cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Response to Orbital Perturbations in an Atmospheric Model Coupled to a Slab Ocean

Abstract The sensitivity of an atmospheric GCM coupled to a mixed-layer ocean to changes in orbital parameters is investigated. Three experiments are compared. One has perihelion at summer solstice and a large obliquity; another has perihelion at winter solstice and a low obliquity. The first of these is favorable for warm summers; the second for cool summers. A third experiment, with perihelion at summer solstice and the lower value of obliquity, is used to examine the relative importance of the changes in perihelion and obliquity. The eccentricity is set at 0.04 in all cases. Surface temperature responses are as large as 15°C, with the largest response over North America in summer. Changes in monsoons and Arctic sea ice are consistent with previous GCM studies. A perpetual summer version of the atmospheric model is used to investigate the positive feedback due to soil moisture. Drying of the soil over North America is found to increase the temperature response by approximately 50% and is also essential ...
Parallel Clustering Algorithm for Large Data Sets with Applications in Bioinformatics

Large sets of bioinformatical data provide a challenge in time consumption while solving the cluster identification problem, and that is why a parallel algorithm is so needed for identifying dense clusters in a noisy background. Our algorithm works on a graph representation of the data set to be analyzed. It identifies clusters through the identification of densely intraconnected subgraphs. We have employed a minimum spanning tree (MST) representation of the graph and solve the cluster identification problem using this representation. The computational bottleneck of our algorithm is the construction of an MST of a graph, for which a parallel algorithm is employed. Our high-level strategy for the parallel MST construction algorithm is to first partition the graph, then construct MSTs for the partitioned subgraphs and auxiliary bipartite graphs based on the subgraphs, and finally merge these MSTs to derive an MST of the original graph. The computational results indicate that when running on 150 CPUs, our algorithm can solve a cluster identification problem on a data set with 1,000,000 data points almost 100 times faster than on single CPU, indicating that this program is capable of handling very large data clustering problems in an efficient manner. We have implemented the clustering algorithm as the software CLUMP.
Variability in HIV infectiousness across Sub-Saharan Africa

Background & Objectives: A recent randomized clinical trial, CAPRISA 004, reported levels of HIV incidence rate among general population women in South Africa that are comparable or higher than those observed among high-risk populations such as female sex workers, men who have sex with men, or injecting drug users despite low coital frequency. Understanding the factors leading to such high HIV incidence levels is critical for guiding prevention efforts. To this end, we have assessed the risk of HIV transmission among stable couples across a range of epidemic settings in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Methods: We constructed a mathematical model describing the process of HIV discordancy in a population in the context of an HIV epidemic to estimate the risk of HIV transmission within stable partnerships. The model was parameterized using nationally representative demographic health survey data for 20 countries in SSA. Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses were performed to explore the robustness of our estimates ...
Derived Operating Rules for Allocating Recharges and Withdrawals among Unconnected Aquifers

Six balancing rules are derived to inform short-term drawdown and recharge of water in multiple, unconnected aquifers. Management objectives are: 1 minimizing costs; 2 maximizing duration of operation; and 3 maximizing accessibility as a tradeoff between maximizing instantaneous withdrawal rate and the duration to sustain withdrawals. Engineering optimization formulations use either a specified target delivery rate for withdrawals or available surface water supply to recharge. Aquifers are modeled as separate, single-celled basins with lumped parameters representing key physical, institutional, and financial characteristics. Each formulation is solved analytically for the case where constraints are nonbinding. Solutions are explained as operating rules. Two examples confirm the analytical solutions. The results show how cost characteristics, fraction of recharged water available for withdrawal fractional recovery, initial storage, maximum recharge and pumping rates, and uncertainties regarding the future availability of water for extraction influence recharge and withdrawal decisions.
Switching congestion control for satellite TCP/AQM networks

In this paper, a congestion controller using datadriven switching control theory is proposed to improve the dynamic performance of the satellite TCP/AQM networks. A PID controller, whose parameters are adaptively tuned by switching among members of a given candidate set using observed plant data, is presented and compared with a classical Random Early Detection AQM policy example. A cost-detectable cost function used by the switching law is considered and compared with a cost function more commonly used in the literature. Computational cost savings are considered. Simulations are presented to validate the theory.
Decision feedback equalization for digital cellular radio

The authors study an adaptive decision feedback equalizer (DFE) for application in the USA digital cellular radio telephone system. A synchronous DFE and a fractionally spaced DFE are adaptive and use a fast recursive least squares algorithm to track rapid channel variations. Simulation results indicating the performance sensitivity to time delay spread, Doppler shift, and timing jitter are presented. A DFE using a complex fast-Kalman adaptation algorithm is presented, and its bit error rate performance evaluated. The fast Kalman equalizer is found to possess good tracking ability and can track channel variations at vehicle speeds of 50 mph (80 km/h). Sensitivity to sample timing jitter can be reduced by using a DFE with fractionally spaced feedforward taps. >
Use of the over-relaxation technique in the simulation of large groundwater basins by the finite element method

