cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The impact of hyper-threading on processor resource utilization in production applications

Intel provides Hyper-Threading (HT) in processors based on its Pentium and Nehalem micro-architecture such as the Westmere-EP. HT enables two threads to execute on each core in order to hide latencies related to data access. These two threads can execute simultaneously, filling unused stages in the functional unit pipelines. To aid better understanding of HT-related issues, we collect Performance Monitoring Unit (PMU) data (instructions retired; unhalted core cycles; L2 and L3 cache hits and misses; vector and scalar floating-point operations, etc.). We then use the PMU data to calculate a new metric of efficiency in order to quantify processor resource utilization and make comparisons of that utilization between single-threading (ST) and HT modes. We also study performance gain using unhalted core cycles, code efficiency of using vector units of the processor, and the impact of HT mode on various shared resources like L2 and L3 cache. Results using four full-scale, production-quality scientific applications from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) used by NASA scientists indicate that HT generally improves processor resource utilization efficiency, but does not necessarily translate into overall application performance gain.
Settling velocity characterization of aquacultural solids

A top-loading settling column is described and used to characterize the settling properties of the solids in the discharge water from a commercial rainbow trout production facility. Mass-based and phosphorus-based settling curves are presented. The median settling velocity on a mass-basis for the settleable solids was 1.7 cm s 1 . The median settling velocity for the settleable phosphorus was 1.15 cm s 1 . Manually stripping fecal material from rainbow trout resulted in settleable solids with a median settling velocity of 0.7 cm s 1 . Examination of the settling velocity curves show that halving the overflow rate (OFR) from 2 to 1 cm s 1 changes the removal efficiency from 0.61 to 0.73, an increase of about 20%. Halving the OFR again to 0.5 cm s 1 increases the removal efficiency to 0.81, an improvement of about 11%. Settling characteristics of aquacultural solids will vary from facility to facility. The methods described in this paper can be used to perform a similar type of analysis at other aquacultural sites, which may be growing other species under different management regimes. © 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Overexpression of Hexokinase II in Transgenic Mice EVIDENCE THAT INCREASED PHOSPHORYLATION AUGMENTS MUSCLE GLUCOSE UPTAKE

Hexokinase II (HKII) is the predominant isozyme expressed in peripheral insulin-responsive tissues. To explore the role of HKII in muscle glucose metabolism, two lines of transgenic mice were generated where overexpression was restricted to striated muscle; HKII protein levels and activity were increased by 3-8-fold. Oral glucose tolerance, intravenous insulin tolerance, and insulin and lactate levels were unaffected in transgenic mice. There was a trend toward increased levels of muscle glycogen; however, glucose-6-phosphate levels were increased by 43% in transgenic skeletal muscle following in vivo glucose and insulin administration. Using 2-[3H]deoxyglucose as a tracer, in vitro basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake were determined in extensor digitorum longus, soleus, and epitrochlearis muscles. Maximal insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was increased by 17% (extensor digitorum longus), 34% (soleus), and 90% (epitrochlearis) in transgenic muscles; basal and submaximal glucose uptake was also modestly increased in soleus and epitrochlearis. These data suggest that increased muscle HKII (corresponding to the upper end of the physiologic range) may not be sufficient to augment net in vivo glucose homeostasis. However, glucose phosphorylation can represent a rate-limiting step for skeletal muscle glucose utilization since muscle glucose-6-phosphate levels are increased during in vivo hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia; furthermore, basal and insulin-mediated muscle glucose uptake can be increased by a selective increase in HKII expression.
Reflection of foster parents on caring for foster and adopted children and their suggestions to teachers

In this research project we investigated the process of adoption of foster children by foster parents and the foster parents’ ideas of how to help foster children going through the process of adoption or those who have been adopted. We sent questionnaires to 200 foster parents living in the Cleveland area, but just 23 foster parents replied. Results of our research showed that 70% of foster parents chose the foster‐to‐adopt option because they wanted to adopt children, 65% of the foster parents stated that the school was helpful, and 50% informed their child’s school about the adoption at the beginning of the school year. Regretfully, the majority of the foster parents reported that they did not receive from the school any materials related to adoption. In addition, 75% of foster parents believe that teachers should schedule special lessons and events during Adoption Month.
Stability of Polyvinyl Chloride Latices

Among the important contributions to polymer technology, the invention of the emulsion polymerization process has been recognized to be of outstanding value. The salient feature of this process is that the reaction exists, almost exclusively, in small particles, generally less than one micron in diameter, which are dispersed in water. This reaction results in rapid polymerization rates coupled with the attainment of usefully high molecular weights in the final product. Another characteristic property of the emulsion polymerization process is the utilization of surfactants, which serve a dual purpose. As has been shown by Harkins (1), the surfactant micelles serve as the loci of the polymerization, while simultaneously preventing the flocculation of the particles which have been produced. The degree to which the surfactant stabilizes a latex is a direct function of the surfactant’s chemical composition, its adsorptivity on the particle surface, its degree of ionization at the surface, and the kind and concentration of the salts present in the bulk solution. It is the objective of this work to establish latex colloidal stability as a function of surfactant concentration, and electrolyte environment, and to interpret the results with the use of current theories.
Identification of the JAK2 V617F Mutation in Chronic Myeloproliferative Disorders Using FRET Probes and Melting Curve Analysis

