cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Discriminative Learning with Markov Logic Networks

Abstract : Statistical relational learning (SRL) is an emerging area of research that addresses the problem of learning from noisy structured/relational data. Markov logic networks (MLNs), sets of weighted clauses, are a simple but powerful SRL formalism that combines the expressivity of first-order logic with the flexibility of probabilistic reasoning. Most of the existing learning algorithms for MLNs are in the generative setting: they try to learn a model that maximizes the likelihood of the training data. However, most of the learning problems in relational data are discriminative. So to utilize the power of MLNs, we need discriminative learning methods that well match these discriminative tasks. In this proposal, we present two new discriminative learning algorithms for MLNs. The first one is a discriminative structure and weight learner for MLNs with non-recursive clauses. We use a variant of ALEPH, an off-the-shelf Inductive Logic Programming (ILP) system, to learn a large set of Horn clauses from the training data, then we apply an L1-regularization weight learner to select a small set of non-zero weight clauses that maximizes the conditional log-likelihood (CLL) of the training data. The experimental results show that our proposed algorithm outperforms existing learning methods for MLNs and traditional ILP systems in term of predictive accuracy, and its performance is comparable to stateof-the-art results on some ILP benchmarks. The second algorithm we present is a max-margin weight learner for MLNs. Instead of maximizing the CLL of the data like all existing discriminative weight learners for MLNs, the new weight learner tries to maximize the ratio between the probability of the correct label (the observable data) and and the closest incorrect label (among all the wrong labels, this one has the highest probability), which can be formulated as an optimization problem called "1-slack" structural SVM.
Adaptive and Dynamic Service Composition in eFlow

E-Services are typically delivered point-to-point. However, the e-service environment creates the opportunity for providing value-added, integrated services, which are delivered by composing existing e-services. In order to enable organizations to pursue this business opportunity we have developed eFlow, a system that supports the specification, enactment, and management of composite e-services, modeled as processes that are enacted by a service process engine. Composite e-services have to cope with a highly dynamic business environment in terms of services and service providers. In addition, the increased competition forces companies to provide customized services to better satisfy the needs of every individual customer. Ideally, service processes should be able to transparently adapt to changes in the environment and to the needs of different customers with minimal or no user intervention. In addition, it should be possible to dynamically modify service process definitions in a simple and effective way to manage cases where user intervention is indeed required. In this paper we show how eFlow achieves these goals.
Introduction to ATM Networking

Part 1 Networking and ATM networking: older "transfer mode" networks the capabilities of ATM. Part 2 The ATM protocol stack: ATM network concepts and architecture ATM technology components lower layers ATM layer and ATM building ATM networks ATM network performance and considerations ATM and the future ATM and network service providers appendix.
Ligand-directed profiling of organelles with internalizing phage libraries.

Phage display is a resourceful tool to, in an unbiased manner, discover and characterize functional protein-protein interactions, create vaccines, and engineer peptides, antibodies, and other proteins as targeted diagnostic and/or therapeutic agents. Recently, our group has developed a new class of internalizing phage (iPhage) for ligand-directed targeting of organelles and to identify molecular pathways within live cells. This unique technology is suitable for applications ranging from fundamental cell biology to drug development. This unit describes the methods for generating and screening the iPhage display system, and explains how to select and validate candidate internalizing homing peptide. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Keywords: intracellular targeting; intracellular receptors; mammalian cells; organelles; penetratin; phage display; proteomics; peptides
Hoxd-12 differentially affects preaxial and postaxial chondrogenic branches in the limb and regulates Sonic hedgehog in a positive feedback loop

Several 5' members of the Hoxd cluster are expressed in nested posterior-distal domains of the limb bud suggesting a role in regulating anteroposterior pattern of skeletal elements. While loss-of-function mutants have demonstrated a regulatory role for these genes in the developing limb, extensive functional overlaps between various different Hox genes has hampered elucidation of the roles played by individual members. In particular, the function of Hoxd-12 in the limb remains obscure. Using a gain-of-function approach, we find that Hoxd-12 misexpression in transgenic mice produces apparent transformations of anterior digits to posterior morphology and digit duplications, while associated tibial hemimelia and other changes indicate that formation/growth of certain skeletal elements is selectively inhibited. If the digital arch represents an anterior bending of the main limb axis, then the results are all reconcilable with a model in which Hoxd-12 promotes formation of postaxial chondrogenic condensations branching from this main axis (including the anteriormost digit) and selectively antagonizes formation of 'true' preaxial condensations that branch from this main axis (such as the tibia). Hoxd-12 misexpression can also induce ectopic Sonic hedgehog (Shh) expression, resulting in mirror-image polydactyly in the limb. Misexpression of Hoxd-12 in other lateral plate derivatives (sternum, pelvis) likewise phenocopies several luxoid/luxate class mouse mutants that all share ectopic Shh signalling. This suggests that feedback activation of Shh expression may be a major function of Hoxd-12. Hoxd-12 can bind to and transactivate the Shh promoter in vitro. Furthermore, expression of either exogenous Hoxd-11 or Hoxd-12 in cultured limb bud cells, together with FGF, induces expression of the endogenous Shh gene. Together these results suggest that certain 5' Hoxd genes directly amplify the posterior Shh polarizing signal in a reinforcing positive feedback loop during limb bud outgrowth.
Partition length between board-level electrical and optical interconnects

