cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance Evaluation of Pavement Markings Under Dry, Wet, and Rainy Conditions in the Field:

The nighttime visibility of three types of pavement markings—a largebeaded permanent pavement marking and two types of patterned pavement marking tapes, one with high-index beads and the other with mixed high-index beads—was evaluated under dry, wet (just after rainfall), and simulated rain conditions (ongoing 1-in./h rainfall). The dependent measures were pavement-marking end-detection distance and retroreflectance. The experiment was conducted at the 3M Transportation Research Center in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. This facility features a level and straight roadway section where 1-in./h rainfall can be simulated. Eighteen subjects between the ages of 55 and 75 participated in the study. The participants drove an experimental vehicle on dry and wet test sections with the pavement-marking treatments. Participants noted the earliest point at which they were able to see the end of the right edge line pavement markings. The retroreflectance of each pavement-marking material was also measured with three handhel...
Factors involved in patient choice of oral or vaginal treatment for vulvovaginal candidiasis

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an extremely common cause of vaginal symptoms in women. Multiple antifungal products are available by either the oral or vaginal route, although no new drugs have become available for two decades. Given the therapeutic equivalence of the antimycotic agents and their routes of administration, the specific drug and formulation selected is entirely arbitrary in relation to final treatment outcome. Nevertheless, multiple factors affecting preference, both practitioner-dependent and patient-dependent, impact on selection of a specific drug and route of administration.
On the finite containment problem for Petri nets

Abstract We prove that the Finite Containment Problem (FCP) for Petri nets is Dtime (Ackermann) complete for the reducibility ⩽ P T , thus sharpening previous results due to McAloon (1984) and to Mayr and Meyer (1981). Our principal technique is to replace an application of the infinite Ramsey Theorem by a certain finite Ramsey Theorem previously studied by Paris (1980) and by Ketonen and Solovay (1981). Such techniques may have further applications in obtaining upper bounds for combinatorial problems.
Magnetic-field sensing with a single-mode fiber.

A fiber-optic magnetic-field sensor is constructed by bonding a single-mode fiber to a nickel cylinder. The magnetic field, by means of the magnetostrictive effect, alters the state of polarization of light in the fiber. A sensitivity of 1.76 × 10−2 rad/m Oe is demonstrated, permitting detection of fields as small as 4.4 × 10−6 Oe/m of fiber.
Metabolism and mode of action of cis- and trans-3-pinanones (the active ingredients of hyssop oil)

1. Hyssop oil is an important food additive and herbal medicine and the principal active ingredients are (-)-cis- and (-)-trans-3-pinanones. No information is available on their metabolism or specific mode of action. 2. The metabolites of cis- and trans-3-pinanones were examined from mouse and human liver microsomes and human recombinant P4503A4 with NADPH and on administration to mouse by gas chromatography/chemical ionization mass spectrometry comparison with standards from synthesis. 3. The major metabolite of cis-3-pinanone in each P450 system and in brain of the i.p.-treated mouse in quantitative studies was 2-hydroxy-cis-3-pinanone, and two minor metabolites were hydroxypinanones other than 2-hydroxy-trans-3-pinanone and 4S-hydroxy-cis-3-pinanone. The urine from oral cis-3-pinanone treatment examined on a qualitative basis contained conjugates of metabolites observed in the microsomal systems plus 2,10-dehydro-3-pinanone. 4. Trans-3-pinanone was metabolized more slowly than the cis -isomer in each s...
Combined three monopoles for GPS/WLAN/GSM/WCDMA/LTE application

A novel compact antenna is designed on a low-loss ceramic material to support multiband operation as well as to reduce the antenna size. Three monopole antennas with a single feed are designed and combined for wireless device applications, occupying only 10 × 10 × 3 mm3. Structurally, orthogonal placement of the three monopoles provides a relatively simple design process. Across the entire bands of interest, it is shown that more than 50% of the incident energy radiates into free space. Detailed analysis and measurement results are presented.
Survival and Longevity of the Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus) in Southeastern Ontario

Survival and longevity in a hibernating population of Myotis lucifugus were studied for 35 years with mark-recapture techniques. Two males were recaptured 29 and 30 years after being banded; these two bats showed no outward signs of senescence. Survival rates were calculated with Cormack's stochastic technique. Average annual survival rates were 0.816 for males and 0.708 for females. Climatic and geographic factors may account for differences in survival rates between populations in Ontario and in southern Indiana, where female survival rate exceeds male. The differences in survival rate between the sexes are not alone sufficient to account for the male-skewed sex ratios in hibernating populations.
Carboxylic acids, sulfates, and organosulfates in processed continental organic aerosol over the southeast Pacific Ocean during VOCALS‐REx 2008

