. Transmission electron microscopy showed vesicles 50 to 200 nm in diameter which contained hemoglobin. Sodium dodecyl sulfate- polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of vesicle membranes showed that spectrin bands 1 and 2 and ankyrin band 2.1 were absent. These observations are the initial demonstration that RBCs shed exocytic vesicles in the normal circulation.
Immune activation mediated change in alpha-1-acid glycoprotein: impact on total and free lopinavir plasma exposure.

Background Immune mediated changes in circulating α-1-acid glycoprotein (AAG), a type 1 acute phase protein, which binds protease inhibitors (PI), may alter protein binding and contribute to PI's pharmacokinetic (PK) variability.
CoAdapt: Predictable Behavior for Accuracy-Aware Applications Running on Power-Aware Systems

We present Co Adapt, a runtime that coordinates accuracy-aware applications, which expose accuracy/performance tradeoffs, with power-aware systems, which manage power/performance tradeoffs. This is a challenging problem because decisions made at one level affect, and often counteract, decisions made at the other, leading to unpredictable behavior. Prior approaches have coordinated application and system, but provide a guarantee in only a single dimension (i.e., just one of performance, power, or accuracy). In contrast, Co Adapt addresses the full performance/power/accuracy problem space with an adaptive runtime control system that guarantees behavior in any two of these dimensions, while optimizing the third. We implement Co Adapt on a Linux/x86 platform and show it predictably stabilizes to the desired behavior, adapts to phases in application workload, and supports dynamic changes to behavioral goals.
Toward a Molecular Classification of Melanoma

The incidence of melanoma is increasing at one of the highest rates of any form of cancer in the United States, with the current lifetime risk being one in 68. At present, there are limited systemic therapies to treat advanced stages of melanoma, and the key to improved survival remains early detection. Recent discoveries have allowed for a clearer picture of the molecular events leading to melanoma development and progression. Since identifying prevalent activating mutations of the BRAF kinase in melanomas, there has been a flood of additional molecular studies to further clarify the role of this pathway and others in melanomagenesis. In particular, recent genetic studies have demonstrated specific genotype-phenotype correlations that provide the first major insights into the molecular subclassification of melanoma and the heterogeneous nature of this malignancy. In this article, we review the most up-to-date molecular discoveries in melanoma biology and provide a framework for understanding their significance in melanoma development and progression. We also provide details on the development of novel therapies based on these recent molecular discoveries and insight into current and planned clinical trials. It is expected that these latest studies in melanoma will help define the critical molecular events involved in disease onset and progression and allow us to move rapidly toward a true molecular classification. We eagerly anticipate rationally designed melanoma therapies based on such a classification scheme and the associated improvements in patient outcomes.
Adaptive control of systems containing uncertain functions and unknown functions with uncertain bounds

We consider dynamical systems containing uncertain elements due to imperfect knowledge about the model and the input. Since these uncertainties may result in unstable behavior, we seek controllers which guarantee that all possible responses of the system are uniformly bounded and approach a desired response. Toward that end, we present a class of adaptive controllers.
Finite element simulation of some extrusion processes using the arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian description

This paper aims at simulating a few typical extrusion processes, using the finite element method for large deformation analysis of elastic-viscoplastic materials. An arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian kinematic description is implemented for enhanced accuracy and performance of the analysis. Various schemes for moving the three-dimensional computational grid are experimented with, for analysis up to large degrees of deformation.
Mouse adenovirus: growth of plaque-purified FL virus in cell lines and characterization of viral DNA.

Abstract The FL strain of mouse adenovirus (AdFL) was plaque-purified and grown in mouse 3T6 cells. Purified virions resemble human adenoviruses by electron microscopy, and viral DNA shares physical properties with human adenovirus DNA. AdFL-DNA is a linear duplex with a molecular weight of 20 × 10 6 , shows evidence of protein covalently linked at each end, and forms single-strand circles after denaturation, indicating inverted repeat sequences at or near the ends of the molecule. However, less than 10% nucleotide sequence homology was found between AdFL-DNA and the DNAs of Ad2, 7, or 12. Also, the C + G content of AdFL-DNA (44%) is lower than that of human adenovirus DNAs. While there was reactivity between extracts of AdFL-infected cells and antiserum against human adenovirus, sera against the T antigens of human adenoviruses of groups A, B, and C did not react with AdFL-infected cell lysates. Six restriction endonucleases were used to cleave AdFL-DNA and to construct cleavage maps of the DNA. These maps differed from those of Ad2 or Ad5.
Monthly spatial rainfall correlation functions and interpretations for Turkey

