cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Psychometric Evaluation of the Life Orientation Test—Revised in Treated Opiate Dependent Individuals

We examined internal consistency and test-retest reliability of a measure of dispositional optimism, the Life Orientation Test — Revised, in 121 opiate-dependent patients seeking methadone treatment. Internal consistency was adequate at baseline (α = .69) and follow-up (α = .72). Low socioeconomic status and being on disability were significantly associated with reduced internal consistency; ethnic and educational differences approached significance. Test-retest reliability was good (ICC = .72), varying across gender, race, ethnicity, education, employment and income (ICC Range = .24 –.85). Criterion validity was strong; the LOT-R was significantly negatively correlated with hopelessness (r = -.65, p < .001) and depression (r = -.60, p < .001). Findings support the use of this measure of optimism and pessimism to assess positive cognitive and emotional attributes and improve treatment strategies for opiate-dependent individuals. Future research should address the measurement and significance of optimism in minority, low socioeconomic status and poorly-educated individuals.
Real World Application of Stenting of Unprotected Left Main Coronary Stenosis: A Single-Center Experience

Background: The aim of this study was to summarize our single-center real-world experience with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) stenting of unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA). PCI-stenting of the ULMCA, while controversial, is emerging as an alternative to coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in select patients and clinical situations. Methods: Between January 2005 and December 2008, PCI-stenting was performed on 125 patients with ULMCA lesions at our institution. Clinical and procedural data were recorded at the time of procedure, and patients were followed prospectively (mean 1.7 years; range 1 day-4.1 years) for outcomes, including death, myocardial infarction (MI), and target vessel revascularization (TVR). Results: The majority of cases were urgent or emergent (82.5%), 50.4% of patients were non-surgical candidates, and 63.2% had 3 vessel disease. Many emergent patients presented in shock (62.1%), were not surgical candidates (89.7%), and had high mortality (20.7% in-hospital, 44.8% long-term). Mortality in the elective group was 6.3%. Cumulative death and TVR rates were 28.8% and 13.6%, respectively. Independent predictors of mortality were ejection fraction (EF) ≤ 35% (HR 2.4, CI 1.1 - 5.4) and left main bifurcation (HR 2.7, CI 1.2 - 5.7). Conclusions: PCI-stenting is a viable option in patients with LMCA disease and extends options to patients who are poor candidates for CABG. Elective PCI in low-risk CABG patients results in good long-term survival. Cumulative TVR is 13.6%. EF ≤ 35% and left main bifurcation are independently associated with increased mortality. Cardiol Res. 2012;3(3):100-108 doi: https://doi.org/10.4021/cr165w
Observations of tidally coherent diurnal and semidiurnal variations in the geocenter

The center of mass of the Earth, about which a satellite orbits, is determined by the mass distribution of the solid Earth (including the Earth's interior), the oceans, and the atmosphere. The tracking sites, however, are all located on the lithosphere only, and so the network origin will not generally coincide with the center of mass. Changes in the vector offset between these two points, referred to as apparent geocenter motion, are due to global scale movement of mass. In this study we have extended the approach used by space geodetic techniques for determination of tidally coherent nearly diurnal and semidiurnal variations in the Earth's orientation to include geocenter variations due to ocean tides. We demonstrate the weaker observability of nearly diurnal retrograde motions in x and y, and hence the utility of their separation from the other equatorial terms. We find statistically significant terms at the 99.5% level due to O1, P1, K1, and M2. The solutions, which indicate geocenter motions at the few millimeter level per tide, compare well with predicted values from theoretical ocean tide models and from TOPEX/Poseidon radar altimetry.
Metalation of o-methylanisole (o-MA); an optional-site selectivity reassessment

Abstract ‘Deficiency catalysis’ is the concept applied to metalation chemistry that increments of TMEDA or an equivalent or two of an ether activate alkyllithiums in hydrocarbon media. Amplification of this concept to conflicting reports of α- and ortho -metalation of ortho -methylanisole ( o -MA) is explored. Both regioselective metalations were realized in selectivity ratios of >7:1 for the desired isomers. Some rationale is provided for the various selectivities. These results are at variance with prior results and interpretations thereof found in the literature.
The decision to lobby bureaucrats

Despite a good deal of interest in lobbyists’ tactics, virtually no research has been published examining the conditions under which interest groups lobby the bureaucracy rather than or in addition to the legislature. Using two comprehensive datasets, I show that lobbying increases in both branches when conflict is higher and when the lobbyist has professional or political connections to that venue. In addition, certain conditions cause lobbyists to specialize in one branch or a particular branch only, depending on the issue area being lobbied, the interest group type being represented, the lobbyist’s resources, and other factors.
Schottky barrier formation at nonpolar Au/GaN epilayer interfaces

