cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Advances in Step and Flash imprint lithography

Recent work on Step and Flash Imprint Lithography (SFIL) has been focused on process and materials fundamentals and demonstration of resolution capability. Etch transfer rpocesses have been developed that are capable of transferring imprinted images though 150 nm of residual etch barrier, yielding sub 50 nm lines with aspect ratios greater than 8:1. A model has been developed for the photoinitiated, free radical curing of the acrylate etch barrier materials that have been used in the SFIL process. This model includes the effects of oxygen transport on the kinetics of the reaction and yields a deeper understanding of the importance of oxygen inhibition, and the resulting impact of that process on throughput and defect generation. This understanding has motivated investigation of etch barrier materials such as vinyl ethers that are cured by a cationic mechanism, which does not exhibit these same effects. Initial work on statistical defect analysis has is reported and it does not reveal pathological trends.
Keck AO observations of Io in and out of eclipse

Abstract We present adaptive optics (AO) observations of Io taken with the W.M. Keck II telescope on 18 December 2001 (UT) before the satellite went into eclipse, and while it was in Jupiter's shadow. Making these kind of Io-in-eclipse observations, as well as the associated data reduction and analysis are challenging; hence one focus of the paper is to explain the methods and tools used for these data sets. For the sunlit images Io itself was used as the wavefront reference source, while nearby Ganymede was used as reference ‘star’ when Io was in eclipse. Observations were obtained in K′-, L′-, and M-bands. The sunlit images have been deconvolved using MISTRAL . The Io-in-eclipse data were deconvolved with IDAC and MISTRAL . The former gives better results, both in absolute photometry and in matching the original images. We determined the flux densities of the hot spots from the original Io-in-eclipse data with StarFinder, as well as from the deconvolved images by integrating the intensity over the relevant areas. We determined the highly anisoplanatic PSF via a FFT method from the original data, and used this in StarFinder and as a starting PSF for IDAC and MISTRAL . We derived temperatures and areal coverage of all 19 spots detected in both K′- and L′-band images of Io-in-eclipse. We also determined temperatures and areal coverage of the hot spots visible on the L′- and M-band images of sunlit Io. Most volcanoes contain a compact hot ‘core’ (≲10 km2 at 600–800 K) within a larger area at lower temperatures (e.g., ∼102–104 km2 at 300–500 K). The total heat flow contributed by these active volcanoes is 0.2 W m−2, ∼8% of the average global heat flow measured at 5–20 μm by Veeder et al. [J. Geophys. Res. 99 (1994) 17095].
Emerging Role of miR-106b-25/miR-17-92 Clusters in the Control of Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling

Inactivation of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) tumor suppressor pathway is a main step in the development of a variety of human tumors. The miR-106b-25 and miR-17-92 clusters are emerging as key modulators of TGFβ signaling in gastrointestinal and other tumors, interfering with cell cycle arrest and apoptosis when overexpressed in cancer cells. Genetic ablation of these microRNAs (miRNAs) reveals their physiologic role in the control of liver and central nervous system apoptosis, supporting the notion that miRNA-based homeostatic mechanisms can be usurped by cancer cells to resist TGFβ tumor suppression. [Cancer Res 2008;68(20):8191–4]
Regulation of immune reactivity to collagen in human beings

Denaturated beef collagen was tested for its ability to induce the production of leukocyte inhibition factor among the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis and normal individuals. Responsiveness, defined as the production of leukocyte inhibition factor sufficient to cause greater than 20% inhibition of leukocyte migration, was significantly (P less than 0.001, X2 = 31.1) associated with HLA-DR4. All HLA-DR4 positive individuals, including subjects without any evidence of synovitis, were collagen responders. There was no significant (P = 0.3) difference in the absolute reactivity of HLA-DR4+ versus HLA-DR4- individuals to respond to another antigen, Candida albicans. Collagen reactivity required interactions between macrophages and T cells and was directed against determinants inherent in the linear polypeptide, (Gly-Pro)n. In 5 normal HLA-DR4- nonresponders tested, absence of discernable reactivity to collagen was associated with the presence of antigen-specific, radiosensitive suppressive T cells. These studies suggest that during the physiologic metabolism of collagen all individuals are exposed to Gly-Pro determinants normally buried in the interstices of the collagen triple helix. In individuals whose major histocompatibility complex contains genes linked to those coding for HLA-DR4, this results in the activation of reactive T cells. Conversely, in individuals lacking these genes, collagen-specific suppressive cells predominate.
Inadvertent malposition of a permanent pacemaker ventricular lead into the left ventricle which was initially missed and diagnosed two years later: a case report

