cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the noncovalent complex of human immunodeficiency virus glycoprotein 120 with its cellular receptor CD4 by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

The initial event in infection by the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is the interaction of the viral envelope glycoprotein (HIV-gp120) with its primary cellular receptor, the glycoprotein CD4. Molecular structure information about the HIV-gp120/CD4 complex can provide information relevant to an understanding of the basic processes occurring in HIV infection and to development of therapies that can inhibit AIDS. Previous studies by sugar gradient sedimentation of the interaction of HIV-gp120 with a cytoplasmic domain truncated soluble CD4 (sCD4) suggested that a one-to-one complex was formed. The stoichiometry, however, of the sCD4/HIV-gp120 complex remained to be confirmed by an independent method because (i) recent X-ray examination revealed dimerization of sCD4 and (ii) the low resolution and low accuracy of molecular weight determination by sugar gradient sedimentation can lead to artifactual data. Therefore, in this study matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALD...
Inert failure strains of sodium aluminosilicate glass fibers

Abstract The inert failure strains ( e f ) of glass fibers from the compositional series 25Na 2 O · x Al 2 O 3 · (75 − x )SiO 2 , where 0 ⩽ x ⩽ 32.5, were measured at 77 K using a two-point bending technique. Failure strain decreases when Al 2 O 3 replaces SiO 2 , from 20.9% for x = 0 to 13.7% for x = 32.5. The failure strain depends on the testing speed, or faceplate velocity ( V fp ) of the two-point bender. For glasses with relatively low alumina contents ( x e f decreases with increasing V fp , a behavior noted in an earlier study of sodium silicate glasses [J. Non-Cryst. Solids, in press]. For glasses with greater alumina contents ( x ⩾ 15), e f shows little dependence on V fp , as is found for silica fibers. The replacement of SiO 2 with Al 2 O 3 strengthens the glass network through the replacement of non-bridging oxygens with oxygens that bridge neighboring alumina and silica tetrahedra. This stronger (more cross-linked) network is less distorted at high stresses and so does not allow such large strains before failure. The dependence of e f on testing rate ( V fp ) appears to be related to the presence of non-bridging oxygens in the glass network and the relaxation of these sites, as indicated by internal friction studies of similar glasses. This may explain the greater values of e f at the slower V fp for the less cross-linked networks.
Small Closed-Form CI Expansions for Electronic g-Tensor Calculations

In recent years, major progress has been made toward devising accurate and practical computational methods for predicting electronic g-tensors of molecules, thus raising hopes of extending the capability to solid-state defects and solvated radicals. The best agreement with experiment has been obtained at the multireference configuration interaction level via explicit sum-over-states (SOS) expansions. This method is computationally very intensive, however, and the explicit expansion may prove unworkably convoluted for larger, more complex species. SOS perturbation expansions of g-tensors are dominated by states that magnetically couple with the ground state. For this reason, one may optimize g-tensor expansions by neglecting configurations not coupled magnetically with the ground state. This criterion yields a configuration space that is specially tailored to magnetic response, yet is small enough to allow for a closed-form configuration interaction (CFCI) treatment of the entire resulting excited-state ma...
High-throughput screening reveals alsterpaullone, 2-cyanoethyl as a potent p27Kip1 transcriptional inhibitor.

p27Kip1 is a cell cycle inhibitor that prevents cyclin dependent kinase (CDK)/cyclin complexes from phosphorylating their targets. p27Kip1 is a known tumor suppressor, as the germline loss of p27Kip1 results in sporadic pituitary formation in aged rodents, and its presence in human cancers is indicative of a poor prognosis. In addition to its role in cancer, loss of p27Kip1 results in regenerative phenotypes in some tissues and maintenance of stem cell pluripotency, suggesting that p27Kip1 inhibitors could be beneficial for tissue regeneration. Because p27Kip1 is an intrinsically disordered protein, identifying direct inhibitors of the p27Kip1 protein is difficult. Therefore, we pursued a high-throughput screening strategy to identify novel p27Kip1 transcriptional inhibitors. We utilized a luciferase reporter plasmid driven by the p27Kip1 promoter to transiently transfect HeLa cells and used cyclohexamide as a positive control for non-specific inhibition. We screened a “bioactive” library consisting of 8,904 (4,359 unique) compounds, of which 830 are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved. From this screen, we successfully identified 111 primary hits with inhibitory effect against the promoter of p27Kip1. These hits were further refined using a battery of secondary screens. Here we report four novel p27Kip1 transcriptional inhibitors, and further demonstrate that our most potent hit compound (IC50 = 200 nM) Alsterpaullone 2-cyanoethyl, inhibits p27Kip1 transcription by preventing FoxO3a from binding to the p27Kip1 promoter. This screen represents one of the first attempts to identify inhibitors of p27Kip1 and may prove useful for future tissue regeneration studies.
90Y and 177Lu Labeling of a DOTA-Conjugated Vitronectin Receptor Antagonist Useful for Tumor Therapy