[1] Submicron particles were collected on board the NOAA R/V Ronald H. Brown during the VAMOS Ocean-Cloud-Atmosphere-Land Study Regional Experiment (VOCALS-REx) in the southeast Pacific marine boundary layer in October and November 2008. The aerosol in this region was characterized by low numbers of particles (150–700 cm−3) that were dominated by sulfate ions at concentrations of 0.9 ± 0.7 μg m−3 and organic mass at 0.6 ± 0.4 μg m−3, with no measurable nitrate and low ammonium ion concentrations. Measurements of submicron organic aerosol functional groups and trace elements show that continental outflow of anthropogenic emissions is the dominant source of organic mass (OM) to the southeast Pacific with an additional, smaller contribution of organic mass from primary marine sources. This continental source is supported by a correlation between OM and radon. Saturated aliphatic C-CH (alkane) composed 41 ± 27% of OM. Carboxylic acid COOH (32 ± 23% of OM) was observed in single particles internally mixed with ketonic carbonyl, carbonate, and potassium. Organosulfate COSO3 (4 ± 8% of OM) was observed only during the periods of highest organic and sulfate concentrations and lowest ammonium concentrations, consistent with a sulfuric acid epoxide hydrolysis for proposed surrogate compounds (e.g., isoprene oxidation products) or reactive glyoxal uptake mechanisms from laboratory studies. This correlation suggests that in high-sulfate, low-ammonium conditions, the formation of organosulfate compounds in the atmosphere contributes a significant fraction of aerosol OM (up to 13% in continental air masses). Organic hydroxyl C-OH composed 20 ± 12% of OM and up to 50% of remote marine OM and was inversely correlated with radon indicating a marine source. A two-factor solution of positive matrix factorization (PMF) analysis resulted in one factor dominated by organic hydroxyl (>70% by mass) and one factor dominated by saturated aliphatic C-CH (alkane) and carboxylic acid (together, 90% by mass), identified as the marine and combustion factors, respectively. Measurements of particle concentrations in the study region compared with concentrations estimated from MODIS aerosol optical depth indicate that continental outflow results in MBL particle concentrations elevated up to 2 times the background level (less than 300 cm−3) away from shore and up to 10 times the background level at the coast. The presence of both coastal fossil fuel combustion and marine sources of oxygenated organic aerosol results in little change in the oxygenated fraction and oxygen to carbon ratio (O/C) along the outflow of the region's dominant organic particle source.
Rhetoric from the Ruins of African Antiquity

Abstract Recent studies in comparative rhetoric have brought much needed attention to traditions of rhetoric in non-Western cultures, including many in Africa. Yet the exclusive focus on contemporary African cultures limits understanding of the history of rhetoric in Africa. Although extensive data on African antiquity is lacking, we know that early Nubian and Ethiopian cultures were highly civilized, socially and politically. Literacy in the ancient cities of Napata, Meroe, and Axum, and in the medieval city of Timbuktu suggests that black Africa was not exclusively oral and not without recourse to a means of recording its uses of language. This essay adds a historical dimension to comparative studies of rhetoric in Africa, showing the depth and complexity of this little known aspect of African civilizations.
Quantitative extraction of continuous distributions of energy states and pre-exponential factors from thermal desorption spectra

Abstract In many adsorption systems of practical interest, such as polycrystalline surfaces, desorption occurs from a continuous distribution f ( E ) of energy states. The quantitative inversion of temperature programmed desorption (TPD) spectra to obtain f ( E ) has heretofore proven quite difficult. In this paper, a method is presented in which f ( E ) may be calculated from a single spectrum for any reaction order if the pre-exponential factor ν 0 is known. If ν 0 is not known a priori, it is shown how a conventional heating rate study may be used to determine the magnitude of ν 0 and any energy dependence it may have. Some aspects of the coverage dependence of the desorption parameters may be determined as well.
Microdetermination of lead with dithizone and the ring-oven technique.

Abstract A method for the microdetermination of lead with dithizone by the ring-oven technique is presented. The limit or detection is 0.04 μg and the range is 0.05–1.0 μg, of lead with no interference from other species that are of significance in air pollution studies. The determinations can be made directly on samples collected on sequential tapes. The applicability and reliability of this method for air pollution studies were verified by analyzing Mexican air samples simultaneously by atomic absorption spectrometry and the ring oven. The data show good agreement. This method is especially recommended for field studies because it is sensitive, rapid, reliable and far less expensive than methods currently in use for lead determinations.
The comparison of a technology-based system and an in-person behavioral weight loss intervention.

The purpose of this study was to compare a technology-based system, an in-person behavioral weight loss intervention, and a combination of both over a 6-month period in overweight adults. Fifty-one subjects (age: 44.2 ± 8.7 years, BMI: 33.7 ± 3.6 kg/m2) participated in a 6-month behavioral weight loss program and were randomized to one of three groups: standard behavioral weight loss (SBWL), SBWL plus technology-based system (SBWL+TECH), or technology-based system only (TECH). All groups reduced caloric intake and progressively increased moderate intensity physical activity. SBWL and SBWL+TECH attended weekly meetings. SBWL+TECH also received a TECH that included an energy monitoring armband and website to monitor energy intake and expenditure. TECH used the technology system and received monthly telephone calls. Body weight and physical activity were assessed at 0 and 6 months. Retention at 6 months was significantly different (P = 0.005) between groups (SBWL: 53%, SBWL+TECH: 100%, and TECH: 77%). Intent-to-treat (ITT) analysis revealed significant weight losses at 6 months in SBWL+TECH (−8.8 ± 5.0 kg, −8.7 ± 4.7%), SBWL (−3.7 ± 5.7 kg, −4.1 ± 6.3%), and TECH (−5.8 ± 6.6 kg, −6.3 ± 7.1%) (P < 0.001). Self-report physical activity increased significantly in SBWL (473.9 ± 800.7 kcal/week), SBWL+TECH (713.9 ± 1,278.8 kcal/week), and TECH (1,066.2 ± 1,371 kcal/week) (P < 0.001), with no differences between groups (P = 0.25). The TECH used in conjunction with monthly telephone calls, produced similar, if not greater weight losses and changes in physical activity than the standard in-person behavioral program at 6 months. The use of this technology may provide an effective short-term clinical alternative to standard in-person behavioral weight loss interventions, with the longer term effects warranting investigation.
Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia: A neoplastic “actor” representing an exaggerated attempt at recanalization mediated by basic fibroblast growth factor

Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH), a lesion of the extremities often encountered by hand surgeons, is characterized histologically by a florid endothelial proliferation that is exclusively intravascular in location and suggests an exaggerated attempt at thrombus recanalization. The mechanism behind this exaggerated response is unknown. Prompted by an apparent increase in cases of IPEH noted at our hospital in the past 2 years and the availability of frozen tissue from these cases, we undertook studies of IPEH designed to better elucidate the pathogenesis of this neoplastic "actor." Studies of eight such lesions revealed them to be uniformly diploid by DNA flow cytometric analysis. Further studies of five pooled cases by Northern blot and immunoblot revealed a 5-10-fold increase in basic fibroblast growth factor transcripts (7.0 and 3.7 kb) and a 10-20-fold increase in immunoreactive basic fibroblast growth factor protein compared to that exhibited by non-IPEH organizing thrombi and cavernous hemangiomas. These results suggest that the pathogenesis of IPEH involves an autocrine loop of endothelial basic fibroblast growth factor secretion stimulating endothelial cell proliferation.
Microarray Analysis Identifies COMP as the Most Differentially Regulated Transcript Throughout In Vitro Follicle Growth

In vitro follicle growth has emerged as a technology that can provide new information about folliculogenesis and serve as part of a suite of methods currently under development to assist women whose fertility is threatened by cancer treatments. Though it has been shown that in vitro-grown follicles secrete peptide and steroid hormones, much of the follicular transcriptome remains unknown. Thus, microarray analysis was performed to characterize the transcriptome and secretome of in vitro-grown follicles. One prominently regulated gene product was cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (Comp): its mRNA was upregulated during the final 4 days of culture (P < 0.05) and COMP protein could be detected in medium from individual follicles. COMP expression localized to mural granulosa cells of large antral follicles both in vitro and in vivo, with maximal expression immediately preceding ovulation in cycling and chorionic gonadotropin-primed female mice. COMP was co-expressed with two known markers of follicle maturation, inhibin β(A) and gremlin, and was expressed only in TUNEL-negative follicles. In addition to other gene products identified in the microarray, COMP has potential utility as a marker of follicle maturation.
The current status of post-traumatic stress disorder as a diagnostic category : problems and proposals

This paper examines the taxonomic adequacy of the DSMIII-R category of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). After reviewing the functions of classification and the current description of PTSD the following questions are raised: Is PTSD a mental disorder? Is PTSD an anxiety disorder? Do the current diagnostic criteria best characterize the sequelae typically induced by trauma? Is the current category sufficiently homogeneous or should subclassifications be made on the basis of precipitating trauma? Several suggestions for improving the taxonomic adequacy of this category are advanced.
Wavelength-scanning polarization-modulation ellipsometry: some practical considerations

A discussion is presented of the practical considerations involved in wavelength-scanning polarization-modulation ellipsometry. Emphasis is placed on factors affecting accuracy and precision and on the alignment of the optical elements. The system described is used to measure the optical properties of air-cleaved KCI and of clean and tarnished Ag surfaces in ultrahigh vacuum in the 250-650-nm range.
Conditional probability of reinforcement and sequential behavior in human conditioning with intermittent reinforcement schedules

Fourteen Ss were exposed to three 50%-reinforcement schedules in human eyelid conditioning. The schedules differed in that the likelihood of a reinforced (nonre in forced) trial following a reinforced (nonre in forced) trial was either.3,.5, or 7. At.7 during early training, there was evidence of greater increments and decrements following successive reinforced and nonreinforced trials, respectively. During late training, there were no differential effects of the conditional probability of reinforcement; rather, there was little evidence of any sequential behavior contingent on successive reinforcements, suggesting that the parameters of a linear operator model modify with extended training.
Light transmittance as a measure of interfacial area in liquid‐liquid dispersions

Interfacial area in liquid-liquid systems has been measured photographically. Precision and accuracy of the method have been shown to be better than 10%. To avoid tedium of counting drops, a simple light probe of easily reproducible design has been developed to measure the light transmission through the dispersions formed. A correlation of light transmittance with interfacial area is presented and its usefulness and limitations are discussed.
Using Changes in Binding Globulins to Assess Oral Contraceptive Compliance

