cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anisotropic dielectric waveguides

The guided modes of anisotropic waveguides are known to be leaky when degenerate radiation modes of the orthogonal polarization exist. These losses can be quite large when the principal axes of the dielectric tensor are not aligned with the waveguide axis. We calculate the leakage rate in waveguides that have arbitrarily oriented dielectric tensors, using a perturbation expansion that is valid for weak guidance and weak anisotropy A relatively simple expression for the loss is obtained and is applied to model cases drawn from planar and fiber waveguides with step- and graded-index profiles. The scaling of the loss with profile height and anisotropy is discussed, including the practical case of strongly asymmetric planar waveguides.
Ponderomotive stabilization of flute modes in mirrors: Feedback control and numerical results.

Ponderomotive stabilization of rigid plasma flute modes is numerically investigated by use of a variational principle, for a simple geometry, without eikonal approximation. While the near field of the studied antenna can be stabilizing, the far field has a small contribution only, because of large cancellation by quasi mode-coupling terms. The field energy for stabilization is evaluated and is a nonnegligible fraction of the plasma thermal energy. A new antenna design is proposed, and feedback stabilization is investigated. Their use drastically reduces power requirements.
Public policy and smoking cessation among young adults in the United States

In the wake of significant budget shortfalls, numerous states have increased cigarette excise taxes to boost revenues. This study examines whether or not increasing the price of cigarettes, which will occur as a consequence of cigarette excise tax increases, and implementing stronger restrictions on smoking in private worksites and other public places have an impact on smoking cessation decisions of young adults, thereby influencing public health in the United States (US). This paper employs longitudinal data on young adults from the Monitoring the Future Surveys matched with information on site-specific prices and measures of clean indoor air restrictions. A Cox regression is employed to estimate the smoking cessation equations. The estimates clearly indicate that increasing the price of cigarettes increases the number of young adults who quit smoking. The average price elasticity of cessation is 0.35. In addition, stronger restrictions on smoking in private worksites and public places other than restaurants increase the probability of young adult smoking cessation. Given the well-documented benefits of smoking cessation, a significant increase in cigarette excises taxes may be one of the most effective means to reduce premature death and disease in the United States.
A Beam Inhibit System for LAMPF

The Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) beam inhibit system provides a very rapid means of turning off the accelerator beam in the event of a spill. The maximum time required to turn off is approximately 9 ?s, of which 5 ?s are due to transmission line delay. The beam inhibit system (and the beam spill detectors) is distributed along the entire length of the accelerator. The system has been operating successfully for more than eight months in the portion of the accelerator that is in use.
Incremental-hinge piping analysis methods for inelastic seismic response prediction

Abstract This paper proposes nonlinear seismic response prediction methods for nuclear piping systems based on simplified plastic hinge analyses. The simplified plastic hinge analyses utilize an incremental series of flat response spectrum loadings and replace yielded components with hinge elements when a predefined hinge moment is reached. These hinge moment values, developed by Rodabaugh, result in inelastic energy dissipation of the same magnitude as observed in seismic tests of piping components. Two definitions of design level equivalent loads are employed: one conservatively based on the peaks of the design acceleration response spectra, the other based on inelastic frequencies determined by the method of Krylov and Bogolyuboff recently extended by Lazzeri to piping. Both definitions account for piping system inelastic energy dissipation using Newmark-Hall inelastic response spectrum reduction factors and the displacement ductility results of the incremental-hinge analysis. Two ratchet-fatigue damage models are used: one developed by Rodabaugh that conservatively correlates Markl static fatigue expressions to seismic tests to failure of piping components; the other developed by Severud that uses the ratchet expression of Bree for elbows and Edmunds and Beer for straights, and defines ratchet—fatigue interaction using Coffin's ductility based fatigue equation. Comparisons of predicted behavior versus experimental results are provided for a high-level seismic test of a segment of a representative nuclear plant piping system.
Delayed ettringite formation — Processes and problems

Abstract The scope of the delayed ettringite formation (DEF) problem is reviewed. Based on the experience of the writer and others, DEF is to be expected in both steam cured and non-steam cured concrete. The microstructural details appear identical. The common association with alkalisilica reactions is explored, and explained in terms of both prior cracking providing space for ettringite and in terms of the reduction in alkali hydroxide concentration in the pore solution attendant on ASR. The controversy concerning basic DEF mechanism between proponents of ‘homogenous paste expansion’ and ‘crystal pressure’ is explored. In the writer's opinion the microstructural evidence is not compatible with homogeneous expansion, but is a distinct consequence of crystal pressure developed by ettringite. The thermodynamic analysis that limits expansive pressure in terms of the degree of supersaturation that can be supported may be applicable to ettringite in air voids, but is inapplicable to ettringite in cracks. Fracture mechanics considerations predict local stress concentrations at the crack tips that are many times those that can be generated in open spaces. An apparent example of such effects in opening up space between mica lamellae in steam cured concrete by ettringite deposition is provided.
Evaluation of Comprehensive 2D Gas Chromatography-Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry for 209 Chlorinated Biphenyl Congeners in Two Chromatographic Runs