A new approach to studying Schottky barrier formation on a nanometer scale is demonstrated using both Auger electron spectroscopy core level shift and secondary electron threshold work function measurements on cleaved epilayers. Band bending induced by metallization of cleaved epilayer surfaces can be investigated without introducing defects due to chemical or ion beam surface cleaning. For GaN epilayers, this approach also avoids complications due to piezoelectric effects on polar-axis growth surfaces. Initial investigations of Au and Ag Schottky contact formation on GaN in ultrahigh vacuum reveal the presence of a pinning level ∼1.7 eV above the valence band edge.
Correcting land surface temperature measurements for directional emissivity over 3D structured vegetation

The emissivity variation of the land surface is the most difficult effect to correct for when retrieving land surface temperature (LST) from satellite measurements. This is not only because of the emissivity inter-pixel variability, but also because each individual pixel is a combination of different surface types with different emissivies. For different illumination-observation geometries, this heterogeneity leads to different ensemble (scene) emissivities. The modified geometric project (MGP) model has been demonstrated to be able to simulate such effect when the surface structural characteristics are available. In this study, we built a lookup table to correct the surface emissivity variation effect in LST retrievals. The lookup table is calculated using the MGP model and the MODTRAN radiative transfer model. The MGP model, assumes that the land surface visible to the satellite sensor is a composite of homogeneous vegetation and soil background surface types. The homogeneous or "pure" surface types and their emissivity values are adopted from Snyder's surface type classification. Our simulation procedure was designed to calculate the emissivity directional variation for multiple scenarios with different surface types, solar-view angles, tree cover fractions, and leaf area index. Analysis of the MODTRAN simulation results indicates that an error of over 1.4 K can be observed in the retrieved LST if surface emissivity directional variability is not accounted for. Several MODIS granule data were selected to evaluate the correction method. The results are compared with the current MODIS LST products.
Business ethics and workplace guanxi in Chinese SOEs: a qualitative study

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine Chinese employees' perceptions on their ethical decision making in relation to the workplace guanxi context in state‐owned enterprises (SOE).Design/methodology/approach – Using a qualitative method, two rounds of interviews were conducted with 18 participants in two SOEs “to explore Chinese employees” ethical perceptions and experiences in the workplace. A qualitative thematic strategy was adopted to analyze and interpret the data.Findings – The authors identified three major themes on SOE employees ethical decision making in relation to workplace guanxi: the ethical self; malleable ethical standards; and submission to authority. The authors derived a conceptual framework to outline the relationship between the invisible hand of guanxi and the SOE employees' ethical decision making.Originality/value – The paper contributes to the business ethics literature by presenting a three‐dimensional profile and a conceptual framework for Chinese business ethics rese...
Screen printed metal contacts to Si solar cells — Formation and synergistic improvements

Silicon solar cell technology has advanced by improvements to all aspects of cell design including metallization. Improvements to metal contacts have been synergistic with other cell improvements such as passivation, lightly doped emitters, and boron doped emitters. This paper briefly recounts the history of c-Si PV metallization technology and its synergy with other cell technologies. It concludes with a perspective on various metal contact mechanisms.
The impact of socioeconomic factors on outcome and hospital costs associated with femoropopliteal revascularization

Introduction Within the context of healthcare system reform, the cost efficacy of lower extremity revascularization remains a timely topic. The impact of an individual patient's socioeconomic status represents an under-studied aspect of vascular care, especially with respect to longitudinal costs and outcomes. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between socioeconomic status and clinical outcomes as well as inpatient hospital costs. Methods A retrospective femoropopliteal revascularization database, which included socioeconomic factors (household income, education level, and payor status), in addition to standard demographic, clinical, anatomical, and procedural variables were analyzed over a 3-year period. Patients were stratified by income level (low income [LI] 200% federal poverty level) and revascularization technique (open vs endovascular) and analyzed for the endpoints of primary assisted patency, amortized cost-per-day of patency, and limb salvage. Data were analyzed with univariate and multivariate techniques. Results A total of 187 cases were identified with complete data for analysis, 146 in the LI and 41 in the HI cohorts. LI patients differed from HI patients by mean age (66.2 ± 1.0 vs 61.8 ± 1.5 years, P = .04), high school graduate rate (51.4% vs 85.4%, P P = .05), female gender (43.7% vs 22.0%, P = .01) and preoperative statin use (45.8% vs 75.6%, P P = NS) and 12-month cost-per-day of patency ($166.30 ± 77.40 vs $22.45 ± 12.45, P = .05). Ninety-eight patients underwent open revascularization, with the following outcomes in LI and HI patients respectively: primary assisted patency (78% vs 86%, P = NS) and 12-month cost-per-day of patency ($319.43 ± 225.44 vs $40.47 ± 4.63, P = .07). Of the 77 patients with critical limb ischemia, 19 underwent eventual amputation. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that income above 100% of the federal poverty line was protective against limb loss (odds ratio 0.06, 95% confidence interval 0.01-0.51, P Conclusion Income level correlates with advanced presentation, advanced age, and lack of statin use. Although primary assisted patency rate is not affected by income status, an increased cost-per-day of patency and inferior limb salvage is found in lower income patients.
Life Cycle Environmental Implications of Residential Swimming Pools