We developed and validated a real-time polymerase chain reaction assay using fluorescent hybridization probes and melting curve analysis to identify the JAK2 V617F mutation, which is implicated in a substantial proportion of chronic myeloproliferative disorders (CMPDs). DNA from 161 samples was isolated from peripheral blood granulocytes and formalin-fixed bone marrow clot sections in patients with CMPDs and without myeloproliferative disorders previously genotyped for the JAK2 V617F (G→T) mutation, which included 114 wild types (GG) and 47 mutants (GT and TT). Melting curve analysis of these samples yielded 114 wild types, 42 heterozygotes, and 5 homozygotes showing 100% concordance. Analytic sensitivity of the assay for mutant DNA was 5% for the LightTyper (Roche Applied Sciences, Indianapolis, IN) and 10% for the LightCycler (Roche Applied Sciences). Consistent with earlier reports, 78% of the non–chronic myelogenous leukemia CMPD patients and 8% of nonCMPD patients displayed this mutation. This study demonstrates that clinical genotyping of the JAK2 V617F mutation can be performed by melting analysis using both freshly isolated and formalin-fixed tissues.
Learning characteristics of stochastic-gradient-descent algorithms: A general study, analysis, and critique

Abstract A comprehensive analysis of the mean-square learning characteristics of stochastic-descent algorithms is presented. The approach is based on the commonly exploited simplifying assumption of stationary independent training vectors. Characteristics analyzed include stability, steady-state misadjustment, initial rate of convergence, optimum step size, and steady-state autocovariance and spectral characteristics of the weight-vector. Effects on these characteristics due to degree of randomness of stochastic gradient, particular data distribution, and data corruption are isolated and analyzed. An objective of the work is to keep the number of simplifying assumptions and approximations to a minimum. Comparison of results with previous more approximate analyses are made.
Hybridization mapping of restriction fragments from the early region of bacteriophage T7 DNA.

Abstract By hybridizing individual early RNA species from T7-infected cells to Hpa I cleavage products of T7 DNA, we have identified the fragments which comprise the early region of the T7 genome and have deduced their order with respect to the genetic and physical maps. From the left end of the DNA molecule the arrangement of Hpa I DNA fragments is: F·H·G·Q. Our results indicate that the termination signal for the host RNA polymerase is situated in, or near the right end of, Hpa I fragment Q (at about 19.3% of the genome). In vivo , recognition of the termination signal at the end of the early region by the host RNA polymerase occurs with about 70–75% efficiency. Late mRNA from T7-infected cells was also analyzed by this technique. Our results demonstrate that both class II and class III genes are efficiently transcribed during the interval from 6 to 12 min after infection. These results are contrasted with those observed for the purified phage RNA polymerase in vitro .
Toxicity assessment of air-delivered particle-bound polybrominated diphenyl ethers.

Abstract Human exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) can occur via ingestion of indoor dust, inhalation of PBDE-contaminated air and dust-bound PBDEs. However, few studies have examined the pulmonary toxicity of particle-bound PBDEs, mainly due to the lack of an appropriate particle-cell exposure system. In this study we developed an in vitro exposure system capable of generating particle-bound PBDEs mimicking dusts containing PBDE congeners (BDEs 35, 47 and 99) and delivering them directly onto lung cells grown at an air–liquid interface (ALI). The silica particles and particles-coated with PBDEs ranged in diameter from 4.3 to 4.5 μm and were delivered to cells with no apparent aggregation. This experimental set up demonstrated high reproducibility and sensitivity for dosing control and distribution of particles. ALI exposure of cells to PBDE-bound particles significantly decreased cell viability and induced reactive oxygen species generation in A549 and NCI-H358 cells. In male Sprague-Dawley rats exposed via intratracheal insufflation (0.6 mg/rat), particle-bound PBDE exposures induced inflammatory responses with increased recruitment of neutrophils to the lungs compared to sham-exposed rats. The present study clearly indicates the potential of our exposure system for studying the toxicity of particle-bound compounds.
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) Stabilizes Nascent Blood Vessels

Here we report that VEGF-A and IGF-1 differ in their ability to stabilize newly formed blood vessels and endothelial cell tubes. Although VEGF-A failed to support an enduring vascular response, IGF-1 stabilized neovessels generated from primary endothelial cells derived from various vascular beds and mouse retinal explants. In these experimental systems, destabilization/regression was driven by lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). Because previous studies have established that Erk antagonizes LPA-mediated regression, we considered whether Erk was an essential component of IGF-dependent stabilization. Indeed, IGF-1 lost its ability to stabilize neovessels when the Erk pathway was inhibited pharmacologically. Furthermore, stabilization was associated with prolonged Erk activity. In the presence of IGF-1, Erk activity persisted longer than in the presence of VEGF or LPA alone. These studies reveal that VEGF and IGF-1 can have distinct inputs in the angiogenic process. In contrast to VEGF, IGF-1 stabilizes neovessels, which is dependent on Erk activity and associated with prolonged activation.
Regional anesthesia for outpatient hand surgery: ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve block.