This research evaluates a recently developed comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography 2D GC coupled with a time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometer for the potential separation of 209 PCB congeners, using a sequence of 1D and 2D chromatographic modes. In two consecutive chromatographic runs, using a 40 m, Rtx-PCB column, and a 1 m DB-17 column, connected in series, 196 PCB congeners are distinguished, including 43 of the 46 pentachlorobiphenyl isomers. Some of the chlorinated biphenyls that could not be resolved chromatographically are resolved with the use of the “ortho effect,” which distinguishes PCB isomers having 2,2′-; and 2,2′6- chlorine substitution from those isomers without these substitutions. The result of this work falls short of our goal of separating all 209 PCB congeners but still provides investigators with a new tool for a better front-end separation of PCB-specific congeners, and potentially, for use in acquisition of more accurate data.
Precision corrections to dispersive bounds on form factors

We present precision corrections to dispersion relation bounds on form factors in bottom hadron semileptonic decays and analyze their effects on parametrizations derived from these bounds. We incorporate QCD two-loop and nonperturbative corrections to the two-point correlator, consider form factors whose contribution to decay rates is suppressed by lepton mass, and implement more realistic estimates of truncation errors associated with the parametrizations. We include higher resonances in the hadronic sum that, together with heavy quark symmetry relations near zero recoil, further tighten the sum rule bounds. Utilizing all these improvements, we show that each of the six form factors in {bar B}{r_arrow}Dscr(l){bar {nu}} and {bar B}{r_arrow}D{sup {asterisk}}scr(l){bar {nu}} can be described with 3{percent} or smaller precision using only the overall normalization and one unknown parameter. A similar one-coefficient parametrization of one of the {Lambda}{sub b}{r_arrow}{Lambda}{sub c}scr(l){bar {nu}} form factors, together with heavy quark symmetry relations valid to order 1/m{sup 2}, describes the differential baryon decay rate in terms of one unknown parameter and the phenomenologically interesting quantity {bar {Lambda}}{sub {Lambda}}{approx}M{sub {Lambda}{sub b}}{minus}m{sub b}. We discuss the validity of slope-curvature relations derived by Caprini and Neubert, and present weaker, corrected relations. Finally, we present sample fits of current experimental {bar B}{r_arrow}D{supmore » {asterisk}}scr(l){bar {nu}} and {bar B}{r_arrow}Dscr(l){bar {nu}} data to the improved one-parameter expansion. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}« less
Negative BOLD response and serotonin concentration within rostral subgenual portion of the anterior cingulate cortex for long-allele carriers during perceptual processing of emotional tasks

A negative blood oxygen level - dependent (BOLD) has been associated with a high concentration of GABA using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and fMRI. Subjects with long-allele carriers have seen with high concentration of serotonin in Rostral Subgenual portion of the anterior cingulate cortex (rACC). In this paper, we investigate the effect of serotonin concentration on hemodynamic responses. Our results show a negative BOLD signal in rACC in the subjects with long-allele carriers. In contrast, the subjects with short-allele carriers showed positive BOLD signals in rACC. These results suggest that the serotonin transporter gene impacts the neuronal activity and eventually the BOLD signal similar to GABA.
TAFII‐independent activation mediated by human TBP in the presence of the positive cofactor PC4

TFIID is a multiprotein complex comprised of the TATA-binding protein (TBP) and an array of TBP-associated factors (TAFIIs). Whereas TBP is sufficient for basal transcription in conjunction with other general transcription factors and RNA polymerase II, TAFIIs are additionally required for activator-dependent transcription in mammalian cell-free transcription systems. However, recent in vivo studies carried out in yeast suggest that TAFIIs are not globally required for activator function. The discrepancy between in vivo yeast studies and in vitro mammalian cell-free systems remains to be resolved. In this study, we describe a mammalian cell-free transcription system reconstituted with only recombinant proteins and epitope-tagged multiprotein complexes. Transcriptional activation can be recapitulated in this highly purified in vitro transcription system in the absence of TAFIIs. This TBP-mediated activation is not induced by human mediator, another transcriptional coactivator complex potentially implicated in activator response. In contrast, general transcription factors TFIIH and TFIIA play a significant role in TBP-mediated activation, which can be detected in vitro with Gal4 fusion proteins containing various transcriptional activation domains. Our data, therefore, suggest that TFIIH and TFIIA can mediate activator function in the absence of TAFIIs.
Polyamines--an improved automated ion-exchange method.