The lengths beyond which board-level optical interconnects are capable of transferring a larger number of bits per second in comparison with electrical interconnects are found for different technology generations. At the 130 nm node, the partition length is 29 cm which reduces to 8.3 cm at the 45 nm because of 7 times faster drivers and 40% finer waveguide pitch.
Lesotho's highly credentialed teachers: Emergent forms of teacher social becoming

Abstract This is a qualitative study examining the phenomenon of large numbers of secondary teachers with graduate-level degrees in Lesotho. This article draws upon the concepts of social becoming and resiliency to explore how teachers navigate their social structural environment, which fits the definition of a crisis. This article argues that teachers show high levels of resiliency – even thriving – along with positive and negative coping skills. Coping skills include self-enhancement, negative coping skills such as dissociation, and persistence. Obtaining an advanced degree involves an interplay of positive and negative coping skills, depending on the individual and circumstances. Policy is advocated that recognises and supports teachers as both traditional educators and frontline disaster responders, by drawing upon emergent forms of teacher becoming.
Effect of Humidity on the Ordering of PEO-Based Copolymer Thin Films

Solvent cast diblock and triblock copolymer films of poly(ethylene oxide-b-styrene) (PEO-b-PS) and poly(ethylene oxide-b-methyl methacrylate-b-styrene) (PEO-b-PMMA-b-PS), with cylindrical microdomains of PEO or PMMA-PEO, have a high degree of lateral ordering after solvent annealing. The relative humidity of the vapor during the solvent annealing has been shown to play an important role in achieving this order. After solvent annealing under high humidity a PEO-b-PMMA-b-PS triblock copolymer having a lamellar morphology in bulk develops a hexagonal array of depressed PEO domains on the film surface while the film surface remains flat under less humid conditions. Cross-sectional TEM and GISAXS show that the film annealed under high humidity conditions exhibits a well-defined hexagonally perforated lamellar (HPL) structure throughout its thickness, whereas a stack of lamellae aligned parallel to the surface is evident for films annealed at lower humidity. These results demonstrate the switchable nanoscopic structure of these films and strongly suggest that water vapor induces the morphological transition from lamellar to HPL by swelling the PEO domains.
The possible influence of ether anesthesia on the accuracy of the cat method of digitalis assay

Assays of tincture of digitalis were carried out on decerebrated cats to determine whether ether anesthesia affected the accuracy of the cat method in the assay of digitalis.
Interactive sound rendering

Extending the frontier of visual computing, sound rendering utilizes sound to communicate information to a user and offers an alternative means of visualization. By harnessing the sense of hearing, audio rendering can further enhance a user's experience in a multimodal virtual world and is required for immersive environments, computer games, simulation, training and designing next generation human-computer interfaces. In this talk, we will give an overview of our recent work on sound synthesis and sound propagation. These include generating realistic physically-based sounds from rigid body dynamics simulations and liquid sounds based on bubble resonance and coupling with fluid simulators. We also describe new and fast algorithms for sound propagation based on improved numerical techniques and fast geometric sound propagation. Our algorithms improve the state of the art in sound propagation by almost 1–2 orders of magnitude and we demonstrate that it is possible to perform interactive propagation in complex, dynamic environments by utilizing the computational capabilities of multi-core CPUs and many-core GPUs. We will also show some preliminary results on the design of next-generation musical instruments using multi-touch interfaces. Joint work with faculty and students of GAMMA group at UNC Chapel Hill.
Synthesis of polyacetylene in ordered media

L'amorceur est prepare en dissolvant Ti(OBu) 4 et AlEt 3 dans le toluene qui est elimine par distillation sous vide apres vieillissement de la solution a temperature ambiante: le cristal liquide MBBA est ensuite ajoute en milieu inerte; apres degazage, la solution est soumise a un champ magnetique d'environ 4000 G
The usefulness of diffusion-weighted imaging in the characterization of liver lesions in patients with cirrhosis

Aim To evaluate if diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is useful in characterizing liver lesions in patients with cirrhosis. Materials and methods A retrospective review revealed 37 patients with cirrhosis who had 41 histologically proven hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) lesions. Another 20 patents with cirrhosis had 29 solid nodules that remained stable for at least 12 months and were deemed to be benign hepatic nodules (BHN). Of the HCC lesions, 14 were well-differentiated (WD HCC), 20 were moderately differentiated, and seven were poorly differentiated histology. For all lesions, two reviewers analysed signal characteristics and made apparent diffusion coefficient value (ADC) measurements. Results Visual analysis of DWI was useful in that no HCC was hypointense and no BHN was hyperintense to liver. Visual analysis of DWI was not useful in separating WD HCC from higher grades. There was substantial overlap in ADC values of the HCC and BHN. Among HCC lesions, ADC values of more than 0.99 × 10−3 mm2/s had sensitivity and specificity of 85% and 86% for reviewer 1, and 63% and 64% for reviewer 2 in diagnosing WD HCC. Conclusions ADC measurements of BHN were higher than that of HCC, and the ADC values of WD HCC were higher than that of more aggressive grades of HCC. However, quantitative measurements may not help in determining the histological grade of individual cases of HCC.
Synthesis of Palladium Complexes with an Anionic P∼O Chelate and Their Use in Copolymerization of Ethene with Functionalized Norbornene Derivatives: Unusual Functionality Tolerance

