cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Abandonment of Hope: Curriculum Theory and White Moral Responsibility

In this article, I suggest that an ideology of hope, even “educated” (Giroux, 2003) and “radical” (Farley, 2009) conceptualizations, might be problematic for curriculum theory because it operates to reinscribe White privilege and perpetuate the assumption that Whites can transcend the critique of Whiteness (Applebaum, 2010). The call for an abandonment of hope not only relinquishes the possibility for White moral innocence but also challenges traditional notions of moral responsibility that “not only fail to expose white complicity but also contribute to the normalization of denials of complicity that protect systemic racism from being challenged” (Applebaum, 2010, p. 5). Drawing from Gaztambide-Fernandez’ (in press) critique of the humanist foundations of curriculum theory, as well as the assertion that curriculum is fundamentally a colonizing enterprise (Tuck & Gaztambide-Fernandez, 2013), I examine the work of Paulo Freire (1970) toward a critique of hope as a humanist endeavor, and, as such, a racial ...
La 4d-->4f resonance absorption in LaF3: Temperature dependence.

Temperature-modulated transmission spectra in the region of the 4d..-->..4f excitations in LaF/sub 3/ show a variety of effects, none of which can be explained by the free-atom model hitherto used to describe this absorption. The sharp lines below threshold are shown to broaden with increasing temperature and to shift slightly. The broad ''autoionization'' region is shown to be composed of several structures, only one of which is included in the atomic picture. The effects of the lattice on these transitions ''within'' the La/sup 3+/ ion are significant.
Anti-JCV Antibody Prevalence in Patients with Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis Receiving or Considering Treatment with Natalizumab: Baseline Results of STRATIFY-2 (S41.002)

Objective: Determine the prevalence of anti-JC (JCV) antibodies in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) using a 2-step anti-JCV antibody assay. Background JCV infection is a prerequisite for development of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Assessing anti-JCV antibody status represents a means to determine JCV exposure and stratify PML risk in MS patients. Design/Methods: STRATIFY-2 is an ongoing, longitudinal, observational US study that is currently enrolling relapsing MS patients being treated or considering treatment with natalizumab. Serum is collected at baseline and annually thereafter for 2 years and tested for anti-JCV antibodies using a 2-step anti-JCV antibody assay. This interim analysis represents baseline data collected as of May 13, 2011. Results: At baseline (n=19,537), overall anti-JCV antibody prevalence was 54.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 54.0%–55.4%). Prevalence was lower in females (52.5% [95% CI: 51.7%–53.3%]) than in males (60.8% [95% CI: 59.4%−62.1%]) and increased with age ( Conclusions: STRATIFY-2 represents the largest data set to date to analyze anti-JCV antibody prevalence. Baseline results are consistent with other, smaller studies using this assay, which report anti-JCV antibody prevalence of 50%–60%. While anti-JCV antibody status was influenced by age and gender, natalizumab exposure use did not affect serostatus. Final study results will be used to assess PML incidence in anti-JCV antibody positive and negative MS patients. Supported by: Biogen Idec Inc. and Elan Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Disclosure: Dr. Bozic has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec. Dr. Bozic holds stock and/or stock options in Biogen Idec, which sponsored research in which Dr. Bozic was involved as an investigator. Dr. Bozic holds stock and/or stock options in Biogen Idec. Dr. Richman has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as employees.Dr. Richman holds stock and/or options in Biogen Idec, which sponsored research in which Dr. Richman was involved as an investigator. Dr. Plavina has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as an employee.Dr. Plavina holds stock and/or stock options in Biogen Idec which sponsored research in which Dr. Plavina was involved as an investigator. Dr. Natarajan has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as an employee. Dr. Scanlon has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as an employee. Dr. Subramanyam has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as an employee. Dr. Subramanyam holds stock and/or stock options in Biogen Idec. Dr. Sandrock has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as an employee. Dr. Sandrock holds stock and/or stock options in Biogen Idec. Dr. Bloomgren has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as an employee.
Experimental studies of the pressures generated by a liquid oxygen slug in a magnetic field

The strong paramagnetic susceptibility of liquid oxygen (LOX) has established it as a good candidate for a cryogenic magnetic fluid system. While its properties have been known for several decades, a fundamental understanding of the behavior of LOX in a magnetically controlled fluid system is needed for the development of a suitable space application that can operate reliably and efficiently. This study conducted quantitative experiments on the dynamics of a LOX slug in a tube when subjected to electrically-induced magnetic fields within a solenoid. The experiments used a quartz tube with an inner diameter of 1.9 mm and LOX slugs of 0.6, 1.3, 1.9, 2.5, and 3.2 mm length at various initial positions relative to the solenoid. The pressures generated by the motion of the LOX slug under the magnetic force were recorded to characterize the pressure differential generated and the breakdown of the slug. The highest attainable pressure differential was found to be 1.45 kPa, which correlated well to theoretical predictions once the analysis accounted for the resistance heating of the solenoid. The noted differences between experimental results and theory could also be attributed to impeded slug motion from shear and mass forces. Within the workable pressure range, however, an optimal slug length was found which appropriately balances the pressure, shear, and magnetic forces in the system. This paper presents the experimental data on the dynamics and the maximum pressure differential generated by a LOX slug in a magnetic field and discusses the viability of LOX in a magnetic fluid management system intended for space applications.
Genetic transmission and improved diagnosis of schizophrenia from pedigrees of adoptees