Abstract An accurate, precise, and improved automated cation-exchange chromatographic method with ninhydrin detection for the analysis of di- and polyamines (putrescine, cadaverine, spermidine, and spermine) has been developed. We have shown that different types of biological fluids such as urine, blood plasma, blood sera, tissue extracts, and cancer cell culture media can be analyzed under identical chromatographic conditions. The simplicity and precision of the method was achieved by eliminating the sample pre-separation and using an internal standard technique. Thus, not only has the sample preparation been simplified, but the accuracy and precision and sensitivity of the method have been greatly improved. Twenty-four unattended analyses were performed each day. With minor modifications of the instrument a two-fold analytical output can be achieved with analysis time cut to 30 min. The ruggedness and applicability of the method has been demonstrated in our laboratory during the past six months. More than two thousand urine and hundreds of other physiological samples have been analyzed by this method with a relative standard deviation from 3.3 to 7.8%, and recoveries of 94 to 97%. This automated ion-exchange chromatographic method for the polyamines will be useful to researchers in biological markers programs for monitoring the course of cancer and effectiveness of chemotherapy.
The phi coefficient and chi square as indices of item validity

Two new methods of item analysis are described. One involves the computation of the φ coefficient (correlation of a fourfold point distribution) and the other involves chi square. The only data required are the proportions of passing individuals in the upper and lower criterion groups, for the determination of φ, and in addition,N, for the determination of chi square. Abacs are presented for graphic solution of the two indices of validity, and tests of significance are provided.
ANALYZING THE COST OF DEBT FOR SMALL BUSINESS

Summary The available empirical evidence provides mixed views of small businesses' relative bankruptcy risk. The difference between Churchill and Lewis' findings and SBA's and Kirchhoffs' may well lie in the difference in definition of firm “size” used. Risk is not evenly spread; the smallest businesses seem to be less risky than the intermediate size businesses. Yet, Churchill and Lewis' actual loss evidence suggests that small business risk is only marginally greater than for large businesses, the loss rate is still equivalent to less than one half of one percent. The assumptions that lenders will adjust the amount of debt they allow small business clients rather than the interest rate is not rejected by this evidence. In fact, the much higher profitability of the small business department reported by Churchill and Lewis suggests that the bank's loan interest rates are more than high enough to cover loss risk and fixed costs, and borrowers provide profitable deposits. Thus, the logic of my utility theory hypothesis provides a reasonable explanation for the relatively higher debt levels of small firms compared to large firms. But, then the Kirchhoffs' findings cast some doubt on whether small firms actually have higher debt levels. None of these findings justify the 2.75 percent interest rate spread allowed by SBA.
Ru binding to RNA following treatment with the antimetastatic prodrug NAMI-A in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and in vitro

[ImH][trans-RuIIICl4(DMSO)(Im)] (where DMSO is dimethyl sulfoxide and Im is imidazole) (NAMI-A) is an antimetastatic prodrug currently in phase II clinical trials. The mechanisms of action of this and related Ru-based anticancer agents are not well understood, but several cellular targets have been suggested. Although Ru has been observed to bind to DNA following in vitro NAMI-A exposure, little is known about Ru–DNA interactions in vivo and even less is known about how this or related metallodrugs might influence cellular RNA. In this study, Ru accumulation in cellular RNA was measured following treatment of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with NAMI-A. Drug-dependent growth and cell viability indicate relatively high tolerance, with approximately 40% cell death occurring at 6 h for 450 μM NAMI-A. Significant dose-dependent accumulation of Ru in cellular RNA was observed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry measurements on RNA extracted from yeast treated with NAMI-A. In vitro, binding of Ru species to drug-treated model DNA and RNA oligonucleotides at pH 6.0 and 7.4 was characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry in the presence and absence of the reductant ascorbate. The extent of Ru–nucleotide interactions increases slightly with lower pH and significantly in the presence of ascorbate, with differences in observed species distribution. Taken together, these studies demonstrate the accumulation of aquated and reduced derivatives of NAMI-A on RNA in vitro and in cellulo, and enhanced binding with nucleic acid targets in a tumorlike acidic, reducing environment. To our knowledge, this is also the first study to characterize NAMI-A treatment of S. cerevisiae, a genetically tractable model organism.
Fetal weight estimation formulas with head, abdominal, femur, and thigh circumference measurements

Most current sonographic techniques for estimating fetal weight involve measurements of the head, abdomen, and femur length both alone and in combination. The value of the fetal thigh circumference measurement in addition to the head, abdominal, and femur length measurements has not been investigated previously. Eighty-nine patients were scanned within 72 hours of delivery, and the following ultrasonic fetal parameters were obtained in all fetuses: biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and thigh circumference. With multiple stepwise regression analysis, the best-fit formulas were developed with one, two, three, four, and five parameters, respectively. The best results were obtained by combining measurements of all five parameters: biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and thigh circumference. The mean error of this formula was 6%, the mean deviation 0.3%, and the SD 7.8%. These data suggest that the addition of thigh circumference to measurements of the head, abdomen, and femur length improves the accuracy of fetal weight estimates.
Use of β-Adrenoceptor Antagonists in Older Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Cardiovascular Co-Morbidity

