cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of various approximations for the ground state of 16O

Abstract The amount and nature of 2 particle-2 hole correlations in the ground state of 16 O was investigated using various approximations. First 2ħω excitations were considered with the particles in the 2s-1d shell and the holes in the 1 p shell. Matrix diagonalization, with spurious states removed, resulted in 22% 2p-2h ground state correlations and a depression of the ground state energy of 7.9 MeV; if spurious states were incorrectly included, then both numbers were nearly doubled. The corresponding numbers for the RPA were 43% and 8.2 MeV using the quasi-boson approximation. This approximation is suggested to be inaccurate. Ordinary perturbation theory gave results remarkably close to matrix diagonalization. The corresponding wave functions had an overlap of .993. The correlations were spread over very many j-j coupling states but could be localized to relatively few states in the L-S representation. Perturbation theory was used in a larger space where the 2 particle-2 hole energy could be greater than 2ħω. This led to 32% 2p-2h correlations and the ground state depression was 24 MeV. The correlations with 2ħω and 4ħω energy were comparable. A dispersion method gave less correlation but qualitatively similar results. In the smaller configuration space the first excited 0 + state was at 24 MeV excitation energy relative to the ground state, but a more realistic estimate is probably about 14 MeV. This state looked slightly simpler in j-j rather than L-S coupling.
It's OK if 'my brain made me do it': people's intuitions about free will and neuroscientific prediction.

Abstract In recent years, a number of prominent scientists have argued that free will is an illusion, appealing to evidence demonstrating that information about brain activity can be used to predict behavior before people are aware of having made a decision. These scientists claim that the possibility of perfect prediction based on neural information challenges the ordinary understanding of free will. In this paper we provide evidence suggesting that most people do not view the possibility of neuro-prediction as a threat to free will unless it also raises concerns about manipulation of the agent’s behavior. In Experiment 1 two scenarios described future brain imaging technology that allows perfect prediction of decisions and actions based on earlier neural activity, and this possibility did not undermine most people’s attributions of free will or responsibility, except in the scenario that also allowed manipulation. In Experiment 2 the scenarios increased the salience of the physicalist implications of neuro-prediction, while in Experiment 3 the scenarios suggested dualism, with perfect prediction by mindreaders. The patterns of results for these two experiments were similar to the results in Experiment 1, suggesting that participants do not understand free will to require specific metaphysical conditions regarding the mind–body relation. Most people seem to understand free will in a way that is not threatened by perfect prediction based on neural information, suggesting that they believe that just because “my brain made me do it,” that does not mean that I didn’t do it of my own free will.
FACILE REACTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF (ME3CCH2)2GANH22 AND OF GAN

Abstract : Four reactions of neopentylgallium compounds with ammonia have been investigated. The dihydronaphthalene derivative C10H8Ga(CH2CMe3)22-2NaCl has been observed to react with anhydrous ammonia at low temperature (-78 deg C)to form (Me3CH2)2GaNH2, dihydronaphthalene (C10H10) and NaCl whereas the related elimination reaction between Ga(CH2CMe3)3 and NH3 occurred at 140 - 150 deg C. The new compound (Me3CCH2)2GaNH2 also was prepared by reacting Ga(CH2CMe3)2Cl with sodium in liquid ammonia at -70 deg C. Bisneopentylgallium amide was fully characterized and exists as a dimer at room temperature in benzene solution. Neopentylgallium(I) Ga(CH2CMe3)n has been observed also to react with NH3 at 460 - 480 deg C to form GaN(s), CMe4 and H2.
Inhibition of phosphodiesterases relaxes detrusor smooth muscle via activation of the large-conductance voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ channel

Detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) exhibits increased spontaneous phasic contractions under pathophysiological conditions such as detrusor overactivity (DO). Our previous studies showed that activation of cAMP signaling pathways reduces DSM contractility by increasing the large-conductance voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channel activity. Here, we tested the hypothesis whether inhibition of phosphodiesterases (PDEs) can reduce guinea pig DSM excitability and contractility by increasing BK channel activity. Utilizing isometric tension recordings of DSM isolated strips and the perforated patch-clamp technique on freshly isolated DSM cells, we examined the mechanism of DSM relaxation induced by PDE inhibition. Inhibition of PDEs by 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), a nonselective PDE inhibitor, significantly reduced DSM spontaneous and carbachol-induced contraction amplitude, frequency, duration, muscle force integral, and tone in a concentration-dependent manner. IBMX significantly reduced electrical field stimulation-induced contractions of DSM strips. Blocking BK channels with paxilline diminished the inhibitory effects of IBMX on DSM contractility, indicating a role for BK channels in DSM relaxation mediated by PDE inhibition. IBMX increased the transient BK currents (TBKCs) frequency by ∼3-fold without affecting the TBKCs amplitude. IBMX increased the frequency of the spontaneous transient hyperpolarizations by ∼2-fold and hyperpolarized the DSM cell resting membrane potential by ∼6 mV. Blocking the BK channels with paxilline abolished the IBMX hyperpolarizing effects. Under conditions of blocked Ca2+ sources for BK channel activation, IBMX did not affect the depolarization-induced steady-state whole cell BK currents. Our data reveal that PDE inhibition with IBMX relaxes guinea pig DSM via TBKCs activation and subsequent DSM cell membrane hyperpolarization.
The Effect of Parental Support on Juvenile Drug Court Completion and Postprogram Recidivism