Abstract Background Validity of oral contraceptive pill (OCP) clinical trial results depends on participant compliance. Ethinyl estradiol (EE2) induces increases in hepatic binding globulin (BG) levels. Measuring these BG increases may provide an effective and convenient approach to distinguish noncompliant from compliant OCP users in research settings. This analysis evaluated the usefulness of measuring increases in corticosteroid-, sex-hormone- and thyroxine-binding globulins (CBG, SHBG and TBG, respectively) as measures of OCP compliance. Methods We used frozen serum from a trial that compared ovarian suppression between normal-weight and obese women randomized to one of two OCPs containing EE2 and levonorgestrel (LNG). Based on serial LNG measurements during the trial, 17% of participants were noncompliant. We matched noncompliant participants with compliant participants by age, body mass index, ethnicity and OCP formulation. We measured CBG, SHBG and TBG levels and compared change from baseline to 3-month follow-up between the noncompliant and compliant participants. Construction of receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves allowed comparison of various BG measures. Results Changes in CBG and TBG distinguished OCP noncompliant users from compliant users [area under the ROC curve (AUROC), 0.86 and 0.89, p Conclusions EE2-induced increases in CBG and TBG provide a sensitive integrated marker of compliance with an LNG-containing OCP.
Rigidity dependence of 11 year cosmic ray modulation: Implication for theories

[1] We use data obtained with the global network of detectors, with median rigidity (Rm) of response covering a wide range (1 to 200 GV), to derive the rigidity dependence of the 11 year modulation of galactic cosmic rays (GCR) for 4 sunspot cycles (20 to 23). We find that observed rigidity dependence is represented by a power law with negative exponents; the exponents do not depend on the solar magnetic polarity. However, the dependence on GCR rigidity is significantly flatter than is expected from the Quasi-linear Theory of modulation formulated by Jokipii.
Nursing Diagnosis vs Goal‐oriented Treatment Planning in Inpatient Child Psychiatry

The sharp rise in acute psychiatric beds for children and youth has opened up practice opportunities for child psychiatric nurses. But there is pressure from third party payers to reduce the length of stay on these services which increases demand for effective and efficient care. Timely evaluation, stabilization and discharge of children requires multidisciplinary teamwork. This paper considers the merit of nursing diagnosis in this setting and compares it to a method of multidisciplinary goal setting. The use of nursing diagnoses in child inpatient psychiatry carries some risk of creating parallel systems of care and isolating nurses from the treatment team.
Diagnosis and management of right ventricle-dependent coronary circulation in pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum.

BACKGROUNDCoronary artery anomalies including 1) right ventricle (RV)-to-coronary artery fistulas, 2) coronary artery stenoses, and 3) coronary occlusions occur in patients with pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (PA-IVS). In some, a large part of the coronary blood supply may depend on the RV. This RV-dependent coronary circulation may determine survival after right ventricular decompression (RVD): RVD may cause RV "steal" in the presence of fistulas alone and ischemia, coronary isolation, or myocardial infarction in the presence of coronary stenoses.METHODS AND RESULTSEighty-two patients with PA-IVS who presented between January 1979 and January 1990 were reviewed; 26 (32%) had RV-to-coronary artery fistulas. Of these 26, 23 had adequate preoperative coronary angiograms for analysis. RVD was achieved in 16. Seven of 16 had fistulas only; each survived RVD. Six of 16 had stenosis of a single coronary artery [left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), four; right coronary artery (RCA), ...
A Complex Potential-Variational Method for Stress Analysis of Unsymmetric Laminates With an Elliptical Cutout

A combined complex potential-variational solution method is developed for the analysis of unsymmetrically laminated plates with finite planform geometry, subjected to arbitrary edge loads, and with an inclined elliptical cutout. This method uses complex potentials and their Laurent series expansions to reduce the potential energy of a plate to a contour integral that is evaluated numerically by the trapezoidal rule. A variational statement of equilibrium is applied to the potential energy to obtain a linear system of equations in terms of the unknown coefficients of the Laurent series, whose solutions yield the stress and displacement fields for a given problem. This approach represents a computationally efficient alternative to boundary collocation procedures that are typically used to solve problems based on complex potential theory. Comparisons are made with corresponding results obtained from finite element analysis for a square unsymmetrically laminated plate with a central inclined elliptical cutout and subjected to biaxial tension. The results confirm the validity of the solution method.
Relationships among cardiovascular, muscular, and oxytocin responses during human sexual activity

To determine the psychophysiological correlates of hormonal response during sexual activity, systolic blood pressure (SBP), anal electromyography (EMG), and anal photoplethysmography (APG) were monitored continuously throughout testing in 13 women and 10 men. Each subject completed two or more tests of self-stimulation to 5 min beyond orgasm. Blood samples were obtained continuously for measurement of oxytocin (OT) levels. In both men and women, very high positive correlations were observed between the percentage change in levels from baseline through orgasm of: OT and SBP; OT and EMG intensity prior to and during orgasm; APG and EMG. The number of anal contractions and duration of orgasm were also highly correlated. Two patterns of orgasm were defined by the presence or absence of a quiescent period between orgasmic contractions. EMG and APG amplitudes correlated with the pattern of orgasm. Subjective orgasm intensity correlated significantly with increased levels of OT in multiorgasmic women only. The positive correlations between measures are consistent with a possible functional role for OT in human sexual response.
Synthesis, structure and spectroscopic properties of 2,3-bis(diphenylphosphino)quinoxaline (dppQx) and its copper(I) complexes