A series of anionic P∼O ligands and corresponding palladium−allyl complexes have been synthesized. The latter, along with palladium species formed in situ, were employed for the copolymerization of ethene with functionalized norbornene derivatives. The formed copolymers had high norbornene content (>40 mol %). The systems are highly tolerant of reactive functionalities, and the copolymerizations can even be carried out in the presence of water.
Reduction chemistry of the mixed ligand metallocene [(C5Me5)(C8H8)U]2(μ-C8H8) with bipyridines

Abstract The U 4+ cyclooctatetraenyl complex, [(C 5 Me 5 )(C 8 H 8 )U] 2 (μ-C 8 H 8 ), 1 , reacts with two equiv of 4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine (Me 2 bipy) and 2 equiv of 2,2′-bipyridine (bipy) to form 2 equiv of (η 5 -C 5 Me 5 )(η 8 -C 8 H 8 )U(Me 2 bipy- κ 2 N,N′) and (η 5 -C 5 Me 5 )(η 8 -C 8 H 8 )U(bipy- κ 2 N,N′), respectively. X-ray crystallography, infrared spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations indicate that the products are best described as U 4+ complexes of bipyridyl radical anions. Hence, only one of the (C 8 H 8 ) 2− ligands in 1 acts as a reductant and delivers 2 electrons per equiv of 1 . Since the reduction potentials of uncomplexed (C 8 H 8 ) 2− , Me 2 bipy, and bipy are −1.86, −2.15, and −2.10 V vs SCE, respectively, it is likely that prior coordination of the bipyridine reagents enhances the electron transfer.
Vasopressor Response to Angiotensin II Infusion in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure Receiving β-Blockers

Background— A synergistic interaction between the angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor and α1-adrenergic receptors has been described. We hypothesized that the nonselective β-antagonist carvedilol, through its α1-adrenergic blocking properties, may modulate vascular reactivity to Ang II in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Accordingly, we compared the vasopressor response to infused Ang II in patients treated with carvedilol and metoprolol, a selective β-antagonist. Methods and Results— All subjects were treated with carvedilol or metoprolol for at least 3 months. ACE inhibitor therapy was standardized to enalapril 40 mg/d or the maximally tolerated dose. Exogenous Ang II was administered as sequential intravenous bolus injections (2.5 to 30 ng/kg) titrated to a rise in radial artery systolic pressure of ≥20 mm Hg. The dose of Ang II required to elicit a change of 20 mm Hg in radial artery systolic pressure (PD20) defined the vasopressor response to Ang II. Twenty subjects with CHF (mean left ...
A vertical distance-based outlier detection method with local pruning

"One person's noise is another person's signal". Outlier detection is used to clean up datasets and also to discover useful anomalies, such as criminal activities in electronic commerce, computer intrusion attacks, terrorist threats, agricultural pest infestations, etc. Thus, outlier detection is critically important in the information-based society. This paper focuses on finding outliers in large datasets using distance-based methods. First, to speedup outlier detections, we revise Knorr and Ng's distance-based outlier definition; second, a vertical data structure, instead of traditional horizontal structures, is adopted to facilitate efficient outlier detection further. We tested our methods against national hockey league dataset and show an order of magnitude of speed improvement compared to the contemporary distance-based outlier detection approaches.
The Role of Serotonin in the Radioresistance of Mongolian Gerbils

SummaryThirty-day survival of Mongolian gerbils is enhanced by 300 mg/kg serotonin intraperitoneally immediately before exposure to 1400 rads of 60Co radiation. DL-parachlorophenylalanine (PCP) sensitizes treated animals to 1400 rads, presumably by blocking biosynthesis of serotonin. PCP also produces a distinctly bimodal pattern of death after exposure. Reserpine at 0·6 mg/kg produces 100 per cent survival at 30 days after 1400 rads. This effect appears to be due to the persistence of reserpine's effectiveness in releasing 5HT from various storage sites within the body.
Histologic appearance of transmyocardial laser Channels after 41/2 Weeks

Preliminary results of clinical studies suggest that transmyocardial laser revascularization is an effective treatment for patients with chronic angina that cannot be treated by other means. The mechanism of this effect remains controversial. We present autopsy results from a patient obtained 41/2 weeks after operation that show that the channels do not maintain patency. Further work is needed to determine the frequency of channel patency and its relation to clinical benefit.
Ventilation Strategies that Target Lung Recruitment Attenuate Pulmonary Inflammation and Tissue Injury Following Severe Endotoxemia • 228