Juvenile drug courts (JDCs) have grown exponentially in the last 15 years. JDCs typically require more parental participation than do other community correctional options as a source of social support for juveniles. Using official data and offender case files, this study examined client behavior and parental support through various phases to determine factors that contribute toward successful program completion and postprogram recidivism reduction. Family support was a significant predictor of both graduation and of postsupervision rearrest. Time spent in the drug court program and client age were additional predictors of rearrest, while less prior adjudications were an additional predictor of whether a youth would complete the drug court program. Policy implications to increase parental support are discussed.
Expanding the domain of a prototype expert system with an eye on future maintenance—the FIESTA case study

As Expert Systems (ES) migrate from prototype to operational use, the tightly coupled issues of system maintenance and domain expansion become more significant. The manner in which an ES architecture and organization can support such key elements of domain expansion (and maintenance) as knowledge acquisition, representation, addition and modification are highlighted and illustrated using the Fault Isolation Expert System for TDRSS Applications (FIESTA). The paper focuses on domain expansion as applied to a diagnostic expert system, and considers implications for ongoing system maintenance, which encompasses automated end-user support.
The determination of pipecolic acid: method and results of hospital survey

A method is described for the quantitative assay of pipecolic acid in biological fluids using column chromatography, with acid ninhydrin for color development. The technique permits measurement of plasma pipecolic acid in normal individuals with blood samples of 1 ml. The mean value in 29 pediatric patients, aged 4 months to 17 years, hospitalized with a variety of diagnoses was 2.1 mumol/1 +/- 1.6. Newborn infants had slightly elevated plasma levels with a mean of 12 mumol/1 +/- 5.6. Among the diagnostic categories, patients with liver disease were distinctive in commonly having levels at the upper limits of normal. In some cases, the levels were exceedingly high, reaching 78 mumol/1 in one fatal case.
Adding Graphics to Dynamic Message Sign Messages

A human factors study assessed the effects of adding graphics to dynamic message sign (DMS) messages. Two approaches employed in the assessment—a questionnaire survey and a video-based driving simulation experiment—are reported here along with the findings. The questionnaire surveyed drivers' preferences concerning the addition of graphics to a text message, the color of the message, alternative graphic images, placement of the graphic image, image contrast, flashing, and the framing of graphic images. One hundred and twenty-seven subjects from Rhode Island participated in the survey. Statistical analysis of survey results showed strong preference for graphic-aided messages over text-only messages; amber-color messages over green- and red-color messages; and messages with graphic on the left side over others. The analysis also identified specific graphics to accompany certain text messages. Based on the survey results, a video-based driving simulation experiment was designed to test drivers' responses to ...
Lessons learned preparing for Medicare bundled payments.

Medicare typically spends as much or more in the 90 days after discharge as it does for the initial hospitalization, and post-acute care spending varies widely. This variation highlights opportunities for bundled payments to help improve quality and reduce spending.
New graph bipartizations for double-exposure, bright field alternating phase-shift mask layout

We describe new graph bipartization algorithms for layout modification and phase assignment of bright-field alternating phase-shifting masks (AltPSM). The problem of layout modification for phase-assignability reduces to the problem of making a certain layout-derived graph bipartite (i.e., 2-colorable). Previous work by Berman et al. (2000) solves bipartization optimally for the dark field alternating PSM regime. Only one degree of freedom is allowed (and relevant) for such a bipartization: edge deletion, which corresponds to increasing the spacing between features in order to remove phase conflict. Unfortunately, dark-field PSM is used only for contact layers, due to limitations of negative photoresists. Poly and metal layers are actually created using positive photoresists and bright-field masks. In this paper, we define a new graph bipartization formulation that pertains to the more technologically relevant bright-field regime. The previous work by Berman et al. does not apply to this regime. This formulation allows two degrees of freedom for layout perturbation: (i) increasing the spacing between features, and (ii) increasing the width of critical features. Each of these corresponds to node deletion in a new layout-derived graph that we define, called the feature graph. Graph bipartization by node deletion asks for a minimum weight node set A such that deletion of A makes the graph bipartite. Unlike bipartization by edge deletion, this problem is NP-hard. We investigate several practical heuristics for the node deletion bipartization of planar graphs, including one that has 9/4 approximation ratio. Computational experience with industrial VLSI layout benchmarks shows promising results.
CD11/CD18 leukocyte integrins: new signaling receptors for bacterial endotoxin.