Abstract Phosphinoquinoxalines were prepared by treatment of 2,3-dichloroquinoxaline (3) with phosphorus nucleophiles. The Arbuzov reaction of 3 with PPh(O-i-Pr)2 gave a mixture of diastereomers of 2,3-(PPh(O)(O-i-Pr))2quinoxaline (6); the crystal structure of rac-6 was determined, but attempts at reduction to yield bis(phenylphosphino)quinoxaline 7 resulted in P–C cleavage and formation of phenylphosphine. The bis(secondary phosphine) 7 could be generated from 3 and LiPHPh(BH3), but was not isolated in pure form. Copper-catalyzed coupling of PHPh2 with 3 gave 2,3-bis(diphenylphosphino)quinoxaline (4, dppQx), whose coordination chemistry was investigated, with comparison to data for the analogous 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)benzene (dppBz) complexes. Reaction of dppQx with [Cu(NCMe)4][PF6] gave [Cu(dppQx)2][PF6] (8); CuCl yielded [Cu(dppQx)Cl]2 (9). Reaction of [Cu(NCMe)4][PF6] with one equiv of DPEphos, followed by one equiv of dppQx, gave [Cu(dppQx)(DPEphos)][PF6] (10). Ligand 4 and copper complexes 8 and 9 were crystallographically characterized. The UV–Vis spectra of dppQx and its copper complexes were red-shifted from those of the dppBz analogs; in contrast to results for the dppBz complexes, those of dppQx were not luminescent in solution.
Reasonable suspicion: A pilot study of pediatric residents

Abstract Objectives To identify pediatric residents’ understanding and interpretation of reasonable suspicion , in the context of mandated reporting of suspected child abuse. Method A survey was administered to pediatrics and combined medicine/pediatrics residents. An open-ended question plus three operational frameworks for interpreting likelihood examined how residents conceived of reasonable suspicion . Responses were examined for evidence of a group standard, and also compared for internal consistency. Results Forty-two of 49 residents completed the survey (86% response rate). There were no significant differences in responses based on age, gender, year of residency, or anticipated practice type. Respondents exhibited wide variation in the thresholds they set for reasonable suspicion . On a Differential Diagnosis scale, 10% indicated that “abuse” would have to rank 1st or 2nd; 45% set the threshold at 3rd or 4th; while 45% stated that abuse could be as low as 5th to 10th and still qualify as reasonable suspicion . Using a Estimated Probability scale, 9.5% indicated that “abuse” would need to be >75% likely before reasonable suspicion existed; 28.5% stated that a 60–70% likelihood was needed; 38% identified the necessary likelihood as 40–50%; and 24% set the threshold as low as 10–35%. In comparing individual resident responses for the two scales, 83.3% were internally inconsistent. Conclusion There was no consensus among pediatric residents with regard to (1) a standard meaning for reasonable suspicion , (2) a standard application of reasonable suspicion , or (3) how likely “abuse” must be before reasonable suspicion can be said to exist. Additionally, many residents’ conceptions of reasonable suspicion were internally inconsistent.
The thermochemical kinetics of retro- “ene” reactions of molecules with the general structure (allyl) XYH in the gas phase. IX. The thermal unimolecular decomposition of ethyallylether in the gas phase

The thermal decomposition of ethylallylether (EAE) has been studied in the gas phase over the temperature range of 560–648°K. Propylene and acetaldehyde are the only reaction products observed. The reaction is apparently homogeneous in nature and independent of the pressure of EAE and of added foreign gases. The experimetally determined first-order rate constants, using the internal standard technique, fit the Arrhenius relationship log k(s−1) = 11.84 ± 0.29 − (43.57 ± 0.77 kcal/mole)/2.303RT. Independently the same rate constants are obtained, based on the amounts of products formed. The observed activation parameters are in general agreement with expectations based on the concept of a 6-center 1,5-H-shift retro-“ene” reaction mechanism, and they agree with previous results obtained for the similar reactions involving alkylallylamines and olefins.
International R&D Transfer and Technical Efficiency: Evidence from Panel Study Using Stochastic Frontier Analysis

Summary We study the effect of foreign research and development (R&D) transferred through imports and foreign direct investment (FDI) on domestic technical efficiency using stochastic frontier analysis. Unbalanced panel results from a 77-country sample over 1986–2007 show that FDI- and imports-transferred foreign R&D have a significant impact on domestic country’s technical efficiency. Furthermore, we observe a complementarity between FDI-transferred R&D and domestic human capital. In other words, the domestic country needs to obtain a threshold level of human capital to benefit from FDI-transferred R&D. Other macro conditions such as infrastructure, political stability, and urbanization also help to improve the technical efficiency of a country.
Rotary-balance experiments on a modern fighter aircraft configuration at high Reynolds numbers