o c t t t h t o u f p r u q t i d d r AS THE NUMBER OF AMBULATORY surgeries and scrutiny of health care expenses continue to increase, it is important to use anesthetic techniques that fford specific characteristics; rapid onset, adequate pain ontrol, minimal postoperative nausea and vomiting, and apid resolution of systemic effects (to enhance postaneshesia care efficiency) are desired components of outpaient anesthesia. In addition, our patient demographics ave changed markedly over the past 20 years, trending oward increased age, increased obesity, and a higher prevlence of chronic opioid usage. Because of these patterns, the popularity of regional nesthesia for outpatient hand surgery has increased ramatically in the last decade. In the past, regional nesthetic blocks were performed using palpable anaomical landmarks, and by eliciting paresthesia and/or lectrical nerve stimulation the anesthesiologist was ble to ascertain the proximity of needle to nerve. uccess rates ranging from 60% to 95% were reported, epending on the site and practitioner expertise. These lind techniques brought into question other factors, ncluding onset, quality, safety, and patient comfort. ould the variable results of blind regional anesthetic locks be improved and made more reliable? Since the mid 1990s, the role of ultrasound guidance as generated a renaissance of interest in peripheral erve blockade within the anesthesia community. Ulrasound guidance affords several advantages in comarison to traditional methods. The primary advantage f ultrasound is the direct visualization of neural and djacent anatomical structures. This allows for visualzation of the spread of local anesthetic during injection. n addition, sonographic imaging allows for detection
RNA polymerase III repression by the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein

The retinoblastoma (RB) tumor suppressor protein regulates multiple pathways that influence cell growth, and as a key regulatory node, its function is inactivated in most cancer cells. In addition to its canonical roles in cell cycle control, RB functions as a global repressor of RNA polymerase (Pol) III transcription. Indeed, Pol III transcripts accumulate in cancer cells and their heightened levels are implicated in accelerated growth associated with RB dysfunction. Herein we review the mechanisms of RB repression for the different types of Pol III genes. For type 1 and type 2 genes, RB represses transcription through direct contacts with the core transcription machinery, notably Brf1-TFIIIB, and inhibits preinitiation complex formation and Pol III recruitment. A contrasting model for type 3 gene repression indicates that RB regulation involves stable and simultaneous promoter association by RB, the general transcription machinery including SNAPc, and Pol III, suggesting that RB may impede Pol III promoter escape or elongation. Interestingly, analysis of published genomic association data for RB and Pol III revealed added regulatory complexity for Pol III genes both during active growth and during arrested growth associated with quiescence and senescence. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Transcription by Odd Pols.
Capturing Medical Documentation on the Battlefield Frontline–A Macroergonomic Analysis

The frontline of military health care on the battlefield poses significant challenges to medical data collection, whether collected via paper or digitization. The mobility and tempo of the frontline and the physical needs of the patients significantly impact the combat medic's ability for timely, accurate, and thorough recording of patient encounter information. In the design of new integrated management information systems, basic data capture issues must not be ignored or minimized. If data is not captured, it will not be available within the information system, regardless of whether it is a paper-based or a digital system. This macroergonomic analysis evaluated the medical data generated at the frontline as well as current and proposed data capture procedures. Another key component was an evaluation of the healthcare providers at that level of care. The results were compiled into three key design strategies relevant for the next acquisition cycle of medical data capture devices.
Organics and Polymers for Active Optics: An Assessment

Results obtained recently demonstrate that many organic molecules can be designed to provide nonlinear susceptibilities far larger than lithium niobate. These molecules may be attached to polymer chains to create large area films with good mechanical properties as well as the required optical performance. Applications that have been predicted include second harmonic generation, optical modulation, optical switching, and memories. For these hopes to reach fruition, highly ordered polymer films incorporating these molecules must be fabricated. Among the most promising techniques being pursued is the Langmuir-Blodgett deposition technique in which monolayers can be extracted from a water subphase onto a substrate. Interleaving film materials permits the creation of multiple layer systems between 5A and 5000A in thickness. In this paper, we review both the research directed toward molecular design and the efforts to grow multilayer crystalline polymer films.
Epitaxial Graphene Nucleation on C-Face Silicon Carbide

The initial stages of epitaxial graphene growth were studied by characterization of graphene formed in localized areas on C-face 6H-SiC substrates. The graphene areas were determined to lie below the level of the surrounding substrate and showed different morphologies based on size. Employing electron channeling contrast imaging, the presence of threading screw dislocations was indicated near the centers of each of these areas. After the graphene was removed, these dislocations were revealed to lie within the SiC substrate. These observations suggest that screw dislocations act as preferred nucleation sites for graphene growth on C-face SiC.
Critical systemic and psychosocial considerations in management of trauma in the elderly