In previous investigations of the prevalence of schizophrenic illness among the biological relatives of schizophrenic adoptees in Copenhagen and the remainder of Denmark, the operation of heritable spectrum illness was clearly implicated. The findings supporting that conclusion are briefly summarized. Classical chronic schizophrenia was found almost exclusively in the biological relatives of chronic schizophrenic probands and its prevalence was ten times greater than that in the biological relatives of controls. These were global diagnoses, made without knowledge of the relationships and family histories of the subjects, and based upon the descriptions of dementia praecox or schizophrenia by Kraepelin and Bleuler. They showed considerably greater sensitivity and at least equal specificity in comparison with diagnoses made on the same material in accordance with operational criteria as exemplified by DSM-III. The prevalence of a disorder in the biological relatives of adoptees with that disorder in comparison with biological relatives of control adoptees offers a useful test for the expression of genetic factors in the disorder, but also a much needed evaluation of the validity of diagnoses based on clinical observation.
An evaluation of a rankine cycle driven heat pump

Abstract This paper discusses a configuration of a Rankine cycle engine-driven heat pump, and includes a theoretical investigation of its performance characteristics. The system employs a Rankine power cycle, using R-113 as the working fluid, coupled to a vapour compression cycle heat pump using R-22. A novel feature of the concept is the use of hydraulically connected rolling diaphragm piston-cylinder devices as motor, compressor and pump. Heating and cooling COPs of 2.01 and 1.06 respectively are predicted, making the system potentially attractive where both heating and cooling are required.
Differentiation of innate type-2 effector cells

Type-2 immune responses are the underlying cause of many allergic diseases and provide protection against parasitic infection. Effective type-2 immune responses are generated by type-2 helper CD4+ T cells (Th2) as well as type-2 innate effector cells. While we have learned a great deal about how CD4+ Th2 cells regulate their Th2 cytokine gene transcription, we still do not know how type-2 innate effector cells acquire their capacity to express Th2 cytokine genes. Furthermore, it remains poorly understood how Th2 cytokines regulate the differentiation of innate type-2 progenitor cells. In this review, we will focus on (1) the long distance interaction between the sites of allergic inflammation and the site of hematopoiesis in the bone marrow, (2) the characteristics of innate type-2 progenitors, and (3) the molecular mechanisms by which innate type-2 effector cells acquire the capacity to produce type-2 cytokines.
Effects of electron irradiation in nuclear waste glasses

This article summarizes recent studies of electron irradiation damage in sodium borosilicate, iron phosphate and aluminophosphate glass waste forms using a modern analytical electron microscope. Three different borosilicate (wt%) (17.72% B2O3–16.67% Na2O–64.61% SiO2, 17.78% B2O3–15.83% Na2O–61.39% SiO2–4.99% Fe2O3 and 17.86% B2O3–15.90% Na2O–61.63% SiO2–4.61% FeO) and iron phosphate (mol%) (45% Fe2O3–55% P2O5, 20% Fe2O3–80% P2O5, and 20% Fe2O3–20% Na2O–60% P2O5) glasses, and an aluminophosphate (mol%) (44.5% P2O5–31.5% Al2O3–20.2% Na2O–3.8% K2O) glass were studied. Results indicate that all these glasses decomposed under the 200 kV electron irradiation (at doses higher than 1.0 × 1026 e m−2). Migration of alkali elements from the irradiated centres to the peripheries under irradiation occurred in the alkali element-containing glasses, which results in the formation of alkali element-depleted and -enriched phases. Formation of bubbles was only observed in the alkali element-containing iron phosphate and al...
Topological dynamics: A framework for describing movement and its constraints

Abstract This paper outlines a framework for applying topological dynamics to the description of movement and the constraints imposed upon kinematics by task criteria. Topological dynamics uses control spaces for describing the dynamics of particles and these are illustrated through discussion of a simple pen positioning task with various task constraints. It is proposed that the framework can provide a basis to understand a number of problems in motor control, including: conceptualizing kinematic descriptions of movement; understanding kinematic constraints imposed upon movement by task criteria; and, guiding selection of information parameters as augmented feedback in skill learning.
Measuring parental daily rewards and worries in the transition to adulthood.