The 90Y and 177Lu complexes (RP697 and RP688, respectively) of a DOTA-conjugated vitronectin receptor antagonist (SU015: 2-(1,4,7,10-tetraaza-4,7,10-tris(carboxymethyl)-1-cyclododecyl)acetyl-Glu(cyclo{Lys-Arg-Gly-Asp-d-Phe})-cyclo{Lys-Arg-Gly-Asp-d-Phe}) were prepared by reacting SU015 with the radiometal chloride in ammonium acetate buffer (pH > 7.2) in the presence of an antioxidant (sodium gentisate, GA). Through a series of radiolabeling experiments, it was found that there are many factors influencing the rate of 90Y chelation and the radiolabeling efficiency of SU015. These include the purity of SU015, the pH, reaction temperature, and heating time, as well as the presence of trace metal contaminants, such as Ca2+, Fe3+, and Zn2+. The chelation of 90Y by SU015 is slow, so that heating at elevated temperatures (50−100 °C) is needed to complete the 90Y-labeling. The rate of 90Y chelation is also dependent on the pH of the reaction mixture. Under optimized radiolabeling conditions (pH 7.2−7.8 and heat...
Laboratory measurement of nearshore velocities and erosion of cohesive sediment (till) shorelines

Abstract The evolution of shorelines composed of consolidated cohesive sediments is dominated by irreversible erosion. In this note, measurements, under laboratory conditions, of bottom velocities, wave heights, and breaking characteristics over an actively eroding consolidated cohesive sediment shore are reported. Erosion is enhanced under breaking conditions, and plunging breakers are markedly more erosive than spilling breakers. The turbulence at the outer edge of the breaking zone has the −5 3 power high frequency dependence indicative of the inertial subrange.
Older Adult Learners in the Workforce New Dimensions to Workforce Training Needs

Lower fertility rates and declines in the number of births have created a tremendous labor shortage. This tight labor market has encouraged many companies to recruit and retain a greater number of workers older than the age of 55. Additionally, with the shift to knowledge and technology-based industries, older adult workers are finding that remaining in gainful employment beyond the mean age of 63 has social, financial, and professional benefits. Leadership in the work-place needs to redefine the learning and training strategies needed for successful businesses based on the age and skill set of the workforce.
Demand/withdraw interaction patterns between different types of batterers and their spouses

The investigation of subtypes of violent men could provide invaluable information to researchers and clinicians. In earlier studies, investigators examined whether subtypes of male batterers could be identified based on physiological markers in combination with observational and self-report perspectives. In a sample of batters and their wives, they found a physiological marker that discriminated between two groups of violent men on several interesting dimensions. To highlight the importance of studying batterer typologies, the present study examined differences in marital interaction patterns across the two groups of batterers. Analyses revealed clinically relevant patterns of interaction in the two groups, and effect sizes indicating the possibility of differences between the two types of batterers. Implications for future research as well as therapy are discussed.
PTPMT1 Inhibition Lowers Glucose through Succinate Dehydrogenase Phosphorylation

SUMMARY Virtually all organisms seek to maximize fitness by matching fuel availability with energy expenditure. In vertebrates, glucose homeostasis is central to this process, with glucose levels finely tuned to match changing energy requirements. To discover new pathways regulating glucose levels in vivo, we performed a large-scale chemical screen in live zebrafish and identified the small molecule alexidine as a potent glucose-lowering agent. We found that alexidine inhibits the PTEN-like mitochondrial phosphatase PTPMT1 and that other pharmacological and genetic means of inactivating PTPMT1 also decrease glucose levels in zebrafish. Mutation of ptpmt1 eliminates the effect of alexidine, further confirming it as the glucose-lowering target of alexidine. We then identified succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) as a substrate of PTPMT1. Inactivation of PTPMT1 causes hyperphosphorylation and activation of SDH, providing a possible mechanism by which PTPMT1 coordinates glucose homeostasis. Therefore, PTPMT1 appears to be an important regulator of SDH phosphorylation status and glucose concentration.
Cellular source of serum lactate dehydrogenase elevation in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

Elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a characteristic finding in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). It is widely accepted that total serum LDH principally rises due to the release of red blood cell LDH as a consequence of intravascular hemolysis. To identify the cellular source of serum LDH in TTP, we prospectively analyzed total serum LDH and LDH isoenzyme profiles in 10 consecutive patients with classic, acute idiopathic TTP within 5 days of clinical presentation. Total LDH was quantitated on a Hitachi 911 Analyzer (Indianapolis, IN), using the lactate to pyruvate reaction. LDH isoenzymes were measured by serum protein electrophoresis, using the Beckman LDH Isoenzyme Kit (Anaheim, CA). Isoenzymes attributable to erythrocytes (LDH1, LDH2) were not disproportionately elevated in 9 of 10 patients. LDH3 was below or within normal limits for all 10 patients, and one patient showed a slightly increased LDH4. Serum LDH5, the isoenzyme derived primarily from liver and skeletal muscle, was elevated 1-2 times normal in all patients. Evidence supporting hemolysis as the major contribution to the elevated total serum LDH frequently encountered in acute TTP was not identified in this study. The isoenzyme fractions LDH and LDH2 elevated by erythrocyte injury were not disproportionately elevated in this series. LDH 5, the isoenzyme found in skeletal muscle and liver, was consistently 1- to 2-fold greater than normal in all patients. We propose that the elevation of serum LDH seen in patients with TTP is due to release of LDH from a variety of tissues damaged as a result of systemic ischemia.
Use of phenazopyridine for reducing discomfort during embryo transfer