The incidence of and mortality from both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) increase with age. In addition, the average age of patients with COPD and CVD is also increasing as a result of improvements in both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. Coronary artery disease is a compelling indication for β-adrenoceptor antagonist use in a population in whom β-adrenoceptor antagonism is often viewed as contraindicated. β-Adrenoceptor antagonists have been proven to improve cardiovascular morbidity and mortality but have been under-utilized in patients with COPD with concomitant CVD because of a fear of bronchoconstriction and adverse effects, particularly in the elderly. The advanced age of patients with COPD and CVD, along with the sheer number of patients with these diseases, necessitates that clinicians understand the treatment of these co-morbidities using seemingly conflicting therapy in the form of β-adrenoceptor agonists and antagonists. We review changes in the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of β-adrenoceptor antagonists in the elderly, the role of β-adrenoceptor antagonists in CVD and the literature regarding the safety and mortality benefits of β-adrenoceptor antagonists in elderly patients with COPD and concomitant CVD. We conclude that cardioselective β-adrenoceptor antagonists appear to be safe to use in elderly male patients with mild-to-moderate COPD who have a compelling indication for β-adrenoceptor antagonist therapy. Data in female patients are very limited. Nonselective β-adrenoceptor antagonists should be avoided in general, except in patients with heart failure who might benefit significantly from the use of carvedilol. β-Adrenoceptor antagonists have been shown to improve mortality in older patients with coexisting CVD and COPD.
Protein acylation in Tetrahymena.

Abstract Examination of exhaustively delipidated Tetrahymena mimbres cells by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed the presence of several protein bands containing covalently linked fatty acids. Palmitic (16:0) and stearic (18:0) acids together accounted for approximately 90% of the protein-linked acyl chains, with myristic acid (14:0) comprising most of the remainder. Each of these three fatty acids was present mainly in alkali-stable linkage, indicating that unlike most other systems examined, fatty acids are attached to proteins of Tetrahymena principally by amide bonds. Smaller proportions of the acyl chains were susceptible to release by hydroxylaminolysis or by alkaline hydrolysis as would be expected from an ester linkage. The protein-bound acyl chains accounted for 0.3% of the cells' total fatty acids. They closely resembled in composition the highly saturated free fatty acid pool but not the vast pool of glycerolipid-associated fatty acids, which were mainly unsaturated. Cells subjected to thermal stress by rapid chilling from 39 to 15 °C responded by sharply increasing the ratio of palmitate to stearate in covalent association with proteins.
The study of biofilm formation under water by photoacoustic spectroscopy

Abstract The potential of photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) for the study of marine organic films has been assessed. It is shown that PAS can be used at the solid/liquid interface to detect the presence of a primary bacterial film formed from seawater. Data for several types of organic films on Parafilm are presented. Data can be obtained in situ as the film is forming under water, or subsequent to film formation on the dried film. The technique is especially useful for detecting organic films on surfaces that are neither optically reflective nor transparent. It is concluded that further development of the technique is warranted to complement existing thin film analysis methods often requiring reflectivity or transparency or both and to increase the signal-to-noise ratio of data from the water cell so that PAS can be used to distinguish various components of a seawater organic film.
INTRINSIC HIGH-FREQUENCY CHARACTERISTICS OF TUNNELING HETEROSTRUCTURE DEVICES

A general numerical method has been developed to solve the periodic time-dependent Schr\"odinger equation under a weak ac field where the quantum transmitting boundary method is employed to formulate boundary conditions of far-from-equilibrium open systems. Also derived are current components for ac small-signal analysis. We apply the method to a resonant tunneling diode (RTD) structure. Our calculations illustrate that the assumption of Lorentzian-like form of line shapes of the current functions is no longer valid at high frequencies. Thus a careful treatment to these integral functions is fundamental to obtain a physically reasonable result. Results of linear admittance, rectification coefficient, and second-harmonic generation coefficient are presented as a function of frequency and bias, at both positive differential resistance and negative-differential resistance (NDR) region. The calculations have shown that at high frequencies (several THz), the reactive feature of RTD, whether inductive or capacitive, depends on the bias and frequency. The capacitive feature, i.e., the positive imaginary part of the admittance, reaches maximum in the middle of the NDR region. This behavior can be ascribed to the confined electrons in the well. The characteristic of the transition from electron to optical behavior is observed when the frequency increases. The rectification coefficient and second-harmonic generation coefficient show a resonant enhancement at high frequencies. A comparison with the results obtained by the Wigner function is demonstrated. Different definitions of the ac reactive current component are discussed in order to clarify the confusion in the literature.
Textured tin oxide films produced by atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition from tetramethyltin and their usefulness in producing light trapping in thin film amorphous silicon solar cells