Introduction: Activation and sequestration of leukocytes in the lung are thought to play a significant role in the development of Acute Lung Injury and ARDS. Clinical and laboratory studies have suggested that ventilation modalities that maintain functional residual capacity, prevent alveolar collapse and minimize cyclic overdistension are associated with better outcomes. We hypothesized that ventilation strategies that optimize lung recruitment would be associated with less inflammation and lung injury. The hypothesis was tested using a rabbit model of acute alveolitis.
HfNixP – Intercalation of Ni into the Three‐Dimensional Compound HfP

The new compound HfNixP (x = 0.426(1), crystal structure: P63/mmc, a = 3.737(1) A, c = 12.666(2) A, V = 153.21(7) A3) has been prepared by arc-melting of HfP with nickel and subsequent annealing at 1400°C. Its crystal structure can be considered as a filled HfP structure, with the Ni atoms inserted into the trigonal prismatic voids of the Hf sublattice. Since the neighboring trigonal Hf6 prisms are centered by P atoms, each of the three rectangular faces of the Hf6Ni prism is capped with one P atom. Altogether, the structure of HfNixP consists of alternating layers of Hf atoms with the packing sequence AABB. One P and the Ni position are situated between the eclipsed Hf layers, whereas the other P site between the A and B layers is surrounded by six Hf atoms in a staggered arrangement. The calculated density of states (Extended Huckel approximation) points to metallic conductivity; threedimensional metallic behavior is assumed because of the Hf–Hf bonding interactions along all three directions. HfNixP – Einlagerung von Nickel in die dreidimensionale Verbindung HfP Die neue Verbindung HfNixP (x = 0.426(1); Kristallstruktur: P63/mmc, a = 3.737(1) A, c = 12.666(2) A, V = 153.21(7) A3) wurde durch Aufschmelzen von HfP und Nickel im Lichtbogen und anschliesendem Tempern Bei 1400°C hergestellt. Formal kann man die Struktur von HfNixP als gefullte HfP-Struktur beschreiben, wobei die Nickelatome die Zentren der trigonalen Prismen des Hf-Teilgitters besetzen. Dadurch, das die benachbarten trigonalen Hf6-Prismen von P-Atomen zentriert sind, sind alle drei Rechtecksflachen des trigonalen Hf6Ni-Prismas von je einem P-Atom uberdacht. Von einem anderen Blickwinkel aus betrachtet, besteht die Struktur von HfNixP aus alternierenden Schichten von Hf-Atomen, die gemas der Stapelfolge AABB gepackt sind. Zwischen den ekliptisch ubereinanderliegenden Hf-Schichten befinden sich eine P- und die Ni-Lage, wahrend ein zweites P-Atom zwischen den A- und B-Schichten von sechs Hf-Atomen oktaedrisch umgeben ist. Nach Berechnungen der Zustands-dichte (Extended-Huckel-Naherung) sollte HfNixP metallisch leitfahig sein; aufgrund der bindenden HfHf-Wechselwirkungen in allen drei Raumrichtungen sind dreidimensionale metallische Eigenschaften anzunehmen.
Adaptive and nonadaptive responses to voluntary wheel running by mdx mice

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which hindlimb muscles of mdx mice adapt to a voluntary endurance type of exercise. mdx and C57BL mice engaged in 8 weeks of wheel running or maintained normal cage activities. Beneficial adaptations that occurred in mdx mice included changes in muscle mass, fiber size, and fiber types based on myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoform expression. These adaptations occurred without increases in fiber central nuclei and embryonic MHC expression. An undesirable outcome, however, was that muscle mitochondrial enzyme activities did not improve with exercise in mdx mice as they did in C57BL mice. Cellular remodeling of dystrophic muscle following exercise has not been studied adequately. In this study we found that some, but not all, of the expected adaptations occurred in mdx mouse muscle. We must better understand these (non)adaptations in order to inform individuals with DMD about the benefits of exercise.
Puromycin aminonucleoside induces oxidant-dependent DNA damage in podocytes in vitro and in vivo

A decline in podocyte number correlates with progression to glomerulosclerosis. A mechanism underlying reduced podocyte number is the podocyte's relative inability to proliferate in response to injury. Injury by the podocyte toxin puromycin aminonucleoside (PA) is mediated via reactive oxygen species (ROS). The precise role of ROS in the pathogenesis of PA-induced glomerulosclerosis remains to be determined. We sought to examine whether PA-induced ROS caused podocyte DNA damage, possibly accounting for the podocyte's inability to proliferate in response to PA. In vitro, podocytes were exposed to PA, with or without the radical scavenger 1,3-dimethyl-2-thiourea (DMTU). In vivo, male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into experimental groups (n=6/group/time point): PA, PA with DMTU, and control, killed at days 1.5, 3, or 7. DNA damage was measured by DNA precipitation, apurinic/apyrimidinic site, Comet, and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine assays. Cell cycle checkpoint protein upregulation (by immunostaining and Western blotting), histopathology, and biochemical parameters were examined. DNA damage was increased in cultured podocytes that received PA, but not PA with DMTU. PA exposure activated specific cell cycle checkpoint proteins, with attenuation by DMTU. DNA repair enzymes were activated, providing evidence for attempted DNA repair. The PA-treated animals developed worse proteinuria and histopathologic disease and exhibited more DNA damage than the DMTU pretreated group. No significant apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling staining. A mechanism underlying the lack of podocyte proliferation following PA-induced injury in vitro and in vivo may be ROS-mediated DNA damage, with upregulation of specific cell cycle checkpoints leading to cell cycle arrest.
Inactivation of rat brain acetylcholinesterase by pyridoxal 5′-phosphate