Inadvertent malposition of a pacemaker ventricular lead into the left ventricle is an uncommon event, and its actual incidence is probably unknown. It may be underestimated and underreported because of a possible asymptomatic course. A 12-lead electrocardiogram is important to confirm proper placement. We report a case of a 60-year-old Caucasian man with a malpositioned transvenous permanent pacing lead into the left ventricle via a patent foramen ovale that was not suspected during implantation and went undiagnosed for two years without complications. The patient remained asymptomatic as he was being treated with oral anticoagulation therapy for atrial fibrillation. The decision was made to leave the pacing lead in place and continue lifelong warfarin therapy. Inadvertent insertion of pacing wires into the left ventricle is a potentially dangerous complication that may happen under fluoroscopic guidance and may be overlooked by routine pacemaker interrogation. It is advisable to obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram during or immediately after transvenous pacemaker implantation rather than use a routine pacemaker interrogation or a limited electrocardiogram.
Domestic violence: Predictors of victim support for official action

In this paper, using a sample of 5,272 domestic violence cases processed through the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office between July 1, 1999 and December 31, 2000, we analyze the predictors of victim support for official action. We test the impact of victim and offender characteristics, situational variables, and official behavior on whether it was the victim or some third party who called for assistance, whether the victim desired the arrest, and whether the victim was willing to prosecute. The multiple significant effects found include race/ethnicity, gender, cohabitation, co-parenthood, attack severity, victim injury, prior incidents, reporting of prior incidents, presence of a protective order, provision of victim services, victim substance use, and suspect injury. Especially important from a policy perspective is that prosecutor charging practice (i.e., filing as a felony rather than a misdemeanor or violation of probation) was negatively associated with levels of victim support for prosecu...
Enhanced motility in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts that overexpress gelsolin

Increasing the content of the actin-binding protein gelsolin in cultured mouse fibroblasts by up to 125 percent by gene transfection proportionally enhanced the rate at which the cells migrated through porous filters toward a gradient of serum and closed a wound made on a confluent monolayer of cells in a tissue culture dish. These results provide direct evidence that gelsolin, which promotes both actin assembly and disassembly in vitro, is an important element in fibroblast locomotion and demonstrate that the manipulation of intracellular machinery can increase cell motility.
Prospective case-cohort study of intestinal colonization with enterococci that produce extracellular superoxide and the risk for colorectal adenomas or cancer

Prospective case-cohort study of intestinal colonization with enterococci that produce extracellular superoxide and the risk for colorectal adenomas or cancer
Spinal Cord Compression by Thoracic Vertebral Hemangioma—A Case Report

A 68 year old with lower extremity numbness, vibratory sensation loss, coldness and burning of his feet, unsteady gait, frequent falls and a sensory level had an MRI demonstrating aT7 and T8 vertebral body/posterior element lesion with epidural extension, cord compression and foraminal extension (Figures 1-5). Decompressive laminectomy/resection confirmed vertebral hemangioma, a common benign neoplasm that typically remains asymptomatic, found incidentally in 10% of the population. Progressive vertebral body hemangiomas may cause cord or nerve root compression due to epidural tumor extension, expanded bone, hematoma or fracture. Radiographs demonstrate course vertical striations caused by thick trabeculae. CT in indolent lesions demonstrates fat density while compressive lesions demonstrate soft tissue density. Indolent lesions follow fat signal on MRI; symptomatic lesions are T1 isointense/T2 hyperintense. Work-up for aggressive hemangiomas includes angiography to determine vascularity, identify feeding/draining vessels and identify blood supply to the cord. Biopsy helps differentiate hemangioma, lymphoma, myeloma or metastasis. Management of symptomatic hemangiomas includes vertebroplasty for pain, radiation for pain, compression or pre-op and decompressive laminectomy for epidural disease. Embolization of feeding vessels may be performed pre-op or may be curative. Hemangioma causing cord compression and neurologic symptoms by extraosseous extension is much less common than benign hemangioma. Imaging features may suggest potential for progression.
An application of a three-factor performance index to measure stockholder gains from merger

Abstract This article re-examines the magnitude of stockholder gains from merger. To measure stockholder gains we employ four alternative two-factor market-industry models in combination with a matched non-merging control group. The four two-factor models are based on either the capital asset pricing model or Black's (1972) zero-beta model combined with two alternative industry factors. The four models are shown to produce generally consistent results. However, the results from a two-factor model are sometimes different from the results of a simpler one-factor model. Also, the introduction of a third factor, the non-merging control group, is shown to have a substantial impact on performance measurement.
Anthropometric Assessment of the da Vinci Surgical Robot

The purpose of this paper is to describe an ergonomic assessment of a da Vinci Surgical Robot. The use of surgical robots has significantly enhanced the surgeon's control and visualization during minimally invasive surgery. In turn, these technological advances have translated into significant benefits to the patients compared to traditional laparoscopic techniques. However, use of surgical robots requires that surgeons sit for extended periods at a surgical console from which they control the robotic arms and view the surgical procedure through a high resolution viewer. This can lead to sustained trunk and neck flexion, resulting in discomfort in those regions. The system was analyzed through observational assessment and anthropometric modeling. The results of the analysis indicate that the current adjustability of the da Vinci console is sufficient for a large majority of the population, but individuals shorter than 60“ or taller than 72” face challenges in using the system.
Incremental cost sharing: characterization by coalition strategy-proofness