Objective The embryo transfer is a critical part of in vitro fertilization. When performed under abdominal ultrasound guidance, the embryo transfer procedure requires a full bladder. Patients often state that the discomfort of the distended bladder causes more pain than the actual transfer procedure. Phenazopyridine HCl is a bladder analgesic. The objective of this study was to determine if a single dose of phenazopyridine prior to embryo transfer reduces patient discomfort during that procedure. Design Prospective randomized double-blinded clinical trial. Setting University-based Reproductive Medicine practice. Patient(s) Eighty-five reproductive age infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization. Intervention(s) Phenazopyridine (200 mg) or placebo taken 1 hour prior to embryo transfer utilizing transabdominal sonography. Main Outcome Measure(s) Pain as assessed by visual analogue pain scale and physician and nurse assessment of patient discomfort. Result(s) Study groups were similar in their demographic background. Mean pain score as assessed by a visual analogue pain scale during the procedure was 2.95 ± 2.4 in the placebo group, and 3.03 ± 2.6 in the active medication group (NS). There were also no significant differences in the observations of pain assessments. Conclusion(s) Phenazopyridine used in a single dose prior to embryo transfer does not alleviate patient discomfort
Bilateral projections of the pontine micturition center to the sacral parasympathetic nucleus in the rat

Previous work has revealed that pontine micturition center (PMC) neurons send projections to the sacral parasympathetic nucleus (SPN) of the intermediolateral (IML) regions of L6-S1 spinal cord segments in rats. Although unilateral SPN injections will retrogradely label PMC neurons bilaterally, it is not known whether single PMC neurons project bilaterally to the SPN. There may be two different populations of PMC neurons on each side of the brainstem, with both groups independently connecting to the SPNs on opposite sides of the spinal cord. To verify one of these alternatives, a small injection of either rhodamine-labeled latex microspheres or a red fluorescent emulsion was made into the SPN on one side of the cord; a similar injection of either fluorescein-tagged microspheres or a green fluorescent emulsion was made into the other. After at least seven days, the rats were perfused. Inspection of 40 μm cord sections confirmed the similar placement of these injections along the rostrocaudal axis of the cord and that no tracer had spread across midline. Thirty-micron brain sections were examined for filled neurons. Red, green and double labeled neurons were found bilaterally in the PMC, subcoeruleus, and A5 regions. Although some red nucleus cells were also filled, they were only singly labeled and always located contralateral to the injection. Finally, immunohistochemical staining of dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH) containing cells confirmed that some labeled cells were also noradrenergic. We therefore conclude that some PMC, subcoeruleus, and A5 neurons send axons to the SPN on both sides of the lumbosacral cord.
Analysis of endoscopic management of occluded metal biliary stents at a single tertiary care center.

Background A significant number of self-expandable metal stents (SEMSs) placed to palliate malignant biliary obstruction will occlude. Few data exist as to what constitutes optimal management. Objective Our purpose was to review the management and outcomes of patients with biliary SEMS occlusion. Design and Setting Retrospective chart review at a single tertiary care hospital. Patients From January 1999 to October 2005, a total of 90 patients had SEMSs placed for malignant biliary obstruction, and 27 of these occluded. Main Outcome Measurements Technical success of treating SEMS occlusion, stent patency and need for reintervention, and incremental cost analysis. Results A total of 60 ERCPs were performed to treat SEMS occlusions in 27 patients. The success rate was 95%; however, 52% of patients eventually required more than 1 intervention. Placing a second SEMS through the existing SEMS (n = 14) provided the lowest reocclusion rate (43% vs 55% and 100%), the longest time to reintervention (172 days vs 66 and 43 days, P = .03), and a trend toward longer survival (285 days vs 188 and 194 days) compared with plastic stent and mechanical balloon cleaning, respectively. Incremental cost analysis showed both uncovered SEMSs and plastic stents to be cost effective strategies. Limitations Small number of patients, retrospective study. Conclusions Treatment of biliary SEMS occlusion with SEMS insertion provides for longer patency and survival, decreases the number of subsequent ERCPs by 50% compared with plastic stents, and is cost-effective.
The Prevalence of Depression in Male Sex Addicts Residing in the United States

This study evaluated the prevalence of depression among male sex addicts against the general male population. This research utilized the high estimate of 12% for male depression in the general population as reported by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). This research had 418 participants, 220 of whom qualified as male sexual addicts residing in the United States. Participants were recipients of a free sexual recovery e-mail newsletter from www.sexaddict.com. A score of 14 or higher on the Sexual Addiction Screening Test operationally defined sexual addiction. A score of 14 or higher on the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) operationally defined depression. Male sex addicts had a 28% prevalence rate of depression. The hypothesis of male sex addicts having higher scores on the BDI was upheld. An exploratory hypothesis, that participants having received treatment for sexual addiction would have lower depression scores, was upheld.
Intra-articular fibroma of tendon sheath involving the scapholunate and radiocarpal joints