Monthly spatial rainfall distribution features and their effects on spatial correlation patterns are significant in any regional study. In this paper, first a number of statistical terms and properties are explained with reference to the spatial correlation functions (SCFs). This is followed by the analysis of a theoretical spatial correlation model and its parameter estimation. Monthly empirical SCFs are examined in relation to spatial rainfall characteristics. In order to obtain a definite pattern, the SCF values are averaged in successive equal-distance groups. This average spatial correlation function shows a decreasing pattern with distance. Some interpretations of these spatial correlation functions are given for Turkey with discussion of the results obtained.
Mechanistic Studies of Copper(I)-Catalyzed Allylic Amination

The reactions of nitrosobenzene and N,N'-diethyl-4-nitrosoaniline with [Cu(CH3CN)4]PF6 provide novel Cu(I) complexes, [Cu(PhNO)3]PF6 (1) and [Cu(Et2NPhNO)3]PF6 (2); in 2 the copper atom is N-coordinated to the nitrosoarenes in a distorted trigonal planar geometry. Complex 1 is strongly implicated as a reactive intermediate in the Cu(I)-catalyzed allylic amination of olefins based on (i) its isolation from the catalytic reaction, (ii) its stoichiometric regioselective allylic amination of alpha-methyl styrene (AMS), (iii) the non-involvement of free PhNO in its amination of AMS, and (iv) its function as a catalyst for the amination of alkenes from phenylhydroxylamine. The reaction between AMS and 1 (80 degrees C, dioxane) is first order in both alkene and 1. Relative rate studies of the reaction of 1 with para substituted AMS derivatives gives a Hammett rho value of -0.035. Alkene adducts isolated from the reaction of 1 with styrene and alpha-methylstyrene are formulated as [(PhNO)3Cu(eta(2)-alkene)]PF6 (7,8) on the basis of spectroscopic characterization and thermolysis. PM3 and DFT MO calculations support the role of [(alkene)Cu(RNO)3]+ and (eta(1)- or eta(3)-allyl)Cu(RNO)2(RNHOH)+ complexes as probable catalytic intermediates and address the origin of the distinctive reaction regioselectivity. A mechanistic scheme is proposed which is consistent with the accumulated experimental and computational results.
Will accountable care organizations deliver greater quality and lower cost health care

Abstract:An Accountable Care Organization (ACO) is a voluntary grouping of health care providers that is envisioned to be able to offer high quality care with lower cost than is typically provided in this country. The cost savings achieved by the ACO would be shared between the ACO and the Centers f
Mechanisms underlying responses to inequitable outcomes in chimpanzees, Pan troglodytes

Several species of nonhuman primates respond negatively to inequitable outcomes, a trait shared with humans. Despite previous research, questions regarding the response to inequity remain. In this study, we replicated the methodology from previous studies to address four questions related to inequity. First, we explored the impact of basic social factors. Second, we addressed whether negative responses to inequity require a task, or exist when rewards are given for ‘free’. Third, we addressed whether differences in the experimental procedure or the level of effort required to obtain a reward affected responses. Finally, we explored the interaction between ‘individual’ expectations (based on one's own previous experience) and ‘social’ expectations (based on the partner's experience). These questions were investigated in 16 socially housed adult chimpanzees using eight conditions that varied across the dimensions of reward, effort and procedure. Subjects did respond to inequity, but only in the context of a task. Differences in procedure and level of effort required did not cause individuals to change their behaviour. Males were more sensitive to social than to individual expectation, while females were more sensitive to individual expectation. Finally, subjects also increased refusals when they received a better reward than their partner, which has not been documented previously. These results indicate that chimpanzees are more sensitive to reward inequity than procedures, and that there is interaction between social and individual expectations that depends upon social factors.
Future directions in 3-D treatment planning and delivery: a physicist's perspective.

I have been asked to describe the future advances that we are likely to see in radiation oncology treatment planning and delivery. I have chosen to look not too far ahead, but rather over the time period associated with the next generation of radiation oncology physicians and scientists, say by the year 2035. In my opinion, significant advances will be made by this new generation; however, they will be more evolutionary in nature, and not revolutionary. When I look back on my own career, I do recall some of my teachers and mentors questioning why I would want to pursue a career in medical physics applied to radiation oncology, thinking that physics contributions over the next 25 to 35 years would be minimal and that the next significant advancement would be made by biologists. In fact, some thought cancer was likely to be conquered within my (the next) generation. Similar predictions are now being made by some of my colleagues. I hope they are right; unfortunately, I do not think they are. There are still significant technological gains to be made by radiation oncology. In fact, radiation oncology is just now moving into a new and exciting era (which I will refer to as the three-dimensional radiation therapy [3DRT] era) as a result of the many technological advances made by this past generation. Modern medical imaging provides a fully 3-D volume representation of the cancer patient’s anatomy that allows the radiation oncologist to more accurately identify the tumor volume and its relationship with other normal tissues. The power of computers continues to increase rapidly (roughly doubling in speed every 18 months) while costs continue to decrease. These advances have spurred the development of computed tomography simulation (CT simulation) and 3-D radiation therapy treatment planning (3DRTP) systems that are likely to replace the conventional simulator and two-dimensional (2-D) dose planning systems as the standard of practice for radiation oncology within the first decade of the 21st century (1). Advanced computercontrolled treatment delivery systems that provide beam intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) techniques for precise shaping of dose distribution are now in their first-generation developmental stage (2, 3). Improved IMRT systems will likely become the standard of practice during the second decade of this century. However, as these technological advances are occurring in radiation oncology, medicine overall is also entering a new socioeconomic era (which I will call the managed care era), in which lowering cost is a major driving force. Some will argue that the 3DRT era and the managed care era conflict and are not compatible. This is probably true today since 3DRT still needs a considerable amount of research and developmental (RD however,
Monitoring the inhibition of erosion by a CO2 laser with OCT.