Each one of n users consumes an idiosyncratic commodity produced in indivisible units. The n commodities are jointly produced by a central facility and total cost must be shared by the users.
Application of intelligent control in the design of a test flight maneuver autopilot: An example of cooperation between NASA and a university

This paper describes two research projects conducted by the author under the auspices of NASA/ASEE Summer Faculty Fellowship Program, The challenge in both of the projects was to replace traditional control by elements of intelligent control in systems used by NASA. While the focus of the paper is on the NASA/ASEE Summer Faculty Fellowship Program as a University-Industry Joint Program, the objective of the author is to share the experience with other Engineering Educators. Therefore, the emphasis is mainly on the nature and the scope of the projects and the effectiveness of the program. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 8: 196–200, 2000
TOENAIL ZINC (Zn) IN MOTHERS OF PROGENY WITH NEURAL TUBE DEFECTS (NTDS)

Diet-induced Zn deficiency in pregnant rats is known to cause cong. malfs. in 90-100% of their progeny, some 3% having spina bifida(SB).Mothers of children with SB have been reported to have high concentrations of hair Zn. Recent UK claims suggest vitamin A/folic acid periconceptional supplementation dramatically reduces the rate of recurrence of NTDs in women at risk.Because animal data have established a consistent relation between low plasma vitamin A and Zn deficiency, we studied the Zn status of women with a NTD fetus.Toenail clippings obtained mostly between 18-24 wks gestation provides a valuable retrospective assessment of maternal Zn status in the months prior to & around the periconceptional period.Zn analyses of toenails were performed by neutron activation analysis on 35 patients.21 controls (7 matched normal pregnancies, 14 normal females & males) had a normal range for Zn of 79.6-125 ppm.10 mothers with NTD fetuses, 2 with omphalocele, & 2 with with exogenous Zn intake were analyzed. High Zn values were found in 2 with SB fetuses (181;144), 1 with anencephaly (Anen.)(213), & 2 with Zn intake (208.4;290.8).Lowest value of all 35 was 1 with anen.(62.3).2 with SB+other malfs., 2 with Anen, 1 with lone SB all had normal Zn.In Zn deficiency both decreased and paradoxical increased Zn values have been found in hair.The consonance of our findings of high (3) or low(1) toenail Zn values among 10 mothers with NTD fetuses, suggests an abnormality in Zn metabolism in some women who bear children with NTDs.
The bacterial enzyme RppH triggers messenger RNA degradation by 5′ pyrophosphate removal

The long-standing assumption that messenger RNA (mRNA) degradation in Escherichia coli begins with endonucleolytic cleavage has been challenged by the recent discovery that RNA decay can be triggered by a prior non-nucleolytic event that marks transcripts for rapid turnover: the rate-determining conversion of the 5' terminus from a triphosphate to a monophosphate. This modification creates better substrates for the endonuclease RNase E, whose cleavage activity at internal sites is greatly enhanced when the RNA 5' end is monophosphorylated. Moreover, it suggests an explanation for the influence of 5' termini on the endonucleolytic cleavage of primary transcripts, which are triphosphorylated. However, no enzyme capable of removing pyrophosphate from RNA 5' ends has been identified in any bacterial species. Here we show that the E. coli protein RppH (formerly NudH/YgdP) is the RNA pyrophosphohydrolase that initiates mRNA decay by this 5'-end-dependent pathway. In vitro, RppH efficiently removes pyrophosphate from the 5' end of triphosphorylated RNA, irrespective of the identity of the 5'-terminal nucleotide. In vivo, it accelerates the degradation of hundreds of E. coli transcripts by converting their triphosphorylated 5' ends to a more labile monophosphorylated state that can stimulate subsequent ribonuclease cleavage. That the action of the pyrophosphohydrolase is impeded when the 5' end is structurally sequestered by a stem-loop helps to explain the stabilizing influence of 5'-terminal base pairing on mRNA lifetimes. Together, these findings suggest a possible basis for the effect of RppH and its orthologues on the invasiveness of bacterial pathogens. Interestingly, this master regulator of 5'-end-dependent mRNA degradation in E. coli not only catalyses a process functionally reminiscent of eukaryotic mRNA decapping but also bears an evolutionary relationship to the eukaryotic decapping enzyme Dcp2.
Relationships among Maximum Hypocotyl Length, Seed Weight, and Emergence in Sericea Lespedeza

Poor seedling emergence is a major limitation in establishing sericea lespedeza [Lespedeza cuneata (Dumont de Courset) G. Don). A series of controlled-environment and field experiments were conducted to determine relationships among maximum hypocotyl length (MHL), seed weight, and percentage and rate of emergence in sericea lespedeza and to define criteria (or selecting sericea lespedeza with good field emergence. The best time to distinguish MHL among sericea lespedeza genotypes was 9 d after emergence at alternating temperature of 26/22 °C (13/11 h). Seed weight and MHL were positively correlated, and both were positively correlated with field emergence. Selection for heavier-seeded genotypes, which should tend to increase MHL, is easy [...]
Perceptions of "urgency" in women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome or overactive bladder.