Exaggerated responses by phagocytes to bacterial endotoxin [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] may result in the sepsis syndrome. While a number of LPS-binding proteins have been identified on immune cells, only CD14 has been definitively shown to be involved in signal transduction in response to LPS. The beta2 leukocyte integrins are a family of transmembrane receptors whose expression is restricted to leukocytes. Among their many functions, the beta2 integrins are phagocytic receptors that bind a variety of bacterial products, including LPS. We hypothesize that this binding results in signal transduction. Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) fibroblast cell lines expressing the CD11a/CD18 or CD11b/CD18 antigen were engineered by gene transfection. The cell lines were stimulated with LPS. LPS-induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) was analyzed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Heterologous expression of CD11a/CD18 and CD11b/CD18 in otherwise LPS-nonresponsive fibroblasts imparted the ability to respond to LPS. Responses to LPS were observed at levels of LPS of 100 ng/ml, as were responses to whole Gram-negative bacteria. The CD11/CD18 leukocyte integrins mediate cellular responses to the LPS component of Gram-negative bacteria. CD11/CD18-mediated responses of cells to LPS are likely to affect the phagocytosis, intracellular trafficking, and killing of invading bacteria as well as to help mediate cytokine responses during endotoxemia. The development of novel therapies to prevent the end-organ damage frequently observed during sepsis will require an understanding of these complex cellular events.
Destabilization of the A1 Domain in von Willebrand Factor Dissociates the A1A2A3 Tri-domain and Provokes Spontaneous Binding to Glycoprotein Ibα and Platelet Activation under Shear Stress

This study used recombinant A1A2A3 tri-domain proteins to demonstrate that A domain association in von Willebrand factor (VWF) regulates the binding to platelet glycoprotein Ibalpha (GPIbalpha). We performed comparative studies between wild type (WT) A1 domain and the R1450E variant that dissociates the tri-domain complex by destabilizing the A1 domain. Using urea denaturation and differential scanning calorimetry, we demonstrated the destabilization of the A1 domain structure concomitantly results in a reduced interaction among the three A domains. This dissociation results in spontaneous binding of R1450E to GPIbalpha without ristocetin with an apparent K(D) of 85 +/- 34 nm, comparable with that of WT (36 +/- 12 nm) with ristocetin. The mutant blocked 100% ristocetin-induced platelet agglutination, whereas WT failed to inhibit. The mutant enhanced shear-induced platelet aggregation at 500 and 5000 s(-1) shear rates, reaching 42 and 66%, respectively. Shear-induced platelet aggregation did not exceed 18% in the presence of WT. A1A2A3 variants were added before perfusion over a fibrin(ogen)-coated surface. At 1500 s(-1), platelets from blood containing WT adhered <10% of the surface area, whereas the mutant induced platelets to rapidly bind, covering 100% of the fibrin(ogen) surface area. Comparable results were obtained with multimeric VWF when ristocetin (0.5 mg/ml) was added to blood before perfusion. EDTA or antibodies against GPIbalpha and alphaIIbbeta3 blocked the effect of the mutant and ristocetin on platelet activation/adhesion. Therefore, the termination of A domain association within VWF in solution results in binding to GPIba and platelet activation under high shear stress.
Trapping Efficiency of Various Solid Adsorbents for Sampling and Quantitative Gas Chromatographic Analysis of Carbonyl Sulfide

The trapping efficiency of fourteen solid adsorbent tubes for sampling trace level of carbonyl sulfide was quantified. A thermal desorption gas chromatographic method for the accurate separation of carbonyl sulfide from other simultaneously collected reduced volatile sulfur gases was developed. Results demonstrated that Silica Gel and Carbotrap 301 were the best solid adsorbent material for trapping carbonyl sulfide if the sweep gas or the sampled atmosphere is dry. Molecular Sieve and Carbosieve SIII (along with calcium chloride in a drying tube) were the best solid adsorbent material for trapping carbonyl sulfide if the sweep gas contains moisture (i.e., normal field sampling conditions).
Introduction to special section on grand challenges in engineering life sciences and medicine

The purpose of this Special Section on Grand Challenges in Engineering Life Sciences and Medicine is to review and discuss challenges and opportunities in the interface of engineering with life sciences and medicine. The special section presents the challenges and trends in the following areas: 1) education and training in biomedical engineering; 2) engineering the brain and nervous system; 3) engineering the cardiovascular system; 4) engineering approaches for cancer management; and 5) emerging engineering technologies in life sciences and medicine. Nearly 100 manuscripts were submitted in response to our Call for Papers. After an initial screening and peer review, 18 papers were selected for inclusion in the Special Section. The guest editor provides a summary of the articles included in the special issue.
A Dyson Constant Term Orthogonality Relation

We give a constant term orthogonality relation and a conjectured q-analogue which are related to the Dyson constant term identity. This is the fact that the constant term in ?1?i
Seasonal mixing and catastrophic degassing in tropical lakes, Cameroon, West Africa