Ownership of private swimming pools in the U.S. grew 2 to 4% per annum from 1997 to 2007. The environmental implications of pool ownership are analyzed by hybrid life cycle assessment (LCA) for nine U.S. cities. An operational model is constructed estimating consumption of chemicals, water, and energy for a typical residential pool. The model incorporates geographical climatic variations and upstream water and energy use from electricity and water supply networks. Results vary considerably by city: a factor of 5−6 for both water and energy use. Water use is driven by aridness and length of the swimming season, while energy use is mainly driven by length of the swimming season. Water and energy impacts of pools are significant, particularly in arid climates. In Phoenix for example pools account for 22% and 13% of a household’s electricity and water use, respectively. Measures to reduce water and energy use in pools such as optimizing the pump schedule and covering the pool in winter can realize greater sav...
Growth hormone and lipolysis: a reevaluation.

A recent report claimed that the lipolytic activity found in clinical grade human GH (hGH) was entirely attributable toan acidic peptide contaminant. Using the same preparations as studied in the earlier report, we found that delayed lipolytic activity, as demonstrated in the presence of dexameth-asone, was fully evident in the highly purified hGH preparation which had been reported to be devoid of lipolytic activity. We also studied the acidic peptide contaminant in which all of the lipolytic activity of clinical grade hGH was alleged to reside and found its lipolytic activity was equivalent to thatof the highly purified hGH. Both compounds increased lipolysis in the presence of 0.1 μg/ml dexamethasone after a lag period of 1 h. The minimum effective concentration of both fell within the range of 1 and 10 ng/ml, and both were capable of producing a 2- to 3-fold increase in glycerol production. When saturating amounts of each were added simultaneously they produced no greater effect than either alone, alt...
Real-Time Electron Diffraction. Part III: Image Transfer Via Fiber Optics

Improvements are described in photodiode-array real-time data recording for gas electron diffraction (GED). When the conventional glass window and lens optics in a previously reported detector configuration are replaced by fiber optic components, two significant effects arise: (1) detector gain is enhanced to the extent that it is now possible to detect nanoliter samples in combined GED-GC (gas chromatography) experiments, and (2) for the first time since the development of the real-time recording scheme, molecular mean amplitudes of vibration are within error limits of literature values. Thus the method now affords full molecular structure determinations, including bond distances and angles, and their associated mean vibrational properties.
A method for the optimal design of a class of pattern recognition systems

Abstract Easily implemented measurements which allow an equal variance in all portions of a pattern are made on single rows and columns of a two-dimensional binary image of the pattern. An optimal minimum set of measurements for each size binary image is determined by solving a prime implicant chart. Application of an economic principle determines the best system. A simple example is presented to demonstrate the method. The best system for a set of 52 characters is determined using the method. Results indicate that a maximum allowable variation in any letter is 30.9 per cent, regardless of binary image size. An hypothesis relating character set size and character similarity is stated.
Construct development and measurement of indecisiveness

Purpose – The current study aims to aid in the theoretical development of the indecisiveness construct, create a definition of indecisiveness that reflects current research, and differentiate indecisiveness from other constructs in the field. An indecisiveness scale with positive psychometric properties is developed to measure the construct.Design/methodology/approach – A total of 578 undergraduate participants answered an open ended question inquiring about a “big” decision they were facing in their life. Participants completed questionnaires on indecisiveness and decision‐making strategies.Findings – Of the 578 total participants who completed the study, 465 (approximately 81 percent) stated that they felt indecisive with regard to their “big” decision. While researchers may be hesitant to study indecisiveness because the phenomenon is thought to be rare, the current study indicates that the presumed anomaly may exist more often than the literature reflects. What's more, the widespread occurrence of ind...
PRENATAL INTERVENTION FOR CHILDREN WITH IN UTERO EXPOSURE TO MATERNAL DRUG USE. 643

In our Infant Care Project we integrate prenatal, substance abuse, and child services for pregnant women who are abusing drugs and their children. Three groups are identified to study the intervention and the relative contributions of biological and environmental factors: women recruited prenatally (early intervention), those identified postnatally (late), and a matched comparison group with no known drug use.
Organic dye removal from aqueous solution by glidarc discharges

Abstract The performance of several electrical discharge gliding arc (glidarc) reactors for the removal of an organic dye from aqueous solution has been studied. The glidarc reactors utilized AC electrical discharges with two different electrode configurations. In one case, two electrodes were placed in the gas phase over the liquid surface ( P =250–300 W, U =12 kV). In order to increase the dye removal from the aqueous solution a three-electrode glidarc reactor, where the solution to be treated was sprayed directly into the plasma (thereby increasing the interfacial area), was also studied ( P =500 W, U =12 kV). The effects of the type of gas, including pure oxygen, pure nitrogen, argon, and dry air, on the dye removal rates were determined. Comparison of the reactor performance for these reactors with the previously obtained data for dye removal in a pulse corona discharge reactor is given.
Women and non-cardiac chest pain: gender differences in symptom presentation