Abstract Effects of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate on the activity of crude and purified acetylcholinesterase from cerebral hemispheres of adult rat brain were examined. Acetylcholinesterase was completely inactivated by incubation with 0.5 mM pyridoxal 5′-phosphate. The enzyme activity remained unaltered in the presence of analogs of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, pyridoxal, pyridoxamine and pyridoxamine 5′-phosphate. The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity by pyridoxal 5′-phosphate appeared to be of a noncompetitive nature, as determined by Lineweaver-Burk analysis. The inhibitory effect of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate on acetylcholinesterase appeared to be a general one, as the activity of the enzyme from the brains of immature chick and egg-laying hen, and from different tissues of the adult male rats, exhibited a similar pattern in the presence of the inhibitor. The inhibitory effects of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate could be reversed upon exhaustive dialysis of the pyridoxan 5′-phosphate-treated acetylcholinesterase preparations. We propose that the effects of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate are due to its interaction with acetylcholinesterase, and that it can be employed as a useful tool for studying biochemical aspects of this important brain enzyme.
Comparison of Computation with Experiment for a Geometrically Simplified Powered-Lift Model

The performance of a representative short takeoff and vertical landing model during transition flight is investigated by comparison of experimental and numerical simulations. The model consists of a 60-deg cropped delta wing planform; a simple fuselage shape blended to the wing; and tandem, circular, highpressure-air lift-jets that exit perpendicularly to the flat lower surface. The configuration minimizes the geometric complexity while retaining the important flow physics of the lift-jet/aerodynamic surface interaction. Three-dimensional, laminar, and turbulent Navier-Stokes computations are made using a multiple, overset grid scheme. Results are presented for jet-off and powered-lift cases and compared with the measured forces and pressures for the model at a freestream Mach number of 0.146, a 10-deg angle of attack, and sonic lift-jets. Computational flow visualization illustrates the presence of primary and secondary wing leading-edge vortices and the deflection of the lift-jets by the freestream. Significantly, both computational fluid dynamics and experiment predict a jet-induced lift loss that is mostly a result of a reduction in the suction pressure at the wing leading edge.
Functional recognition of fragmented operator sites by R17/MS2 coat protein, a translational repressor

The R17/MS2 coat protein serves as a translational repressor of replicase by binding to a 19 nt RNA hairpin containing the Shine-Dalgarno sequence and the initiation codon of the replicase gene. We have explored the structural features of the RNA operator site that are necessary for efficient translational repression by the R17/MS2 coat protein in vivo . The R17/MS2 coat protein efficiently directs lysogen formation for P22 R17 , a bacteriophage P22 derivative that carries the R17/MS2 RNA operator site within the P22 phage ant mRNA. Phages were constructed that contain fragmented operator sites such that the Shine-Dalgarno sequence and the initiation codon of the affected gene are not located within the RNA hairpin. The wild-type coat protein directs efficient lysogen formation for P22 phages that carry several fragmented RNA operator sites, including one in which the Shine-Dalgarno sequence is positioned 4 nt outside the coat protein binding site. Neither the wild-type R17/MS2 coat protein nor super-repressor mutants induce lysogen formation for a P22 phage encoding an RNA hairpin at a distance of 9 nt from the Shine-Dalgarno sequence, implying that a discrete region of biological repression is defined by the coat protein-RNA hairpin interaction. The assembly of RNA species into capsid structures is not an efficient means whereby the coat protein achieves translational repression of target mRNA transcripts. The R17/MS2 coat protein exerts translational regulation that extends considerably beyond the natural biological RNA operator site structure; however, the coat protein still mediates repression in these constructs by preventing ribosome access to linear sequence determinants of the translational initiation region by the formation of a stable RNA secondary structure. An efficient translational regulatory mechanism in bacteria appears to reside in the ability of proteins to regulate RNA folding states for host cell and phage mRNAs.
A Statistical Framework to Identify the Influence of Large-Scale Weather Events on Regional Air Pollution

AbstractRegional air pollution episodes occur as a result of increased emissions and prevalence of conducive meteorological conditions. The frequency of occurrence of such favorable conditions on a regional scale may be influenced by large-scale climatic events like ENSO and the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO). The scarcity of measurements of criteria pollutants, especially ozone and particulate matter (PM), prior to the last 10–15-yr period, limits the scope of observing the influence of climate variability during recent decades on regional pollution levels. The authors propose a novel statistical framework to utilize available measurements and characterize synoptic influences on regional PM pollution in California’s Central Valley during 1998–2008. The identified target conditions are used to develop a classification scheme to scan historical climate datasets dating back to 1948. The procedure identifies exceedance-conducive days during 1950–98, when no PM2.5 measurements were available. Temporal patt...
X-Ray Line Intensities and Cathode-Ray Retardation in Thick Targets of Silver