Purpose: To compare urgency symptoms in women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) and overactive bladder (OAB). Materials and Methods: Women with diagnoses of IC/BPS (n = 194) and OAB (n = 85) were recruited from the clinical practices of Urologists (n = 8) and Gynecologists (n = 16) with recognized expertise in the diagnosis and management of these conditions. Subjects completed a comprehensive telephone survey about their current symptoms. The questionnaire included 11 questions about urinary urgency. Responses were compared between the two groups. Results: Urgency was commonly reported as a symptom by women with both conditions (81% IC/BPS and 91% OAB). Compared with IC/BPS, urgency in OAB more often resulted in leakage, and was perceived to be more of a problem. In IC/BPS, the urgency was primarily reported as due to pain, pressure, or discomfort, while in OAB the urgency was more commonly due to fear of leakage. However, approximately 40% of women with OAB also report urgency due to pain, pressure, or discomfort. Similar proportions of both groups (∼60%) indicated that the urgency occurred “suddenly” instead of more gradually over a period of minutes or hours. Conclusions: Urgency symptoms differed in women diagnosed with IC/BPS versus those diagnosed with OAB, but there was significant overlap. This suggests that “urgency” is not a well-defined and commonly understood symptom that can be utilized to clearly discriminate between IC/BPS and OAB. These findings reinforce the clinical observation that it is often challenging to differentiate between these two conditions. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:402–405, 2011. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Gastric aspirates after trauma in children

Summary The volumes and pH of gastric aspirates obtained from 110 children (aged 1–14 years) who underwent surgery for trauma were related to the duration of pre-operative starvation and to the interval between food and injury. Aspirates were larger in children fasted for 4–6 hours than in those fasted for up to 10 hours, and were larger in children injured within 2 hours of eating than in those in whom this interval was longer (p < 0.05). However, 19 of 39 children (49%) starved for over 8 hours had an aspirate of more than 0.4 ml/kg. as did five of 16 children (31%) injured 3 or more hours after eating. Thus, a ‘safe’ interval between oral intake and induction cannot be predicted. We conclude that securing the airway by prompt tracheal intubation is the safest way to manage any child who presents for emergency anaesthesia after trauma.
Steroids and triiodothyronine reduce nerve growth factor concentrations in medium conditioned by L-929 fibroblasts

Thyroid hormone, testosterone, and glucocorticoids stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in mouse submandibular glands, but little is known about the influences of these hormones on other sources of NGF. In this study we tested the effects of thyroid hormone and steroids on NGF levels in medium conditioned by L-929 fibroblasts (Lcells), a mouse cell line that secretes NGF in culture. NGF concentrations in conditioned medium were measured by RIA and were normalized for cell number. In the absence of hormones, NGF levels in medium averaged 5.57 ng/ml. T3, cortisone, and aldosterone decreased NGF levels below the sensitivity of the RIA (0.37 ng/ml), with respective ID50 values of 1 × 10M-5, 1 × 10-8, and 5 × 10-8 M. Testosterone decreased NGF levels by 66%, with an IDso of 9 × 10-9 M, and 17β-estradiol decreased it by up to 50%, although the hormone′s effects had not plateaued at 10-6 M. NGF concentrations were unaffected by progesterone at doses as high as 10-6 M. Cell viability was unaffect...
Computerized Testing in Large Courses: A Case Study

This case study is about a highly enrolled introductory psychology course at a large (twenty-eight thousand students) research-oriented urban university. This course was taught in large lecture halls. Students’ grades were determined solely by their performance on multiple-choice tests. The “DWF rate” (those who did not pass the course) was consistently around 40 percent. More than ten years ago, we started with the hypothesis that this rate could be reduced and that these students could learn to succeed. The first step in this process was to institute computerized testing. Annually, the Psychology Testing Lab assesses over four thousand students. The lab is a four-hundred-square-foot room that originally supported sixteen computers. Students take five tests per semester, and they are permitted to take each test twice. Initially, when tests closed on the weekend, students often waited in long lines. The focus of this chapter will be on the lessons that we have learned in implementing computerized testing with limited resources.
The histone methyltransferase Set7/9 promotes myoblast differentiation and myofibril assembly

The molecular events that modulate chromatin structure during skeletal muscle differentiation are still poorly understood. We report in this paper that expression of the H3-K4 histone methyltransferase Set7 is increased when myoblasts differentiate into myotubes and is required for skeletal muscle development, expression of muscle contractile proteins, and myofibril assembly. Knockdown of Set7 or expression of a dominant-negative Set7 mutant impairs skeletal muscle differentiation, accompanied by a decrease in levels of histone monomethylation (H3-K4me1). Set7 directly interacts with MyoD to enhance expression of muscle differentiation genes. Expression of myocyte enhancer factor 2 and genes encoding contractile proteins is decreased in Set7 knockdown myocytes. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Set7 also activates muscle gene expression by precluding Suv39h1-mediated H3-K9 methylation on the promoters of myogenic differentiation genes. Together, our experiments define a biological function for Set7 in muscle differentiation and provide a molecular mechanism by which Set7 modulates myogenic transcription factors during muscle differentiation.
Dielectric response of a semi-infinite layered electron gas and Raman scattering from its bulk and surface plasmons.