A substantial number of individuals evaluated for complaints of chest pain do not suffer from coronary heart disease (CHD). Studies show that many patients who complain of symptoms that might be caused by CHD, such as shortness of breath or chest pain, may actually have an anxiety disorder. Gender differences in how patients present with these symptoms have not been adequately explored. The purpose of this study was to explore possible gender differences in the presentation of patients with CHD-like symptoms. Two groups were examined, one comprising 6,381 individuals self-referred for electron beam tomography (EBT) studies and a subset of these individuals who defined a “low-risk” group based on the absence of risk factors for CHD and low coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores. We explored gender differences in symptom presentation in each group after controlling for relevant variables by using logistic regression models. These analyses showed that women were significantly more likely than men to endorse CHD symptoms that might also be caused by an anxiety disorder. Women in the low risk group reported CHD symptoms also referable to anxiety more often than men, but unlike men did not complain primarily of chest pain. Women were also more likely to have been prescribed antianxiety or antidepressant medication. In previous studies, non-cardiac chest pain has been considered a hallmark of anxiety in individuals seen in medical settings. This study suggests that in individuals with low risk for CHD chest pain was not related to gender, but other anxiety-related symptoms including heart flutter, lightheadedness, nausea, and shortness of breath were more likely to be reported in women than in men.
Optoelectronic and Structural Properties of High-Quality GaN Grown by Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy

Gallium nitride (GaN) films have been grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) in a vertical reactor design. We report on GaN growth directly on sapphire using a GaCl surface pretreatment. The electrical properties of these films compare favorably with the highest values reported in the literature for GaN. Specifically, a room temperature Hall mobility as high as 540 cm2 /V-s, with a corresponding carrier concentration of 2×1017 cm−3, have been attained. Additionally, the vesical reactor design has assisted in reducing nonuniformities in both film thickness as well as in transport properties due to depletion effects, as compared with horizontal designs. The dislocation density in these films has been determined by plan-view transmission electron microscopy to be ∼3×l08 cm−2 . Photoluminescence spectra obtained at 2 K show intense, sharp, near-bandedge emission with minimal deep level emissions. Stimulated emission has been observed in these films, utilizing a nitrogen laser pump source (λ=337.1 nm) with a threshold pump power of ∼0.5 MW/cm2 . These results suggest that HVPE is viable for the growth of high-quality nitride films, particularly for the subsequent homoepitaxial overgrowth of device structures by other growth methods such as OMVPE and MBE.
Effects of Clostridium difficile Toxins on Epithelial Cell Barrier

Clostridium difficile is the primary agent responsible for many patients with antibiotic-associated diarrhea and almost all patients with pseudomembranous colitis following antibiotic therapy. C. difficile infection is the most frequent form of colitis in hospitals and nursing homes and affects millions of patients in the United States and abroad. The first event in the pathogenesis of C. difficile infection involves alterations of the indigenous colonic microflora by antibiotics, followed by colonization with C. difficile. C. difficile causes diarrhea and colitis by releasing two high molecular weight protein exotoxins, toxin A and toxin B, with potent cytotoxic and enterotoxic properties. Evidence presented here indicates that C. difficile toxins compromise the epithelial cell barrier by at least two pathophysiologic pathways, one involving disaggregation of actin microfilaments in colonocytes via glucosylation of the Rho family of proteins leading to epithelial cell destruction and opening of the tight junctions, whereas the other appears to involve early release of proinflammatory cytokines from intestinal epithelial cells probably via activation of MAP kinases. We speculate that cytokines released from intestinal epithelial cells in response to toxin A exposure will diffuse into the lamina propria and activate macrophages, enteric nerves, and sensory neurons to release SP, CGRP, and NT, which, in turn, interact with immune and inflammatory cells and amplify the inflammatory response. Dissection of this inflammatory cascade may help us understand the pathophysiology of inflammatory diarrhea caused by this important pathogen.
High speed interconnect data dependent jitter analysis

This paper focuses on modeling and characterizing the data dependent jitter (DDJ) in high-speed interconnect. The analysis process is performed based on the Fourier series using the interconnect RLC model. By calculating the pattern dependent delay deviations, the DDJ is characterized. To validate the model accuracy, the analysis results have been compared against Cadence simulations. The interconnect layout optimization is also explored to minimize the DDJ.
GOVERNMENT DEBT, AGGREGATE SUPPLY AND FISCAL POLICY