$K$-line intensities from thick silver targets have been measured in arbitrary units for voltages up to 180 kv, with emergence angles from 1 to 25\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. A practical use of these data is the determination of the voltage which will give the maximum efficiency of line emission at any emergence angle. At 1\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} the best voltage is 70 kv but at 25\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} it is well above 180 kv. These data are also used in conjunction with data on thin targets to get information as to the retardation of cathode rays in silver. For this purpose the thick-target data are corrected to eliminate the effects of target absorption, indirect production of line rays through fluorescence and loss of cathode rays by rediffusion. The loss of energy per unit distance along the path of a cathode ray varies as the -1.4 power of the speed, just as it does in light elements according to more direct evidence collected by E. J. Williams.
Prisonization and accounts of gun carrying

This study examined inmate perceptions about the reasons other people carry guns. The sample consisted of seventy-three inmates who were incarcerated for gun-related violent crimes in Colorado. While most inmates said that people carry guns for self-protection and/or power, their accounts varied according to the number of years incarcerated. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses suggest that inmates incarcerated for long periods of time are likely to believe that others carry guns to feel powerful. In contrast, the results also indicate that inmates incarcerated for short periods of time are likely to believe that others carry guns for protection. These findings are consistent with theories about prison socialization. As inmates become immersed in the prison culture, they are also likely to change their perceptions about why others carry guns.
Organic photovoltaic cells with vertically aligned crystalline molecular nanorods

Abstract We demonstrate the growth of vertically aligned nanorod arrays of copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) using the oblique angle deposition technique in high vacuum. High density nanorods with diameters down to 20 nm have been achieved with either stationary or rotational substrates. X-ray diffraction reveals the polycrystalline nature of the CuPc nanorods. Photovoltaic cells have been fabricated by spin-coating [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) onto the CuPc nanorod films to form the active region, and scanning electron micrographs show excellent infiltration of PCBM molecules into the gaps between the CuPc nanorods. A maximum power conversion efficiency of ηp = (1.8 ± 0.1)% under 1 sun AM 1.5G illumination has been achieved in a device with ∼40 nm long CuPc nanorods deposited on a 20 nm thick flat CuPc film, approximately twice of that of optimized bilayer CuPc/PCBM devices.
Global dynamic inefficiency in the absence of international policy coordination: A north-south case

Abstract This paper demonstrates that decentralized behavior, reflected in non-coordinated resource pricing and investment strategies, may lead to global dynamic inefficiency. It is shown that in a North-South world capital accumulation in the North reduces the social cost associated with the presence of labor market imperfections of the Lewis type in the South, whereas resource pricing in the South affects investment decisions in the North. Thus, international policy coordination is required for attaining global dynamic efficiency.
Presidential address: medical-legal issues in obstetrics and gynecology.

Patients, physicians, insurance companies, and legislators are expressing mounting concern in the area of malpractice insurance costs and its effect on the availability of health care. In 1986, the highest award in the history of medical-legal claims, $1,200,000, was paid. By 2001, the average award had increased to $3,500,000. In the late 1970s the California's Medical Injury Compensation Reform Act (MICRA) was passed. This article discusses the elements of this important legislation and its effects on the cost of medical malpractice in California, the anatomy and pathophysiology of a medical-legal claim, and the characteristics of excellent expert witnesses and suggests some important elements of a redesigned system of medical-jurisprudence.
Semisynthetic d-His1,Nϵ-acetimidoglucagon: Structure-function relationships

Abstract The histidine residue at the amino terminus of lysine-12 protected glucagon was replaced by its d -isomer by an established semisynthetic strategy to extend a stepwise series of replacements at this position. The product was examined for its secondary structure and its function. Circular dichroism spectra obtained at concentrations from 0.25 to 1.09 mg/ml at pH 10.2 in 0.2 m phosphate buffer were similar to those obtained with native hormone. Competitive binding assays and adenylate cyclase activation assays with partially purified rat liver plasma membranes show this d -His 1 analog of glucagon to be a full agonist, causing the same maximum activation of adenylate cyclase as native hormone; but both binding and activation assays show the binding affinity to be diminished about 10-fold. The data suggest that the adjustment of the bonding of the imidazole group to the receptor to bring about transduction results in constraints on the conformation along the peptide sequence which interfere with the peptide adopting the same binding conformation achieved by the native hormone.
pH Gradient flattening in isoelectric focusing in long polyacrylamide gels

Isoelectric focusing in 60 cm long gels improves resolution in multiple-component systems by providing very shallow, linear pH gradients. Broad range ampholytes available commercially or synthesized in our laboratory develop pH gradients of 0.1 pH/cm at voltages of 1500 to 4500 V, with running times of 25–30 h. Shallower gradients result with narrow range ampholytes or separator isoelectric focusing. Hemoglobin, human serum albumin, and an α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase have been used for defining this system.
An adaptive multimodal radar system with progressive resolution enhancement

This paper describes the architecture for an adaptive multimodal RF sensor that is capable of both a wide and narrow field of view. The architecture consists of a test-bed that will enable the generation of linear frequency modulation waveforms of various bandwidths. This paper discusses the proposed architecture, multimodal algorithm and simulation results.
Reducing alcohol-use disorders via decreased consumption: a comparison of population and high-risk strategies.