An exact solution of the random-phase-approximation equations is worked out for the density-density correlation function of a semi-infinite system of two-dimensional electron-gas layers, with different dielectrics outside and inside the layered system. From this solution, analytic formulas are derived for the dispersion relations of the bulk and surface plasmons and for the intensity of the light scattered inelastically from such a system. The intensity is written as a sum of the bulk and the surface terms. The theory is applied to semiconductor multilayers. The line shape of the bulk-plasmon peak, obtained after cancellation of van Hove singularities in the bulk piece by the surface piece, is compared with experiment. Conditions for observation of the Giuliani-Quinn surface plasmon are outlined.
Public health: The toxic truth about sugar

Added sweeteners pose dangers to health that justify controlling them like alcohol, argue Robert H. Lustig, Laura A. Schmidt and Claire D. Brindis.
Separation and identification of sulfanilamides by capillary supercritical fluid chromatography-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy

Abstract The separation of several sulfanilamides by capillary SFC using a capillary column coated with a biphenyldimethyl silicone column has been achieved. A very high starting pressure (∼ 200 atm) and final pressure (∼ 500 atm) was used to elute these very polar solutes. A universal SFC-FT-IR interface has been made by modification of a commercially available direct deposition GC-FT-IR interface. A new heating device allowed a partial solution to the problem of restrictor plugging by very polar compounds eluting from capillary columns. The low detection limit (about 1 ng for sulfamethazine) allows trace amounts of compounds in complex mixtures to be detected and identified provided that they chromatographically separable. When methanol-modified CO 2 was used as the mobile phase to increase the separation efficiency of capillary SFC for polar analytes, results were not encouraging because of the poor stability of the stationary phase in the presence of methanol.
I. Implications of recent clinical trials in systemic hypertension II. Results of a multicenter trial of nitrendipine, for mild to moderately severe systemic hypertension

Abstract Results of the European Working Party group study and the Medical Research Council clinical trial in mild hypertension have important implications for the practicing physician. They appear to confirm 2 previous impressions. The first is that therapy for elderly patients with both systolic and diastolic hypertension is beneficial; cardiovascular mortality can be reduced by lowering blood pressure. These data are consistent with the findings in the 60- to 69-year-old cohort in the Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program study in the US. The second is that specific treatment with antihypertensive agents in patients with mild hypertension will decrease overall cardiovascular mortality compared with placebo treatment. The approach to treatment in both of these studies was relatively simple, using a diuretic as step 1 therapy in the European study, and either a diuretic or a β-adrenergic inhibiting agent in the Medical Research Council study. These data provide further evidence for the benefits of treatment of hypertension.
NEW STUDIES IN FORENSIC NEUTRON ACTIVATION ANALYSIS

Earlier studies in forensic neutron activation analysis are being extended in this Laboratory. Three of these new studies are reported here: (1) a study of 0.22-caliber rimfire cartridge primers, (2) a large-scale study of shotgun pellets, and (3) a new 5-element procedure for the analysis of bullet-lead and shotgun-pellet samples.
Internal cw parametric upconversion

The first demonstration of cw parametric upconversion inside a laser’s optical cavity is reported. Infrared radiation λ=3.39 μm was upconverted using a 5145‐A argon laser pump and a lithium niobate crystal.
Spasticity may defend skeletal muscle size and composition after incomplete spinal cord injury.

Cross-sectional. (1) To determine the effects of the level of spinal cord injury (SCI) on skeletal muscle, intramuscular fat (IMF) cross-sectional areas (CSAs) and relative IMF; (2) to determine the relation, if any, of spasticity to each of these variables after incomplete SCI. In-patient study at the Shepherd Center, Atlanta, GA, USA. Thirteen individuals with incomplete SCI were classified according to their level of injury into a high level of injury group (HLI, C5–C7, n=8) and a low level of injury group (LLI, T12–L2, n=5). Spasticity was determined for thigh muscles using a modified Ashworth scale at 6 weeks post-injury. T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images were taken 6 weeks post-injury to measure thigh skeletal muscle and IMF CSAs. Spasticity was significantly evident in the HLI group compared to the LLI group (P=0.023). Six weeks post-injury, muscle CSA was 103±18 cm2 in the HLI group and 80±20 cm2 in the LLI group (P=0.042). Relative IMF was 3.6±2.0% in HLI and 7.5±4.0% in LLI (P=0.021). Additionally, spasticity accounted for 54% of the variability in muscle CSA for all subjects (r2=0.54, P=0.006). Spasticity may be an important factor in defending skeletal muscle size and indirectly preventing IMF accumulation early after incomplete SCI.
On-line Planar Graph Embedding