Abstract The phenomenon of light trapping was studied by producing and characterizing amorphous silicon solar cells on textured tin oxide films produced from tetramethyltin, bromotrifluoromethane and oxygen. The amount of texturing was systematically increased by increasing the film thickness. The investigation revealed that only about 5% to 10% diffuse scattering is necessary to obtain the entire beneficial effect of light trapping; higher values give rise to poorer cell performance. Conditions leading to the deposition of tin oxide films with various types of surface texturing and the subsequent solar cell results are reported.
Development and performance of high temperature power conversion capacitors

Certain military and commercial applications require capacitors that can operate at high temperatures, high energy density, with long lifetimes. This paper describes life testing of capacitors with energy densities as high as 0.2 J/cc at >125°C. Capacitors using the same dielectrics but with a higher packing factor design can achieve the same performance but with energy densities >0.3 J/cc at 100°C. Data on dissipation factor, energy density, ripple current capability, lifetime, and other performance parameters are presented. This work was sponsored by the US Army Research Laboratory.
Temperature, age and crust thickness distributions of Loki Patera on Io from Galileo NIMS data: Implications for resurfacing mechanism

[1] A high-spatial-resolution, multi-wavelength observation by the Galileo NIMS instrument has been analysed to determine the temperature and area distribution of a large portion of the ionian volcano Loki Patera. The temperatures of the cooler components from a two-temperature fit to the data can be used to determine ages of the surface. The age of the floor along a profile across the floor of the caldera ranges from ∼10 to ∼80 days. This puts the start of the resurfacing in July/early August 2001, yielding a resurfacing rate of approximately 1 km/day, with the new lava spreading from the SW corner of the caldera in a NE direction. This rate is consistent with resurfacing by foundering of the crust on a lava lake. However, the temperature distribution may also result from the emplacement of flows. Implied crust thicknesses (derived using a lava cooling model) range from 2.6 to 0.9 m.
The relationship between faculty ward evaluations, osce, and absite as measures of surgical intern performance

Background This study determined the degree to which ward evaluations, the American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE), and an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) provide equivalent information about intern performance. Methods Twenty-two general surgery interns completed both the ABSITE and a 17-problem, 35-station OSCE. Faculty members completed several 12-item ward evaluations for each intern. Pearson product-moment correlations were employed to determine the degree of association among the various evaluation measures. Results The total OSCE score correlated with both the total ABSITE score and the overall ward evaluations, but the latter two measures did not correlate with each other. The ward evaluations identified the performance of 1 of the 22 interns (5%) as deficient, the ABSITE identified 9 (41%) as deficient in knowledge, and the OSCE 8 (36%). Conclusions In the future, performance-based testing methods such as the OSCE should become more important as an evaluative parameter in assessing the clinical performance of postgraduate surgical trainees.
Effect of a multidisciplinary intervention on central line utilization in an acute care hospital.

Background Many institutions that have adopted evidence-based infection prevention practices have achieved reductions in the rate of central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) in their intensive care units (ICUs). Few studies have investigated the impact of CLABSI prevention strategies in non-ICU settings, however. This study was conducted to assess whether a multifaceted educational initiative significantly improved health care workers’ adherence to clinical practices that have been demonstrated to reduce CLABSI rates. Methods This prospective interventional study compared central line utilization and other variables in medical ICU (MICU) and non-ICU settings at an inner city community teaching hospital. The study included 3 phases: preintervention, intervention, and postintervention. Results A total of 128 central venous catheter (CVC) placements were reviewed. After the intervention, the proportion of patients transferred out of the MICU with a CVC in place decreased significantly ( P = .05), and the percentage of patients transitioned from a CVC to a peripherally inserted venous catheter increased ( P = .004). The mean duration of CVC use decreased from 8.2 days to 5.7 days ( P = .004), which was confirmed by linear regression ( P = .003). Conclusions Our data indicate that multidisciplinary, evidenced-based educational interventions can significantly improve targeted measures of CVC use. Our program was successfully implemented with limited resources and should be reproducible at other hospitals.
COMPARATIVE CONFORMATIONAL ANALYSIS OF HUMAN CHORIOMAMMOTROPIN AND SOMATOTROPIN FROM SEVERAL SPECIES

The conformations of porcine somatotropin and human choriomammotropin have been studied using circular dichroism (CD) and the results compared with spectra of human, murine, ovine, and bovine somatotropin. The far ultraviolet CD spectra of the six proteins were similar, and each spectrum was analyzed using constrained linear least squares. The following average percentages of alpha-helicity, beta-structure, and aperiodic (nonhelical) conformation were obtained: 57, 6, and 37, respectively, based on a standard protein reference set, and 42, 22, and 36, respectively, based on poly-L-lysine as reference. Thus, the estimated secondary structure is strongly dependent upon the reference data used. Interestingly for these similar proteins, it appears that over 60% of the residues are part of ordered secondary structure and less that 40% are in an aperiodic conformation. The near ultraviolet CD spectra of these hormones were similar in many respects, although certain significant differences were observed, particularly in the sign of various extrema. These spectral differences probably reflect non-identical microenvironments of the aromatics and disulfides, arising from differences both in amino acid sequence and local conformation.
Impact of Carpooling on Trip-Chaining Behavior and Emission Reductions