Since optical coherence tomography (OCT) is well suited for measuring small dimensional changes on tooth surfaces, OCT has great potential for monitoring tooth erosion. Previous studies have shown that enamel areas ablated by a carbon dioxide laser manifested lower rates of erosion compared to the nonablated areas. The purpose of this study was to develop a model to monitor erosion in vitro that could potentially be used in vivo. Teeth surfaces were irradiated with a carbon dioxide laser at low sub-ablative fluence to create an acid-resistant reference layer without damaging the enamel. The laser treated areas were compared with the unprotected areas using OCT during exposure to a pH cycling model for up to 6 days. The laser treated areas markedly reduced the rate of erosion.
Exploring the perceived extent of and citizens' support for consumer racial profiling: Results from a national poll

Abstract Using data from a national Gallup poll, this article examines several hypotheses related to citizens' perceptions regarding the prevalence of consumer racial profiling (CRP) in the retail setting in America, as well as their support for the practice. The oversampling of Black and Hispanic respondents allowed for analyses that tested for racial differences in perceptions concerning the extent of CRP, and also for racial differences in the support for the use of CRP. The multivariate analysis found that Blacks were more likely than Hispanics and Whites to believe that CRP was widespread; there were no differences in the views of residents from urban and suburban areas; there were no differences between racial and ethnic groups regarding whether profiling was justified; and the more liberal the respondents were, the more likely they felt CRP was widespread and not justified. The authors also discuss the implications of these findings and present some future directions for CRP research.
Characterization and Quantification of the Neutral Lipids in the Lizard Uta stansburiana stansburiana by HPTLC-Densitometry

Abstract We performed high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) to characterize and quantify the various neutral lipid classes in organs (livers, abdominal fat bodies, and tails) of 6 male and 6 female northern side-blotched lizards (Uta stansburiana stansburiana) with a range of body sizes (from young-of-the-year to adult). We determined the percentage of each organ that was comprised of free sterols, free fatty acids, triacylglycerols, methyl esters, and steryl esters. Regardless of lizard sex or body size, the greatest concentrations of neutral lipids in all organs examined were triacylglycerols. Statistical analyses revealed that the organs of females contained roughly twice the percentage of triacylglycerols compared to males. No other neutral lipid amounts were significantly different between the sexes. We detected only one significant relationship based on size: larger lizards contained more steryl esters in their livers than smaller lizards. Our results are consistent with previous studie...
A decade of exploring the cancer epigenome — biological and translational implications

The past decade has highlighted the central role of epigenetic processes in cancer causation, progression and treatment. Next-generation sequencing is providing a window for visualizing the human epigenome and how it is altered in cancer. This view provides many surprises, including linking epigenetic abnormalities to mutations in genes that control DNA methylation, the packaging and the function of DNA in chromatin, and metabolism. Epigenetic alterations are leading candidates for the development of specific markers for cancer detection, diagnosis and prognosis. The enzymatic processes that control the epigenome present new opportunities for deriving therapeutic strategies designed to reverse transcriptional abnormalities that are inherent to the cancer epigenome.
Advances in Emerging Nondrug Therapies for Acute Stroke 2007

Numerous clinical trials of thrombolytic and neuroprotective drugs for stroke have been conducted over the last 2 decades. The NINDS trial of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator remains the most notable success. Intra-arterial thrombolysis appears promising, but in the absence of phase III clinical trial data, this approach remains investigational. Numerous pharmaceutical drugs targeting 1 or more cell death pathways have failed to show efficacy. Despite failure, these prior attempts have provided insights regarding critical issues such as proper clinical trial design and the need for more rigorous preclinical drug testing in order to improve the translational leap from bench to bedside. More recently, accumulating data suggest that “non-drug” approaches toward stroke therapy might also provide new opportunities in addition to more traditional pharmaceutical therapies. As testimony to the growing importance of these alternate and sometimes complementary methods, there has been a proliferation of device trials, and the NINDS, through its key ‘Specialized Program of Translational Research in Acute Stroke’ [SPOTRIAS] initiative,1 has funded trials of therapeutic hypothermia, caffeinol, and normobaric hyperoxia, among others. Although this brief survey focuses on emerging gas and device therapies for ischemic stroke, it should be noted that several other ‘non-drug’ approaches, including physiological strategies (eg, hypothermia, glucose regulation), and natural agents (eg, albumin, magnesium), continue to be tested in ongoing trials. Increasing brain tissue oxygenation has long been considered a logical stroke treatment strategy. Although initial efforts using hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) chambers were unsuccessful, the realization that early trials had numerous methodological shortcomings has led to a resurgence of interest in hyperoxia.2 As a potential treatment, oxygen has distinct advantages over pharmaceutical drugs: it easily diffuses across the blood-brain barrier to reach target tissues, may act via multiple pathways, and high concentrations of oxygen in brain might be well tolerated. In the past …
PCR restriction analysis of genome composition and stability of cold-adapted reassortant live influenza vaccines.