We present a dynamic data structure for the incremental construction of a planar embedding of a planar graph. The data structure supports the following operations: (i) testing if a new edge can be added to the embedding without introducing crossing; and (ii) adding vertices and edges. The time complexity of each operation isO(logn) (amortized for edge insertion), and the memory space and preprocessing time areO(n), wherenis the current number of vertices of the graph.
Umbilical Artery (UA) Smooth Muscle (SM) Uniquely Exhibits An Adult SM Phenotype. 91

During Ovine fetal development systemic vascular SM demonstrates age-dependent rises in actin, myosin heavy chain (MHC) and 204 kD MHC-isoform(l) and a fall in MHC-B, a nonmuscle MHCI. Relationships between these alterations and stress generation are unknown. The umbilical circulation is known to respond to several agonists and is crucial in fetal growth and well-being, but SM protein expression in UA SM is not described. We thus hypothesized that compared to fetal systemic vascular SM, UA SM functionally and biochemically resembles adult SM. To examine this we studied femoral arteries (FA) and abdominal aorta (Ao) from near-term fetal (130-145d; term 145d) and adult sheep and external (EUA) and intra-abdominal (IUA) UA. Actin/MHC contents (μg/mg of wet weight) and MHCI were measured by SDS-PAGE using 3-20% and 4% gels, respectively. 200 kD MHCI were measured by Western analysis. Stress (104 N/m2) was measured in vascular strips stimulated by 10-6M phenylephrine and/or 65mM KCI. Results(Xbar±SEM; differing superscripts in rows indicate p<0.01, ANOVA):Table Only fetal FA and Ao were unresponsive to all agonists and expressed MHC-B by Western analysis. In near-term fetal sheep, FA and Ao are functionally immature as assessed by absent stress generation and MHC-B expression, while UA are unique to the fetal vasculature, resembling adult arteries in both protein expression and capacity to contract. Thus, consistent with in vivo studies, UA SM may actively modulate fetal blood pressure, distribution of cardiac output and tissue oxygen delivery, while systemic arteries passively distribute blood flow.
Too many referrals of low-risk women for BRCA1/2 genetic services by family physicians.

The increasing availability and public awareness of BRCA1/2 genetic testing will increase women's self-referrals to genetic services. The objective of this study was to examine whether patient characteristics influence the referral decisions of family physicians when a patient requests BRCA1/2 genetic testing. Family physicians ( n = 284) completed a Web-based survey in 2006 to assess their attitudes and practices related to the use of genetics in their clinical practice. Using a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design, we tested the effects of a hypothetical patient's race, level of worry, and insurance status on the decisions of family physicians to refer her for BRCA1/2 testing. The patient was not appropriate for referral based on U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines. No patient characteristics were associated with the family physicians' referral decisions. Although referral was not indicated, only 8% did not refer to genetic services; 92% referred for genetic services, and 50% referred to genetic counseling. Family physicians regarded it unlikely that the patient carried a mutation, but 65% of family physicians believed that if they refused to refer for genetic services it would harm their relationship with the patient. Despite scarce and costly genetic services, family physicians were likely to inappropriately refer a low-risk patient who requested BRCA1/2 testing. The implications of this inappropriate referral on women's screening behavior, genetic services, and health care costs are unknown. Clinicians and patients could benefit from education about the appropriate use of genetic services so that both are more comfortable with a decision against referral. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2008;17(11):2980–6)
Decision Quality Measures in Recommendation Agents Research

Abstract Electronic recommendation agents provide a way for online marketers to gather information about consumer preferences and assess the quality of consumer decisions. Much of the literature on recommendation agents, however, employs divergent measures to assess consumer decision quality. Moreover, decision quality measures are dictated by the type of agent employed. This article provides a review of the decision quality measures used in the recommendation agent research to date and proposes novel measures. We classify and examine the assumptions of–and relationships among–preference-dependent, preference-independent, and subjective measures of decision quality. The analysis of data from an experiment that simulates a broad spectrum of recommendation agents shows that the relative utility and the sum of attribute values of the chosen alternative capture the majority of variance in objective decision quality. Although subjective decision quality measures turn out to be poor proxies for objective measures, they provide important incremental information. Managerial implications for deploying electronic recommendation agents to gather information and measure consumer decision quality under different conditions are discussed.
Symbiote: a Reconfigurable Logic Assisted Data Stream Management System (RLADSMS)

Numerous monitoring applications such as traffic control systems, border patrol monitoring, and person locater services generate a large number of multimedia data streams that need to be analyzed and processed using image processing and data stream management techniques in order to detect significant events of interest or abnormal conditions. Such multimedia monitoring systems usually have high-bandwidth characteristics, stricter real-time deadlines, and high accuracy requirements. In an attempt to meet all of these requirements, we have designed Symbiote - a distributed Reconfigurable Logic Assisted multimedia Data Stream Management System (RLADSMS) at Indiana University Purdue University, Indianapolis (IUPUI) that provides hardware accelerated data stream processing using Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs).
The longitudinal morphology of equatorial F-layer irregularities relevant to their occurrence