Fibroma of tendon sheath is an uncommon benign soft tissue tumor with a predilection for the hand. A unique case involving the scapholunate and radiocarpal joints with bone erosion is reported. The patient presented with a transilluminating mass over the volar radial wrist associated with neuropathy in the superficial radial nerve distribution. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a heterogeneous and lobulated mass with nonspecific signal characteristics closely associated with the scapholunate interval and the volar wrist soft tissues. Histologically it represented a fibroma of tendon sheath. The tumor is discussed and the relevant literature is reviewed.
Measurements of water film characteristics on airfol surfaces from wind-tunnel tests with simulated heavy rain

This paper discusses some of the surface water characteristics obtained during recent simulated heavy rain experiments conducted at the Langley Research Center. Water film distributions and discrete film thickness measurements on several model wings are discussed. The water film distributions on the upper surfaces are shown in photographs from cameras mounted above the models, and film thickness data are presented which were obtained using resistance sensors mounted flush with the upper and lower wing model surfaces. The paper also discusses potential sources of performance decrements indicated by the data.
Sub-Independence: An Expository Perspective

Limit theorems as well as other well-known results in probability and statistics are often based on the distribution of the sums of independent random variables. The concept of sub-independence, which is much weaker than that of independence, is shown to be sufficient to yield the conclusions of these theorems and results. It also provides a measure of dissociation between two random variables which is much stronger than uncorrelatedness.
Possibility of High-Tc Copper Fluoride Oxide Superconductors

Superconductivity of YBa2Cu3FxOy system prepared by using a mixed solid state and gel method. A consistent and non-zero resistance drop near 280K was achieved in the nominal YBa2Cu3FxOy system for x=l and 2, with complete loss of resistance at 90K. The metal-semiconductor transition occurs at x value between 2 and 3. Temporal room temperature superconductivity with zero resistance was observed in a YBa2Cu3F2Oy sample at 308K. The phenomenon lasted for three minutes and was not reproducible.
Cellular proliferation and secretion in the adenohypophysis of diethylstilbestrol-treated rats

Abstract Cellular proliferation and secretion in the anterior pituitary were studied in inbred and Fischer strains of adult female rats. Tritiated thymidine (3HTdR) was injected to both strains 4 hr prior to sacrifice, to monitor the cellular proliferation. Tritiated leucine (3Hleu) was injected 2 hr prior to sacrifice to the animals of the Fischer strain only, to study the pattern of secretion. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) which was implanted subcutaneously (10 mg every 30 days), was used for the induction of tumors in the anterior pituitary. Bilateral oophorectomy was performed in rats of two groups to remove the negative feedback exerted by ovarian steroids upon the pituitary gonadotrophs. The first group received DES, while the second did not receive it. Rats, constituting a (third) control group, were left untreated and were sacrificed at estrus. In the Fischer strain, pituitary DES-induced tumors were observed 140 days earlier than in the inbred strain. None of the observed tumors was malignant. All tumors observed were mammotropic. In the tumorous anterior pituitaries of group one, there was an increased pattern of proliferation and decreased secretion. In the nontumorous of the same group, there was decreased cellular turnover and increased secretory activity.
Inpatient diabetes control: approaches to treatment.

This is the second of two articles on the Consensus Development Conference on Inpatient Diabetes Control, which was sponsored by the American College of Endocrinology and held in Washington, DC, 14–15 December 2003. Derek LeRoith (Bethesda, MD) and Irl Hirsch (Seattle, WA) discussed mechanisms by which metabolic control may improve outcomes. Both speakers reviewed physiological and cellular aspects of normal insulin action and glucose homeostasis and molecular aspects of insulin resistance in relation to situations of stress. Insulin has classic actions such as increased glucose uptake, decreased hepatic glucose production (HGP), and antilipolytic effects in skeletal muscle, liver, and adipose tissue, as well as nonclassical vasodilatory effects, proliferative actions on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), effects on the brain (perhaps related to learning and memory), β-cell actions, and general effects increasing growth and differentiation and decreasing apoptosis. Insulin levels range from <10 to 30–50 μU/ml in the fasting versus fed state. The liver is exposed to portal vein insulin levels triple that in the periphery, with HGP inhibited at levels of 20–25 μU/ml. Lipolysis increases during fasting and is inhibited at levels of 30–50 μU/ml, so that in the fasting state, free fatty acids (FFAs) are available for fuel. A doubling of insulin levels inhibits HGP by 80% and increases glucose utilization by 20%. The insulin-signaling pathway involves stimulation of cascades of intracellular kinases leading to insulin action. The insulin receptor substrates (IRSs) have metabolic as well as antiapoptotic effects, particularly due to IRS-1 phosphorylation via the phosphatidylinositol-3-hydroxy kinase (PI3K) pathway after activation of the insulin receptor—a process inhibited in situations of insulin resistance. The mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway is involved in gene expression, cell proliferation, and a variety of other anabolic actions. When insulin stimulates glucose uptake, particularly occurring in muscle, which mediates ∼80% of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, PI3K …
A role for the NAD-dependent deacetylase Sirt1 in the regulation of autophagy