Abstract Using cold-adapted master donor strains of influenza virus as a model, an approach was developed that exploits unique nucleotide differences between the donor strains and wild-type influenza viruses for rapidly and simply determining the genome composition and genetic stability of live attenuated vaccine reassortants. The approach is based on PCR amplification of approximately 150–300-nucleotide-long regions of individual RNA segments that include the unique nucleotide positions, followed by restriction nuclease treatment of the DNAs obtained with specific restriction endonucleases. Restriction sites recognized by chosen nucleases either existed or were created during PCR in the genome of one (but not the other) parent strain. The technique requires a minimal amount of infectious virus (approx. 100 μl of allantoic or tissue culture fluid with a haemagglutination titre 1:4–1:8 or less) and allows rapid (within about 10 h) determination of the origin of the RNA segment or the presence of a mutation. The method is beneficial for genome composition analysis of reassortant vaccine strains as well as for investigation of the genetic stability of live attenuated vaccines during replication in vaccinees.
Resisting Moral Residue

This paper surveys contemporary scholarly conceptions of moral residue in order to demonstrate the fruitful inconsistencies contained in these various notions. Due to the fact that moral dilemmas are commonplace in the practice of medicine, patients and practitioners are uniquely situated to experience moral residue. The authors investigate two medical sites as case studies that demonstrate how a more capacious notion of moral residue can be useful for explaining ethical complexities: euthanasia on the battlefield and care of minors who are members of the Jehovah’s Witness faith community. These case studies will be of particular interest to chaplains, pastoral theologians, and other relevant practitioners and intellectuals. Fruitfully cast against the illuminations of interdisciplinary scholars including Donald Capps, Lorraine Hardingham, and others, these cases are used as instructive discursive devices, shedding greater light on ideas put forth within the literature on this engaging and complex topic.
In Memoriam: A. I. Sabra (June 8, 1924 – December 18, 2013)

I learned of A. I. Sabra, in search of Ibn al-Haytham (Latin Alhazen, d. 1040) upon discovering his importance in Polyak’s monumental Vertebrate Visual System. He was an obvious choice for the “Dia...
7.4: Presentation session: Poster session and reception: “Convergent evidence for Wnt signaling pathway in psychotic disorders”

Wnt signaling pathway is involved in multiple cell processes including cell differentiation, cell development, and cell fate. Mutations in the Wnt pathway genes have been frequently found to cause cancer. Recently, there has been emerging evidence showing that abnormality of the Wnt pathway may also be involved in neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity; thus, it may play important roles in psychotic disorders. Here we performed a systematic collection and analysis of data from multiple sources linking Wnt pathway genes to indicate convergent evidence for this pathway in psychosis, especially in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Specifically, we explored KEGG pathways, proteinprotein interactions (PPIs), association studies, genome-wide association (GWA) studies, and our recently developed schizophrenia gene resource (SZGR) database. Our analysis suggested some potential genes, including PPARD, FZD3, GRIN1, and AXIN1, warrant future genetic and functional validation of their roles in schizophrenia. In summary, we provided a unique integrative analysis of Wnt pathway genes in psychotic disorders.
Power series, power serious

Power series and stream processing were made for each other. Stream algorithms for power series are short, sweet, and compositional. Their neatness shines through in Haskell, thanks to pattern-matching, lazy lists, and operator overloading. In a short compass one can build working code from ground zero (scalar operations) up to exact calculation of generating functions and solutions of differential equations.
Biomimetic oxidation of nonphenolic lignin models by Mn(III): new observations on the oxidizability of guaiacyl and syringyl substructures