The over-relaxation technique has been used in conjunction with the finite element method in a regional time-dependent simulation of the subsidence of Venice. One year of computer experiments have shown that in basins with a ratio h/R ⩽ 10−2 between the vertical and the horizontal dimension, the over-relaxation technique can lead to unsatisfactory results. In single precision and for relatively large time steps, the solution of the final linear system can be inaccurate if the optimum over-relaxation factor ω is not correctly assessed. In transient analyses, instability can also occur. The latter may be avoided by properly reducing the time step or by switching to double precision. Steady state simulations can also require double precision to provide accurate results even when the best ω is used. Instability and inaccuracy disappear in basins for which h/R ⩾ 10−1. In addition the processor time diminishes significantly as in this case the number of iterations necessary to obtain a good solution is considerably smaller than the order of the matrix.
Adolescent Literacy: Learning and Understanding Content

Learning to read--amazing as it is to small children and their parents--is one thing. Reading to learn, explains Susan Goldman of the University of Illinois at Chicago, is quite another. Are today's students able to use reading and writing to acquire knowledge, solve problems, and make decisions in academic, personal, and professional arenas? Do they have the literacy skills necessary to meet the demands of the twenty-first century? To answer these questions, Goldman describes the increasingly complex comprehension, reasoning skills, and knowledge that students need as they progress through school and surveys what researchers and educators know about how to teach those skills. Successfully reading to learn requires the ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information from multiple sources, Goldman writes. Effective readers must be able to apply different knowledge, reading, and reasoning processes to different types of content, from fiction to history and science, to news accounts and user manuals. They must assess sources of information for relevance, reliability, impartiality, and completeness. And they must connect information across multiple sources. In short, successful readers must not only use general reading skills but also pay close attention to discipline-specific processes. Goldman reviews the evidence on three different instructional approaches to reading to learn: general comprehension strategies, classroom discussion, and disciplinary content instruction. She argues that building the literacy skills necessary for U.S. students to read comprehensively and critically and to learn content in a variety of disciplines should be a primary responsibility for all of the nation's teachers. But outside of English, few subject-area teachers are aware of the need to teach subject-area reading comprehension skills, nor have they had opportunities to learn them themselves. Building the capacity of all teachers to meet the literacy needs of today's students requires long-term investment and commitment from the education community as well as society as a whole.
CD44-Mediated Adhesion to Hyaluronic Acid Contributes to Mechanosensing and Invasive Motility

The high-molecular-weight glycosaminoglycan, hyaluronic acid (HA), makes up a significant portion of the brain extracellular matrix. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a highly invasive brain tumor, is associated with aberrant HA secretion, tissue stiffening, and overexpression of the HA receptor CD44. Here, transcriptomic analysis, engineered materials, and measurements of adhesion, migration, and invasion were used to investigate how HA/CD44 ligation contributes to the mechanosensing and invasive motility of GBM tumor cells, both intrinsically and in the context of Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptide/integrin adhesion. Analysis of transcriptomic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas reveals upregulation of transcripts associated with HA/CD44 adhesion. CD44 suppression in culture reduces cell adhesion to HA on short time scales (0.5-hour postincubation) even if RGD is present, whereas maximal adhesion on longer time scales (3 hours) requires both CD44 and integrins. Moreover, time-lapse imaging demonstrates that cell adhesive structures formed during migration on bare HA matrices are more short lived than cellular protrusions formed on surfaces containing RGD. Interestingly, adhesion and migration speed were dependent on HA hydrogel stiffness, implying that CD44-based signaling is intrinsically mechanosensitive. Finally, CD44 expression paired with an HA-rich microenvironment maximized three-dimensional invasion, whereas CD44 suppression or abundant integrin-based adhesion limited it. These findings demonstrate that CD44 transduces HA-based stiffness cues, temporally precedes integrin-based adhesion maturation, and facilitates invasion. Implications: This study reveals that the CD44 receptor, which is commonly overexpressed in GBM tumors, is critical for cell adhesion, invasion, and mechanosensing of an HA-based matrix. Mol Cancer Res; 12(10); 1416–29. ©2014 AACR.
CNS Stimulants: Nicotine