Traumatic injuries in the elderly are increasing commensurately with the activeness and healthiness of the lifestyles seen in our expanding geriatric population. Census data suggest that the elderly population will expand by 50% in future years and will represent a larger percentage of Americans by the year 2050. The annual occurrence of traumatic injuries in the elder cohort is reported to be as high as 29%. Perioperative management of acutely injured elderly patients is different from the care rendered to younger patients and is typically more complex. The purposes of this article are to (1) review factors related to aging that may have profound effects on the care and outcomes of senior citizens with craniofacial trauma, (2) consider the perioperative medical evaluation of the older patient, (3) discuss nutritional support and anesthetic management in the elderly, (4) discuss the unique physiological factors that may influence the treatment of craniofacial trauma in older patients, and (5) provide a rationale for facial trauma repair in the elderly that is influenced by the risk-benefit outcome of treatment planning decisions. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 1999;87:272-80)
Structure and dynamics of particle monolayers at a liquid-liquid interface subjected to extensional flow

Monodisperse spherical polystyrene particles were suspended at the interface between decane and water, and then subjected to extensional flow. Their lattice structure was observed to pass from a hexagonal array at rest, through a liquidlike state as flow was first applied, and finally to a new semi-ordered, anisotropic state during steady flow. This semi-ordered state was shown to be oriented and stretched in the flow direction relative to the original hexagonal structure. The influence of interfacial concentration and extensional rate on particle dynamics is discussed.
A Comparative Study of Multivariable Robustness Analysis Methods as Applied to Integrated Flight and Propulsion Control

Three multivariable robustness analysis methods are compared and contrasted. The focus of the analysis is on system stability and performance robustness to uncertainty in the coupling dynamics between two interacting subsystems. Of particular interest is interacting airframe and engine subsystems, and an example airframe/engine vehicle configuration is utilized in the demonstration of these approaches. The singular value (SV) and structured singular value (SSV) analysis methods are compared to a method especially well suited for analysis of robustness to uncertainties in subsystem interactions. This approach is referred to here as the interacting subsystem (IS) analysis method. This method has been used previously to analyze airframe/engine systems, emphasizing the study of stability robustness. However, performance robustness is also investigated here, and a new measure of allowable uncertainty for acceptable performance robustness is introduced. The IS methodology does not require plant uncertainty models to measure the robustness of the system, and is shown to yield valuable information regarding the effects of subsystem interactions. In contrast, the SV and SSV methods allow for the evaluation of the robustness of the system to particular models of uncertainty, and do not directly indicate how the airframe (engine) subsystem interacts with the engine (airframe) subsystem.
Sparse array imaging for microwave gauging by compressed sensing

The reliability of microwave level gauging can be improved by radar imaging techniques. An antenna array with a large aperture must be used, in order to achieve the desired resolution. At the same time, the number of array elements is limited to only a few, which leads to ambiguities due to spatial undersampling. The ambiguities can be resolved by application of compressed sensing (CS) techniques, as this paper will demonstrate. A model of this particular problem is developed, such that CS algorithms can be applied. Statistical analyses demonstrate the robustness of the method. Finally, measurements of a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) system are presented, with an array size of down to 4 elements.
Microsomal cytochrome P450 2C5: comparison to microbial P450s and unique features

Although microsomal P450s represent the majority of P450s, only microbial P450s have been amenable to crystal structure solution. We have recently solved the first crystal structure of a microsomal P450, 2C5, a progesterone hydroxylase from rabbit. We discuss the features of the protein in common with existing structures of microbial P450s and limitations of homology modeling mammalian P450s based on the microbial structures. Unique features involving membrane, substrate and cytochrome P450 reductase interactions are also discussed.
Middle East Peacekeeping Operations after Peace Accords on the Syria and Lebanon Tracks

From a practitioner perspective, the study explores what the three regional peacekeeping missions – UNDOF, UNIFIL and UNTSO - may do ‘the day after’ peace accords were in place, relative to potential security arrangements on the Syria and Lebanon tracks. The inquiry looks at the ‘mechanics’ of the security implementation system after peace accords are in place; the role of the UN in assisting peace implementation and potential improvements; the future validity of prior negotiation positions and the possible effect of seminal transitions in the Middle East, prior to an outcome of the Syria conflict. As an example, the study considers the experience of Egypt after the peace treaty with Israel, and the security arrangements in the Sinai. The study finds that the traditional peacekeeping or military monitoring operations are well-suited to post-accord security arrangement facilitation, and highlights the primary value of traditional peacekeeping missions as confidence-building mechanisms, supporting the development of state relationships.
ADAR1 RNA Deaminase Limits Short Interfering RNA Efficacy in Mammalian Cells