Determining the morphology of F-layer irregularities as a function of longitude in the equatorial region is vital for understanding the physics of the development of these irregularities. We aim to lay the observational basis which then can be used to test theoretical models. Theoretical models have been developed, notably in the papers by Tsunoda (1985) and by T. Maruyama and N. Matuura (1984). The question is whether the models are consistent with the morphology as we see it. According to our criteria, the data used should be confined to observations taken near the magnetic equator during quiet magnetic periods and at times within a few hours after sunset. Anomaly region scintillation data have to be used in a limited manner for studying the generation mechanism. The questions to be answered by proposed mechanisms are (1) why do the equinox months have high levels of occurrence over all longitudes and (2) why are there relatively high levels of occurrence in the Central Pacific Sector in the July–August period and in the 0–75° West Sector in the November-December period and (3) why are there very low levels of occurrence in November and December in the Central Pacific Sector and in July and August in the 0–75° West Sector. In the paper by Maruyama and Matuura, the authors have taken observations of topside soundings of spread-F. With this data set in hand, they conclude: “During the northern winter periods, there is maximum enhancement at the Atlantic longitudes of large westward geomagnetic declination and during the northern summer at the Pacific longitude of large eastward declination”. Tsunoda's conclusions from his use of scintillation data is that “scintillation activity appears to maximize at times of the year when the suset nodes occur”. The emphasis of one paper is on the maximum enhancement during the solstices and in the other paper on variations from the equinox as determined by latitude and declination. Each stresses certain characteristics of the morphology. While the two papers explain relatively different morphologies, each makes contributions. However there remain problems to be resolved before certifying a solution as to the physics explaining the longitudinal pattern of F-region irregularities. Satellitein-situ data, scintillation and spread-F observations will be reviewed. The limitation of each data set will be outlined particularly as relevant to the bias produced by the existence of thin versus extended layers of irregularities. A cartoon as to the occurrence pattern, as we see it, as a function of longitude will be shown.
Linking movement and reproductive history of brook trout to assess habitat connectivity in a heterogeneous stream network

Defining functional connectivity between habitats in spatially heterogeneous landscapes is a particular challenge for small-bodied aquatic species. Traditional approaches (e.g. mark-recapture studies) preclude an assessment of animal movement over the life cycle (birth to reproduction), and movement of individuals may not represent the degree of gene movement for fecund species. We investigated the degree of habitat connectivity (defined as the exchange of individuals and genes between mainstem and tributary habitats) in a stream brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) population using mark-recapture [passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags], stationary PIT-tag antennae and genetic pedigree data collected over 4 years (3425 marked individuals). We hypothesised that: (i) a combination of these data would reveal higher estimates of animal movement over the life cycle (within a generation), relative to more temporally confined approaches, and (ii) movement estimates of individuals within a generation would differ from between-generation movement of genes because of spatial variation in reproductive success associated with high fecundity of this species. 3. Over half of PIT-tagged fish (juveniles and adults) were recaptured within 20 m during periodic sampling, indicating restricted movement. However, continuous monitoring with stationary PIT-tag antennae revealed distinct peaks in trout movements in June and October-November, and sibship data inferred post-emergence movements of young-of-year trout that were too small to be tagged physically. A combination of these methods showed that a moderate portion of individuals (28-33%) moved between mainstem and tributary habitats over their life cycle. Patterns of reproductive success varied spatially and temporally. The importance of tributaries as spawning habitat was discovered by accounting for reproductive history. When individuals born in the mainstem reproduced successfully, over 50% of their surviving offspring were inferred to have been born in tributaries. This high rate of gene movement to tributaries was cryptic, and it would have been missed by estimates based only on movement of individuals. This study highlighted the importance of characterising animal movement over the life cycle for inferring habitat connectivity accurately. Such movements of individuals can contribute to substantial gene movements in a fecund species characterised by high variation in reproductive success.
Short- and Long-Term Effects on Fuels, Forest Structure, and Wildfire Potential from Prescribed Fire and Resource Benefit Fire in Southwestern Forests, USA

Prescribed and resource benefit fires are used to manage fuels in fire-prone landscapes in the Southwest. These practices, however, typically occur under different conditions, potentially leading to differences in fire behavior and effects. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of recent prescribed fires, resource benefit fires, and repeated fires in ponderosa pine forests, as well as recent resource benefit fires in pinyon-juniper woodlands. The Gila National Forest was the study area because it has a rich history of using fire as a restoration tool. In each vegetation type, fuels and stand structure were sampled using random plots stratified by burn severity in resource benefit fires. In ponderosa pine, sampling and analysis also included prescribed fire and areas subject to repeated resource benefit fires. To assess potential fire behavior, we used the crown fire behavior prediction model Nexus using ninetieth percentile weather conditions. In ponderosa pine forests, surface fuels were similar between prescribed fires and low severity resource benefit fires. However, resource benefit fires significantly reduced basal area, resulting in lower loading of canopy fuels and crown fire potential. Additionally, effects of resource benefit fire on stand structure and fuels seem to be sustained in areas that burned in two or three resource benefit fires in the last century. In pinyon-juniper woodlands, resource benefit low severity fires had no effect on surface or canopy fuel loads. Moderate severity resource benefit fires, on the other hand, did significantly reduce surface and canopy fuel loads. Results from this study are pertinent to fire and fuels managers throughout the southwestern United States who utilize prescribed and resource benefit fire to reduce fuel loads and restore historical forest conditions.
THE PSYCHOLOGY AND EPISTEMOLOGY OF SELF-KNOWLEDGE