Nicotine is a psychoactive agent whose continued use usually leads to addiction. The pharmacological and behavioral processes that determine nicotine addiction are similar to those that determine addiction to other drugs, such as heroin and cocaine.1The most common form of nicotine dependence is associated with the inhalation of cigarette smoke. Pipe and cigar smoking, the use of snuff, and the chewing of tobacco are less likely to lead to nicotine dependence.2This chapter, therefore, addresses cigarette smoking as the primary agent of nicotine addiction.
Statistical Regression Based Power Models

Accurate power estimation is one of the most important ingredients for any successful design methodology in embedded system or system on chip (SoC) design. Ability to estimate power accurately and early in the design flow helps in controlling form factor, battery life and size, etc. Current power estimation techniques are well established at the RTL and lower levels of abstraction, while the techniques above RTL suffer from accuracy problem. One of the main reasons for such inaccuracy of power estimation at higher levels is the lack of technology specific information and implementation details of a design. Power estimation at the RTL or above, requires design information in the form of Verilog/VHDL/SystemC/C model, technology libraries, simulation dump, etc. However, the more detailed the model is, the slower the simulation and hence the slower the estimation. In order to make this process faster it is desirable to use power estimation techniques that do not require all this information directly exposed in the model. In the past, various techniques have been proposed to achieve this goal. These techniques involve capturing the activity by simulating a high-level model and feeding it to the lower level power estimation techniques [11, 9] using the library of blocks containing power related information [34], and using efficient power models/macro-models to estimate the power consumption [119, 113], etc.
Disposal of radioactive wastes by hydraulic fracturing: Part II. Mechanics of fracture formation and design of observation and monitoring wells

Abstract One of the problems associated with disposal by hydraulic fracturing concerns methods of monitoring at the surface for evidence of fracture orientation underground. Monitoring and observation wells had to be designed and tested which would give assurance that, as fracture after fracture was filled with waste, no change in the fracture pattern or failure in the permeability of the cover rock would result. Prototypes of two kinds of wells designed to provide such assurance have been tested with sufficient success to show that the basic designs are sound, although certain improvements will be required. In particular, a better understanding of the complex rock mechanics of the operation is needed to make best use of several monitoring techniques available.
Cell Surface Expression of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Molecules Is Reduced in Hepatitis C Virus Subgenomic Replicon-Expressing Cells

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes chronic hepatitis in most infected individuals by evading host immune defenses. In this investigation, we show that HCV-infected cells may go undetected in the immune system by suppressing major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigen presentation to cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Cells expressing HCV subgenomic replicons have lower MHC class I cell surface expression. This is due to reduced levels of properly folded MHC class I molecules. HCV replicons induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (K. Tardif, K. Mori, and A. Siddiqui, J. Virol. 76:7453-7459, 2002), which results from a decline in protein glycosylation. Decreasing protein glycosylation can disrupt protein folding, preventing the assembly of MHC class I molecules. This results in the accumulation of unfolded MHC class I. Therefore, the persistence and pathogenesis of HCV may depend upon the ER stress-mediated interference of MHC class I assembly and cell surface expression.
Probing ultrafast dynamics with attosecond transient absorption

The broad bandwidth of an isolated attosecond pulse excites a vast number of states simultaneously, and the corresponding absorption features can be monitored with exceptional temporal resolution. Novel transient absorption experiments in gases using isolated attosecond pulses are performed in two regimes, one in which the attosecond pulse is overlapped in time with a near-infrared (NIR) pulse and one in which the NIR pulse follows the attosecond pulse. In the latter regime, the attosecond pulse first interacts with a sample, then the observed absorption features are modified by a NIR pulse, which interacts with the sample well after the attosecond pulse has passed. In these experiments, which seem counterintuitive when compared to conventional transient absorption spectroscopy, the weak attosecond pulse induces a polarization of the medium, which is then perturbed by the time-delayed NIR pulse. Recent measurements demonstrate the rich variety of information that can be extracted in this regime.
Quantifying the urban gradient: Linking urban planning and ecology

Ecologists have suggested that ecological conditions in urbanizing landscapes can be described by a complex urban-to-rural gradient (McDonnell and Pickett 1990). The gradient paradigm offers a useful framework to test hypotheses on the impacts of urban development on ecological processes. These studies, however, tend to simplify the actual urban structure into monocentric agglomerations characterized by concentric rings of development surrounding a dense core. The assumption of gradient analysis is that the overall urban exposure changes predictably with distance from the urban core. Due to such simplification, current gradient studies fail to capture the effects of alternative urban development patterns on ecological processes. In this paper we argue that urban-to-rural gradients cannot be represented by the distance from the urban core. Rather they can best be described using a series of pattern metrics that link urban development to ecological conditions. Based on an analysis of land-use and land-cover patterns in the Seattle metropolitan area we propose a strategy to quantify urban patterns. We examine the behavior of various pattern metrics and propose a set of metrics useful to test formal hypotheses on the relationships between urban patterns and ecological disturbances. Finally, we discuss the implications of this empirical study for gradient analysis of metropolitan areas and for future urban ecological research.
Indicators of accuracy of consumer health information on the Internet: A study of indicators relating to information for managing fever in children in the home