Abstract Psychometric properties are described for an inventory that measures the daily rewards and worries that parents experience as their sons and daughters transition to adulthood. In a series ...
SURVEY OF PRACTICAL DIRECT METHODS OF STABILITY ANALYSIS IN POWER SYSTEMS

The application of direct methods of stability analysis to power systems is surveyed in this paper. Emphasis is placed on algorithms that have proven to be practicable. Areas of future research are indicated.
Monitoring plasma-process induced damage in thin oxide

Plasma etching and resist ashing processes cause current to flow through the thin oxide and the resultant plasma-induced damage can be simulated and modeled as damage produced by constant current electrical stress. The oxide charging current produced by plasma processing increases with the 'antenna' size of the device structure. Oxide charge measurement such as CV or threshold voltage is a more sensitive technique for characterizing plasma-processing induced damage than oxide breakdown. The oxide charging current is collected only through the aluminum surfaces not covered by the photoresist during plasma processes. Although forming gas anneal can passivate the traps generated during plasma etching, subsequent Fowler-Nordheim stressing causes more traps to be generated in these devices than in devices that have not been through plasma etching. Using the measured charging current, the breakdown voltage distribution of oxides after plasma processes can be predicted accurately. Oxide shorts density of a single large test capacitor is found to be higher than that in a multiple of separated small capacitors having the same total oxide area. This would lead to overly pessimistic oxide defect data unless care is taken. >
Researches on Effect of Impact Micro-Damages in Contact Layer on Machinability in Quick-Point Grinding

Due to the high grinding speed and the less contact length, there is the super high material strain rate in the contact layer during quick-point grinding process. Based on the principle of micro-damages mechanics, it is the impact process between the workpiece and the grits on the wheel in the process. The weakening effects of the super high strain rate caused by the mechanical impact micro-damages and the adiabatic shearing damage can lower the dynamic strength of the material in contact layer and the micro-plastic pile-up deformation on the ground surface in the process. Therefore, it is possible to improve the surface integrity of the workpiece since the materials removal mechanism is changed in quick-point grinding process. In this paper, the impact performances and the model of quick point grinding process were studied. Based on the above, the model of the ground surface roughness related to the plastic pile-up deformation was established. The effects of the strain rate on the ground surface roughness and the materials removal ratio were analyzed. In addition, the grinding experiment was performed to testify such investigations. It is indicated that quick-point grinding is an impact process assuredly during the removing material process.
Recovery from cortical blindness mediated by destruction of nontectotectal fibers in the commissure of the superior colliculus in the cat

Transection of the commissure of the superior colliculus restores visual orientation behavior to a cat previously rendered hemianopic by a unilateral visual cortical lesion (the Sprague effect). Using two methods, we asked whether this recovery resulted from the severing of the tectotectal component of the commissure or whether the destruction of some other connection was responsible. First, we transected either the rostral or the caudal one-half of the tectal commissure in hemianopic cats. If destruction of tectotectal fibers is responsible for the Sprague effect, then only rostral transections should produce the recovery since nearly all tectotectal connections lie in the rostral one-half of the commissure. However, rostral cuts failed to produce a recovery, whereas caudal commisurotomies did. Second, ibotenic acid was used to destroy the cells in the superior colliculus contralateral to the cortical lesion. This lesion eliminated the contralateral tectotectal pathway from the contralateral colliculus but left other fibers (originating elsewhere but coursing through the commissure) largely intact. These ibotenic acid lesions failed to produce the recovery; but when the caudal portion of the tectal commissure was subsequently transected in the same animals, the recovery was observed. The results of both experiments support the conclusion that the transection of a nontectotectal component of the commissure of the superior colliculus is responsible for the recovery of visual orientation behavior in a cortically blind cat.
Millisecond timing on the apple macintosh updating drexel's millitimer

In 1986, we published inBehavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers a small library of assembler code for the public domain that permitted accurate millisecond timing for Apple’s Macintosh computer. That version of MilliTimer used the Versatile Interface Adapter chip’s Timer 1 (VIA T1), which is part of the standard Macintosh hardware configuration. The VIA T1, however, is also used by the Sound Manager, and thus the use of sound and accurate millisecond timing were incompatible. We offer for the public domain a new version labeled MilliTimer 2.2, which permits psychologists and other researchers to use the full capabilities of the Macintosh. MilliTimer 2.2 is compatible with popular teaching, research, and clinical tools such as Hyper-Card and MacLaboratory. MilliTimer 2.2 employs the Macintosh Time Manager, which is a part of the Macintosh operating system and is supported by Apple for the 512KE, Plus, SE, and Macintosh II machines. MilliTimer 2.2 is hardware-independent and automatically self-corrects for other operating system activities that also use the Time Manager. The self-correcting function is limited, however, and can result in a nonaccumulating error averaging about −3 msec. To preserve compatibility with earlier machines that do not contain the Time Manager, a simple mode parameter allows MilliTimer 2.2 to use the older, more accurate timing method.
Rapid pituitary and peripheral tissue responses to intravenous L-triiodothyronine in hypothyroidism.