Double-stranded RNA induces the homology-dependent degradation of cognate mRNA in the cytoplasm via RNA interference (RNAi) but also is a target for adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing by adenosine deaminases acting on RNA (ADARs). An interaction between the RNAi and the RNA editing pathways in Caenorhabditis elegans has been suggested recently, but the precise mode of interaction remains to be established. In addition, it is unclear whether this interaction is possible in mammalian cells with their somewhat different RNAi pathways. Here we show that ADAR1 and ADAR2, but not ADAR3, avidly bind short interfering RNA (siRNA) without RNA editing. In particular, the cytoplasmic full-length isoform of ADAR1 has the highest affinity among known ADARs, with a subnanomolar dissociation constant. Gene silencing by siRNA is significantly more effective in mouse fibroblasts homozygous for an ADAR1 null mutation than in wild-type cells. In addition, suppression of RNAi effects are detected in fibroblast cells overexpressing functional ADAR1 but not when overexpressing mutant ADAR1 lacking double-stranded RNA-binding domains. These results identify ADAR1 as a cellular factor that limits the efficacy of siRNA in mammalian cells.
Design and analysis of conformal ku-band microstrip patch antenna arrays

A novel approach for the simulation of conformal microstrip patch antenna arrays is presented. 1×2 and 1×4 microstrip arrays operating at 16 GHz were designed and their radiation characteristics were simulated and analyzed as a function of bending. The performance characteristics modeled include S-parameters, radiation patterns, 3-dB beamwidths, side lobe levels, VSWR and radiation efficiency. For the 1×2 array, the degradation in performance in observed for the bent arrays compared to the planar case. However, there is not a significant change in the parameters as there is an increase in the bending radius. As we increase the number of elements in the array, interelement coupling becomes more important. Although a better performance in gain and directivity is obtained for the 1×4 planar array compared to the 1×2 planar array, the performance parameters degrade more with respect to the bending of the array. A maximum gain of 13.65 dB with 16.7° 3-dB beamwidth was achieved at Ku-band. Furthermore, it is shown that the gain, resonance frequency, 3-dB beamwidth, radiation efficiency decreases as bending of the array structure increases. The proposed design can be used in many applications including telemetry, satellites, aircraft and medical operations. This modeling effort is a prelude to development of printed antennas on flexible substrates.
Cloning, Sequencing, and Localization of Bovine Estrogen Receptor-β within the Ovarian Follicle

The potential role of estrogen receptor-beta (ERbeta) in normal ovarian folliculogenesis and in reproductive disorders such as ovarian follicular cysts has not been well defined. Therefore, we were interested in cloning, sequencing, and localizing ERbeta mRNA and protein within the bovine ovary. Bovine ERbeta (bERbeta) was amplified by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), then cloned and sequenced. Results showed that the open reading frame of bERbeta cDNA spanned 1584 nucleotides encoding a protein of 527 amino acids. The N-terminal region of bERbeta was found to be 80% homologous to human and mouse ERbeta and 79% homologous to rat ERbeta. Bovine ERbeta DNA-binding domain was 100% homologous to human, mouse, and rat ERbeta sequences. The C-terminal/ligand-binding domain of bERbeta was 89% homologous to human, 86% homologous to mouse, and 88% homologous to rat ERbeta. Human and bovine ERbeta amino acid sequences are similar in that their coding region extended farther 5' than initially reported for the published rat ERbeta sequence. Using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, ERbeta mRNA and protein, respectively, were demonstrated to be present in granulosa cells of antral follicles in various stages of follicular growth. These findings suggest a role for bERbeta in ovarian follicular growth and maturation.
Conservation and Mathematics Achievement in the Learning Disabled Child

This study investigated the development of the cognitive stage of concrete operations, specifically conservation, in learning disabled children who had significant deficits in mathematics achievement.Twenty-two 9-12 year old learning disabled children with severe mathematics disabilities, and eighteen normal control students with average achievement in mathematics, were given six tests of conservation. Significant group differences appeared which indicated that many learning disabled children have not yet developed the concept of conservation, even in the upper elementary grades. This lag in cognitive development may constrict the ability to understand mathematics instruction as it is often taught today.
Construction of Prediction Intervals in Location‐Scale Families

Let x 1 ≤ x 2 ≤ x 3 ... ≤ x r be the r smallest observations out of n observations from a location-scale family with density 1/σ f (x - u/σ) where μ and σ are the location and the scale parameters respectively. The goal is to construct a prediction interval of the form (μ + k 1 σ 2 , μ + k 2 σ) for a location-scale invariant function, T(Y)= T(Y 1 ,..., Y m ), of m future observations from the same distribution. Given any invariant estimators μ and σ, we have developed a general procedure for how to compute the values of k 1 and k 2 . The two attractive features of the procedure are that it does not require any distributional knowledge of the joint distribution of the estimators beyond their first two raw moments and μ and σ can be any invariant estimators of μ and σ. Examples with real data have been given and extensive simulation study showing the performance of the procedure is also offered.
The enhancement of enantioselectivity by halogen substituents