Objectives: To identify indicators of accuracy for consumer health information on the Internet. The results will help lay people distinguish accurate from inaccurate health information on the Internet. Design: Several popular search engines (Yahoo, AltaVista, and Google) were used to find Web pages on the treatment of fever in children. The accuracy and completeness of these Web pages was determined by comparing their content with that of an instrument developed from authoritative sources on treating fever in children. The presence on these Web pages of a number of proposed indicators of accuracy, taken from published guidelines for evaluating the quality of health information on the Internet, was noted. Main Outcome Measures: Correlation between the accuracy of Web pages on treating fever in children and the presence of proposed indicators of accuracy on these pages. Likelihood ratios for the presence (and absence) of these proposed indicators. Results: One hundred Web pages were identified and characterized as "more accurate" or "less accurate." Three indicators correlated with accuracy: displaying the HONcode logo, having an organization domain, and displaying a copyright. Many proposed indicators taken from published guidelines did not correlate with accuracy (e.g., the author being identified and the author having medical credentials) or inaccuracy (e.g., lack of currency and advertising). Conclusions: This method provides a systematic way of identifying indicators that are correlated with the accuracy (or inaccuracy) of health information on the Internet. Three such indicators have been identified in this study. Identifying such indicators and informing the providers and con- sumers of health information about them would be valuable for public health care.
Transfer of interitem associations from serial to paired-associate learning

Transfer of interitem associations from a serial to a paired-associate (PA) list was investigated. Two serial and two PA lists were used. All lists were constructed from consonant-vowel-consonant trigrams matched for meaningfulness and arranged so as to minimize intralist variability. In the experimental condition S learned a PA list constructed from adjacent items on a previously learned serial list. In the control condition the irrelevant PA list was learned. No differences in trials to learn the two PA lists were found. The results of the present experiment replicate previous transfer studies in which such lists were constructed of adjectives. An interitem association theory of serial learning is not supported.
Reagent control over the size, uniformity, and composition of Co–Fe–O nanoparticles

Cobalt–iron–oxide (Co–Fe–O) nanoparticles have been prepared by the thermal decomposition in benzyl ether of Fe(acac)3 and Co(acac)2 in the presence of a mixture of oleic acid and oleylamine templating (surface capping) ligands, and 1,2-hexadecanediol (HDD) as an accelerating agent. The Co percentage may be tuned by adjusting the amount of Co(acac)2 precursor without influencing the average particle size or particle size distribution. Counter to prior reports the presence of the HDD accelerating agent results in broader nanoparticle diameter distribution; however, for the smallest average sizes a small amount of HDD appears to be beneficial. The effects of changes in the templating ligand concentration and the relative amounts of oleic acidversusoleylamine have been investigated to optimize particle size distribution. Dilution of all the reagents is detrimental to particle size control. Our method for producing 5 nm Co–Fe–O nanoparticles with narrow distributions has reduced the amount of HDD while simultaneously reducing the reaction time.
E-cadherin mutation-based genetic counseling and hereditary diffuse gastric carcinoma.

Abstract The E-cadherin mutation has been identified in a subset of families with multiple cases of diffuse gastric carcinoma. However, the true penetrance of this mutation and its association with other carcinomas in such families remains elusive. We aim to show the importance of DNA-based genetic counseling in hereditary diffuse gastric carcinoma. The proband was self-referred after three of his siblings died of diffuse gastric carcinoma. Medical and pathology records confirmed diagnoses. The family was educated about diffuse gastric carcinoma. Analysis for the 70G→T mutation was performed by sequencing genomic DNA from lymphocyte pellets. DNA results and genetic counseling were provided individually to those tested. Twenty-four family members were tested for the E-cadherin mutation. Nine were found to be positive and 15 were negative. Three who tested positive and were affected are now deceased. None of the 19 patients counseled wanted results sent to their physicians once they recognized the potential for insurance discrimination. None had undergone endoscopic ultrasound. Three who were positive for the E-cadherin mutation expressed strong interest in prophylactic gastrectomy. The E-cadherin mutation strongly predicts susceptibility to diffuse gastric carcinoma. Emotional stress in at-risk patients, the limited knowledge of the mutation's penetrance, and limitations of available screening mandate patient-centered genetic counseling.
An enhancement of the NASA Team sea ice algorithm