Mn(III) is a one-electron oxidant, produced in vivo by the Mn peroxidases of white-rot fungi, and thought to be involved in lignin degradation by these organisms. However, Mn(III) has not been shown to oxidize the major nonphenolic substructures of lignin under mild conditions. We have used Mn(III) acetate as a biomimetic model for enzymatically generated Mn(III), and report that low concentrations of this oxidant suffice to oxidize nonphenolic lignin models at physiological temperatures and pH values. Under these conditions, the monomeric lignin model veratryl alcohol was oxidized to veratraldehyde, and the diarylpropane model 1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-phenylpropanol was oxidatively cleaved to veratraldehyde, 1-phenylethanol, and acetophenone. In an attempt to identify other lignin models that might be oxidized by Mn(III) more rapidly, we compared the rates at which Mn(III) was reduced by two guaiacyl models, veratryl alcohol and 1-(3-methoxy-4-isopropoxyphenyl)ethanol, vs two syringyl models, 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzyl alcohol and 1-(3,5-dimethoxy-4-isopropoxyphenyl)ethanol. The results were the opposite of those predicted: the syringyl models were oxidized slower than the guaiacyl models by Mn(III). To investigate the basis for this unexpected result, we recorded the visible absorption spectra of charge-transfer complexes prepared between each of the lignin models and an electron acceptor, tetracyanoethylene or p-chloranil. The results, in general agreement with the kinetic findings, showed that the nonphenolic syringyl lignin models had higher ionization potentials than the guaiacyl models.
Understanding ethnic and nativity-related differences in low cardiovascular risk status among Mexican-Americans and non-Hispanic Whites.

Objective Recent guidelines highlight the importance of improving cardiovascular health in the general population in addition to disease prevention among high risk individuals. We investigated factors associated with ethnic and nativity-related differences in the prevalence of low cardiovascular risk (optimal levels of all major cardiovascular risk factors).
Unscheduled DNA synthesis in spermatogenic cells of mice treated in vivo with the indirect alkylating agents cyclophosphamide and mitomen.

Abstract Cyclophosphamide (CPA) and mitomen (DMO) are chemical mutagens that require metabolic activation to produce their biological effect. We have used an in vivo UDS assay in various meiotic and postmeiotic germ-cell stages of male mice to study DNA repair after treatment with these chemicals. EMS, a compound requiring no metabolic activation, was also used for comparative purposes. CPA and DMO induced UDS in meiotic through early-to-midspermatid stages, but no UDS was detected in late spermatids and mature sperm. While EMS produced a maximum UDS response in the germ cells immediately after treatment, CPA and DMO did not produce a maximum response until ∼0.5 to 1 h after injection. This delay is attributed to the time required for CPA and DMO to be enzymatically vonverted active alkylating metabolites. Unlike the results found with EMS, mutation frequencies (dominant lethals, translocations, specific-locus mutations) following CPA treatment are not noticeably reduced in germ-cell stages in which UDS occurred. In the case of DMO, mutations are induced only in mature spermatozoa, and these germ-cell stages represent only a fraction of those in which no UDS is detected. The results with CPA and DMO thus still leave unclear the relationship between DNA repair and the differential spermatogenic response of mice to genetic damage.
Do astrocytes contribute to excitation underlying seizures

Synchronous neuronal activity during seizures is thought to arise from an entirely neuronal origin. A recent study by Tian et al. suggests that by releasing glutamate, astrocytes contribute to the neuronal depolarizations underling epilepsy. Treatment of hippocampal and cortical tissue with compounds that induce seizures was shown to excite astrocytes directly through a pathway that stimulates the release of glial glutamate. Anticonvulsants reduce the activity of this non-neuronal pathway, suggesting that there is an astrocytic basis for epilepsy. Should further experimental analysis corroborate and extend this conclusion, this pathway will be a novel target for therapeutic intervention.
Analysing some issues with SOX

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act legislation (the SOX) was triggered by a series of market failures that were exemplified by the bankruptcy of Enron, whose accounting errors inflated earning by almost $600 million since 1994. With assets of $62 billion, Enron was the largest bankruptcy case in US history. The Enron collapse was dwarfed several months later by the massive fraud and bankruptcy filing of WorldCom in July 2002, with $100 billion in assets. The changes in internal control required by SOX’s executive arm – the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) – imposed costs, that have given rise to appeals to rollback or repeal the requirements (for small firms, overseas firms, etc). One emerging technology – analytic monitoring – offers a possible answer to this impasse. It tenders a family of solutions that are potentially cheaper and more effective than traditional systems of control.
Evidence for Ξ * Resonance with Mass 1930 MeV

Evidence is presented for the existence of a baryon with a strangeness $S=\ensuremath{-}2$, mass $M=1930\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}20$ MeV, and width $\ensuremath{\Gamma}=80\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}40$ MeV. It is speculated that this resonance completes a ${J}^{P}={\frac{5}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ octet. An SU(3) analysis of the conjectured ${\frac{5}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ octet gives a reasonable overall description of the partial widths of the member states.
Determination of the incommensurately modulated structure of α-uranium below 37 K