Abstract For amide derivatives of 1-phenyl-1-ethylamines and for diethyl 1-(N-3,5-dimethylphenyl)amino-1-phenylmethanephosphonates with halogen substituents in the meta or para position of the benzenoid ring, increased retention and enantioselectivity are noted relative to their nonhalogenated counterparts. This is unexpected on the basis of prior observations that halogen substituents on benzenoid rings presumably undergoing face to face π-π interactions show reduced retention and enantioselectivity. These observations raise questions concerning the effect of polarizable electron-withdrawing substituents on the π-basicity of benzenoid systems.
Optimal choice of data restructuring points

Maintaining access efficiency to a data base as updates and/or usage patterns change often requires restructuring the data base. While analytical methods are available for determining the optimal point to restructure, they assume the mean access cost is a smooth function of time or the number of accesses and can be measured exactly at any point in time. The access cost in practice often varies, at least in the short run, In a random manner. This implies a nonzero probability of deciding the optimal reorganization point has been reached when in fact it has not. Determination of the optimal reorganization point must take into account the random behavior of the access cost and the probability (and cost) of deciding too early or too late to perform the reorganization. A technique for choosing the optimal reorganization point subject to random variation in the access cost is developed and some examples are presented.
Sex differences on a computerized mental rotation task disappear with computer familiarization.

The area of cognitive research that has produced the most consistent sex differences is spatial ability. Particularly, men consistently perform better on mental rotation tasks than do women. This study examined the effects of familiarization with a computer on performance of a computerized two-dimensional mental rotation task. Two groups of college students (N = 44) performed the rotation task, with one group performing a color-matching task that allowed them to be familiarized with the computer prior to the rotation task. Among the participants who only performed the rotation task, the 11 men performed better than the 11 women. Among the participants who performed the computer familiarization task before the rotation task, however, there were no sex differences on the mental rotation task between the 10 men and 12 women. These data indicate that sex differences on this two-dimensional task may reflect familiarization with the computer, not the mental rotation component of the task. Further research with ...
Update on the treatment of phenylketonuria: long-term safety and efficacy of sapropterin dihydrochloride

Correspondence: Hilary Vernon Blalock 1008, 600 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA Tel +1 410 955 3071 Fax +1 410 614 9246 Email hvernon1@jhmi.edu Abstract: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism caused by a defect in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, which is responsible for converting phenylalanine to tyrosine. Untreated, this disorder will result in severe intellectual disability. However, with proper management, outcome is excellent. For many years, this disorder was managed exclusively with dietary measures which consisted of a phenylalanine-restricted diet. However, with the recent introduction of a stable, orally bioavailable form of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), the cofactor for phenylalanine hydroxylase, treatment in this disorder has been drastically altered. This stable form of BH4, sapropterin dihydrochloride, has a very good safety profile and is very effective in many patients with PKU in lowering plasma phenylalanine levels and allowing for liberalization of the phenylalanine-restricted diet. The introduction of BH4 has posed many new challenges in the treatment of PKU, including developing the best protocol to determine whether or not a patient will respond to BH4, and how to treat atypical populations including young children, fully affected, untreated adults, and pregnant patients. In this review, we will examine the history of treatment in PKU, the history of treatment with BH4, protocol options for determining if a patient is a drug responder, and considerations for treatment in special populations.
Geometries and electronic structures of cyanide adducts of the non-heme iron active site of superoxide reductases: Vibrational and ENDOR studies

We have added cyanide to oxidized 1Fe and 2Fe superoxide reductase (SOR) as a surrogate for the putative ferric−(hydro)peroxo intermediate in the reaction of the enzymes with superoxide and have used vibrational and ENDOR spectroscopies to study the properties of the active site paramagnetic iron center. Addition of cyanide changes the active site iron center in oxidized SOR from rhombic high-spin ferric (S = 5/2) to axial-like low-spin ferric (S = 1/2). Low-temperature resonance Raman and ENDOR data show that the bound cyanide adopts three distinct conformations in Fe(III)−CN SOR. On the basis of 13CN, C15N, and 13C15N isotope shifts of the Fe−CN stretching/Fe−C−N bending modes, resonance Raman studies of 1Fe−SOR indicate one near-linear conformation (Fe−C−N angle ∼175°) and two distinct bent conformations (Fe−C−N angles <140°). FTIR studies of 1Fe−SOR at ambient temperatures reveals three bound C−N stretching frequencies in the oxidized (ferric) state and one in the reduced (ferrous) state, indicating t...
The Impact of Offenders Leaving the Scene on the Police Decision to Arrest in Cases of Intimate Partner Violence

In this article, the authors examine an issue that has not been studied in depth by prior research: the impact that fleeing the scene has on the likelihood of arrest in intimate partner violence cases. Using police data obtained from 25 police departments in four states, and controlling for a variety of incident, offender, victim, and jurisdictional characteristics, the authors find that an offender who flees the scene of the incident is more than 5 times less likely to be arrested than one who remains at the scene. The policy implications of the findings are discussed.
Surface Modification of Gold Nanorods with Polymers Synthesized by Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer Polymerization