An enhancement of the NASA Team sea ice concentration algorithm overcomes the problem of a low ice concentration bias associated with surface snow effects that are particularly apparent in Southern Ocean sea ice retrievals. The algorithm has the same functional form as the NASA Team algorithm, but uses a wider range of frequencies (19-85 GHz). It accommodates ice temperature variability through the use of radiance ratios as in the original NASA Team algorithm, and has the added advantage of providing weather-corrected sea ice concentrations through the utilization of a forward atmospheric radiative transfer model. Retrievals of sea ice concentration with this new algorithm for both the Arctic and Antarctic do not reveal the deficiencies present in either the NASA Team or Bootstrap algorithms. Furthermore, quantitative comparisons with infrared AVHRR data show that the enhanced algorithm provides more accurate ice concentrations with much less bias than the other two algorithms.
Metacognition: Enhancing the performance of a cognitive radio

The application of techniques from artificial intelligence, human decision-making processes, optimization, and learning methodologies have led to significant development in the field of cognitive radios. A cognitive radio improves on a traditional radio by incorporating situational awareness, learning, and decision-making to meet the application goals and adapt to the current operating environment. The field of cognitive radios is a very active, multi-disciplinary research area with significant benefits in many application areas. In this paper, we propose a “metacognitive engine”, where a master process or controller that monitors and adapts the cognition process, generally called the “cognitive engine”. The metacognitive engine utilizes situational awareness and scenario classification and drives the cognitive process. By incorporating radio-level or system-level goals/missions and selecting the most suitable performance metric based on the mission and current state of the cognitive process, the metacognitive controller can adapt/modify the cognitive process to better utilize past experiences and achieve the best performance in the given operating environment. A case study where we apply the metacognitive radio to improve wireless communication systems used for signaling and train control in railroads is also presented.
On the greedoid polynomial for rooted graphs and rooted digraphs

We examine some properties of the 2-variable greedoid polynomial f(G·,t,z) when G is the branching greedoid associated to a rooted graph or a rooted directed graph. For rooted digraphs, we show a factoring property of f(G·,t,z) determines whether or not the rooted digraph has a directed cycle. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Dominant representations: a paradigm for mapping parallel computations

Proposes a simple paradigm for constructing heuristics for the static assignment of parallel programs onto asynchronous, distributed memory, multiprocessor architectures. The proposed paradigm involves capturing the dominant computation and communication components of an application and using this relatively simpler program representation to determine an assignment. Thus, the mapping problem is reduced from its most general form to a simpler form which often has optimal solutions. >
Wives, Husbands, and Hidden Power in Marriage

A recurrent theme in scholarship on gender and the family is the asymmetry between husbands and wives on decision making, the division of household labor, child care, and so forth. In this article, the authors tested to see if this asymmetry can be explained, in part, by taking into account the invisible power of men. Using data from the third wave of the British Household Panel Survey, the authors tested this by assessing whether agreement between husbands and wives on stereotypical men’s and stereotypical women’s issues increased when one of the spouses heard the other’s responses before answering himself or herself. The authors’ key findings are that (a) wives were much more likely than husbands to agree with their spouses’ known answers and (b) that this remains true even in conditions where wives earn more money or are more interested in politics than their husbands.
Mnemonic Devices: Classification, Characteristics, and Criteria

In recent years the importance of mnemonic strategies in learning has been recognized. Through the use of special mnemonic devices some spectacular results in recall performance have been obtained. However, systematic research on mnemonic devices is only now starting to be done. Consequently, not much is known about techniques for optimizing recall performance with mnemonic devices or the suitability of using mnemonic devices in educational settings. To help remedy this situation four aspects of the study of mnemonic devices are discussed: (1) Reasons are given why research on mnemonic devices should be performed. (2) A system is outlined by which common mnemonic devices can be classified. (3) Because recall with mnemonic devices is mediated by cognitive cuing structures created by the user, properties are described which these cognitive cuing structures must have to be effective. The criteria of constructibility, discriminability, associability, and invertibility are discussed as important properties of ...
Know the shunt flow

Because no curative options exist, hydrocephalus treatment still relies on surgical placement of a shunt catheter into the brain’s ventricular space to divert cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain and relieve pressure. Although this low-tech solution has revolutionized care for hydrocephalus
Study of Vibrations

Holographic analysis of vibration of diffusively reflecting surface started with the pioneering work of Powell and Stetson [8.1]. They showed that the reconstructed image of a time-average hologram (exposure time much longer than the vibration period) of a sinusoidally vibrating object is modulated by a fringe pattern. The intensity modulation factor is mathematically known under certain conditions and can be related to the amplitude of vibration. For the real-time observation, Stetson and Powell [8.2] introduced recording the stationary object, reconstructing the image and interfering it with the wave from the vibrating object. Again, the live fringe pattern can be used to extract the information about the vibration amplitude. These introductory contributions resulted in enormous activity among researchers and application engineers. The technique itself has continuously been refined and extended to cases of importance. In this chapter, we shall discuss various methods available in holographic vibration analysis.
Numerical analysis of the emission properties of terahertz photoconductive antenna by nite-dierence-ti me-domain method