The modulated structure of \ensuremath{\alpha}-uranium is analyzed with use of the neutron scattering data of Marmeggi et al. [Solid State Commun. 43, 577 (1982)]. The results of the refinements are given for all the superspace groups compatible with the neutron diffraction pattern. Fits to the experimental data of equal quality are obtained for different structure models (different symmetries), thus prohibiting the determination of the structure from neutron scattering alone. Together with the recently reported results of electron microscopy, the refinements lead to a unique assignment of a superspace group to the incommensurately modulated structure of \ensuremath{\alpha}-uranium below T=37 K, with the tentative symbol P2/m11(1/2\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{\gamma}). The values of the structural parameters, as follow from the refinements, are also reported.
Immobilization of radioactive cesium in pyrolytic-carbon-coated zeolite

All waste forms currently being developed for radwaste disposal have difficulty immobilizing cesium. A new waste form was developed to dispose of cesium by loading up to 5 wt% Cs onto zeolite granules. These zeolite particles are then heat-treated and coated with pyrolytic carbon and/or BC to completely immobilize cesium. The leach rate of cesium from pyrocarbon-coated zeolite is 3 to 4 orders of magnitude less than for other waste forms. We therefore propose that cesium be removed from the primary waste stream and loaded onto zeolite granules for subsequent coating. The total waste form (primary waste form plus coated zeolite) would have acceptable leach resistance for all radwaste components and be extremely leach-resistant for cesium.
Heat transfer in slagging MHD radiant boilers

A combined convection-radiation model is formulated to study heat-transfer characteristics of slagging MHD radiant boilers. The model includes the contributions of carbon dioxide, water vapor, potassium atoms, and slag particles to gas radiation. The model also accounts for the presence of slag layer on the wall of the radiant boiler. In order to determine the slag layer dynamics, the mechanism of slag-particle deposition by thermophoresis and by fluid turbulence is also investigated. The role of a slag layer in moderating the influence of refractory thickness on heat transfer is illustrated. From the viewpoint of NO/sub x/ decomposition, the calculations indicate that an adequately slow cooling rate of the combustion gas can be realized in the radiant boiler.
A case study: Airlines reservations systems

The historical development of airlines reservations systems is traced. Characteristics are defined which are those of any real-time, conversational, highly interactive system. The structure of the system is described--agent terminal area, communications facilities, and central site. Lessons learned in the design, development, testing, implementation, and tuning of two generations of systems are discussed. These discussions include initial system design, simulations and systems measurement tools, systems stability and reliability, serial processing, parallel- or multiprocessors, split front-end back-end processing, storage hierarchy, standard and special communications disciplines, and flexibility versus performance. Unlike batch processing the real-time system cannot simply take more run time for a job that has been underestimated. It may well not be able to perform the job at all. Design of these systems is as much an art based on experience as a science and is an iterative process. Systems now being installed have capacities of 180 messages/s, accommodate 10 000 terminals which have access to a 10 billion-byte data base, and provide response times of less than 3 s.
Institutionalization of Gerontological Curricular Change in Schools of Social Work

This study addresses factors associated with sustainability and institutionalization of change in the 67 Geriatric Enrichment in Social Work Education (GeroRich) projects, and the ways innovations introduced became institutionalized at the respective colleges and universities. An unobtrusive qualitative-descriptive research design was used to analyze the content of the GeroRich projects' annual reports over the initiative's 3-year period. Diffusion of innovation and institutional theories provided the framework for the finding that mimetic and normative processes, rather than coercive ones, had more direct impact on institutionalization of the curriculum innovations. Provision of resources transformed mimetic to normative isomorphic pressure thereby assisting with the progression of innovation from periphery to core. Programmatic and student-focused factors were the primary aspects associated with sustaining and institutionalizing innovation and changes. Barriers to innovation, such as budget constraints ...
Relation between Plasma Homocysteine Concentration, the 844ins68 Variant of the Cystathionine β-Synthase Gene, and Pyridoxal-5′-Phosphate Concentration

Abstract A moderately elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcy), whether measured during fasting or post-methionine load (PML), is recognized as a risk factor for coronary artery diseases (CAD). Cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), a key enzyme in the transsulfuration pathway, is important for the metabolism of homocysteine. In recent years, a relatively prevalent mutation, the 844ins68 (68-bp insertion), was found to be carried by about 12% of the general population. In the current investigation, we studied 741 individuals with respect to the effect of the 68-bp insertion of the CBS gene on fasting and PML tHcy, and also determined the level of pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (vitamin B 6 ), a cofactor of the CBS enzyme. Our results showed that the mean fasting and PML increase in tHcy levels were lower in individuals carrying the 844ins68 variant compared to those without the insertion; although only the difference in PML increase in tHcy reached statistical significance ( P = 0.02). When these individuals were divided into two groups based on vitamin B 6 concentration, the PML increase in tHcy was significantly lower in individuals heterozygous for the insertion compared to those without the insertion only in the group of individuals whose vitamin B 6 concentrations were below the sample median (38.0 nmol/L). We speculate that the 68-bp insertion is associated with somewhat higher levels of CBS enzyme activity, and that the effect of this becomes more pronounced in the presence of relatively low concentrations of pyridoxal-5′-phosphate, a cofactor of the CBS enzyme.
Institutions and the Impact of Investment on Growth