We demonstrate a role for the NAD-dependent deacetylase Sirt1 in the regulation of autophagy. In particular, transient increased expression of Sirt1 is sufficient to stimulate basal rates of autophagy. In addition, we show that Sirt1−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts do not fully activate autophagy under starved conditions. Reconstitution with wild-type but not a deacetylase-inactive mutant of Sirt1 restores autophagy in these cells. We further demonstrate that Sirt1 can form a molecular complex with several essential components of the autophagy machinery, including autophagy genes (Atg)5, Atg7, and Atg8. In vitro, Sirt1 can, in an NAD-dependent fashion, directly deacetylate these components. The absence of Sirt1 leads to markedly elevated acetylation of proteins known to be required for autophagy in both cultured cells and in embryonic and neonatal tissues. Finally, we show that Sirt1−/− mice partially resemble Atg5−/− mice, including the accumulation of damaged organelles, disruption of energy homeostasis, and early perinatal mortality. Furthermore, the in utero delivery of the metabolic substrate pyruvate extends the survival of Sirt1−/− pups. These results suggest that the Sirt1 deacetylase is an important in vivo regulator of autophagy and provide a link between sirtuin function and the overall cellular response to limited nutrients.
Volar Marginal Rim Fracture Fixation With Volar Fragment-Specific Hook Plate Fixation.

Purpose To review the outcomes of patients treated with a volar hook plate specifically designed to capture volar marginal rim fractures. Methods A retrospective study was performed over 18 months of patients treated with a volar hook plate in the management of AO type B or C distal radius fractures with a volar marginal rim fragment. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated. Results The series included 26 wrists in 25 patients, average age 55 years. Average follow-up was 9 months (range, 3–30 mo). Twenty patients had AO type C fractures and 6 had AO type B fractures. All 6 AO type B were B3 fractures. Of the AO type C, 1 had C1, 7 had C2, and 12 had C3. No patients had loss of fixation of the critical volar ulnar corner and there was no evidence of carpal subluxation. Five patients required hardware removal. Four patients experienced hardware irritation requiring removal of all hardware including the volar hook plate. One patient required partial hardware removal that did not include the volar hook plate. All patients with volar hardware irritation had hook plates that were of second-generation design that had a prominent bend, which has since been modified. There were no cases of tendon rupture. Conclusions Volar marginal rim fragments of intra-articular distal radius fractures are not amenable to standard volar plate fixation. Fragment-specific fixation using a volar hook plate designed specifically for these fragments allowed for stable fixation when combined with other fragment-specific fixation techniques. There was no loss of fixation of the critical corner in this series. Although hardware irritation can occur, fully seated hooks and subsequent modification of the design of the hook bend has diminished this complication. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
Care and Outcomes of Hispanic Patients Admitted with Heart Failure with Preserved or Reduced Ejection Fraction: Findings from Get With The Guidelines-Heart Failure

Background—Although individuals of Hispanic ethnicity are at high risk for developing heart failure (HF), little is known about differences between Hispanic HF patients stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (EF). We compared characteristics, quality of care, and outcomes between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white patients hospitalized for HF with preserved EF (PEF) or reduced EF (REF). Methods and Results—From 247 hospitals in Get With The Guidelines–Heart Failure between 2005–2010, 6117 Hispanics were compared with 71 859 non-Hispanic whites. Forty-six percent of Hispanics had PEF (EF >40%), whereas 54% had REF (EF <40%); 55% and 45% of non-Hispanic whites had PEF and REF, respectively. Relative to non-Hispanic whites, Hispanics with PEF or REF were more likely to be younger and to have diabetes, hypertension, and overweight/obesity. In multivariate analysis, a lower mortality risk was observed among Hispanics with PEF (odds ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.31–0.81; P=0.005) but not in His...
A direct array injection technique in a fine-grain multithreading execution model

We propose on optimized array handling scheme called the direct array injection technique (DAIT) which can be used in conjunction with I-Structures to provide non-strict and parallel array accesses in a fine/medium grain multithreaded computing environment. By overlapping array production and consumption, better processor utilization can be achieved resulting in higher performance. The direct array injection technique differs from the I-Structure approach in that array elements are forwarded directly from the producer activation to the consumer activation without being buffered in a structure store. The advantages of this technique over I-Structures are: network traffic is reduced; and dynamic memory allocation from the global heap space to store arrays is avoided. >
Shape and holography: studies of dual operators to giant gravitons