The emission properties of terahertz(THz) photo- conductive antenna (PCA) have been numerically studied by three-dimensional nite-dierence-ti me-domain method based on the full-wave model. The dependence of the THz radiation on various parameters, such as laser power, bias voltage, sub- strate's material, pulse duration of the laser, beam spot's size, dimension of the antenna, were comprehensively simulated and analyzed. This work, on one hand, reveals the internal rela- tionship between the THz radiation of a PCA and the involved parameters, so that one can have a better understanding of the PCA. On the other hand, it can inspire new PCA's design that aims at improved performance, such as high radiation power, enhanced optics-to-THz conversion eciency, and broadband spectrum.
Reducing 1,3-Dichloropropene Emissions from Soil Columns Amended with Thiourea

Soil fumigants are becoming an important source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air, especially in some agricultural areas. In this study, we used thiourea to construct a reactive surface barrier (RSB) at the soil surface for reducing 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) volatilization. The agrochemical thiourea could rapidly transform volatile 1,3-D to nonvolatile products via an SN2 nucleophilic substitution reaction. A catalytic mechanism in thiourea-amended soil facilitated the conversion process. A packed soil column system was employed to investigate the emissions and distribution of 1,3-D and optimize the original fumigant emission-reduction strategy. Volatilization of 1,3-D from the soil surface was significantly reduced in columns amended with a thiourea RSB compared with that of bare soil. Volatilization flux and cumulative emissions decreased with increasing thiourea application rate and increasing fumigation depth in packed soil columns. Surface amendment with the RSB did not affect the subsurf...
The expression of C-jun and junB mRNA in renal cell cancer and in vitro regulation by transforming growth factor beta 1 and tumor necrosis factor alpha 1.

AbstractThe proto-oncogene C-jun acts as a transcriptional activator or repressor for numerous cellular genes, and the overexpression of these genes may cause malignant transformation. JunB inhibits c-jun’s transforming activities. We investigated the expression of jun genes in renal cell cancer (RCC) and their regulation by cytokines and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-bl). The constitutive expression of c-jun was detected in 39 of 43 fresh frozen RCC, 5 of 10 normal kidneys, and the expression of junB detected in 28 of 34 RCC, 5 of 6 normal kidneys. C-jun was also found expressed in all 10 RCC tumor lines examined and junB was expressed at low levels in 6 of 10 renal tumor lines. TGF-bl and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a) have been shown to alter the expression of jun gnes in other tissue types. Additionally, TGF-bl, TNF-a, and gamma interferon (g-IFN) were shown to inhibit the growth of RCC. We found that TGF-bl highly augmented the expression of junB (mean of 34 folds, p < .05), but did not...
Dynamic Effect in Concrete Materials

The subject of predicting and evaluating the influence of dynamic effect in materials appears to be a subject of increasing awareness and importance to the scientific community. In Civil Engineering Technology this problem is considered as a most important and timely topic particularly as it relates to the establishment of appropriate design methodology associated with masonry and concrete material structures of both the reinforced and non-reinforced types.
Third-order optical susceptibilities and their temperature dependence in polysilane and polygermane materials

We report the first measurements of the third-order nonlinear susceptibilities of an important new class of polymer, polysilane, and polygermane with planar zigzag backbones. Thermally induced phase changes between the planar trans structure and other backbone disordered structures were found to result in dramatic and reversible changes in the nonlinearity. A significant enhancement of the nonlinear susceptibility was observed to result from the optimal sigma bonded conjugation in the low-temperature all-trans structure.
Franklin and the Critics of Individualism

In several recent books by critics of individualism, The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin has served as the primary historical example of individualism’s negative aspects. While these critics echo long-standing disputes in scholarship on Franklin, placing the man and his autobiography in the context of the debate about individualism raises new issues. In effect, Franklin is said to lack a social conscience: a genuine appreciation of the interconnectedness of individuals in society and a concern for community. In spite of his benevolent actions, Franklin’s way of thinking is held to betray an essentially self-interested and self-serving outlook. Communitarian critics of Franklin’s individualism raise significant ethical issues which deserve more careful analysis and scrutiny. Neither Franklin’s autobiography, his active social conscience, nor the complexity of the many ideas and tendencies loosely categorized as ‘individualism’ are adequately interpreted when Franklin’s autobiography becomes the epitome of an ideology rejected as morally unscrupulous.
Book Review: The Law of Social Time