Three major theories have emerged as explanatory factors underlying crosscountry differences in income levels and growth rates. First, the neoclassical theory of economic growth, based on Solow (1956) and extended by Lucas (1988), Romer (1986, 1990), and others, focuses on the inputs of physical and human capital into the production process, and on technological advances, as the determinants of economic performance. Second, the geographic/locational theory (Sachs 2001, Gallup, Sachs and Mellinger 1998 and Diamond 1997) argues that a temperate climate and ease of access to markets are critically important for the achievement of high income levels and growth rates. In contrast, tropical climatic conditions both erode the energy level of workers and increase the risk of disabling and life-threatening diseases such as malaria. As a result, worker productivity and the general level of development are retarded in tropical areas. Third, the institutional approach stresses the importance of creating an institutional environment that is generally supportive of markets (e.g., protection of property rights, enforcement of contracts, and voluntary exchange at market-determined prices). The writings of Scully (1988, 1992), North (1990), Barro (1996), Landes (1998), Knack (1996, 2003), Hall and Jones (1999) and Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson (2001) reflect the institutional perspective. These three explanations for growth are not logically inconsistent with each other, so all might play a role. This paper focuses on the relationship between institutions and investment, and analyzes how institutional quality influences growth through its impact on both the level and productivity of investment. The premise that a solid institutional framework is necessary for investment is well-established. Investors will be reluctant to risk their capital when property rights are weak and poorly protected, and as a result, they fear that their returns may be appropriated by others. Moreover, institutions also lay the foundation for
Investigation of the longitudinal multiconductor transmission line functions for symmetric coupled-microstrip systems

In inhomogeneous multiconductor transmission line (MTL) structures such as coupled microstrip, propagation is characterized by multiple quasi-TEM modes with distinct propagation constants. These "mode delays" cause the MTL functions to exhibit longitudinal behavior that superficially appears problematic in the context of passive lossless reciprocal systems. This paper presents a thorough investigation of the longitudinal MTL functions. Using MTL formulation and computer simulation, we explain the mathematics and physics of mode delays so that their effects are not misinterpreted or attributed to error in the numerical analysis of MTLs.
Efficient Transistor-Level Sizing Technique under Temporal Performance Degradation due to NBTI

Temporal performance degradation in VLSI circuits due to Negative Bias Temperature Instability (NBTI) has emerged as a challenging design issue in nano-scale technology. In this paper, we analyze the impact of NBTI degradation in circuit performance in terms of timing, and show that under worst case scenario, one can expect more than a 10% degradation in the maximum circuit delay after 3 years (~ 108 seconds) operation time. Based on this observation, we propose an efficient transistor-level sizing algorithm based on a modified Lagrangian Relaxation (LR) technique to account for the temporal degradation of circuit and guarantee lifetime reliability of circuit under NBTI. The technique reformulates the sizing problem by considering the fact that only the rising (0 rarr 1) delays of CMOS logic gates are affected by the NBTI. Experimental results on several ISCAS'85 benchmarks have shown that our proposed transistor-level sizing approach can reduce the area overhead of conventional cell-level sizing method by an average of 43%.
A dimensionality reduction method for wave propagation in inhomogeneous media: the planewave layer interaction method

Standard techniques for wave propagation in inhomogeneous media such as finite-difference or finite-element methods usually deal with large size matrices. The author presents a solution method which reduces the problem by one spatial dimension and thereby reduces the computation effort. The method defines a propagator matrix for solution continuation over one space dimension and then uses the propagator to find the solution. The continuation effectively removes one dimension of the problem. The continuations are matrix multiplications which can be easily vectorized for speedy computation. The method is a generalization of the well-known Haskell matrix method associated with layered media. In the Haskell matrix method, the solution within each layer is a sum of decoupled modes, and each mode is propagated by itself. However, in the present method, the modes are coupled due to medium inhomogeneity, and the whole spectrum of modes is propagated simultaneously. The method can be interpreted in terms of plane waves interacting with laterally inhomogeneous layers. >
Electrical engineering 215 - a case study in assessment

While assessment is a 'buzz-word' at many- universities, the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) has actively applied assessment techniques over the past two decades. This paper addresses the assessment approach, techniques and outcomes that have evolved the required electrical engineering core course for all non-engineering majors, Electrical Engineering 215 (EE 215), The statistical data is derived from 8354 cadets, who were enrolled in EE 215 from its initial Spring 1991 offering through Spring 2000. The emphasis is the Spring 2000 semester. The USAFA's automated assessment tool is a macro-driven, excel-spreadsheet that records all graded events and produces objective statistical assessment data. The assessment challenge, facing any academic institution, is to establish cost-effective procedures that provide the necessary assessment outcomes without requiring excessive academic-staff efforts. This case study illustrates example procedures, tools, benefits, and problems in collecting multi- section, core-course assessment data. In summary, the USAFA assessment procedures and developed course material has general academic community application.
The modernity mess

les AA. discutent et analysent la notion de modernite et montrent qu'il est difficile de definir anatomiquement l'homme moderne, car durant longtemps, les populations modernes et archaiques ont coexiste
Mixing, Matching, and Mating: Demonstrating the Effect of Contrast on Relationship Satisfaction