The objective in this paper is to review several theoretical issues associated with fiscal policy and to test these theories via a reduced form real GNP equation using quarterly U.S. data from 1958 through 1966. Theoretical work by Friedman, Holmes and Smith, and others suggest (for different reasons) that fiscal policy may be ineffective. Holmes and Smith point out that increases in taxes may conceivably increase aggregate demand if the demand for money depends on disposable income. Higher taxes shift the IS curve to the left as usual. However, higher taxes reduce disposable income and decrease the demand for money. With a constant money supply, the LM curve shifts to the right and the lower equilibrium interest rate increases aggregate demand. The net effect of the opposite shifts in IS & LM could conceivably be an increase in income. Similarly, lower taxes may conceivably lower equilibrium income. The argument of Friedman and others runs along different lines. They emphasize that any change in government expenditure or change in taxes may temporarily alter real income, but any “pure” fiscal policy must be accompanied by a change in government debt. The larger debt that accompanies a fiscal expansion raises interest rates and eventually reduces private demand. The fiscal expansion can allegedly “crowd out” private expenditure completely so that the net long run effect on real income is zero.
Identification of insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins in the circulation of four teleost fish species

Insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins (IGF-BPs) were demonstrated in the circulation of four teleost fish species. In the coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), serum binding of 125I-labelled human IGF-I (125I-hIGF-I) was competitively inhibited by addition of excess recombinant bovine IGF-I (rbIGF-I) in a manner similar to that when rat serum was used. Western-ligand blot procedure using the same labelled hormone identified at least three major forms of IGF-BPs in the plasma of all four teleost species investigated: coho salmon, striped bass (Morone saxatilis), tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), and longjawed mudsucker (Gillichthys mirabilis). The first form is around 40–50 kDa, may be regulated by growth hormone (GH), and seems to be a good candidate for the fish version of mammalian IGF-BP3 (which is in the same size range and is GH-regulated). The second and third forms are 29 kDa and 31 kDa and are good candidates for the fish versions of mammalian IGF-BP1 and IGF-BP2, respectively, as they appear to be regulated by insulin and are in the same size range as their mammalian counterparts. Functionally different classes of circulating IGF-BPs may be conserved between fish and mammal. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
But what do they really think? Identifying consumers' values relevant to adopting biotechnologically produced foods

Much has been written about the media's importance in the formation of attitudes toward new technologies such as biotechnology. However, little has been published regarding consumer-held values that play such an important role in forming these attitudes and which ultimately play a role in whether a product is adopted. Understanding how the product will complement, or clash, with, the publics' values is crucial in developing strategic communication plans. Developing Means-End Chains via Laddering Theory to document users' values has been a useful research method in understanding the attributes and consequences associated with a product that may lead to acceptance by the general public. The purpose of this exploratory research was to identify the values consumers held toward foods created through biotechnological methods and the supporting attributes and consequences that supported those values. The findings indicate that, in this study, consumers felt no differently toward products developed using traditional agricultural methods versus biotechnological methods because the participants overwhelmingly relied on government agencies to ensure that their food was safe. The values identified in this study may provide a common ground for communicating about biotechnologically produced foods. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stimulus equivalence instruction of fraction-decimal relations.

Stimulus control technology was applied to the instruction of fraction ratio (e.g., (1/5)) and decimal (e.g., 0.20) relations, with 7 students who demonstrated difficulty in fraction and decimal tasks. The students were trained to match pictorial representations of fractions (B comparison stimuli) to printed counterpart fraction ratios (A sample stimuli), and to match printed decimals (C comparison stimuli) to pictorial representations of counterpart quantities (B sample stimuli). Posttest performance by all participants indicated the emergence of equivalence relations between fractions represented as ratios, decimals, and pictures. Limited generalization of fraction-decimal relations was observed.
Sorghum sudangrass as a summer cover and hay crop for organic fall cabbage production

No-tillage (NT) organic vegetable production presents several economic opportunities for growers in the southeastern United States while promoting natural resource conservation. This study was conducted to determine if removal of sorghum sudangrass (SS) cover crop biomass as hay, frequency at which the cover crop is mowed, and tillage affect weed suppression and head weight of transplanted organic cabbage. Sorghum sudangrass [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench×Sorgum sudanense (Piper) Staph.] was planted in May 2004 at Reidsville and Goldsboro, NC, preceding the planting of organic ‘Bravo’ cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. Capitata group) in August and September 2004, respectively. SS management systems included: low-frequency mowing with hay removed following the first mowing operation (LFM-H), low-frequency mowing with hay not removed (LFM), high-frequency mowing with hay not removed (HFM) and a no cover crop control. Two tillage treatments were applied within each management system: conventional tillage (CT) and NT. Under NT conditions, SS mulch generated by LFM offered broadleaf weed control in cabbage similar to that achieved under CT, regardless of whether cover crop biomass was removed as hay. Mowing with higher frequency reduced SS cover crop biomass by 18–33% and reduced weed suppression in NT cabbage. Mowing frequency did not influence the quantity of SS that re-grew in the cabbage crop. SS re-growth contributed to lower head weight in NT compared to CT cabbage in Goldsboro, and crop failure of NT cabbage in Reidsville. Cabbage head weight was highest when the crop was not preceded by SS in both CT and NT systems (1.6 as opposed to 1.3–1.4 kg head−1). Our findings suggest that the potential for growers to manage a cover crop also as a hay crop does exist; however, SS may not be a compatible cover crop species for organic fall cabbage production due to high amounts of re-growth.
Temperature-sensitive star-branched poly(ethylene oxide)–b-poly(propylene oxide)–b-poly(ethylene oxide) networks