Is time natural or constructed? Are the rhythms of life mediated by law? Is it possible for a society to deregulate time? In this book review of Todd Rakoff’s A Time for Every Purpose: Law and the Balance of Life, Orly Lobel situates the book within the wider context of the “law and time” field of law. The review article explores the different facets of time which mediate conflicts between social institutions. In particular, the review article focuses on the work and family tensions that have accelerated in recent years. The review article argues that not only the temporal boundaries, but also the spatial and conceptual boundaries between work or commercial time and private time are themselves subject to contestation. The review suggests that A Time for Every Purpose does not adequately recognize the complexity of the civil society concept as it emerges in recent academic debates. The omission of these debates obscures the tensions between progressive visions and conservative agendas, both of which argue for civil society revivalism to advance rival policies. The review suggests that it would be helpful to explicitly consider time as a site of contestation and struggle among differently situated social groups, rather than conflicts among institutions.
Environmental Grassroots Partnerships and Potential for Social Innovation

This chapter reviews the concept of social innovation (SI) towards two sets of ecological questions: How can local management actions strengthen ecosystem response to crises? Through what organizational arrangements are ecosystem responses coordinated? The first part of this chapter reviews the concept of social innovation; the second part presents cases from southwest Rajasthan and west Yunnan on social innovation, based on fieldwork conducted in January and August 2011. The cases describe SIs that vary in scale and technology: beehives; improved wood burning stoves; pump sets; working groups to raise funds and share technology; working groups to clean shared water sources; community forest wardens; village councils for water sharing and commons access; and seed banks, land regeneration, child care, and night schools. However these cases can be read as not only demonstrating social innovation but also, in terms of critiques of the policies of neoliberal governments, and in terms of narrative ruptures, puzzles that reveal the push and pull of agential interests in the realm of ecology. The final part of the chapter argues for a focus on the politics of social innovation. As a term SI signifies the possibilities for shifting power structures through networked engagement. Networks including of NGOs must work with state governments to mobilize local people with their own interests. This requires a variety of groups, such as village councils, state-mandated bodies, registered NGOs, and networks, to negotiate and mobilize around ecological response.
Exploring Innovative Ideas, Projects and Activities Used in “Introduction to Engineering” Classes to Motivate Engineering Students

This is a paper on the importance of having interesting and engaging projects, demonstrations and other course activities in an “Introduction to Engineering” class. The primary objectives of an “Introduction to Engineering” course are two-fold. First, to expose students to the field of engineering so they can know if engineering is right for them and second, to prepare them for a major in engineering, if they decide to continue further. In order to properly portray what engineering is, the “Introduction to Engineering” classes need to provide a thorough overview of the different aspects of engineering, including good engineering projects, demonstrations, field trips, and other activities. Most “Introduction to Engineering” classes have a lecture component that goes over the basics of engineering with some physical demonstrations or activities. However, how effective these demonstrations/activities are in engaging students’ interest in engineering is questionable. If the activities are lacking or are not well chosen, then students will not appreciate engineering, and may choose other academic disciplines. This paper presents in detail many interesting projects, demonstrations and other activities that have been successfully used in “Introduction to Engineering” classes taught at several colleges and universities helping engineering educators to teach, excite and engage the students. Some examples of these projects include; building bridges out of balsa wood and testing them for the strength to weight ratio, flying rockets and learning about projectile motion and aerodynamics, building high mileage vehicles and learning about teamwork and design optimization. Results from the evaluation of these classes showed ratings between very good to excellent, with the students specifically commenting very positively about the projects and other activities. Finally, this paper discusses the optimal integration of these projects and activities in the classroom along with final recommendations for an effective overall course curriculum for an “Introduction to Engineering” class.Copyright © 2016 by ASME
The impact of patient demographics on the selection of breast imaging centers

OBJECTIVE. Studies show that health care tailored to patient preferences results in significant improvements in physician performance, patient satisfaction, and health outcomes. Limited information in the literature exists on the factors driving patient preferences for establishing care at specific breast imaging centers. In this study, we identified factors that drive cohort preferences in the selection of a breast imaging center. MATERIALS AND METHODS. An 18-question survey was deployed in a large metropolitan area to gather information on patient demographics and preferences for breast imaging center location and radiologist training level. Cluster analysis and the K-means method were used to classify patients into groups on the basis of their answers about preference. Clusters were tested for significant differences by location, reason for visit, age, education, marital status, ethnicity, insurance, history of cancer, and income. RESULTS. A total of 1682 survey responses (18% of total patient visits) ...
The influence of hospitable design and service on patient responses