Herein we describe the surface modification of gold nanorods via the postpolymerization immobilization of polymers prepared by reversible addition−fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT). Gold nanorods have been synthesized via a three-step seed-mediated process and then subsequently modified with RAFT-preformed poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate), poly(acrylic acid), and polystyrene homopolymers, with and without the use of reducing agents. Transmission electron microscopy has been used to visually monitor nanorod formations and UV−visible spectroscopy has been used to observe the absorption properties of nanorod formations. Both techniques monitored nanorods with and without surface modifications. This research provides a general and versatile technique for the surface modification of gold nanorods utilizing a wide range of polymers. Polymer modification of nanorods will potentially aid in nanorod self-assembly and ordering processes.
Permissive Effect of Insulin on the Adenosine 3′,5′-Monophosphate-Dependent Up-Regulation of Low Density Lipoprotein Receptors and the Stimulation of Steroid Release in Bovine Adrenal Cortical Cells

Bovine adrenal cortical cells growth on extracellular matrix-coated dishes in the presence of F-12 medium supplemented with high density lipoprotein (30 micrograms protein/ml), insulin (50 ng/ml), transferrin (1 microgram/ml), and fibroblast growth factor (100 ng/ml) expressed high affinity low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors (Kd = 2.0 X 10(-8) M) present at a density of 3 X 10(4) receptors/cell. The density of LDL receptors per cell could be increased 3-fold (9 X 10(4) receptors/cell) by incubating the cells for 24 h with cholera toxin (CT; 10 ng/ml), but not with insulin (100 ng/ml). This correlated with increased LDL internalization (10-fold) and degradation (5-fold). 11-Deoxycortisol (11 DOC) release was increased by 2.7-fold. The addition of insulin (100 ng/ml) together with CT (10 ng/ml) markedly potentiated the effects of CT on LDL binding, internalization, and degradation as well as on steroid release. Preincubation (24 h) of the cells with insulin (100 ng/ml) together with CT resulted in a 12.7-fold increase in high affinity LDL receptor density (3.6 X 10(5) receptors/cell), while LDL internalization and degradation were increased by 45- and 22-fold, respectively. This correlated with a 9.6-fold increase in the 11 DOC released into the medium. The effects of insulin on the induction of high affinity LDL receptors as well as increased internalization and degradation of [125I]LDL were both time and concentration dependent in cultures exposed to CT. Secretion of 11 DOC paralleled in a time-dependent manner the amount of internalized [125I]LDL. Exposure of the cells to chloroquine (100 microM) resulted in a 95% inhibition of [125I]LDL degradation correlating with an 80% decrease in 11 DOC released in cells preexposed to CT and insulin. The results of these studies suggest that in bovine adrenal cortex cells grown in chemically defined medium, insulin modulates steroidogenic cAMP-induced response by increasing both the LDL receptor pathway activity and 11 DOC release.
Generating parallel code for SIMD machines

Massively parallel SIMD machines rely on data parallelism usually achieved by a careful hand coding to support program efficiency. This paper describes parallelization of code generated for SIMD machines by the compiler for the Equational Programming Language, EPL. The language supports architecture-independent scientific programming by recurrent equations. The EPL compiler serves as a programming aid for users of parallel machines by automating data partitioning and computation parallelization based on inherent data dependencies. In support of a Connection Machine architecture, the EPL compiler performs horizontal partitioning of the program, a process that selects a dimension of each data structure to be projected along the processor array. Each processor then holds a single instance of that structure and operations along the projected dimension are done in parallel. The paper describes horizontal partitioning, code generation in MPL and efficiency of programs generated for Maspar SIMD machine.
Isolation of light-induced response of the central retinula cells from the electroretinogram ofDrosophila

An intense blue light stimulus induces a prolonged depolarizing after-potential (PDA) in the peripheral retinula cells, but not in the central retinula cells, of theDrosophila ommatidia, providing the fly has been dark or red adapted and the screening pigments have been genetically removed from the compound eye. Thus, the PDA saturates only the peripheral retinula cells, allowing one to isolate and study extracellularly the summed receptor potentials (SR) of the central retinula cells (Fig. 1). The following lines of evidence support these ideas:
Deterministic Chaos and the Post‐Modern Narrative: Peter Stephan Jungk's Tigor

Post-modern narratives are concerned with questions of uncertain origins, multiple contexts, and with the evolution of internal structures rather than with explicit linear narrative trajectories. Taking Jungk's Tigor as an example, it is demonstrated that some central concepts from chaos theory, including iteration, self-similarity and strange attractors, provide a particularly effective interpretive framework for such narratives.
Carotid Artery Stenting: Clinical Trials and Registry Data