NASA Ames Research Center's research program to investigate high-angle-of-attack aerodynamic phenomena associated with high-performance aircraft includes the development and use of rotary balance apparatuses for wind balance apparatuses for wind tunnel tests of airplane models in a coning motion. A large scale apparatus, developed for testing models at high Reynolds numbers in the Ames 12-Foot Pressure Wind Tunnel, was recently tested with an 0.05-scale F-15 fighter model. Measurements were made at low subsonic Mach numbers and chord Reynolds numbers of 1 to 5.5 million, with angles of attack from 0 to 90 deg and sideslip angles from -15 to +15 deg. Effects of Reynolds number, spin-rate parameter, model attitude, presence of a nose boom, and model/sting mounting angle were investigated.
A test of species–energy theory: patch occupancy and colony size in tropical rainforest litter-nesting ants

Species–energy theory can account for spatial variation in the abundance and community composition of animals, though the mechanisms of species–energy theory are under contention. We evaluated three competing mechanisms at the local spatial scale by conducting an in vivo light manipulation over supplemental ant nests placed in the leaf litter of a Costa Rican tropical rainforest. We found that the light environment did not alter the 10% rate of occupation of the supplemental nests, but light did alter the size of colonies and the genus-level composition of the community. Light levels in the foraging range were positively associated with colony sizes of all ants, whereas light levels directly on the nest site were predictive of the occurrence of ant genera. Colonies of specialized predators, dacetine ants, were larger in more shaded foraging environments, and the functional group of generalized myrmicines exhibited an opposite pattern, with smaller-sized colonies in response to shading. Responses of twig-dwelling ants to the light environment were most consistent with the metabolic cost hypothesis as a mechanism of species–energy theory. We found mixed support for the thermal energy availability hypothesis, and scant support for the chemical energy hypothesis, as the litter depth, a measure of prey density, was not predictive of ant responses. In summary, at the local scale, we found patterns in colony size and life history are governed by light-dependent mechanisms.
Future plans for quality assurance in radiation oncology in the United States.

Abstract The Patterns of Care Study (PCS) is conducting continuing surveys in key disease sites that will monitor changes in processes and outcome of care from 1973 to 1985. The PCS will conduct a process survey in 1984 that will provide the baseline data for the quality assessment survey program available to individual facilities in the United States in 1985. This program will be conducted through the American College of Radiology and operated by the joint ACR-ASTR Quality Assessment Committee which includes representatives from the American Association of Physicists in Medicine. It will be a voluntary program that will be paid for by the facility requesting assessment. The feedback will be confidential and constructed in a manner as to maximally help the facility recognize areas where improvements can be made. We are continuing to work with licensing and accrediting groups such as the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals (JCAH) and the American College of Surgeons' cancer accreditation program to advise them of the service we will be providing, and to obtain their recognition and recommendation of this service. This program will provide a means of meaningful quality assessment for the individual facility, and the opportunity for each facility to improve the quality of their care. In addition, through these surveys we will continue to monitor changes in the national benchmarks for processes and outcomes of care of key disease sites in which radiation therapy plays an important interventional role.
Aspergillosis in children with acquired immune deficiency

Two children are presented with AIDS and aspergillosis. One child had pulmonary involvement while the other had invasion of the skull and brain. The rarity of aspergillosis in AIDS patients is discussed as well.
Open fractures of the distal radius

A review of 18 patients treated at our institution for open distal radius fractures was performed. The patients were followed up for an average of 32 months (range, 12 months to 5.3 years). Wounds were classified according to Gustilo and Anderson with 9 type I (50%), 3 type II (17%), and 6 type III (34%) (3 IIIa, 2 IIIb, 1 IIIc) injuries. Seven patients underwent a total of 2 to 4 procedures to treat their injuries, and 3 patients required 5 or more procedures. Eleven (61%) patients had postoperative complications. Patients were evaluated with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and scored an average of 33. Wound severity was associated with an increased number of postoperative complications (p =.012), an increased number of complications per patient (p =.015), a higher number of surgical procedures (p =.003), a decreased average range of motion (p =.235), and fair or poor results at the latest follow-up (p =.03). Although type I injuries may be similar to their closed counterparts, patients with type III injuries experienced a much greater number of initial complications and had worse long-term clinical outcomes.
Control of nitrate reductase by circadian and diurnal rhythms in tomato