Within an activity-based framework, the hypothesis that carpooling imposes a constraint on the way individuals organize their activities was tested, with resulting impacts on traffic peak congestion and trip-chaining behavior. The hypothesis was tested by estimating the joint probability density functions (PDFs) of subsistence, maintenance, and discretionary trips made by carpool and single-occupancy vehicle (SOV) users. Results show that whereas SOV maintenance and discretionary activities are linked to subsistence trips in a joint undertaking, carpool activities suggest discontinuity in the formation of trip chains. A comparison of the joint PDF of subsistence and discretionary activities reveals that trips are conducted either before or after the commute schedule; this results in a temporal shift that reduces peak-period traffic congestion and emission pollution. Marked differences are found to exist between SOV and carpool trip-chaining behavior. Carpoolers are more likely to engage in a greater numbe...
Mutations That Destabilize the gp41 Core Are Determinants for Stabilizing the Simian Immunodeficiency Virus-CPmac Envelope Glycoprotein Complex*

The human and simian immunodeficiency viruses (HIV and SIV) envelope glycoprotein consists of a trimer of two noncovalently and weakly associated subunits, gp120 and gp41. Upon binding of gp120 to cellular receptors, this labile native envelope complex undergoes conformational changes, resulting in a stable trimer-of-hairpins structure in gp41. Formation of the hairpin structure is thought to mediate membrane fusion by placing the viral and cellular membranes in close proximity. An in vitro-derived variant of SIVmac251, denoted CPmac, has acquired an unusually stable virion-associated gp120-gp41 complex. This unique phenotype is conferred by five amino acid substitutions in the gp41 ectodomain. Here we characterize the structural and physicochemical properties of the N40(L6)C38 model of the CPmac gp41 core. The 1.7-A resolution crystal structure of N40(L6)C38 is very similar to the six-helix bundle structure present in the parent SIVmac251 gp41. In both structures, three N40 peptides form a central three-stranded coiled coil, and three C38 peptides pack in an antiparallel orientation into hydrophobic grooves on the coiled-coil surface. Thermal unfolding studies show that the CPmac mutations destabilize the SIVmac251 six-helix bundle by 15 kJ/mol. Our results suggest that the formation of the gp41 trimer-of-hairpins structure is thermodynamically coupled to the conformational stability of the native envelope glycoprotein and raise the intriguing possibility that introduction of mutations to destabilize the six-helix bundle may lead to the stabilization of the trimeric gp120-gp41 complex. This study suggests a potential strategy for the production of stably folded envelope protein immunogens for HIV vaccine development.
Modeling “Effectiveness” in International Relations

Are democracies better at winning wars and militarized disputes? Is there an advantage associated with initiating a war or dispute? Noting that pairwise contest data are the norm in applied research, we motivate a straightforward Bradley–Terry statistical model for these problems from first principles, which will allow for a closer integration of theoretical and statistical practice for scholars of international relations. The essence of this approach is that we learn about the latent abilities of states from observing conflict outcomes between them. We demonstrate the novelty and appeal of this setup with reference to previous attempts to capture estimands of interest and show that for many questions of concern—especially regarding “democratic effectiveness” and “initiation effects”—our approach may be preferred on theoretical and statistical grounds. The evidence we find only partially supports the ideas of “democratic triumphalists”: democracy aids effectiveness, but only in certain contexts (while in ...
On the synthesis of multiple frequency tone burst stimuli for efficient high frequency auditory brainstem response

The development and digital waveform synthesis of a multiple-frequency tone-burst (MFTB) stimulus is presented. The stimulus is designed to improve the efficiency of monitoring high-frequency auditory-brainstem-response (ABR) hearing thresholds. The pure-tone-based, fractional-octave-bandwidth MFTB supports frequency selective ABR audiometry with a bandwidth that falls between the conventional click and single-frequency tone-burst stimuli. The MFTB is being used to identify high frequency hearing threshold change due to ototoxic medication which most generally starts at the ultra-highest hearing frequencies and progresses downwards but could be useful in general limited-bandwidth testing applications. Included is a Mathcad® implementation and analysis of our MFTB synthesis technique and sample performance measurements of the MFTB stimulus configuration used in a clinical research ABR system.
valentino: a zebrafish gene required for normal hindbrain segmentation.