In this paper I argue, first, that the most influential (and perhaps only acceptable) account of the epistemology of self-knowledge, developed and defended at great length in Wright (1989b) and (1989c) (among other places), leaves unanswered a question about the psychology of self-knowledge; second, that without an answer to this question about the psychology of self-knowledge, the epistemic account cannot be considered acceptable; and third, that neither Wright's own answer, nor an interpretation-based answer (based on a proposal from Jacobsen (1997)), will suffice as an acceptable answer to the psychological question. My general ambition is thus to establish that more work is needed if we are to have a full account of self-knowledge in both its epistemological and psychological aspects. I conclude by suggesting how my thesis bears on those who aim to provide an empirical account of the cognition involved in self-knowledge.
Facilitating service‐learning for the first time with advanced graduate students: a mentoring perspective

This article is an examination of the author’s experiences facilitating service‐learning for the first time in a learning community of an advanced graduate course. The purpose of this paper is to share insights about this process, so that faculty who are considering the implementation of a service‐learning pedagogy in similar courses might understand the challenges and ultimately experience success in their endeavors. Using a self‐reflective case study approach, this paper provides a general description of the course goals and activities as well as a detailed description of how service‐learning was implemented during the course from a mentoring perspective. The course topic – ecological approaches to working with children and families – was taught through the early childhood program in a College of Education. Students and professor worked collaboratively over the course of ten weeks to establish a relationship with the community partner (a private preschool), assess their needs (through a questionnaire) a...
The role of analysis in an age of computers: view from the analytical side (electromagnetic research)

The role of analysis in applied electromagnetics research, a field that is becoming more computer oriented, is examined. An attempt is made to elucidate whether one's primary efforts should be directed towards the further development of computer techniques and solutions, with analysis playing a less important secondary role. A case is made for the importance of maintaining a continuing emphasis on the development of analytical tools and the need to develop more physical insight into complex phenomena, not at the expense of efforts to develop numerical techniques, but in parallel. Analytical and numerical methods are mutually supportive and optimum progress is made when they are properly balanced. From an examination of the past and current roles of analysis in electromagnetics research, it is concluded that a de-emphasis on analysis would lead to stagnation of the field because of a lack of new concepts and analytical tools being developed. >
A Generalized and Unified SPFD-Based Rewiring Technique

Traditionally, logic synthesis constrains the solution space of later design steps, such as physical design, because they are applied in sequence. Rewiring is a technique to restructure a circuit while maintaining its functionality. Since design properties and objectives can be considered during post-synthesis rewiring, it can help relieve constraints put forth by decisions made at earlier design steps. The extent of rewiring of a rewiring algorithm has a great impact on the success of the design flow. This paper presents a powerful rewiring technique that in addition to unifying all previously proposed set-of-pairs-of-functions-to-be-distinguished based rewiring techniques, it can perform rewiring with more than one wire which increases our ability to circumvent poorly-decided early design constraints. With this ability, the rewiring ability of using different numbers of wires is reported for the first time in this paper. Our technique can be used for run-lime/quality trade-off in any given rewiring application.
Head-In-Motion Contusions in Young Adults

The pathogenesis of contusions was studied in a series of acute fatal closed head injuries. Important factors include: 1. whether the head was in motion or stationary; 2. the direction and magnitude of the force; 3. the presence of depressed fractures and lacerations; and 4. roughness of the overlying bone. In the young adult group, the frequent high velocity motor vehicle accidents create a dominant pattern of injury to the frontal and temporal lobes, usually sparing the occipital lobes and cerebellum.
Supraventricular tachyarrhythmia associated with baclofen overdose

Baclofen overdose occasionally results in cardiac effects, but serious tachyarrhythmias have not been reported. We present the case of a 21-year-old man with an acute baclofen overdose who developed increased cardiac conduction times and a rapid supraventricular tachyarrhythmia which required medical intervention. Acute baclofen toxicity can result in the development of tachyarrhythmias and cardiac monitoring is warranted in acute overdose states.
The role of process innovation and adaptation in attaining strategic technological capability

This paper seeks to contribute to theory and practice by suggesting the importance of the adaptation process and by presenting some of the structural influences on that process. The argument forwarded in the paper is: competitive pressures require reciprocal innovation in both the organisations of today and in the technical systems that they develop and use. The greater the benefits to be realised from the introduction of a new technical system, the greater the amount of organisational change that should be anticipated. Successful process innovation requires management of the mutual adaptation of technology to organisation and organisation to technology during design and development.