Lethal gas releases from Lakes Nyos and Monoun in Cameroon seem to be more lacustrine than volcanic in origin. Both of these events occurred in August and were only 2 years apart. Data show that the period of deepest mixing and lake turnover also occurs during late summer in this region of tropical Africa. In addition, recent trends of decreases in both air temperatures and effective insolation relative to long-term means suggest that weakening of stratification, coupled with a predictable seasonal interval of reduced stability in August, may be responsible for the timing of these events
The ninety-fifth percentile for growth discordance predicts complications of twin pregnancy

Abstract Objective: Our purpose was to define twin growth discordance on the basis of perinatal outcome. Study Design: Twins delivered at >23 weeks' gestation between 1995 and 2000 were identified by use of our computerized perinatal database. Birth weight (BW), chorionicity, and the following outcomes were recorded: cesarean delivery for nonreassuring fetal status (NRFS), umbilical artery (UA) pH, 5-minute Apgar score, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and stillbirth. Discordance was calculated as 100 ×(Larger BW − Smaller BW)/Larger BW. The distribution of discordance values for the study population was determined. Outcomes were compared for twins with and without discordance at thresholds defined by population percentile. Results: The mean discordance for 346 twins was 11.4% ± 10.5%. The 75th percentile was 16% discordance, the 90th was 23%, and the 95th was 31%. Discordance was independently associated with outcomes. The 95th percentile was the threshold most predictive of cesarean section NRFS, UA pH Conclusion: Defining pathologic discordance as the 95th percentile, or >30% difference, enhances its predictive value. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;187:667-71.)
Cocaine induces intracellular free Mg deficits, ischemia and stroke as observed by in-vivo 31P-NMR of the brain.

Abstract 31 P-NMR spectroscopic studies were performed in vivo on brains of rats administered cocaine. Cocaine · HCl (1–5 mg/kg) administered systemically to lightly anesthetized rats resulted in significant and progressive deficits in whole brain intracellular free Mg ([Mg 2+ ] i ). Intracellular pH (pH i ) also fell in a progressive manner but only after a significant fall in brain [Mg 2+ ] i was noted. Both [Mg 2+ ] i and pH i returned to normal in most rats. Brains of rats that exhibited stroke-like events, however, demonstrated continued intracellular acidosis associated with progressive loss of phosphocreatine and elevation of P i up until death. These observations are consistent with the tenet that injection of cocaine can result in severe cerebral vasospasm, ischemia and rupture of cerebral blood vessels as a consequence of depletion of brain [Mg 2+ ] i .
Effect of Moderate Magnetic Annealing on the Microstructure, Quasi-Static, and Viscoelastic Mechanical Behavior of a Structural Epoxy

In this study the effect of moderate magnetic fields on the microstructure of a structural epoxy system was investigated. The changes in the microstructure have been quantitatively investigated using wide angle x-ray diffraction (WAXD) and pole figure analysis. The mechanical properties (modulus, hardness and strain rate sensitivity parameter) of the epoxy system annealed in the magnetic field were probed with the aid of instrumented nanoindentation and the results are compared to the reference epoxy sample. To further examine the creep response of the magnetically annealed and reference samples, short 45 min duration creep tests were carried out. An equivalent to the macro scale creep compliance was calculated using the aforementioned nano-creep data. Using the continuous complex compliance (CCC) analysis, the phase lag angle, tan (δ), between the displacement and applied force in an oscillatory nanoindentation test was measured for both neat and magnetically annealed systems through which the effect of low magnetic fields on the viscoelastic properties of the epoxy was invoked. The comparison of the creep strain rate sensitivity parameter , A/d(0), from short term(80 ), creep tests and the creep compliance J(t) from the long term(2700 s) creep tests with the tan(δ) suggests that former parameter is amore » more useful comparative creep parameter than the creep compliance. The results of this investigation reveal that under low magnetic fields both the quasi-static and viscoelastic mechanical properties of the epoxy have been improved.« less
Histologic differences in placentas of preeclamptic/eclamptic gestations by birthweight, placental weight, and time of onset.

With preeclampsia/eclampsia (PE/E), infants more often are either large or small for gestational age. We explored whether the differences in infant birthweight (BW), placental weights (PW), or time...
Effect of buffer concentration on gradient chromatofocusing performance separating proteins on a high-performance DEAE column