Despite the lack of Level I evidence, carotid artery stenting (CAS) has emerged as an alternative to carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Furthermore, CAS has been met with considerable enthusiasm due to its minimally invasive nature and potential application to high-risk patient populations. Several investigations including multicenter registries and randomized controlled trials have been established and are currently underway in an effort to evaluate the noninferiority and efficacy of CAS as compared to CEA. To date, no trial has definitively shown equivalence of CAS to CEA for the treatment of carotid stenosis and consensus recommendations for use of CAS remain very restricted. Nevertheless, the existing data have provided useful information with respect to differential outcomes in subgroups, including symptom status, age, gender, and high-risk patient populations. Until the noninferiority of CAS is clearly demonstrated in a randomized controlled setting, CEA remains the gold standard for treatment of carotid stenosis and use of CAS must be carefully considered on an individual patient basis.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of ticarcillin and clavulanate in foals after intravenous and intramuscular administration.

The pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of ticarcillin and clavulanate were determined after intravenous (i.v.) or intramuscular (i.m.) administration of ticarcillin disodium (50 mg/kg) combined with clavulanate potassium (1.67 mg/kg) to groups of healthy foals at 3 days and 28 days of age. After i.v. administration of the combination to five foals, the disposition kinetics of ticarcillin and clavulanate were best described using a two-compartment open model. Mean plasma elimination-rate constant (beta) and clearance (ClB) for ticarcillin were significantly less (P less than 0.01), and volume of distribution at steady state (Vd(ss)) was significantly larger (P less than 0.05), in the foals at 3 days compared with 28 days of age. This indicated that renal excretion mechanisms were immature and ticarcillin was more widely distributed in 3-day-old foals. The mean elimination rate constant for clavulanate was significantly less (P less than 0.01) at 3 days than at 28 days of age. Values of the major kinetic terms describing the disposition of ticarcillin after i.m. administration to five 3-day-old foals were not significantly different from values of these parameters in the same foals at 28 days of age. After i.m. administration of the drug combination, plasma clavulanate concentrations peaked significantly later (P less than 0.01), and the elimination-rate constant (kd) for clavulanate was significantly less (P less than 0.01), in 3-day-old foals than in 28-day-old foals. The bioavailabilities of ticarcillin and clavulanate after i.m. administration in 3-day-old foals were 100% and 88.3%, respectively, and in 28-day-old foals were 100% and 27.4%, respectively. Mean plasma ticarcillin concentrations exceeded 16 micrograms/ml for a longer period after i.m. administration of the drug combination than after i.v. administration to foals of both age groups. By virtue of the frequency of administration required and the painful response elicited by i.m. injection, it is recommended that when the combination of ticarcillin disodium (50 mg/kg) and clavulanate potassium (1.67 mg/kg) is used in foals to treat infections caused by susceptible organisms (MIC less than or equal to 16 micrograms/ml), it should be administered i.v. four times daily.
Trainer Self-Disclosure and Member Growth in Two T Groups:

This study compares the effects that "more" or "less" self-disclosing trainer behavior had upon members of two T Groups. Part I of the data analysis substantiates that the experimental manipulation took place as intended. Part II shows that while an equivalent number of 2-person "perceived therapeutic relationships" were formed in each group, the Ss in the group with the less self-disclosing trainers (lSD) more often entered them with their trainers and dyad partners and the Ss with the more self-disclosing trainers (mSD) entered relationships more often with other members. Part III shows that although both groups eventually attained the same level of self-awareness, the mSD group did so earlier. A revised prescription for trainer behavior is advanced, suggesting that the trainer might optimally begin his participation with a high rate of self-disclosure and become more selective with time.
The Thorny Thicket of “Children's Literature”

The four articles comprising the following cluster attest to the complexity of children's literature in Soviet-era and present-day Russia, while also revealing certain motifs that resonate across both eras. Common to all four articles is a presiding emphasis on gender, subsuming several corollary topics: love, sexuality, and their euphemized manifestations; individual versus collective character formation and expression; the impact of historical forces on socially construed gender normativity; and the connection between adult and children's literature. Additionally, two imbricated features grounded in temporality link the texts examined in the cluster: the unacknowledged and uncontested presumption of a linear continuity between girls and full-fledged women; and an orientation toward the future, sanctified by Soviet propaganda. All contributors examine publications centered not on small children, but on girls in their teens–in other words, on a notoriously problematic stage of personality development that automatically precludes both innocence and paradise. Instead, pressures of ego and peer groups lead to self-consciousness, competitiveness, insecurity, the struggle with budding sexuality, and all the psychological baggage that has earned teenagers a reputation as “rebels without a cause.”
Sweat gland carcinoma of the hand: Two cases of malignant eccrine spiradenoma

Two cases of malignant eccrine spiradenoma of the hand are reported. This malignancy is potentially fatal and is believed to arise from preexisting, long-standing benign spiradenomas. These rare tumors should be considered in the hand surgeon's evaluation and management of any long-standing undiagnosed tumor of the hand. Benign spiradenomas should be excised completely and the patient followed carefully. Location and grade of established malignant tumors should dictate therapy.