Abstract In this paper we study the conjectured dual operators to a near maximal giant graviton and their open string fluctuations in the large N limit. Using matrix model estimates we show that the spectrum of states near the D-brane operator is consistent with a Fock space of open plus closed string states. We also give an argument that these operators, in spite of having large R charge of order N , are amenable to being studied with standard perturbative techniques, which organize themselves in a 1/ N expansion. Also the spectrum of operators dual to massless fluctuations on the D-brane is shown to be protected from weak to strong coupling at leading order, so it is possible to read the shape of the dual operator by understanding how the spherical harmonics of the D-brane fluctuations appear.
Economics' Fall from Grace

Not long ago, many political scientists suffered from economics envy. Some still do. They view economics as the queen of the social sciences, claiming that it is “scientific,” like physics. Physicists and other natural scientists spend most of their time trying to explain phenomena, but non-behavioral micro-economists spend most of their time on mathematical proofs and econometric tests of a priori theories based on intuitive plausibility or principles of “rational action.” Being “scientific” it was alleged, meant that economics could access objective knowledge, knowledge that was said to be true independent of time, place, and circumstance. Robert Bates called on political scientists to do the same by arguing that they should be in search of “lawful regularities which … must not be context bound” (Bates 1997b).
Imbalances in the health labour force: an assessment using data from three national health facility surveys

Accurate knowledge of the characteristics of the health labour force that can affect health care production is of critical importance to health planners and policymakers. This study uses health facility survey data to examine characteristics of the primary health care labour force in Nicaragua, Tanzania and Bangladesh. The characteristics examined are those that are likely to affect service provision, including urban/rural distribution, demographic characteristics, and experience and in-service training, for three types of providers (physicians, nurses and auxiliary nurses). The profiles suggest a pattern of urban/rural imbalances in Nicaragua and Tanzania. The Bangladesh facility survey did not include hospitals, thereby making concrete conclusions on the supply and distribution of providers difficult to make. Multivariate logistic regressions are used to assess the relationship between the urban/rural placement of providers by health need, population demand and facility characteristics. Health need, as measured by child mortality rates, does not have a significant association with the placement of providers in either country, unlike population size and annual growth rates. The mean number of years providers have worked at a facility is significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of rural placement for the three types of providers in Nicaragua. The mean age and percentage of female providers at each facility has a negative association with the placement of rural providers in Tanzania. The use of health facility data to profile the health care labour force is also discussed.
Brief Report: Daily Mood as a Mediator or Moderator of the Pain–Sleep Relationship in Children with Sickle Cell Disease

Objective To investigate mood as a mediator or moderator of the pain-sleep relationship in children with sickle cell disease (SCD). Method Children with SCD (n ¼ 20; aged 8–12 years) completed daily diaries assessing mood, sleep, and pain for up to 2 months. Data was analyzed using multilevel modeling. Results Results indicate that negative mood partially mediates the relationship between high daily pain and poor sleep that night as well the relationship between poor sleep and high daily pain the following day. The impact of poor sleep on high pain the following day was weakened at increasing levels of positive mood. Conclusion Research is needed to fully explore the ways positive and negative mood may relate to pain and sleep characteristics. This information may be beneficial for developing more effective pain management and sleep interventions.
Alpha- and Gamma-Tocopherol in the Rat: in vitro and in vivo Tissue Uptake and Metabolism

In order to compare tissue uptake and metabolism of a- and 7- tocopherol in the rat, vitamin E-deficient male rats were injected intraperitoneally with a 1:1 mixture of di-(3H)-a-tocopherol and d/-("C)-7-tocopherol. Blood and tissues were removed from the rats at 10, 19 and 27 hours after injection. In vitro incubations of plasma from these rats with red cells from deficient rats were per formed, and a- and T-tocopherol exchange led to an equilibrium after 6 hours. At equilibrium the red cells showed a slightly greater affinity for 7-tocopherol than a-tocopherol. Similar results were obtained when deficient red cells were incu bated with an aqueous dispersion of o- and 7-tocopherol. Tissues from the injected rats were analyzed both for total radioactivity and for tocopherols, and showed approximately equal uptake of the two tocopherols at 10 hours, but a more rapid loss of 7-tocopherol than o-tocopherol after this time. Plasma and red cells anal yses confirmed the in vitro incubation results with 7-tocopherol being taken up to a greater extent than o-tocopherol. It was concluded that rat tissues take up o- and 7-tocopherol to approximately the same extent, and in red cells a slight preference for 7-tocopherol exists. Tissues, however, showed a more rapid dis appearance of 7-tocopherol. J. Nutr. 101: 1615-1622, 1971.
Normative Influence Effects on Sexual Arousal to Nonviolent Sexually Explicit Material1

The role of informational social influence in sexual arousal was explored by measuring the effects of normative influence messages on sexual arousal to a nonviolent sexually explicit story in both male and female subjects. The type of message (high versus low arousal), as well as the reference group sex, were varied. The results showed that (a) subjects who received a message that similar others became highly aroused reported a significantly higher level of arousal than subjects who received the opposite message; (b) male subjects reported a significantly higher level of sexual arousal than females; and (c) a normative message from a male reference group had a stronger impact on both male and female subjects than one from the female reference group, indicating that males are perceived as more credible “experts” on matters of sexual responding man females. The study suggests one means by which individuals learn to respond to sexually explicit materials.
Pre- and postnatal arsenic exposure and child development at 18 months of age: a cohort study in rural Bangladesh