Abstract Temperature-sensitive polyurethanes are obtained by reacting trifunctional isocyanate with poly(ethylene oxide)– b -poly(propylene oxide)– b -poly(ethylene oxide) [Pluronic L122]. The temperature-dependent interactions among poly(propylene oxide) [PPO] segments are observed by n.m.r. At low polyurethane concentrations, segment–segment PPO interactions within a given gel cluster are predominant, whereas above the concentration threshold, interparticle interactions lead to the aggregation of clusters. The formation of physical networks in polyurethane suspensions with the temperature increase is followed by the appearance of temperature- and shear-thinning viscoelastic gels.
A simulation study of the stochastic ridge k

A simulation of regressions is used to generate estimates by iteration of the generalized ridge parameter.The simulation results indicate that generalized ridge parameters estimated by iteration from near collinear data may be quite different from unknown optimal values.
Network monitoring system design

Computer networks can be very useful, but difficult to manage. Current network management tools tend to be either very expensive or inadequate for classroom modification. XSNIFF is a project to develop an alternative network monitoring tool with a graphical display in the X-Window environment. XSNIFF uses an efficient network packet filtering system developed by Jacobson, Leres, and McCanne of Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory[Jacobson, 1994], to receive all network traffic from the network wire and then translate it into usable information. The network listening device should not affect the normal flow of network traffic, but should observe it. XSNIFF has a graphical interface that allows the user to select between statistical information and a TCP connection graph. The statistical information displays data belonging to different network level protocols and different user level protocols. The connection information is displayed as a graph showing which network nodes are connected to what other nodes. The information can be used by a teacher in a computer network class to help students visualize network traffic and as a learning tool to help students understand computer network protocols.
Stability of Explicit Schemes in the Physical and Frequency Domains

We look at some of the issues involved in designing stable explicit numerical schemes for linear advection equations from two perspectives: (a) in the physical domain, where each scheme represents a particular interpolation of discrete data, and (b) in the frequency domain, where the behavior of each scheme is determined by the spectral characteristics of the operator that is acting on discrete data. We show that (1) the fully discrete form is equivalent to choosing a value for the dependent variable from an interpolation of the data in the spatial domain at the previous time level, (2) interpolation generates a continuous function (polynomial) in the physical space, (3) size of the time step used in updating the solution determines the location from where the interpolated value is obtained, and (4) if a choice of step size shows amplification in the spectral domain, interpolation in the physical domain exceeds the bounds set by the discrete data at a spatial location corresponding to this step size. Comparisons are made between the behavior of the operator in the frequency and physical domains; and the amplification in the frequency domain matches the value of extrema generated by the interpolation. Examples to illustrate both perspectives include first and second difference operators, spatial averaging, and various central and upwind schemes for the linear advection equation.
Restoring science to the National Children's Study.

THE UNHAPPY STATE OF THE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S Study (NCS) has been described in several recent publications. Authorized by Congress in 2000, but not fully funded until 2007, this ambitious National Institutes of Health (NIH) study has consumed years of planning efforts, produced many reports and white papers, and spent close to a billion dollars. Yet, in 2013, the study is still in its pilot phase. The original design, proposed in 2004, was to enroll 100 000 pregnant women in a nationally representative sample of 105 communities. But in 2011, the NIH announced that sample size would be increased to “up to 250 000 women,” and in 2012 added that the NCS would use “healthcare provider networks as the primary sources for recruitment” and that the “enrolled population would no longer be a national proability sample.” Later in 2012, the NIH had second thoughts and reverted to 100 000 participants, but now at least half would be recruited at birth, not in pregnancy, and from a sampling frame of hospitals, not counties. In the meantime, approximately 4000 pilot-phase participants have been recruited with changing data-collection protocols in 40 communities and have been informed that the main study may take place elsewhere. The university teams that recruited the pilot participants have nearly all been replaced by independent research organizations. At the heart of the failure of the NCS is its abandonment of the hypothetico-deductive mode of scientific thinking. Vacillation in study design was inevitable once the NIH asserted, in 2010, that the NCS “is not designed to answer a set of specific hypotheses. It is a data-gathering platform.” Without explicit scientific goals, there is no logical way to select an optimal design. Whenthose responsible for “big science” suggest that “‘process’ expertise to maximize efficiency of high throughput operations is as important as scientific rigor,” the scientific impulse is likely to disappear in the thicket of bureaucratic management. The fundamental flaw in this thinking is the assumption that building a cohort—determining the sampling frame and sample size; deciding on the venue for recruiting study participants; choosing the times of interviews, assessments, and collections; and deciding on the content of the data collection instruments—is essentially an administrative task and not a scientific problem. When scientific questions do not drive the construction of the study, the construction of the study defines and constrains the scientific questions the study can answer. Decades ago, Weinberg warned that big science was a way of spending money instead of spending thought. But the creative scientific spirit need not be lost in big science. Dawber and Kannell, the first 2 directors of the Framingham study—the big science of its day—both insisted on the need for scientific hypotheses in designing large epidemiologic studies (Philip Landrigan, MD, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, about Kannell’s advice: “You’ve got to have a hypothesis,” oral communication, November 19, 1999).
On Sequential Fixed-Size Confidence Regions for the Mean Vector