Nitrate reductase (NR, EC 1.6.6.1) is a key regulatory enzyme in the assimilation of nitrate into amino acids in plant leaves. NR activity is intricately controlled by multifarious regulatory mechanisms acting at different levels ranging from transcription to protein degradation. It is among the few enzymes known to have a robust circadian rhythm of enzyme activity in many plant species. Although many aspects of NR regulation have been studied in depth, how these different types of control interact in a plant to deliver integrated control of activity in leaves over the course of the day has not been systematically investigated. This work documents that NR in young tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) leaves has an endogenous rhythm in mRNA and protein level, which in nearly all circumstances are in phase with the rhythm in NR enzyme activity. Our data show that the diurnal control of NR activity in tomato leaves rests primarily with circadian regulation of Nia gene expression. The accompanying oscillations in protein level in tomato are made possible by a short half-life of NR protein that is approx. 6 h under normal conditions and approx. 2.5 h when plants are darkened during mid-day. NR post-transcriptional regulation via phosphorylation and subsequent 14-3-3 protein binding has a physiologically vital but secondary regulatory role in tomato of rapidly deactivating NR in response to changes in light intensity that cannot be anticipated by circadian timing. The post-translational reactivation of phosphorylated NR appears to have its primary physiological role in tomato leaves in reversing the down regulation of NR following transient shading events. Although there is a significant steady-state pool of apparently inactive NR throughout the diurnal, our data indicate that tomato leaves are unable to draw on this reserve to compensate for NR protein that is degraded during shading.
Imaging tumor angiogenesis by use of combined near-infrared diffusive light and ultrasound

A novel two-step reconstruction scheme using a combined near-infrared and ultrasound technique and its utility in imaging distributions of optical absorption and hemoglobin concentration of breast lesions are demonstrated. In the first-step image reconstruction, the entire tissue volume is segmented based on initial coregistered ultrasound measurements into lesion and background regions. Reconstruction is performed by use of a finer grid for lesion region and a coarse grid for the background tissue. As a result, the total number of voxels with unknown absorption can be maintained on the same order of total measurements, and the matrix with unknown total absorption distribution is appropriately scaled for inversion. In the second step, image reconstruction is refined by optimization of lesion parameters measured from ultrasound images. It is shown that detailed distributions of wavelength-dependent absorption and hemoglobin concentration of breast carcinoma can be obtained with the new reconstruction scheme.
The chromosomes of mantids (Orthoptera; Manteidae) in relation to taxonomy.

The distinguishing cytological characters, including chromosome number and sex chromosome mechanism, have been tabulated for all mantids thus far studied cytologically—including 16 species (starred in Table 1) not hitherto examined. Data on 46 species in 17 subfamilies are reviewed. The XO♂—XX ♀ sex chromosome mechanism represents the ancestral condition for the family and has been retained in 14 of the subfamilies sampled. The distribution of the X1X2Y♂—X1X1X2X2♀ mechanism, previously known in the subfamilies Manteinae and Choeradodinae, is extended to include Mellierinae, Acromantinae and Vatinae. Cytological evidence indicates a monophyletic origin of the compound sex chromosomes and necessitates a reconsideration of the taxonomic association of XO and X1X2Y forms in the same subfamily, specifically of Miomantis and Callimantis with the other Manteinae, and Aethalocroa with Vates and Phyllovates in the Vatinae. The pre-metaphase stretch is established as a regular stage in male meiosis in 14—and is absent in 3—of the species checked for this character. It should prove of taxonomic value when a wider sampling of the lower categories is available. The prolongation of parallel pairing of homologous chromosomes in male meiosis appears to be characteristic of the Manteidae as a whole. No correlation is apparent between the degree of its expression and taxonomic category. Since it provides a mechanism, additional or alternative to chiasmata, for the post-pachytene association of homologues, its establishment permits the evolution of non-chiasmate meiosis in the group. Two structural types of bivalents—one with, one without chiasmata—are found. Present evidence favors the multiple origin of the non-chiasmate type within the family, and since both types may coexist in the karyotype of the same sex of a single species, presence or absence of chiasmata cannot be considered a valid taxonomic criterion.
Decomposition of spontaneous brain activity into distinct fMRI co-activation patterns.

Recent fMRI studies have shown that analysis of the human brain’s spontaneous activity may provide a powerful approach to reveal its functional organization. Dedicated methods have been proposed to investigate co-variation of signals from different brain regions, with the goal of revealing neuronal networks that may serve specialized functions. However, these analysis methods generally do not take into account a potential non-stationary (variable) interaction between brain regions, and as a result have limited effectiveness. To address this, we propose a novel analysis method that uses clustering analysis to sort and selectively average fMRI activity time frames to produce a set of co-activation patterns. Compared to the established networks extracted with conventional analysis methods, these co-activation patterns demonstrate novel network features with apparent relevance to the brain’s functional organization.
Minimum-Fuel Finite-Thrust Relative Orbit Maneuvers via Indirect Heuristic Method

Fuel-optimal space trajectories in the Euler–Hill frame represent a subject of great relevance in astrodynamics, in consideration of the related applications to formation flying and proximity maneu...
Prismatic shells with hexagonal cross-section

Abstract A new discrete-continuous analytical model for prismatic shells with hexagonal cross-section is developed on the basis of the semimembrane shell theory. Final results for stresses are derived in form of simple expressions. The proposed analytical model is checked against test and finite element results. The accuracy is judged to be exceptionally good in all cases examined. Therefore, it appears that the method provides a simple but powerful tool in design of nuclear reactor subassembly ducts.
Complete In Vitro Reconstitution of Adeno-Associated Virus DNA Replication Requires the Minichromosome Maintenance Complex Proteins