Gradient chromatofocusing is a recently developed chromatographic technique that overcomes the limitations of conventional chromatofocusing. This technique employs a HPLC gradient system and simple low-molecular-mass buffer components to generate linear or other function pH gradients on ion-exchange columns. Results of the present work show a superior separation of beta-lactoglobulin A and B in gradient chromatofocusing compared to salt gradient chromatography using the same DEAE column, with an optimized resolution of 2.3 obtained with gradient chromatofocusing compared to 1.1 obtained with NaCl gradients at constant pH. A significant advantage of the gradient chromatofocusing technique over the conventional chromatofocusing technique is its ability to employ a relatively wide range of buffer concentrations in the mobile phase, the effect of which is studied in the present work. Five proteins (conalbumin, ovalbumin, bovine serum albumin, beta-lactoglobulin A and B) are chromatographed on a DEAE-polymethacrylate HPLC anion-exchange column using the same approximately linear pH gradient profile but different mobile phase buffer concentrations. Results show a significant effect of buffer concentration on peak width, separation factor and resolution. For example, resolution increases from 1.5 to 2.3 in the separation of beta-lactoglobulin A and B when the concentration of each of the components in the 100% elution buffer is increased from 6.25 to 25.0 mM (with the same outlet pH gradient). This separation trend is also seen in the chromatography of ovalbumin from a commercial source, noting a progressive increase in resolution of two peaks in the sample (resolution increased from 0.7 to 2.4) when the concentration of each of the components in the 100% elution buffer is increased from 6.25 to 37.5 mM (same outlet pH gradient). The gains in the resolution are attributed to an increase in the separation factor, since the peak widths are generally noted to also increase with increased buffer concentration. These results point to a significant interplay between buffer concentration and pH, which is not effectively exploited in either conventional chromatofocusing or in conventional ion-exchange chromatographic procedures employing salt gradient elution at constant pH. Gradient chromatofocusing has the ability of optimizing both parameters, thus providing it with unique capabilities in protein separations.
Effect of distance between decaying 125I and DNA on Auger-electron induced double-strand break yield

Purpose : To determine the possible eff ects of 125 I-to-DNA distance on the magnitude and mechanism of Auger-electron induceddouble-strand break (DSB) production. Materials and methods : We have synthesized a series of 125 Ilabeled Hoechst (H) derivatives ( 125 IE – H, 125 IB – H, 125 I-C 8 – H and 125 I-C 12 – H). While all four molecules share a common DNA minor groove binding bis-benzimidazole motif, they are designed to position 125 I at varying distances from the DNA helix. Each Hoechst derivative was incubated at 4 ° C in phosphate buff ered saline (PBS) together with supercoiled (SC) 3 H-pUC19 plasmid
Detecting the combustion phase and the biodiesel blend using a knock sensor

Existing methods of detecting the combustion phase of a diesel engine are mainly based upon high-cost in-cylinder pressure sensors. This paper presents a method of estimating the location of 75% of the mass fraction burned by using the traditional knock sensor signal. It is observed through experimental data that the knock signal has a close correlation to the location of 75% of the mass fraction burned. In this study, the knock integration is used to represent the knock intensity, while the piecewise knock integration (integration over a crank angle of 1°) is used to detect the location of 75% of the mass fraction burned. The proposed estimation method was validated using the experimental data and provided an accurate estimation of the location of 75% of the mass fraction burned. In addition, the feasibility of using the knock sensor signal to detect the biodiesel content is demonstrated using experimental data.
An adaptive cryptographic engine for IPSec architectures

Architectures that implement the Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) standard have to meet the enormous computing demands of cryptographic algorithms. In addition, IPSec architectures have to be flexible enough to adapt to diverse security parameters. This paper proposes an FPGA-based Adaptive Cryptographic Engine (ACE) for IPSec architectures. By taking advantage of FPGA technology, ACE can adapt to diverse security parameters on the fly while providing superior performance compared with software-based approaches. For example, for the final candidate algorithms of the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), our techniques lead to throughput speed-up of 4-20 while the key-setup latency time is reduced by a factor of 20-700 compared with software-based approaches. We also develop a compression technique that reduces the memory requirements of ACE without the need for dedicated hardware. Though data compression has been extensively studied before, we are not aware of any prior work that addresses the compression problem of FPGA-based embedded systems with respect to the implementation cost. Using our technique, we demonstrate up to 40% savings in memory for various configuration bit-streams.
A Statistical Framework for Testing Modularity in Multidimensional Data

Modular variation of multivariate traits results from modular distribution of effects of genetic and epigenetic interactions among those traits. However, statistical methods rarely detect truly modular patterns, possibly because the processes that generate intramodular associations may overlap spatially. Methodologically, this overlap may cause multiple patterns of modularity to be equally consistent with observed covariances. To deal with this indeterminacy, the present study outlines a framework for testing a priori hypotheses of modularity in which putative modules are mathematically represented as multidimensional subspaces embedded in the data. Model expectations are computed by subdividing the data into arrays of variables, and intermodular interactions are represented by overlapping arrays. Covariance structures are thus modeled as the outcome of complex and nonorthogonal intermodular interactions. This approach is demonstrated by analyzing mandibular modularity in nine rodent species. A total of 620 models are fit to each species, and the most strongly supported are heuristically modified to improve their fit. Five modules common to all species are identified, which approximately map to the developmental modules of the mandible. Within species, these modules are embedded within larger “super-modules,” suggesting that these conserved modules act as building blocks from which covariation patterns are built.
The challenge of studying complex diseases undergoing complex treatments: the metastatic cancer model