Background Exposure to arsenic through drinking water has been associated with impaired cognitive function in school-aged children in cross-sectional studies; however, there are few longitudinal studies and little information on effects of exposure in early life when the brain is generally most vulnerable. Methods A longitudinal cohort study beginning in early pregnancy was conducted in rural Bangladesh, where arsenic concentrations in well water vary considerably. We assessed the effects of pre- and postnatal arsenic exposure on development of 2112 children at 18 months of age with Bayley Scales of Infant Development-II (mental and psychomotor development indices), Wolke's Behavior Rating Scale and maternal report of language. We related the measures of child development to arsenic concentrations in maternal urine in gestational weeks 9 and 30 and child's urinary arsenic at 18 months of age. Details of socio-economic background, home stimulation and anthropometric measurements of mothers and children were also available. Results Median maternal urinary arsenic concentration averaged over early and late gestation was 96 µg/l, whereas children's urine contained 35 µg/l of arsenic. There was no significant effect of any of the arsenic exposure measures on any of the child development measures after controlling for social and economic confounders, child's age and sex. Conclusion Contrary to expectations, we found no indications of adverse effects of pre- or postnatal arsenic exposure on child development at 18 months. It remains possible that duration of exposure is critical and that effects will become apparent later in childhood.
On optimal stabilized MITC4 plate bending elements for accurate frequency response analysis

Abstract The mixed interpolation technique of the well-established MITC4 quadrilateral plate finite element is combined with shear and generalized least-squares stabilization methods for accurate frequency response analysis. Dispersion analysis is used to determine optimal combinations of stabilization parameters, which, for a given mesh, provide for a three-fold increase in the frequency range over which accurate solutions are obtained, thus allowing for accurate solutions at significantly lower cost. Numerical results for the forced vibration of Reissner–Mindlin plates validate the observations made from the dispersion analysis.
TOTAL SYNTHESIS OF VANCOMYCIN. PART 3 : SYNTHESIS OF THE AGLYCON

A number of valuable new synthetic strategies, such as the triazene-driven biaryl ether synthesis, have been developed during the total synthesis of vancomycin (1). Modern catalytic asymmetric reactions were employed for the construction of the required amino acid building blocks, which were then assembled to the appropriate peptide fragments, whose cyclization in the order C-O-D→AB/C-O-D→AB/C-O-D-E led to framework of the vancomycin aglycon (2). Sequential attachment of the required sugar moieties onto a suitably protected aglycon derivative, followed by deprotection, allowed the stereoselective total synthesis of the glycopeptide antibiotic vancomycin (1).
Why do fools fall into infinite loops: singing to your computer science class

One effective way to introduce a dose of humanity, acknowledge the needs and struggles of CS1 students, and appeal to a broader range of learning styles is to present a computer science topic in an entertaining manner, e.g., with some form of artistic performance. In this paper, I describe three songs for CS1 that are designed to help students surmount three of the most difficult hurdles of that course. Empirical and anecdotal results demonstrate that the songs help students learn, and help them enjoy learning. These songs are a case study in entertainment; all instructors can find some way to entertain their class, and recordings of the songs themselves are available on the web for any instructor or student.
A test for oxidation of actinides in concentrated CsF solutions

Abstract A chemical test was devised to differentiate between tracer concentrations of the actinide (III) state and higher oxidation states in 12–15 M CsF. Attempts to oxidize Cm(III) and Cf(III) with sodium perxenate in this matrix were unsuccessful although Am(III) was readily oxidized.
Cirrus Cloud Microphysical Property Retrieval Using Lidar and Radar Measurements. Part I: Algorithm Description and Comparison with In Situ Data

Abstract A retrieval algorithm is described to estimate vertical profiles of cirrus-cloud ice water content (IWC) and general effective size Dge from combined lidar and radar measurements. In the algorithm, the lidar extinction coefficient σ is parameterized as σ = IWC[a0 + (a1/Dge)] and water equivalent radar reflectivity factor Ze is parameterized as Ze = C′(IWC/ρi)Dbge, where a0, a1, C′, and b are constants based on the assumption of a modified gamma size distribution and hexagonal ice crystals. A comparison of retrieved results from a cirrus-cloud case study with aircraft in situ measurements indicates that the algorithm can provide reliable cirrus cloud microphysical properties. A technique to estimate ice water path and layer-mean Dge is also developed using the optical depth and mean radar reflectivity factor of the cloud layer.
Wage Determination In The Public Sector

As the economy continues to recover from the recent recession of 2008-2009, there has been much discussion of the related issues of increases in federal, state, and local budget deficits and debt. A major element of that discussion concerns public employee salaries and benefits, including under-funded pension benefits. This paper involves the development of a theoretical model for the determination of wages and salaries in the public sector which has implications for these current issues.
An Empirical Study of US Corporate Credit Spreads