We extended earlier demonstrations of the matching phenomenon (individuals choose romantic partners who tend to match them on a variety of traits) to demonstrate several relationship issues including contrast effects, the impact of alternative mates on relationship satisfaction, and social exchange and equity theories. Students first place playing cards of differing values on their foreheads and pair with another student to achieve the highest combined card value. Students are unaware of their own card value. After all have paired, a student with a more valuable card is introduced to the mix. Students then reassess their pairings and relationship satisfaction and the process is repeated. Data indicated that this demonstration significantly enhances student knowledge of the subject material.
Characteristics of a gun exchange program, and an assessment of potential benefits

Objectives—To describe a gun exchange program and assess potential benefits for participants and host communities. Methods—Mail survey of participants in a Sacramento, California gun exchange program, August 1993; the response rate was 79%. Comparative data were obtained from nationwide polls of gun owners. Results—Most (62%) respondents were men; 40% were more than 55 years old; none was less than 25. Concern that children might find and use the gun was the most frequently cited reason for participating (46% of respondents). Of 141 firearms exchanged, 72% were handguns; 23% of respondents indicated that the guns they turned in were not in working order. Of respondents who owned a gun at the time of the program (rather than those who owned no guns and turned in a gun owned by someone else), 41% owned no guns after participating; the prevalence of handgun ownership declined from 79% to 32%. Those who continued to own guns were as likely as gun owners nationwide to keep a gun loaded in the house (odds ratio (OR) 0.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.4 to 1.7) or to carry a gun with them (OR 1.5, 95% CI 0.6 to 3.8). Conclusions—Gun exchange programs may reduce risk for firearm violence among some participants, but a number of factors limit their overall benefits to host communities.
We never thought this would happen: transitioning care of adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV infection from pediatrics to internal medicine.

Abstract Purpose. Transitioning the medical care of children with perinatally acquired HIV from pediatric care to internal medicine practices has become increasingly important as newer therapies prolong survival. The study aims to describe challenges to caring for these adolescents and the potential barriers to transitioning them to internal medicine-based care. Methods. Qualitative study in which data were gathered from open-ended interviews conducted from November 2005 to April 2006 with 18 adolescents with HIV, 15 of their parents, and 9 pediatric health care providers from the Yale Pediatric AIDS Care Program, New Haven, Connecticut. Results. Issues of stigma played a prominent role in both the challenges to care and barriers to transitioning care. Challenges to care were: (1) poor adherence to medication regimens; (2) adolescent sexuality; and (3) disorganized social environments. Potential barriers to transitioning care were: (1) families’ negative perceptions of and experiences with stigma of HIV d...
A Daphnia population model that considers pesticide exposure and demographic stochasticity

Population models have emerged as a powerful tool to better understand the ecological effects of toxicant exposure. Currently, most ecotoxicology population models are deterministic and fail to account for natural variability in biological processes and uncertainty in parameter estimates. We developed, parameterized, and analyzed a Daphnia population model with three different levels of demographic stochasticity to examine how a pesticide, pendimethalin, affects population dynamics. We conducted laboratory studies to generate the data used for the modeling process. The simplest model only included parameter uncertainty and variability. The second model included daily stochastic fecundities. The third model included stochastic fecundities and stochastic mortalities. Of the three models, the second model with stochastic fecundity best described our laboratory test system. All three models were used to test hypotheses about how pesticides would affect population dynamics. We found that pendimethalin either decreased the baseline juvenile survivorship rate or the carrying capacity. We could differentiate the two test effects with our system. Our findings demonstrate how stochastic population models may provide insight into pesticide exposure.
High linearity 23-33 GHz SOI CMOS downconversion double balanced mixer

A highly linear downconversion mixer is demonstrated in a digital 45 nm silicon on insulator (SOI) CMOS process. The mixer downconverts the radio frequency signal from 23–33 GHz to 12 GHz intermediate frequency. By using a multiple gated transistor (MGTR) technique and suppressing the large signals at twice of the LO frequency at the drain nodes of transconductors, the mixer achieves an input referred third-order intercept point (IIP3) of 17 dBm, a conversion power gain of −0.5 dB, and a single side band noise figure of 12.1 dB at the radio frequency of 28 GHz. This is the first CMOS MGTR Gilbert mixer operating near millimetre-wave frequencies and fabricated using SOI MOS transistors with a floating body.