A cancer immune signature implicating good prognosis and responsiveness to immunotherapy was described that is observed also in other aspects of immune-mediated, tissue-specific destruction (TSD) [1,2]. Its determinism remains, however, elusive. On one side it appears that the genetic background of the host’s bears significantly on immune responsiveness, on the other it appears that tumor can behave differently within the same genetic background (as in the case of mixed responses). This apparent paradox can only be explained by a multi-factorial model of cancer immune responsiveness [3]. It should be emphasized that host and cancer genetics are largely overlapping since cancer cells carry the majority of the host’s genetics. Thus, inherited genetic factors may affect the biology of cancer cells besides that of normal cells. It could be postulated that some patients carry a genetic background that make them resistant to immunotherapy by effecting either the biology of the immune response, the biology of the cancer cells or both. On the other hand, “an immune-responsive genotype” may still be limited by the genetics of the tumors: in other words, although the patient may be predisposed to cancer rejection the tumor lacks additional properties necessary for its recognition by the immune response [4]. In this model, a favorable genetic background of the host is necessary but not sufficient for tumor rejection as the possession of a shotgun is necessary to shoot a duck but at the same time a skill in shooting is required. A good example is provided by the analysis of patients with IRF-5 polymorphism [5]; the “immune resistant phenotype” appears to almost exclusively preclude cancer rejection during adoptive therapy with tumor infiltrating lymphocytes; however, “the immune responsive phenotype” can be segregated into two categories; one enriched in patients responding to therapy and the other of non-responding [6,7]. Although, other host’s genetic factors could be responsible for this sub-classification, it is also possible that, given a favorable genetic background, the genetics of the tumor may become the determining factor [8]. We recognize that this classification of factors that may influence immune responsiveness may be too rigid. In reality, immune responsiveness may depend upon a continuum determined by the interaction of a multitude of factors that for simplicity can be separated into broad categories depending upon the host’s genetic background, somatic mutations, and external factors such as intensity and effectiveness of treatment, general condition of the patient and a multitude of other hidden co-factors. In the presentation at the NY Academy of Sciences we will present our strategy to dissect the question of cancer immune responsiveness by study dynamically the behavior of human cancers under natural conditions on in response to therapy.
Exploring the concept of value creation in program planning and systems engineering processes

Almost every large system is initiated with an intention of building something, which has new value to its stakeholders. Yet, turning this simple statement into reality is often problematic since the concept of value is not always explicitly defined or structually incorporated in the formal frameworks of program planning and systems engineering. Quite often, beyond traditional financial measures or technical and operational requirements, there is little agreement of what program value really means, and there are limited theoretical models that could help conceptualize and focus its essence. In this exploratory study, we investigated the components of program value in several major defense programs that were nominated for Aviation Week's Program Excellence Award. Among other things, these programs had to declare what value their product created. Our findings resulted in an initial framework, which identifies program value according to three major groups: value to the customer, value to the performing organization, and value to the team. The specific value components identified in our data suggest that program value could be formally and explicitly integrated into program planning and systems engineering processes. It can also lead to further research and new applications that will be focused on value creation, rather than just meeting performance and technical specifications. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng
Symptoms of schizophrenia and social cognition

This study investigated the relationship between deficits in social cognition and the dimensional descriptors for schizophrenia. Social cognitive functioning was measured using patient narratives describing card arrangements using the picture arrangement subtest of the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale—Revised. Stories were rated for number of normative themes, number of words, coherence, plausibility of attributions of emotions, and plausibility of attributions of intentions. Symptoms of Psychoticism were positively related to all ratings except of the plausibility of attributions of intentions. Ratings of story coherence, number of normative ideas, plausibility of attributions of intentions, and plausibility of attributions of emotions were negatively related to symptoms of disorganization. There was a negative relationship between negative symptoms and all rating categories except story coherence. Results indicate that it could be productive to attempt to tailor psychosocial interventions to the dominant symptom picture of patients with schizophrenia in order to improve aspects of social cognitive functioning.
Influence of Blade Flexibility on the Drag Coefficient of Aquatic Vegetation

Estimates of energy dissipation due to vegetation depend on the selection of an appropriate drag coefficient. The drag afforded by submerged and emergent vegetation depends, to varying degrees, on the incident forcing, the characteristics of the vegetation field, and the morphology of the individual blades. Recent field and laboratory evidence suggests that blade rigidity is an important, but poorly understood, control on wave attenuation, in which greater flexibility reduces drag and limits wave attenuation. The purpose of this study is to quantify the influence of blade rigidity on the drag coefficient through a laboratory experiment in which wave attenuation is measured through artificial vegetation of varying rigidity over a range of water depths and wave forcing. In general, greater flexibility caused a reduction in the drag coefficient (C D), independent of changes in water depth, although the drag would be expected to decrease as the canopy was submerged further. However, the drag coefficient of semi-rigid vegetation that pivots from the base exhibits a more complex relationship with the Reynolds number, with a significant decrease in drag as the vegetation transitions from submergent to emergent in response to the increase in oscillatory velocities at a lower point on the stem. The variation in the drag coefficient among the artificial vegetation data and previously published data from a seagrass meadow exhibits a statistically significant variation with rigidity, calculated as the ratio of Young’s modulus and wave forcing. The dependency of the drag coefficient on rigidity provides a means to estimate energy dissipation by vegetation of a given blade morphology using simple design variables.
Quantum codes from cyclic codes over GF(4/sup m/)