Acute cardiovascular, renal, pulmonary, metabolic, and pituitary responses to therapy of hypothyroidism with 25 μg iv T3 (group I, G-I, n = 11) or 50 μg iv T3 (group II, G-II, n = 10)/day for 1 week have been studied. Serum T3 levels were acutely normalized in both groups with the mean basal serum T3 levels (X ± SE) after 7 days, 98 ± 10 ng/dl and 229 ± 19 ng/dl, respectively. Myocardial performance, noninvasively assessed by the pulse wave arrival time (QKd) and the phonocardiographic systolic time interval ratio was significantly altered after 1 day of therapy (QKd for G-I = −10 ± 4 msec, P < 0.05; and for G-II = −18 ± 14 msec, P < 0.01). After 7 treatment days, both the mean QKd (203 ± 7 msec, P < 0.001) and phonocardiographic systolic time interval ratio (0.41 ± 0.02, P < 0.01) were within the normal range in G-II. Abnormal pretreatment renal excretion of an oral water load (G-I, 65 ± 6%; and G-II, 57 ± 6%) was also reversed after 1 week (G-I, 84 ± 5%, P < 0.05; and G-II, 89 ± 5%, P < 0.01). Patients ...
Perceived Effects of Participation in an Asset-Building Program on Construction of Future Possibilities

Acknowledging the inadequacy of traditional welfare policies in moving households from poverty to economic self-sufficiency, we examine the psychological effects of participating in an asset-building intervention. We use a sample of 840 respondents who were enrolled in a community action program and assess whether or not participating in an Individual Development Account (IDA) program predicts a respondent's construction of future possibilities. Results show support for the hypothesized relationships. Certain respondent characteristics—e.g., age and income—are significantly associated with the dependent variable. These findings may have important implications for social policy. Participating in an IDA program may empower program participants to think and act on future possibilities, influencing their outcomes as well as the overall socioeconomic development of their communities.
Nested Helmholtz coil design for producing homogeneous transient rotating magnetic fields

Electromagnets that can produce strong rotating magnetic fields at kHz frequencies are potentially very useful to exert rotating force on magnetic nanoparticles as small as few nanometers in size. In this article, the construction of a pulsed high-voltage rotating electromagnet is demonstrated based on a nested Helmholtz coil design. The energy for the coils is provided by two high-voltage discharge capacitors. The triggered spark gaps used in the experiments show sufficient accuracy to achieve the high frequency rotating magnetic field. The measured strength of the rotating magnetic field is 200 mT. This magnetic field is scalable by increasing the number of turns on the coils, by reducing the dimensions of the coils and by increasing the discharge current/voltage of the capacitors.
Accent, Intelligibility, and the Role of the Listener: Perceptions of English‐Accented German by Native German Speakers

We explore the relationship between accentedness and intelligibility, and investigate how listeners’ beliefs about nonnative speech interact with their accentedness and intelligibility judgments. Native German speakers and native English learners of German produced German sentences, which were presented to 12 native German speakers in accentedness judgment and intelligibility tasks. Accentedness and intelligibility were correlated when all talkers were considered together; however, the correlation was not significant for the English-accented speech alone. Native German listeners also completed a questionnaire concerning their beliefs about the roles of different factors in determining native-likeness. Analyses revealed that the different beliefs of listeners do not necessarily lead to different judgments of nonnative speech. However, the qualitative data pointed to considerable variance in the native German listeners’ assessment of second language pronunciation.
Expansible measures of specificity

We introduce the measure of specificity and describe its basic features. We discuss the class of linear specificity measures. We note that while this class of specificity measures is very useful for comparing the quality of information about variables over the same domain they can have some difficulties when the variables have domains of different cardinality. In order to handle these types of comparisons, we need expansible specificity measures. After formalizing the property of expansibility, we suggest a number of expansible specificity measures.
Some Aspects of High Latitude Southern Hemisphere Summer Circulation as Viewed by ESSA 3

Abstract The computer-generated digital mosaics of daily cloud photographs obtained by the ESSA 3 satellite were studied for the Southern Hemisphere south of 40S for the period of the southern summer, December 1966 to February 1967. The distribution and movement of the large-scale vortex patterns enabled a number of regions of high frequency of cyclones, cyclogenesis and cyclolysis to be located over the ocean areas surrounding Antarctica and the principal trajectories of cyclones over the southern oceans to be examined. These results are in substantial agreement with earlier synoptic studies. Little evidence was found for frequent cyclogenesis at latitudes close to the Antarctic coast and mid-latitude cyclogenesis was frequently observed without classical frontal wave cloud sequences. The areas of high cyclonic frequency and of cycloysis close to the Antarctic coast for the period of the study are found to be consistent with some known features of mean annual precipitation over the continent. Particular ...
Retrospective Comparison of Two-Incision Total Hip Arthroplasty with a Standard Direct Lateral Approach: A Single Surgeon’s Experience

We retrospectively reviewed the senior author's total hip experience over a 2-year period (2003-2004), during which he adopted the minimally invasive surgery two-incision approach (MIS). In this series, 126 cases were MIS, while 75 total hip arthroplasties (THAs) were done with a standard approach. There was a significant difference in length of stay with MIS at 2.20 days (2.03-2.37 days) compared with standard THA 3.73 days (3.37-4.09 days) ( P P
Audio authentication based on distributed source coding