This paper presents an analysis of the factors that affect US corporate credit spreads. Using data from Bloomberg we investigate the various determinants that cause changes in credit spreads of US corporate firms. As previous research has shown, the variables that should be based on theory determine credit spread changes have limited explanatory power. Our study breaks apart a range of variables into three different sections and analyzes them individual in the groups and together using multiple regressions. We investigate the spot rate, interest rate volatility and slope for the interest rate effects and find strong relationships between spot rate and slope with credit spreads. For the effects of volatility and market uncertainty we find strong relationships between credit spreads and market volatility proxied by VIX and firm volatility proxied by an average of Call and Put implied volatility. TED spreads, SPX and RTY returns show strong relationships between macro-economic variables and credit spreads. Implied default correlations in the Investment Grade and High Yield market also show a strong positive relationship with credit spreads. Our research investigates certain macro-economic variables that have not been researched before and re-establishes previous findings for other variables post-2007 crisis.
Modeling of Funnel and Gate Systems for Remediation of Contaminated Sediment

Capping is typically used to control contaminant release from the underlying sediments. While conventional capping doesn’t necessarily provide the removal of contaminants, incorporating a “funnel and gate” reactive barrier with capping has the potential to treat contaminants or limit contaminant migration. The purpose of this study was to develop a model of funnel and gate systems for remediation of contaminated sediment. Numerical modeling of vertical two dimensional water flow and solute transport was built in COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS 3.4. The model was employed to evaluate the performance of the funnel and gate system, i.e. residence time, removal efficiency, and breakthrough curve. Two types of gate, reactive and adsorptive gates, were evaluated for the remediation of phenanthrene contaminated sediment. The simulated results showed that the performance of the reactive gates depended on Damkohler number at the gate, and adsorptive gate could effectively slow contaminate migration into water body, and decrease the maximum concentration at the gate. This model could potentially serve as a design tool of funnel and gate systems for a range of typical sediment capping conditions.
Global Stability of the Flow between Concentric Rotating Spheres

In this chapter we shall consider the steady laminar motion of an incompressible viscous fluid contained between two concentric spheres which rotate about a common axia with fixed, but different, angular velocities (see Fig. 53.1). Some results are given for the flow between eccentric spheres (inner sphere displaced along the axis of rotation).
The Launch of Bacardi Silver

In January 2002, Anheuser-Busch is preparing to launch Bacardi Silver, a new premium malt beverage. Marlene Coulis, director of New Products for Anheuser-Busch, must decide what steps she should take to ensure a successful product launch. In particular, she must decide how much money to invest in the launch.
The Power Inventory and National Strategy

A FAMILIAR sight in the newspapers and weekly magazines is a world map (often, I regret to say, on the Mercator projection) on which population, oil production, or similar information is shown by rows of small men, barrels, or other appropriate symbols. These maps are often interpreted in caption or accompanying text as indices of national power. No one denies that such information is relevant to power, but no reader of this journal needs to be cautioned that such information is only a first step toward an evaluation. The present paper spells out that caution and tries to take another step or two. Its thesis is: An estimate of national power has two aspects which are related, in a figurative way, like the two rays of a triangulation. Either ray gives direction, but it takes the two to give distance. A better analogy, perhaps, is that of two searchlight beams groping through the dark until they intersect on the target. One ray or beam is the conventional inventory of the elements or factors of power. It gives the power resources of a nation, using “resource” in a broad sense. The other ray is here called “national strategy.”
From American Experience:My View on The Reform of Internal Medicine Residency Training

From his own experience the author has introduced the feature of the internal medicine residency training in USA and suggested popularizing and standardizing residency training in our country, modifying the distribution mechanism for residency training graduates so as to narrow down the quality gap between the doctors in urban and rural area and improve the availability of high quality health care for all citizens.
Observation on Climatic Effects of Early Sowing of Single Cropping and Ratoon Rice in Mountain Areas

In order to investigate meteorological technique for high yield of single cropping and ratoon rice in mountain area,the interval sowing experiment of five hybrid rice varieties were established in high and low mountain areas of Youxi county of Fujian province.The results showed that the early sowing in mid-March in either high or low mountain areas adjusted formation stage of yield matter in the strong light and optimum temperature season,which resulted in high seed set and the yield was increased by 5%～10% compared with the late sowing.Two of them with stronger regeneration capacity were sowed early in low mountain areas,and then flowering and seed setting were safety.Finally,the yield increased a duplication compared with the late sowing.The results indicated that the early sowing was use of climate resources while avoiding disadvantages and gave full play to the production potential of climatic ecology.
Assessment of Water Supply Service Provision in Gaza Strip - Report to the World Bank - Middle East and North Africa Sustainable Development Unit

The assignment focussed on four municipalities, mainly: Rafah, Khanyounis, Dar-el-Balah and Jabaliya in Gaza Strip. The main thrust was in assessing the quality of water service provision based on access, production and consumption, cost recovery, and efficiency of municipalilty's service delivery.