We provide a construction for quantum codes (Hermitian-self-orthogonal codes over GF(4)) starting from cyclic codes over GF(4/sup m/). We also provide examples of these codes some of which meet the known bounds for quantum codes.
External Debt and Prospects for Minerals‐exporting Developing Countries

This article examines the extent to which selected non-fuel minerals-exporting developing countries can rely on their traditional source of hard-currency earnings to promote future economic growth and to facilitate payments for interest and amortization of accumulated debt. The countries (and minerals) under consideration are: Chile (copper), Bolivia (tin) and Jamaica (bauxite). Incorporated into the study are sets of alternative assumptions regarding global demand for these minerals to the end of the century, market shares, mineral prices, external debt levels and interest rates. More specifically, the study examines the likely ranges of future export revenues of these countries from these minerals in the years 1990 and 2000, and the role that these future export revenues may play in servicing external debt.
Scaling of Static Fracture of Quasi-Brittle Structures: Strength, Lifetime, and Fracture Kinetics

The paper reviews a recently developed finite chain model for the weakest-link statistics of strength, lifetime, and size effect of quasi-brittle structures, which are the structures in which the fracture process zone size is not negligible compared to the cross section size. The theory is based on the recognition that the failure probability is simple and clear only on the nanoscale since the probability and frequency of interatomic bond failures must be equal. The paper outlines how a small set of relatively plausible hypotheses about the failure probability tail at nanoscale and its transition from nanoto macroscale makes it possible to derive the distribution of structural strength, the static crack growth rate, and the lifetime distribution, including the size and geometry effects [while an extension to fatigue crack growth rate and lifetime, published elsewhere (Le and Bažant, 2011, “Unified Nano-Mechanics Based Probabilistic Theory of Quasibrittle and Brittle Structures: II. Fatigue Crack Growth, Lifetime and Scaling,” J. Mech. Phys. Solids, 1322–1337), is left aside]. A salient practical aspect of the theory is that for quasi-brittle structures the chain model underlying the weakest-link statistics must be considered to have a finite number of links, which implies a major deviation from the Weibull distribution. Several new extensions of the theory are presented: (1) A derivation of the dependence of static crack growth rate on the structure size and geometry, (2) an approximate closed-form solution of the structural strength distribution, and (3) an effective method to determine the cumulative distribution functions (cdf ’s) of structural strength and lifetime based on the mean size effect curve. Finally, as an example, a probabilistic reassessment of the 1959 Malpasset Dam failure is demonstrated. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4005881]
Field-cage evaluation of the survival, feeding and reproduction of Laricobius osakensis (Coleoptera: Derodontidae), a predator of Adelges tsugae (Hemiptera: Adelgidae)

The hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae Annand, is a serious, non-native pest of hemlock in eastern North America. Laricobius osakensis Montgomery and Shiyake was identified as a key predator in Japan, where A. tsugae is native. Performance of adult and immature stages of L. osakensis was evaluated in sleeve cages on adelgid infested Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carriere in plant hardiness zones 5b and 6b in the mountains of southwestern Virginia, USA. Adults fed on the adelgid and laid eggs during all biweekly sample periods from December 2010 to May 2011, including winter when the temperature averaged below 0 C. In cages with one adult pair (one male and one female), predation of A. tsugae/predator was 0.3–0.9/day during December and January, increased to 2.5/day in February, and then declined to 0.15/day in early May. The oviposition rate lagged the changes in feeding by 2–4 weeks, increasing from 0.02 eggs/day, from December to mid-January, to a peak of 1.5 eggs/day in early April, then declining to 0.4 eggs/day in late April. Mortality was 20% in cages left undisturbed for two months during the winter; even though temperatures were as low as 18 C (cages examined biweekly had higher mortality, likely due to disturbance). In cages left undisturbed for two months during winter or early spring, 34 and 37 progeny were recovered, respectively. During each bimonthly period, a pair of adults and their progeny consumed 2.5 and 2.4 adult adelgids or ovisacs per day, respectively. Twenty-eight days after eggs were placed in the cages (on 11 March or 27 April 2012), 48% and 95% of the recovered larvae had reached maturity and each larva had destroyed 43 and 39 ovisacs, respectively. This research indicates that L. osakensis may have the potential to be an effective biological control agent of A. tsugae in most of the area where it is a pest in the eastern US.
How do surrogate decision makers describe hospice? Does it matter?