Audio authentication is important in content delivery via untrusted intermediaries, for example peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing. Many differently encoded versions of the original audio might exist. Distinguishing the legitimate diversity of encodings from malicious tampering is the challenge addressed in this paper. We develop an approach based on distributed source coding for the problem of backward-compatible audio authentication. The key idea is to provide a Slepian-Wolf encoded quantized perceptually significant audio projection as authentication data. This version can be correctly decoded only with the help of authentic audio as side information. Distributed source coding provides the desired robustness against legitimate encoding variations, while detecting illegitimate modification. We demonstrate reliable authentication at a Slepian- Wolf bitrate of less than 100 bit/s.
Agronomic trait evaluation of field-grown transgenic rice plants containing the hygromycin resistance gene and the maize Activator element *

Abstract We grew under field conditions progeny of protoplast-derived control and transgenic rice plants ( Oryza sativa L. cultivar Nipponbare) containing a hygromycin resistance gene and the maize transposable element Activator (Ac) , and compared 6 major agronomic traits of mature plants. Lines from rice plants regenerated from protoplasts showed normal agronomic performance comparable to their wild-type controls. Of the progeny lines containing the hygromycin resistance gene, 7 out of 8 had relatively normal agronomic traits compared to protoplast-derived plants. In contrast, transgenic plants containing the Ac element produced a significantly higher frequency of phenotypic variation in 4 out of 6 agronomic traits examined. Among 10 progeny lines, only 2 produced phenotypes rosembling those of protoplast-derived controls. One sterility and one albinism phenotypic variation in Ac -containing progeny were correlated with the presence of an active Ac element that had been transposed to a different genomic location.
Pedigree association: assigning individual weights to pedigree members for genetic association analysis

Objective Methods exist to appropriately perform association analyses in pedigrees. However, for genome-wide association analysis, these methods are computationally impractical. It is therefore important to determine alternate methods that can be efficiently used genome-wide. Here, we introduce a new algorithm that considers all relationships simultaneously in arbitrary-structured pedigrees and assigns weights to pedigree members that can be used in subsequent analyses to address relatedness. We compare this new method with an existing weighting algorithm, a naive analysis (relatedness is ignored), and an empirical method that appropriately accounts for all relationships (the gold standard).
Equilibrium-line altitudes during the Last Glacial Maximum across the Brooks Range, Alaska†

Equilibrium-line altitudes (ELAs) were estimated for 383 reconstructed glaciers across the Brooks Range, northern Alaska, to investigate their regional pattern during the Last Glacial Max- imum (LGM). Glacier outlines were delimited based on published field mapping and the original interpretations of aerial photographs. Glacier margins were digitised from 1:63 360-scale maps into a geographic information system (GIS) with a digital elevation model on a 60-m grid. ELAs were cal- culated for each reconstructed glacier using the accumulation area ratio method (AAR ¼ 0.58). The analysis was restricted to relatively simple cirque and valley glaciers that deposited clearly identifi- able LGM moraines, and that did not merge with the complex transection glacier ice that filled most troughs of the range. The glaciers used in this analysis had areas ranging from 0.14 to 120 km 2 . Their ELAs rose from 470 m a.s.l. in the western Brooks Range to 1860 m a.s.l. in the east, over a distance of 1000 km. The ELAs were fitted with a third-order polynomial trend surface to model their distribution across the range, and to investigate the source of local-scale variations. The trend surface lowers toward the west and south, similar to previously derived trends based on glaciation thresholds. In addition, ELAs in the northeastern part of the range lower northward toward the Beaufort Sea, which has not been reported as strongly in other studies. Modern glacier ELAs also lower toward the south- west. The depression of LGM ELAs from modern glacier ELAs is greatest in the central Brooks Range (a maximum of 700 m), and decreases to the east (200 m). The regional pattern of LGM ELAs points to the primary source of moisture from the North Pacific, as it is today. The unexpected trend of LGM ELAs in the northeast part of the range is supported by recent field mapping, where anomalous ice distribution and ELAs reflect complicated LGM climate patterns and possibly late Quaternary tectonism. Copyright 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Taser Dart-to-Heart Distance That Causes Ventricular Fibrillation in Pigs

Electromuscular incapacitating devices (EMDs), such as Tasers, deliver high current, short duration pulses that cause muscular contractions and temporarily incapacitate the human subject. Some reports suggest that EMDs can kill. To help answer the question, "Can the EMD directly cause ventricular fibrillation (VF)?," ten tests were conducted to measure the dart-to-heart distance that causes VF in anesthetized pigs [mass=64 kgplusmn6.67 standard deviation (SD)] for the most common X26 Taser. The dart-to-heart distance that caused VF was 17 mmplusmn6.48 (SD) for the first VF event and 13.7 mmplusmn6.79 (SD) for the average of the successive VF events. The result shows that when the stimulation dart is close enough to the heart, X26 Taser current will directly trigger VF in pigs. Echocardiography of erect humans shows skin-to-heart distances from 10 to 57 mm (dart-to-heart distances of 1-48 mm). These results suggest that the probability of a dart on the body landing in 1 cm2 over the ventricle and causing VF is 0.000172
Bergman tau-function: from random matrices and Frobenius manifolds to spaces of quadratic differentials