This study compared three alternative scenarios for effecting a 25% reduction in U.S. alcohol consumption in terms of their respective impacts on the prevalence of alcohol abuse and dependence. The three approaches were (1) an overall 25% reduction in the volume of ethanol intake for all current drinkers, (2) an equivalent absolute reduction taken only among drinkers whose current intake ever exceeds moderate drinking guidelines, and (3) an equivalent reduction taken only among drinkers whose current intake usually exceeds moderate drinking guidelines. The per-occasion cutpoint for moderate consumption was set at the intake level demonstrated to produce psychomotor impairment, and was based on each individual's total body water level. The impact of reducing consumption on the prevalence of alcohol use disorders was estimated by means of a logistic regression model that adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, family history of alcoholism, and age at first drink, and that took into account interactions between the consumption and other variables. Taking an overall 25% reduction in intake resulted in the same decrease in the prevalence of abuse and dependence (21.7%) as was achieved by taking an equal volume of reduction among only those drinkers whose consumption usually exceeded the moderate drinking cutpoint. Restricting the reduction in consumption to those drinkers whose consumption ever exceeded this cutpoint resulted in a slightly greater reduction in alcohol use disorders, 24.6%.
Community Interventions for Older Adults with Comorbid Substance Abuse: The Geriatric Addictions Program (GAP)

ABSTRACT Objective: The purpose of this paper was to provide an initial evaluation of an innovative, model community-based intervention program, the Geriatric Addictions Program (GAP), designed to assist older adults who have substance abuse and co-occurring mental health problems in accessing services and changing health behaviors. Methods: On entry into the program, an interview using standardized substance abuse and mental health instruments was conducted. A chart review was conducted following discharge to determine disposition. The first 120 clients to the GAP were stratified by clinical referrals (N = 60), non-clinical referrals (N = 60) and by gender. In addition, each client was randomly assigned either: Group (1) a traditional referral approach with an assessment and linkage model, or Group (2) a multi-dimensional approach incorporating geriatric care management assessment, motivational counseling, and the combination of aging service and chemical dependency linkages. Results: Approximately 90% o...
MULTIPRODUCT HEDGING: THEORY, ESTIMATION, AND AN APPLICATION

Theoretical and empirical approaches to multiple product commodity hedging are discussed, clarifying and extending previous results. Tests of hypotheses concerning optimal hedging effectiveness are discussed. Empirical estimates of optimal hedges for central Illinois soybean processors are computed. Multiproduct optimal hedge positions provide significant risk reductions relative to simpler approaches.
A standardized method for determining buffering capacity of plant foliage

A method for determining the buffering capacity (B.C.) of foliage extracts was standardized and evaluated. Sources of variations (biological, field and laboratory) were identified. These variations were reflected in inter-specific differences, seasonal fluctuations, age of the foliage and duration and the conditions of storage of the extracts. Procedures have been recommended to eliminate or minimize sources of variations (other than inherent specific) by standardizing the field sampling, laboratory processing and methods, and calculations of the buffering capacity. Plants such as lichens, known to be sensitive to air pollutants, had very low B.C. whereas species of intermediate sensitivity such as balsam fir had higher B.C. The B.C. being inherited and significantly different among species, has potential for its use in indexing the relative sensitivity of species to air pollutants especially in areas where large numbers of species are to be compared.
Leg amyotrophic diplegia: Prevalence and pattern of weakness at us neuromuscular centers

Objective To identify the frequency of leg amyotrophic diplegia (LAD) at a US academic center, describe the pattern of weakness, and provide comparative data from 8 additional major US academic institutions. Background LAD is a leg onset variant of progressive muscular atrophy (PMA). LAD weakness is confined to the legs for at least 2 years, and there are no upper motor neuron signs. Design/methods We present a retrospective chart review of 24 patients with the LAD presentation from the University of Kansas Medical Center ( n = 8 cases) and from 8 US academic institutions (n = 16 cases). Results Of the 318 subjects identified in the University of Kansas Medical Center Neuromuscular Research Database, 82% (260 subjects) had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), 1.9% (6) had familial ALS, 6.6% (21) had primary lateral sclerosis, and 9.2% (29) had lower motor neuron (LMN) disease. Of these 29 cases, 16 had PMA, 5 had brachial amyotrophic diplegia, while 8 had LAD. The mean LAD age of onset was 58 years with a male/female ratio of 3/1. Onset was asymmetric in 7/8. We identified a pelviperoneal pattern of weakness (sparing of knee extension and/or ankle plantar flexion) in 4 cases and distal predominant weakness in 3 cases. All patients had electrodiagnostic findings consistent with motor neuron disease confined to the lower extremities. We present LAD disease duration and survival data from 8 major academic neuromuscular centers. At last follow-up, weakness progressed to involve the arms in 6/24 LAD cases and of these 6 cases, 2 patients died from progression to typical ALS. From onset of symptoms, mean survival in LAD is 87 months, with 92% of cases being alive. Conclusions/relevance The natural history of LAD differs from typical forms of ALS and PMA. LAD is a slowly progressive disorder that accounts for a fourth of LMN disease cases. An asymmetric pelviperoneal pattern of weakness should heighten the suspicion for LAD.
Degradative reactions of decadienoate esters