We interviewed 71 surrogate decision makers of older, chronically ill veterans to explore their knowledge of hospice and their role in helping loved ones access hospice services. We asked them to describe hospice and any previous hospice experiences. Qf the group, 24 percent with hospice experience and 14 percent without hospice experience correctly described three key aspects of hospice: who hospice cares for, where the care is provided, and the goal of the care. Additionally, we found evidence that surrogates who correctly described the three key aspects of hospice were inclined to pursue hospice care for loved ones in the future, and surrogates who provided less complete descriptions of hospice might not access it. Since surrogates often help dying patients access care, incomplete knowledge of hospice may be an important barrier to hospice services. We advocate that clinicians discuss the three key aspects of hospice during routine advance care planning sessions with patients and their future surrogate...
Why not Androgynes among Mammals

It is a curious fact that man through the ages appears to have been fascinated by the idea of finding a creature who is made of the right half of a man and the left half of a woman fused into one. In medievaldrawings and paintings, such a creature was called an androgyne (Fig. 1). Although, on rare occasions, lateral true hermaphrodites do occur — having an ovary and Mullerian-duct derivatives on one side, and a testis and Wolffian-duct derivatives on the other — such a vertical midline split is confined strictly to the “innards.” There is no left-right asymmetry in their external sexual development. Their circulating testosterone levels uniformly determine the extent of masculine manifestation; e.g., beard growth, penis size, etc. While their circulating estradiol levels control the extent of postpubertal feminine manifestation; e.g., breast fullness, hip roundness, etc. In mammals, XX and XY cells are equally responsive to testosterone and estradiol. Thus, depiction of the androgyne as only a figment of wildly unrealistic imagination illustrates that, in truth, there is total hormonal dependence of the mammalian secondary sex-determining mechanism.
Musculoskeletal pain and incident disability in community-dwelling older adults.

Objective—To test the hypothesis that the number of areas of musculoskeletal pain reported is related to incident disability. Methods—Participants included 898 older persons from the Rush Memory and Aging Project without dementia, stroke or Parkinson’s disease at baseline. All participants underwent detailed baseline evaluation of self-reported pain in the 1) neck or back, 2) hands, 3) hips, 4) knees, or 5) feet and annual self-reported assessments of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), basic activity of daily living (ADL), and mobility disability. Mobility disability was also assessed using a performance-based measure. Results—Average follow-up was 5.6 years. Using a series of proportional hazards models which controlled for age, sex and education, the risk of IADL disability risk increased about 10% for each additional painful area reported (HR=1.10, 95% CI 1.01, 1.20); the risk of ADL disability increased about by 20% for each additional painful area (HR=1.20, 95% CI 1.11, 1.31); The association with self-report mobility disability did not reach significance (HR=1.09, 95% CI 0.99, 1.20). However, risk of mobility disability based on gait speed performance increased about 13% for each additional painful area (HR=1.13, 95% CI 1.04, 1.22). These associations did not vary by age, sex or education and were unchanged after controlling for several potential confounding variables including BMI, physical activity, cognition, depressive symptoms, vascular risk factors and diseases. Conclusions—Among non-disabled community-dwelling elders, the risk of disability increases with the number of areas reported with musculoskeletal pain. Musculoskeletal disorders are common and among the major causes of chronic pain in older adults. 1 Persons aged 65 and over represent the fastest growing segment of the US population underscoring the importance of determining the association of musculoskeletal pain with the development of disability in the elderly. 2 Both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies have reported a link between musculoskeletal pain and disability in the elderly. 1, 3, 4 However, few longitudinal studies have examined whether the likelihood of developing disability increases as more areas with musculoskeletal pain are reported. In this study, we used data from 898 older participants of the Rush Memory and Aging Project, a longitudinal
Gender and intergenerational transmission of alcohol use patterns: an analysis of adult children in Moscow.

Based on a 1996 sample of adult children and their parents in Moscow, this study investigates the degree to which alcohol use patterns are transmitted from parents to adult children and examines th...
Dry Strength of Pelletized Spheres

Three limestone powders, differing only in specific surface area, were agglomerated in a balling drum to form pellets of various sizes. The pellets were tested for dry compressive strength at different rates of deformation. A limiting elastic energy criterion for failure was used to derive the relation (analogous to the classical Hertz relation for strength of an elastic isotropic sphere) between the pellet size, the total deformation, and the load at failure. The surface area of the powder, the porosity of the pellet, and its compressive strength are analytically related; the results are in good agreement with the experimental data.
Assessment of Social Media in the Library: Guidelines for Administrators

ABSTRACTLibraries have always tried to identify the places their patrons visit and the tools they use to make sure they are fully serving these patrons. Since a high percentage of adults in the United States use some form of social media, libraries should be visible there too. This column offers guidelines and advice for implementing social media in the academic library in two areas: marketing and instruction. The guidelines will help library administrators plan, implement and assess social media campaigns in both areas and will ensure that valuable time and resources are not wasted.