We discuss the notion of the Bergman tau-function on Hurwitz spaces, spaces of abelian and quadratic differentials on Riemann surfaces. The Bergman tau-function on Hurwitz spaces is nothing but isomonodromic tau-function of Hurwitz Frobenius manifolds; it also appears in genus one contribution to partition function of Hermitian two-matrix model. The Bergman tau-function on spaces of abelian and quadratic differentials appears in the problem of holomorphic factorization of determinants of Laplacians in flat metrics with conical singularities over Riemann surfaces.
Packet compression from a 10-Gb/s to 270-Gb/s using a temporal telescopic system

We demonstrate compression of 24-bit 10-Gb/s NRZ data packets to 270 Gb/s using a temporal telescopic system. This technique's versatility allows format-transparent compression of packets (i.e. NRZ, RZ, DPSK) and analog waveforms by arbitrary factors.
Effect of Pharmacological Quantities of Infused 3,3′,5′- Triiodothyronine on Thyroxine Monodeiodination to 3,5,3′-Triiodothyronine

The metabolic effects of rT3 and its role in regulating the metabolic activity of T4 by altering the peripheral monodeiodination of T4 to T3 was studied in normal and thyroidectomized (Tx) rats constantly infused through indwelling atrial catheters. The infusion of 100 μg rT3/100 g BW in normal rats decreased the conversion of T4 to T3 by liver homogenates by 50% (P < 0.001), decreased serum T3 by 21% (P < 0.001), increased serum T4 by 21% (P < 0.001) and had no effect on serum and pituitary GH concentrations. Tx rats were infused with saline, rT3 (100 μg/100 g BW), T4 (2–5 μg/100 g BW), T3 (1 μg/100 g BW), T4 plus rT3, and T3 plus rT3. The infusion of rT3 had no effect on serum and pituitary TSH and GH concentrations. T4 infusion in the Tx rat increased the low in vitro hepatic T3 generation observed in hypothyroidism, decreased serum TSH, increased serum and pituitary GH, and restored the metabolic effect of GH on the epididymal fat pad. The simultaneous infusion of rT3 and T4 partially blocked the meta...
Implementing an outpatient congestive heart failure clinic: the nurse practitioner role.

Despite advances in the prevention and treatment of many cardiovascular diseases, congestive heart failure (CHF) remains a major cause of morbidity and death in most developed countries. During this era of uncertainty in health care, cost-conscious tactics are being implemented widely among U.S. hospitals. One such tactic, in the form of a multidisciplinary outpatient CHF clinic, was implemented in June of 1995 at a university medical center in the southeastern United States. This article discusses the process of developing a collaborative multidisciplinary outpatient CHF clinic, and the concomitant clinical development of the nurse practitioner role.
On the Estimation of Genome-wide Heterozygosity Using Molecular Markers

Coltman and Slate (2003) recently performed a meta-analysis on studies that investigated the association between genetic variation at microsatellite loci and phenotypic trait variation. One factor not explicitly addressed in their meta-analysis is the actual estimation of genome-wide heterozygosity via molecular markers. Many authors still associate marker-estimated heterozygosity with genome-wide heterozygosity, despite allozyme-based evidence that such correlations are usually very weak or nonexistent. Here, we show that genome-wide heterozygosity is poorly estimated not only by allozymes but also by microsatellite loci and by single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Thus, associations between fitness (or other phenotypes) and heterozygosity should be established firmly on causative factors and not on simple correlations.
High ambitions: The past and future of American low‐income housing policy

Abstract In the 1930s, idealistic reformers attempted to create a vast public housing program using modern architectural design. Instead they created a distinctive look that would later stigmatize its occupants. After the passage of the Housing Act of 1949, visionaries attempted to rebuild American cities by placing the poor in high‐rise buildings, an experiment that was soon deemed a disaster. Today some believe that placing the poor in environments inhabited by wealthier groups will help to address the problems of poverty. By focusing on three periods of the low‐income housing movement, this article examines how visionary idealism has led to disillusionment with housing programs. In the future, supporters of good low‐income housing should present housing programs not as panaceas for deep‐rooted social problems, but rather as important elements in social welfare policy. Advocates of housing should fight for programs that will produce as many units of housing as possible.
The Information Prescription: Just What the Doctor Ordered!