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) replicates its DNA exclusively by a leading-strand DNA replication mechanism and requires coinfection with a helper virus, such as adenovirus, to achieve a productive infection. In previous work, we described an in vitro AAV replication assay that required the AAV terminal repeats (the origins for DNA replication), the AAV Rep protein (the origin binding protein), and an adenovirus-infected crude extract. Fractionation of these crude extracts identified replication factor C (RFC), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and polymerase δ as cellular enzymes that were essential for AAV DNA replication in vitro. Here we identify the remaining factor that is necessary as the minichromosome maintenance (MCM) complex, a cellular helicase complex that is believed to be the replicative helicase for eukaryotic chromosomes. Thus, polymerase δ, RFC, PCNA, and the MCM complex, along with the virally encoded Rep protein, constitute the minimal protein complexes required to reconstitute efficient AAV DNA replication in vitro. Interfering RNAs targeted to MCM and polymerase δ inhibited AAV DNA replication in vivo, suggesting that one or more components of the MCM complex and polymerase δ play an essential role in AAV DNA replication in vivo as well as in vitro. Our reconstituted in vitro DNA replication system is consistent with the current genetic information about AAV DNA replication. The use of highly conserved cellular replication enzymes may explain why AAV is capable of productive infection in a wide variety of species with several different families of helper viruses.
Amine-Reactive Fluorene Probes: Synthesis, Optical Characterization, Bioconjugation, and Two-Photon Fluorescence Imaging

With the increasing demand for confocal and two-photon fluorescence imaging, the availability of reactive probes that possess high two-photon absorptivity, high fluorescence quantum yield, and high photostability is of paramount importance. To address the demand for better-performing probes, we prepared two-photon absorbing amine-reactive fluorenyl-based probes 2-(9,9-bis(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl)-2-isothiocyanato-9H-fluoren-7-yl)benzothiazole (1) and 2-(4-(2-(9,9-bis(2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethyl)-2-isothiocyanato-9H-fluoren-7-yl)vinyl)phenyl)benzothiazole (2), incorporating the isothiocyanate as a reactive linker. Probe design was augmented by integrating high optical nonlinearities, increased hydrophilicity, and coupling with reactive functional groups for specific targeting of biomolecules, assuring a better impact on two-photon fluorescence microscopy (2PFM) imaging. The isothiocyanate (NCS) derivatives were conjugated with cyclic peptide RGDfK and Reelin protein. The study of the chemical and photophysical properties of the new labeling reagents, as well as the conjugates, is described. The conjugates displayed high chemical stability and photostability. The NCS derivatives had low fluorescence quantum yields, while their bioconjugates exhibited high fluorescence quantum yields, essentially "lighting up" after conjugation. Conventional and 2PFM imaging and fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) of HeLa, NT2, and H1299 cells, incubated with two-photon absorbing amine-reactive probe (1), RGDfK-dye conjugate (7), and Reelin-dye conjugate (6), was demonstrated.
Direct Demonstration of the CD27 Molecule Involved in the Negative Regulatory Effect on T Cell Activation

CD27 is a member of the nerve growth factor/tumor necrosis factor receptor family and appears to play an important role in the process of T cell activation. We have previously shown that perturbation of the CD27 molecule by anti-1A4 (CD27) mAb inhibits T cell proliferation induced by various stimuli. To further determine the molecular basis of this inhibition of T cell proliferation by anti-1A4 mAb, we have established CD27-transfectant lines. Introduction of the human CD27 cDNA to ovalbumin-specific I-Ad-restricted murine T cell hybridomas significantly reduced their antigen-specific IL-2 production. In addition, treatment of these human CD27 transfectants with an anti-CD27 mAb (anti-1A4) further reduced their IL-2 production. These results provide direct evidence that CD27 plays a crucial role in the process of T cell activation.
Impact of an Evidence-Based Medicine Curriculum Based on Adult Learning Theory

To develop and implement an evidence-based medicine (EBM) curriculum and determine its effectiveness in improving residents’ EBM behaviors and skills. Description of the curriculum and a multifaceted evaluation, including a pretest-posttest controlled trial. University-based primary care internal medicine residency program. Second-and third-year internal medicine residents (N=34). A 7-week EBM curriculum in which residents work through the steps of evidence-based decisions for their own patients. Based on adult learning theory, the educational strategy included a resident-directed tutorial format, use of real clinical encounters, and specific EBM facilitating techniques for faculty. Behaviors and self-assessed competencies in EBM were measured with questionnaires. Evidence-based medicine skills were assessed with a 17-point test, which required free text responses to questions based on a clinical vignette and a test article. After the intervention, residents participating in the curriculum (case subjects) increased their use of original studies to answer clinical questions, their examination of methods and results sections of articles, and their self-assessed EBM competence in three of five domains of EBM, while the control subjects did not. The case subjects significantly improved their scores on the EBM skills test (8.5 to 11.0, p=.001), while the control subjects did not (8.5 to 7.1, p=.09). The difference in the posttest scores of the two groups was 3.9 points (p=.001, 95% confidence interval 1.9, 5.9). An EBM curriculum based on adult learning theory improves residents’ EBM skills and certain EBM behaviors. The description and multifaceted evaluation can guide medical educators involved in EBM training.