Methyl and ethyl esters of decadienoic acid, which are normal constituents of the Bartlett pear, react with oxygen in the presence of light to produce n-hexanal, and the methyl or ethyl 4-oxybutenoate. The products were separated by gas chromatography, and identified by melting points, infrared spectroscopy, and/or the formation of derivatives. Possible reaction mechanisms are discussed.
Energy minimization of domain-engineered ferroelectric crystals

In this paper, we present an energy-minimization theory of ferroelectrics to characterize the domain engineered ferroelectric crystals. The energy-minimizing domain configuration is constructed, and the effective piezoelectricity is predicted.
Synchronizing shared abstract types

Experimental data on transient errors from several digital computer systems is presented and analyzed. This is the first large scale public study on the statistical distribution of transient errors. The systems for which data has been collected are the DEC PDP-10 scries computers, the Cm* multiprocessor, and the C.vmp fault tolerant microprocessor. Statistical tests indicate that transient errors follow a decreasing hazard rate distribution. This is at variance with the standard assumption of constant hazard rates (exponential distribution) used in reliability modeling, and requires models of greater complexity for accurate results. Models of common fault tolerant redundant structures are developed using the Weibul! distribution, which has a time-varying hazard rate. Both analytical and simulation models arc used to analyze die differences between the reliabilities predicted by Weibull based transient error models and those predicted by exponential based models. The analysis indicates a significant difference between the models based on the exponential distribution and those based on the decreasing hazard rate Weibull distribution. Reliability differences ranging from -0.10 to +0.20 and factors greater than 2.0 in Mission Time Improvement for Weibull parameters equivalent to measured system behavior arc seen in the model results. System designers should be aware of these differences. Transient Error Reliability Models Based on Data Analysis
Association between the use of antenatal magnesium sulfate in preterm labor and adverse health outcomes in infants.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the use of antenatal magnesium sulfate prevents adverse outcomes (neonatal intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leucomalacia, death, and cerebral palsy). Study Design: In a controlled trial, we randomized mothers in preterm labor to magnesium sulfate, "other" tocolytic, or placebo. At delivery, umbilical cord blood was collected for the later determination of serum ionized magnesium levels. Neonatal cranial ultrasound scans were obtained periodically for the diagnosis of intraventricular hemorrhage and periventricular leucomalacia. Among survivors, the diagnosis of cerebral palsy was made at age 18 months. Results: Children with adverse outcomes had higher umbilical cord magnesium levels at delivery. In regression models that controlled for confounders, which included very low birth weight, magnesium remained a significant risk factor (adjusted odds ratio, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.1-11.9; P =.03). Conclusion: Contrary to original hypotheses, this randomized trial found that the use of antenatal magnesium sulfate was associated with worse, not better, perinatal outcome in a dose-response fashion. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1111-8.)
Computation of high-temperature rate constants for bimolecular reactions of combustion products

A procedure is presented for using available molecular data to compute the activation energies and rate constants of bimolecular transfer reactions for the halogen atoms. This computational method is also applied to calculating the kinetics for transfers of O, N, C, B, Be, and Al atoms bonded to univalent atoms. The procedure is based on modifications of the Johnston-Parr method of predicting kinetic data for hydrogen-atom transfer reactions. Potential energies of repulsion are calculated by using a reduced variable treatment of the Sato function. The procedure and results are also presented for computations of high-temperature rates of hydrogen-atom transfer reactions in which molecules containing a total of four atoms are involved. Computed rate constants are compared with experimental kinetic data when available, and agreement is generally satisfactory. Less than 0.1 minute of electronic-computer time per reaction is required to calculate the activation energy, vibrational parameters of the activated complex, rate constants at 25 temperatures (primarily in the 1000° to 4000°K range), and Arrhenius rate equation constants. Results are summarized for bimolecular atom-transfer reactions involving combustion products such as HF, HCl, HBr, HI, CF, CCl, BF, BCl, BeCl, ClO, AlCl, CH, OH, NH, AlH, BH, BeH, CH 2 , NH 2 , BH 2 , BeH 2 , H 2 O, HCO, HBO, HCN, AlOH, and NaOH.
Cover Lines Using Positive, Urgent, Unique Language Entice Moms to Read Health Communications

Crafting messages that capture consumer interest is a frequent challenge of health communicators. A better understanding of the techniques magazine editors use to create cover lines may aid health communicators in their efforts to arouse interest in their communiques. This study (a) content-analyzed magazine cover lines, (b) used content analysis findings to create health-related cover lines, and (c) assessed the degree to which the health-related cover lines fostered motivation to read the health communication. Cover lines (N = 867) from 11 magazines published in 2012 frequently read by mothers of young children used a variety of themes, with those focusing on informative/how-to, control/improve, and unique/special being most common. Health communication experts used key descriptor terms corresponding to each theme and wrote 310 cover lines for topics focusing on childhood obesity prevention strategies. Unpaired t tests revealed that mothers of young children (N = 77) reported they were significantly (p ...