In order to construct a fixed-size confidence region for the mean vector of an unknown distribution functionF, a new purely sequential sampling strategy is proposed first. For this new procedure, under some regularity conditions onF, the coverage probability is shown (Theorem 2.1) to be at least (1??)?B?2d2+o(d2) asd?0, where (1??) is the preassigned level of confidence,Bis an appropriate functional ofF, and 2dis the preassigned diameter of the proposed spherical confidence region for the mean vector ofF. An accelerated version of the stopping rule is also provided with the analogous second-order characteristics (Theorem 3.1). In the special case of ap-dimensional normal random variable, analogous purely sequential and accelerated sequential procedures as well as a three-stage procedure are briefly introduced together with their asymptotic second-order characteristics.
Isolation of the intact molecule and ectodomain of C-erbB-2 oncoprotein from SK-BR-3 cells and development of immunoassays on microplate.

We isolated both the intact molecule (p185) and the ectodomain (p120) of c-erbB-2 oncoprotein from SK-BR-3 breast tumor cells. The p120 was extracted from the cells by 0.05 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.2, whereas the extraction of the p185 required the presence of a detergent, such as 1% Triton X-100 in 0.05 M Tris buffer. Protease inhibitors were also included in the extraction buffer during the isolation of p185 in order to prevent cleavage of p185 to p120 by an unknown protease apparently also present in the extract. In case there was any p120 in the p185 preparation, the p120 could be separated from p185 by chromatography on a Superose 12 column. Using the p120 and p185 as calibrators, we have established two microplate sandwich immunoassays: one measures both p185 and p120 (total assay) and the other is specific for the p185. Since capturing and detecting antibodies used in the total assay react against the extracellular domain of the c-erbB-2 oncoprotein, they can therefore be used to measure the p120 in serum and p185 in breast tumor tissue cytosol. On the other hand, the p185 specific assay uses the capturing antibody against the cytosolic domain of the oncoprotein and consequently can only measure p185 in breast tumor tissue cytosol. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 12:298–303, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Comparisons of procedures for determining ribosomal ribonucleic acid similarities

Ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) cistron similarities were determined forClostridium species with labeled preparations of 16S, 23S, or 16S plus 23S rRNA. Similarities were measured by membrane competition and by thermal stability experiments, and the results were correlated. Correlations were also made between 16S rRNA membrane competition homology values and similarities of 16S rRNA oligonucleotides. Very similar results were obtained whether 16S-or 23S-labeled rRNA was used. Clustering patterns were similar for homology values from hybridization experiments incubated at 50° or 60°C, as were the clustering patterns comparing homology values and rRNA hybrid thermal stability values. There was a linear correlation between rRNA homology values and 16S oligonucleotide SAB values (Tanner et al. [22]) for homology values above 20%, and SAB values above 0.45.
Binding of 14C-phosphatidylcholine to sodium chloride crystals.

14C-Phosphatidylcholine in benzene was found to bind to sodium chloride crystals. The magnitude of this binding was greatest when the crystal size was the smallest, namely when the crystals were prepared from frozen and lyophilized aqueous solution.
The pricing of export products: Why aren't managers satisfied with the results?

Abstract When it comes to pricing, many exporters do not have the tools necessary to compete in their overseas markets. Despite warnings from a series of scholars and managers, many exporters continue to base their pricing approaches simply on costs, without committing the resources necessary to accumulate and utilize market and competition related information. Through the use of qualitative interviews and the responses of a mail survey of U.S. exporters, this study attempts to understand why managers continue to neglect the potential weapon of competitive pricing in their exporting operations. The relative importance of pricing as compared to other international marketing decision variables is discussed, as are the tools for effective pricing strategies that managers themselves believe are lacking within their firms. The study is designed to identify problematic areas which may be alleviated to enhance export pricing effectiveness.
Black Markets and Optimal Evadable Taxation

In a simple model of evadable indirect taxation, some surprises emerge. Because of a ‘market-thinning’ effect of high prices, high taxes induce multiple equilibria (low-price black markets and high-price legal markets). Further, evadability introduces a bifurcation to optimal taxation: For less effective tax administrations, the optimal tax system follows a ‘cash cow’ pattern, with one sector bearing all of the tax; but for relatively effective administrations, the optimum follows a slightly modified Ramsey rule. This discontinuity results from the mathematics of evasion incentives, and may help explain tax reforms commonly seen over the course of economic development
Advances in Small Pixel TES-Based X-Ray Microcalorimeter Arrays for Solar Physics and Astrophysics