ABSTRACTA study of 216 respondents examined a medical center environment’s influence on patient responses. A stimulus–organism–response (S-O-R) model was adapted to the theory that more hospitable healthcare servicescape elements will affect patients’ overall satisfaction with healthcare experience, loyalty intentions, and willingness to pay out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare services. Servicescape elements included atmospherics of the healthcare environment, service delivery by healthcare staff, physical design of the healthcare environment, and wayfinding. Results of structural equation modeling confirmed that the four servicescape elements – had a significant impact on patients’ overall satisfaction with the healthcare experience. Furthermore, overall satisfaction with the healthcare experience predicted patients’ loyalty intentions and willingness to pay out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare services. The study makes a significant contribution to the empirical modeling of patients’ behavioral respo...
Fabrication of X-band Oscillator on LCP Substrate Using Aerosol Printing

Abstract This paper presents a low-cost additive manufacturing method for rapid prototyping of millimeter and microwave circuits using aerosol jet printing of silver nanoparticle ink deposited on commercially available liquid crystal polymer (LCP) substrate material. Two passive circuit elements, a 50 Ω microstrip transmission line and a band-stop microstrip resonator, were designed, fabricated and measured. These passive elements form the basis of a printed X-band transistor-based oscillator circuit in which all metal layers have been printed, including metalized vias. Impacts of via metallization quality on oscillator performance are obtained by comparing measured data and designs. We conclude that printed metal quality (conductivity, roughness and uniformity) is an important fabrication issue for obtaining high-performance 3D printed circuits.
Just sustainability arts: a vibrant convergence

At a time when violence is worsening across structures of historical domination and influencing the condition of vital ecological systems, imaginative engagement with just sustainabilities offers a different path. This paper represents theory-building inspired by two educational designers' field experiences with justice, sustainability and the arts. Leveraging the method of the transdisciplinary imagination to tackle complex and intransigent problems and informed by a transformative, transgressive lens on social learning, the two authors explore how nine literatures converge to inform just sustainability arts. Socially conscious arts and arts-based educational research open up enlivening educational practices at the nexus of transdisciplinary approaches such as environmental and climate justice, ecofeminism, critical place and land pedagogies, bioculturally responsive curriculum and systems thinking.
Catheter-directed thrombolysis versus suction thrombectomy in the management of acute pulmonary embolism.

Abstract Background Catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) is increasingly performed for acute pulmonary embolism (PE) because it is presumed to provide similar therapeutic benefits to systemic thrombolysis, while decreasing the dose of thrombolytic required and the associated risks. Contemporary suction thrombectomy (ST) devices have entered the market as minimal or no-lytic alternatives, but there is no evidence on their comparative effectiveness. This study aims to compare clinical outcomes of these two interventional alternatives. Methods Consecutive patients who underwent a ST catheter intervention for massive or submassive PE between 2011 and 2017 were identified. For each of these patients, a nearest-neighbor matching was implemented to identify at least three CDT patients who matched as closely as possible on the following six variables: PE type, age, gender, acute deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary disease, and year of procedure. The end point was clinical success defined as meeting all the following criteria: survival to hospital discharge without major bleeding (Global Utilization of Streptokinase and t-PA for Occluded Coronary Arteries moderate or severe), perioperative stroke or other major adverse procedure-related event, and decompensation for submassive or persistent shock for massive PE. Results Of 277 patients who received an intervention for acute PE, 54 CDT (63.5 ± 14.2 years of age; 18 massive PE) were matched with 18 ST (64.1 ± 14.1 years of age; 6 massive PE) patients. In the CDT group, 38 (70.4%) received ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis. The ST group had significantly more patients who had a major contraindication for lytics (1 [1.9%] for CDT vs 9 [50%] for ST; P .999; Global Utilization of Streptokinase and t-PA for Occluded Coronary Arteries severe 1 [1.8%] for CDT vs 1 [5.6%] for ST; P > .999), stroke (3.7% for CDT vs 0 for ST; P = .408), or death (3.7% for CDT vs 16.7% for ST; P = .096). One patient in the ST group suffered tricuspid valve rupture and two patients in CDT group required surgical thrombectomy. Clinical success was not statistically different between groups (75.9% for CDT vs 61.1% for ST; P = .224). The association was similar when assessing the right/left ventricular ratio improvement (0.30 ± 0.19 for CDT vs 0.17 ± 0.16 for ST; P = .097), or the subgroup of patients with submassive PE (86.1% for CDT vs 66.7% for ST; P = .135). Conclusions CDT seems to have similar outcomes with ST in the management of acute PE, although larger, more homogenous data are needed. In our experience, ST should be viewed as a complementary alternative for patients with contraindication for thrombolytics or severely compromised hemodynamic profile and can yield good outcomes in an otherwise highly morbid population.