Mutational analysis can serve both to identify new genes essential for patterning embryonic development and to determine their functions. Here we describe the identification and phenotypic characterization of alleles of valentino, which we recovered in a genetic screen that sought to identify mutations in the zebrafish that disrupt region-specific gene expression patterns in the embryonic brain. valentino is required for normal hindbrain segmentation and the hindbrain of valentino mutant embryos is shortened by the length of one rhombomere. We demonstrate that valentino is required cell-autonomously in the development of rhombomeres 5 and 6, and propose that valentino functions in the subdivision and expansion of a common precursor region in the presumptive hindbrain into the definitive rhombomeres 5 and 6. These results provide genetic evidence for a two-segment periodicity in the hindbrain and suggest that this periodicity arises sequentially, through the specification and later subdivision of a two-rhombomere unit, or ‘protosegment’.
Reflections on Feminist Identity Development Implications for Theory, Measurement, and Research

One of the original authors of the feminist identity model reflects on the 16 subsequent years of work in the field as described in this major contribution. The original model is clarified and measurement issues are examined, particularly in relation to the Synthesis and Active Commitment subscales. The author also evaluates existing research and provides suggestions for future research.
Transforming growth factor beta-induced connective tissue growth factor and chronic allograft rejection.

Late loss of allograft function is primarily attributed to chronic rejection (CR). There are no effective treatments for CR and the underlying cause of the disease is unknown. This study compared events that occurred within cardiac allografts placed in mice that received either anti-CD4 therapy and develop CR or anti-CD40L therapy and do not develop CR. Both TGFβ and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), which is induced by TGFβ, were expressed in grafts with CR but were not expressed in grafts without CR. TGFβ transfection of allografts in anti-CD40L-treated recipients resulted in CTGF expression and CR. However, TGFβ transfection of syngeneic grafts did not result in CTGF expression or CR. These data indicate that TGFβ alone is insufficient to induce CR and that CTGF is required. Further, antigenic stimulation is required for TGFβ induction of CTGF. Thus, CTGF may serve as a therapeutic target for CR.
Biochemical Changes in Lysogenic Bacillus stearothermophilus After Bacteriophage Induction

Abstract Welker, N. E. (University of Illinois, Urbana), and L. Leon Campbell. Biochemical changes in lysogenic Bacillus stearothermophilus after bacteriophage induction. J. Bacteriol. 90:1129–1137. 1965.—Cultures of Bacillus stearothermophilus 1503-4R (TP-1) continued to grow at an unaltered rate after induction with mitomycin C (MC). MC-induced cultures exhibited a 2.5-fold increase in cell number before lysis occurred. Prior to lysis, cells were observed to elongate and to contain areas of lesser density. Protein synthesis was slightly inhibited in MC- or ultraviolet light (UV)-induced cultures for a period of 5 to 10 min, and then proceeded at a rate identical to that in the noninduced culture. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesis was not affected by MC induction. UV induction caused RNA synthesis to occur in two stages: in the first stage, the rate of RNA synthesis was one-third that observed in the noninduced culture and lasted for a period of 15 min; the second stage of RNA synthesis then proceeded at a rate identical to that in the noninduced culture. The synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in an MC- or UV-induced culture occurred in two stages. In the first stage, DNA synthesis in induced cultures occurred at a rate of one-half (MC) and one-third (UV) of that observed in the noninduced culture. The first stage of DNA synthesis in MC- or UV-induced cultures lasted for 25 to 30 min and 15 to 20 min, respectively. In the second stage, the rate of DNA synthesis in MC- or UV-induced cultures occurred at a rate three times that of the noninduced culture. UV induction appeared to have a greater inhibitory effect than MC induction on protein, RNA, and DNA synthesis as well as phage yield. The differential rate (K) of inducible and constitutive α-amylase synthesis was inhibited by 75 and 100%, respectively, for a period of 20 min after MC induction. After 20 min, the K values for α-amylase synthesis were identical to those obtained in the absence of MC induction. The synthesis of TP-1 phage DNA occurred rapidly and was complete 25 min after MC induction, whereas bacterial DNA was degraded or its rate of synthesis was decreased. During the second stage of DNA synthesis, only bacterial DNA was synthesized, but at a rate greater than that found in the noninduced culture.
Religious Coping and Working Past Retirement Age: A Review of the Literature

This article examines the published literature on religion, age, and health, and how these variables relate to job satisfaction and working into advanced ages. This review summarizes findings from the following databases: EBSCOhost; Web of Science; PubMed; and Google Scholar. Search terms included various forms of “aging/elderly worker or workforce, workplace religiosity, religion/spirituality and health, and religious coping.” Ninety-two articles employing a variety of methods were reviewed in detail. If plausible links between religious coping methods and working past age 67 can be posited, then a future study of potential predictive capabilities may be warranted.
Three decades of personnel selection research: a state-of-the-art analysis and evaluation