The Information Prescription or Information Rx project has been of interest to health care professionals and librarians for almost a decade. It began with the simple idea of linking patients to high-quality, reliable online health information written in plain language so that the patient could make better decisions affecting his or her own health. This task is accomplished by having the health care provider write an “information prescription” that leads the patient to an authoritative online resource for additional information about a disease, condition, or surgical procedure. This project has been most popular in the United States and the United Kingdom with varied success. One impediment to the success of this concept has been physicians' reluctance to add this task to their already heavy work load. The project could have an even greater impact if there were better promotion, increased training, and increased Internet access along with online searching assistance for patients seeking health information.
Mechanism‐Based Fluorescent Reporter for Protein Kinase A Detection

A novel mechanism-based fluorescent reporter was designed for the detection of protein kinase A (PKA), which is known to mediate a variety of cellular responses in most eukaryotic cells. The probe consists of a specific binding peptide sequence, LRRRRFAFC, conjugated with 2′-thioethyl-5-(or -6)-carboxyfluoresceinamide (FAMS; 2) and 5-(or 6-)carboxytetramethylrhodamine (TAMRA) at the cysteine and leucine residues, respectively. In the absence of PKA, the two fluorophores associate by hydrophobic interactions, forming an intramolecular ground-state dimer; this results in fluorescein quenching (>93 %). Upon PKA addition, the reporter reacts with the sulfhydryl functionality at Cys199 through a disulfide-exchange mechanism. FAMS is subsequently released, resulting in significant fluorescence amplification. The remaining peptide sequence, which acts as an inhibitor, is attached covalently to the enzyme. Our results suggest that this type of sensors could have far-reaching applications in the molecular sensing of enzymes.
New Directions in Virtual Environments and Gaming to Address Obesity and Diabetes: Industry Perspective:

Virtual reality is increasingly used for education and treatment in the fields of health and medicine. What is the health potential of virtual reality technology from the software development industry perspective? This article presents interviews with Ben Sawyer of Games for Health, Dr. Walter Greenleaf of InWorld Solutions, and Dr. Ernie Medina of MedPlay Technologies. Games for Health brings together researchers, medical professionals, and game developers to share information on the impact that game technologies can have on health, health care, and policy. InWorld is an Internet-based virtual environment designed specifically for behavioral health care. MedPlay Technologies develops wellness training programs that include exergaming technology. The interviewees share their views on software development and other issues that must be addressed to advance the field of virtual reality for health applications.
Molecular genetic characterization of a locus that contains duplicate Adh genes in Drosophila mojavensis and related species.

Drosophila mojavensis and other species of the mulleri subgroup contain a duplicate gene encoding the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). Studies on the genetic relationship of the two genes using electrophoretic variants show them to be closely linked. We have cloned a 13.5-kb fragment of D. mojavensis DNA into the lambda vector, Charon 30. This fragment contains both Adh genes separated by approximately 2 kb of DNA. The clone hybridized to a single position on chromosome 3 in D. mojavensis following in situ hybridization. It is likely that the genes are tandemly arranged in the genome. One of the two genes shows a complexity in its structure that suggests the close linkage of a pseudogene or part of a gene.—The structure of the Adh locus in five species of the mulleri subgroup have been compared by constructing restriction maps of genomic DNA. Two of these species D. arizonensis and D. mojavensis express Adh-1 in the ovaries; the others do not. In comparing these species it is evident that there has been one or two insertions into the region between the Adh genes. It is possible that one of these structural changes is related to the change in Adh tissue-specific expression that has occurred during the evolution of these species.
Helping students with information fragmentation, assimilation and notetaking

The problem of information fragmentation is especially acute for today's college students who manage and assimilate information in various forms while completing many of their academic tasks, and who must do so within the confines of standard software applications. The goal of this research is to provide students with a novel information assimilation and notetaking tool that helps them more efficiently manage their electronic information and overcome some of the fragmentation challenges they routinely experience. Our Global Information Gatherer prototype allows students to view, edit and store files of different types from within a single interface, and provides an integrated web browser and notetaking functionality.
Controllable frequency entanglement via auto-phase-matched spontaneous parametric down-conversion

A new method for generating entangled photons with controllable frequency correlation via spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC) is presented. The method entails initiating counter-propagating SPDC in a single-mode nonlinear waveguide by pumping with a pulsed beam perpendicular to the waveguide.
Comparison Between Electrophysiological Approaches for Presurgical Evaluation

Electrophysiological evaluation of patients with epilepsy who are candidates for surgical resection is performed for two specific purposes. The most important is precise localization of the epileptogenic lesion responsible for most or all of the patient’s habitual seizures. The second involves functional mapping that may be required to identify primary motor and sensory cortical areas that cannot be removed without producing unacceptable neurological deficit. Considerable controversy exists concerning the necessary and sufficient electrophysiological studies for both localization and functional mapping, and a variety of approaches are currently utilized.
Effect of Flavonoids on MRP1-Mediated Transport in Panc-1 Cells