We are developing small-pixel transition-edge sensor microcalorimeters for solar physics and astrophysics applications. These large format close-packed arrays are fabricated on solid silicon substrates and are designed to have high energy resolution, and also accommodate count-rates of up to a few hundred counts per second per pixel for X-ray photon energies up to ~ 8 keV. We have fabricated kilo-pixel versions that utilize narrow-line planar and stripline wiring. These arrays have a low superconducting transition temperature, which results in a low heat capacity and low thermal conductance to the heat sink. We present measurements of the performance of pixels with single 65-μm absorbers on a 75-μm pitch. With individual single pixels of this type, we have achieved a full-width at half-maximum energy resolution of 0.9 eV with 1.5 keV Al K X-rays, to our knowledge the first X-ray microcalorimeter with sub-eV energy resolution. We will discuss the properties of these arrays and their application to new solar and astrophysics mission concepts.
Limit on the electron electric dipole moment in gadolinium-iron garnet

A new method for the detection of the electron electric dipole moment (EDM) using a solid is described. The method involves the measurement of a voltage induced across the solid by the alignment of the sample's magnetic dipoles in an applied magnetic field, H. A first application of the method to GdIG has resulted in a limit on the electron EDM of 5 x 10(-24)e cm, which is a factor of 40 below the limit obtained from the only previous solid-state EDM experiment. The result is limited by the imperfect discrimination of an unexpectedly large voltage that is even upon the reversal of the sample magnetization.
On the existence and location of cardiac mucosa: an autopsy study in embryos, fetuses, and infants

Background: The incidence of gastric cardiac adenocarcinoma has increased in the last decades. Gaining insight into the pathogenesis of this lesion is hampered by the limited knowledge of the origin and histology of cardiac mucosa (CM). Currently, the location, extent, and even the existence of CM are controversial. Aims: We studied the development of the gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) in embryos, fetuses, and infants to clarify if CM is a normal structure at birth and where it is located. Subjects: Twenty one autopsy cases were evaluated ranging in age from 13 weeks’ gestational age (GA) to seven months. Methods: The distal oesophagus and proximal part of the stomach were embedded entirely. Serial sections were stained with haematoxylin-eosin and alcian blue/periodic acid-Schiff. The following parameters were measured: length of abdominal oesophagus; length of columnar lined oesophagus; length of CM; and distance from CM to angle of His. Results: CM was present in all evaluated sections. Its mean length varied throughout gestation. A maximum value was reached at a GA of 16 weeks (1.2 mm). After term delivery it was very short (0.3–0.6 mm). CM was proximal to, or straddled, the angle of His in all cases. During gestation, the mucin staining pattern of the CM was to a high degree similar to that of the developing pyloric mucosa. Conclusions: CM develops during pregnancy and is present at birth as a normal structure. If the angle of His is taken as a landmark for the GOJ, CM is located in the distal oesophagus.
Carbon exchange and venting anomalies in an upland deciduous forest in northern Wisconsin, USA

Turbulent fluxes of carbon, water vapor, and temperature were continuously measured above an upland forest in north central Wisconsin during 1999 and 2000 using the eddy covariance method. Maple (Acer saccharum), basswood (Tilia americana), and green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) species found in this forest also comprise a substantial portion of the landscape in the northern Great Lakes region and area, and it has been hypothesized that forests of this age (60‐80 years) are responsible for net uptake of atmospheric CO2 over North America. Mean CO2, water vapor, and temperature profile measurements were used to improve flux estimates during periods of low turbulence, and were effective for friction velocities (u*) >0.3 m s � 1 . Unique observations at this site included nighttime and early morning venting anomalies that seemed to originate from a seemingly homogenous area within the forest. These elevated NEE measurements, some as high as 80 mol m � 2 s � 1 , appeared in valid turbulent flux observations for hours at a time, and provided circumstantial evidence for preferential venting and/or existence of pooled CO2 in low-lying areas. We observed that the forest was a moderate sink for atmospheric carbon, and cumulative NEE of CO2 was estimated to be � 334 g C m � 2 year � 1 during 2000. Sensitivity to low-turbulence flux corrections was very small (21 g C m � 2 year � 1 ), and discrepancies between annual estimates of NEE and NEP were similar to other sites. A normalized measure of ecosystem respiration, the free energy of activation, was presented and its seasonal variations were analyzed. Gross ecosystem production (GEP) was high (1165 g C m � 2 year � 1 ) and ecosystem respiration (ER) was low (817 g C m � 2 year � 1 )i n comparison to spatially integrated, landscape-scale observations from WLEF (914 and 1005 g C m � 2 year � 1 , respectively), a 477 m tower located 22 km to the northeast [Glob. Change Biol. 9 (2003) 1278]. Forest transpiration was responsible for most of