Three hundred and ninety-four personnel selection studies published in the journal Personnel Psychology over a 30-year period (1950–1979) were analysed according to selected aspects of the research design. The purpose of the study was to describe and evaluate changes in the conduct of personnel selection research which have occurred during the past three decades. The parameters selected for analysis included (1) type of job performance criteria used; (2) types and number of predictors used; (3) sample size; and (4) jobs studied. The results reveal significant changes in the parameters of personnel selection research over the past 30 years. The findings are discussed in terms of how the literature meets current professional standards for personnel selection research.
Gastric nematode diversity between estuarine and inland freshwater populations of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis, daudin 1802), and the prediction of intermediate hosts

We examined the variation of stomach nematode intensity and species richness of Alligator mississippiensis from coastal estuarine and inland freshwater habitats in Florida and Georgia, and integrated prey content data to predict possible intermediate hosts. Nematode parasitism within inland freshwater inhabiting populations was found to have a higher intensity and species richness than those inhabiting coastal estuarine systems. This pattern potentially correlates with the difference and diversity of prey available between inland freshwater and coastal estuarine habitats. Increased consumption of a diverse array of prey was also correlated with increased nematode intensity in larger alligators. Parasitic nematodes Dujardinascaris waltoni, Brevimulticaecum tenuicolle, Ortleppascaris antipini, Goezia sp., and Contracaecum sp. were present in alligators from both habitat types. Dujardinascaris waltoni, B. tenuicolle, and O. antipini had a significantly higher abundance among inland inhabiting alligators than hosts from estuarine populations. Our findings also suggest that host specific nematode parasites of alligators may have evolved to infect multiple intermediate hosts, particularly fishes, crabs, and turtles, perhaps in response to the opportunistic predatory behaviors of alligators.
Symbolic Substitution Using ZnS Interference Filters

Pattern recognition is demonstrated using two-dimensional nonlinear optical logic gate arrays on ZnS and ZnSe interference filters defined by fly's eye lens arrays. Fan-out is demonstrated, allowing symbol scription using these arrays.
Psychosocial characteristics and outcomes in patients with left ventricular assist device implanted as destination therapy.

Background Psychosocial factors impact survival in patients undergoing cardiac transplantation, but it is unclear whether they affect outcomes in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation as destination therapy (DT). Methods Patients undergoing DT LVAD at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, from February 2007 to December 2013 were included. Psychosocial characteristics at the time of LVAD implantation were abstracted from the medical record. Andersen-Gill and Cox models were used to examine the association between psychosocial characteristics and all-cause readmission and death, respectively. Patients were censored at death or last follow-up through September 2014. Results Among 136 patients (mean age. 64 years; 17% female), most were married/living with a partner (82%), half (55%) had post-high school education, and a history of depression was common (32%). Although most patients were former tobacco users (60%) only a small proportion were current tobacco users (10%) and had a history of alcohol abuse (16%) or illegal drug use (7%). After a mean follow-up of 2.2 ± 1.8 years, 78% of patients had been readmitted (range, 0-14 per person) and 49% had died. There were no statistically significant differences in the risk of death according to psychosocial characteristics. However, current tobacco users had lower risk of readmission (adjusted HR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.38-0.88), while illegal drug use (HR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.01-2.35) and depression (HR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.40-2.22) were associated with higher readmission risk. Conclusions Psychosocial characteristics are not significant predictors of death but are associated with readmission risk after DT LVAD.
Prevalence of variant brachial-basilic vein anatomy and implications for vascular access planning.

Objective To describe and increase understanding of the brachial-basilic vein anatomy that could impact planning of long-term hemodialysis access procedures. Methods Preoperative vein mapping was conducted in a cross-sectional, observational study in end-stage renal disease patients from August 2005 to May 2010. "Traditional" anatomic description with basilic-brachial junction at the axillary level with paired brachial veins was classified as "Type 1." Junctions observed at the mid or lower portions of the upper arm with duplication of the brachial vein above that level were classified as "Type 2." Junctions at the mid and lower portions of the upper arm with no duplication of the brachial vein above that level were classified as "Type 3." Results Two hundred ninety patients (mean age, 56 ± 17 years; 52% men) were observed and 426 arms mapped (221 right, 205 left). The prevalence of variations in venous arm anatomy was as follows: Type 1: 66%; Type 2: 17%; and Type 3: 17%. Conclusions This study underscores the need for heightened awareness of upper arm venous variations and advocates the regular use of preoperative ultrasound imaging. We propose that recognition of Type 3 anatomy may have implications in access algorithm and planning.
Model composability as a research investment: responses to the featured paper

Responses to the featured paper (see ibid. Composable simulations, Kasputis, S.; Ng, H.C., p. 1577-84) are provided by four authors who represent different elements of the simulation research community: industry, private research laboratory, and university. As is evident from the reactions given, these perspective provide both shared and distinct observations on model composability as an opportunity for research investment.