The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of dietary flavonoids, which are present in fruits, vegetables, and plant-derived beverages, on the transport of daunomycin (DNM) and vinblastine (VBL) in Panc-1 cells. Panc-1 is a human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell line, which expresses Multidrug Resistance-Associated Protein1 (MRP1). The 2-h accumulation of (3)H-DNM and (3)H-VBL was determined in the presence and absence of 22 flavonoids. Biochanin-A, genistein, quercetin, chalcone, silymarin, phloretin, morin, and kaempferol, at 100 microM concentrations, all significantly increased the accumulation of both DNM and VBL in Panc-1 cells, with morin increasing DNM and VBL accumulation by 546 +/- 50% (mean +/- SE, n = 9) and 553 +/- 37% (n = 9), respectively. Fisetin treatment significantly decreased the accumulation of both DNM and VBL. Concentration-dependent studies demonstrated significant effects on VBL accumulation at 50 microM, but not at 10 microM concentrations, except for chalcone that was effective at a 10 microM concentration. Following a 24-h incubation, there were no changes in MRP1 membrane expression or glutathione-S-transferase activity in cells. Cellular glutathione (GSH) concentrations were significantly decreased following a 2-h incubation with biochanin A, chalcone, genistein, phloretin, quercetin, and silymarin, and following a 24-h incubation with biochanin A, chalcone, genistein, and phloretin. These results therefore indicate that the flavonoids morin, chalcone, silymarin, phloretin, genistein, quercetin, biochanin A, and kaempferol can inhibit MRP1-mediated drug transport, effects that may involve binding interactions with MRP1, as well as modulation of GSH concentrations.
Pulmonary function in the morbidly obese

Abstract Background Only limited data exist on the relationship of lung function to patients with extreme obesity. To assess the relationship between lung function tests and clinical characteristics in a cohort of morbidly obese patients undergoing evaluation for bariatric procedures in a university hospital in the United States. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing clinical evaluation were reviewed. The variables included demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and pulmonary function data. Results A total of 229 patients underwent a standardized preoperative evaluation. Of these 229 patients, 136 (59%) had evaluable data and 102 (75%) were women. The mean ± standard deviation age was 45 ± 10 years, the mean weight was 164 ± 42 kg, and the mean body mass index was 57 ± 13 kg/m 2 . Smoking or asthma was reported in 38% and 24% of patients, respectively. The mean forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s was 80% ± 17% of predicted and 76% ± 19% of predicted, respectively. Of the 136 patients, 29% had a measured forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity of ≥.08 below the predicted ratio. The mean total lung capacity was 86% ± 14% of predicted; 26% of subjects had a total lung capacity Conclusion The mean preoperative spirometry, lung volumes, and gas exchange values were within the established reference ranges. Restrictive ventilatory defects were less common than obstructive ventilatory patterns and were most prominently associated with obesity hypoventilation syndrome.
Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangioscopy

The role of the interventional radiologist continues to expand in the treatment of biliary disease. Percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy (PTCS) provides direct visualization of the biliary system for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, especially in cases where anatomical considerations prohibit a peroral approach. Visual inspection and endoscopically guided biopsy allow differentiation between benign and malignant lesions, as well as accurate assessment of the tumor extent for surgical planning. Studies have demonstrated greater than 95% accuracy with PTCS in diagnosing biliary malignancies. Cholangioscopy is also used to treat obstructive stones in the biliary system, which may require laser lithotripsy. PTCS-guided removal of biliary stones is highly successful, with complete stone removal from the bile ducts occurring in approximately 90% of cases. Overall, PTCS is a safe and effective procedure, with severe complications occurring in less than 8% of patients. The purpose of this review is to familiarize its reader with common indications for PTCS, techniques for procedural success, expected outcomes, and management of potential complications.
Ductility and Deformability of Coupling Beams in Reinforced Concrete Coupled Walls

Abstract The seismic response of coupled wall structures is discussed. It is demonstrated through a review of large‐scale experimental investigations of coupling beam behavior and analytic studies of coupled wall behavior that often the coupling beam ductility demand exceeds the expected available ductility. As a result, it is possible that coupled wall structures will not behave as desired in the course of a significant seismic event. Limits to the allowable degree of coupling are proposed as a remedy to this apparent deficiency. Additional design and analysis issues are discussed including reduced section properties and wall overstrength requirements.
Immunotherapy of neonatal septicemia.

Deficiencies of immune response place the neonate at particular risk for invasive bacterial disease. This article reviews several interventions, but most need further clinical trials.
NEO-FFI personality clusters in trichotillomania

The purpose of this study was to determine whether personality prototypes exist among hair pullers and if these groups differ in hair pulling (HP) characteristics, clinical correlates, and quality of life. 164 adult hair pullers completed the NEO-Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI; Costa and McCrae, 1992) and self-report measures of HP severity, HP style, affective state, and quality of life. A latent class cluster analysis using NEO-FFI scores was performed to separate participants into clusters. Bonferroni-corrected t-tests were used to compare clusters on HP, affective, and quality of life variables. Multiple regression was used to determine which variables significantly predicted quality of life. Two distinct personality prototypes were identified. Cluster 1 (n=96) had higher neuroticism and lower extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness when compared to cluster 2 (n=68). No significant differences in demographics were reported for the two personality clusters. The clusters differed on extent of focused HP, severity of depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as quality of life. Those in cluster 1 endorsed greater depression, anxiety, and stress, and worse quality of life. Additionally, only depression and cluster membership (based on NEO scores) significantly predicted quality of life.