cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tracking clinical preventive service use: a comparison of the health plan employer data and information set with the behavioral risk factor surveillance system.

Background. There is a need for meaningful and accurate ways of tracking preventive service delivery among different sectors of the US population. Objectives. To compare methodologies of and clinical preventive service use estimates obtained from 2 data sets: the Health Plan Employer Data and Information Set (HEDIS 3.0) and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Methods. HEDIS used a combination of mailed-survey, administrative, and medical-record data to measure preventive service use among commercial enrollees of 320 HMOs in 42 states during 1996. BRFSS data are from insured respondents (excluding those reporting Medicare or Medicaid coverage) to a random-digit-dialed telephone survey conducted in the same 42 states during 1996. Results. The median state-specific mammography, Papanicolaou smear, and retinal examination rates reported by HEDIS were consistently and substantially lower than those reported by BRFSS. For mammography, the median HEDIS rate was 72.4%, compared with 81.1% for BRFSS. For Papanicolaou smear and retinal examinations, HEDIS rates were 72.7% and 40.8%, respectively, compared with 91.2% and 61.6% for BRFSS. The median state rates of advice to quit smoking reported by HEDIS were similar to those for BRFSS: 62.1% versus 62.2%, respectively. For each measure, the absolute difference between HEDIS and BRFSS rates varied substantially both within a state and between states. Conclusions. It does not appear that the BRFSS and HEDIS data can be compared directly to accurately track progress toward national preventive health objectives. This study highlights some of the problems with comparing these data and possible means for addressing the discrepancies.
Private Equity and American Labor: Multiple, Pragmatic Responses Mirroring Labor’s Strengths and Weaknesses

This article briefly describes the recent growth of private equity, details some of the challenges such growth has posed for American labor, and outlines ways in which labor has chosen to respond. In so doing it suggests that the diverse, complicated, and practical choices labor has made to date have been shaped by the particular strengths and weaknesses of its position in American society. More particularly, these choices place the emphasis on (1) legislative change, relating mainly to tax rather than regulatory policy (labor-related or otherwise); (2) capital strategies, by which unions and pension funds engage companies in connection with corporate governance and investments that might be made in or withheld from them; and (3) high-profile campaigns relating to the reputation of private equity firms and their investee companies (as compared to traditional means of securing union recognition or exercising collective bargaining rights).
Essential role of cooperative NF-κB and Stat3 recruitment to ICAM-1 intronic consensus elements in the regulation of radiation-induced invasion and migration in glioma

Although radiotherapy improves survival in patients, glioblastoma multiformes (GBMs) tend to relapse with augmented tumor migration and invasion even after ionizing radiation (IR). Aberrant nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 3 (Stat3) activation and interaction have been suggested in several human tumors. However, possible NF-κB/Stat3 interaction and the role of Stat3 in maintenance of NF-κB nuclear retention in GBM still remain unknown. Stat3 and NF-κB (p65) physically interact with one another in the nucleus in glioma tumors. Most importantly, glutathione S-transferase pull-down assays identified that Stat3 binds to the p65 transactivation domain and is present in the NF-κB DNA-binding complex. Irradiation significantly elevated nuclear phospho-p65/phospho-Stat3 interaction in correlation with increased intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and soluble-ICAM-1 levels, migration and invasion in human glioma xenograft cell lines 4910 and 5310. Chromatin immunopreicipitation and promoter luciferase activity assays confirmed the critical role of adjacent NF-κB (+399) and Stat3 (+479) binding motifs in the proximal intron-1 in elevating IR-induced ICAM-1 expression. Specific inhibition of Stat3 or NF-κB with Stat3.siRNA or JSH-23 severely inhibited IR-induced p65 recruitment onto ICAM-1 intron-1 and suppressed migratory properties in both the cell lines. On the other hand, Stat3C- or IR-induced Stat3 promoter recruitment was significantly decreased in p65-knockdown cells, thereby suggesting the reciprocal regulation between p65 and Stat3. We also observed a significant increase in NF-κB enrichment on ICAM-1 intron-1 and ICAM-1 transactivation in Stat3C overexpressing cells. In in vivo orthotopic experiments, suppression of tumor growth in Stat3.si+IR-treated mice was associated with the inhibition of IR-induced p-p65/p-Stat3 nuclear colocalization and ICAM-1 levels. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing the crucial role of NF-κB/Stat3 nuclear association in IR-induced ICAM-1 regulation and implies that targeting NF-κB/Stat3 interaction may have future therapeutic significance in glioma treatment.
On the state of methane and nitrogen ice on Pluto and Triton: Implications of the binary phase diagram

Abstract Compositional analyses of Pluto’s surface ice in the literature typically include large areas on the body where CH4 and other volatiles are segregated in the pure form from the solid solution N2:CH4 in which CH4 is diluted. However, the existence of continent-size areas of pure CH4 are in conflict with both of the alternative models that successfully explain the enhancement of CH4 in Pluto’s atmosphere, the Detailed Balancing thermal equilibrium model and the Hot Methane Patch model. Pluto’s spectrum includes an apparently unshifted CH4 component while Triton’s does not, and 93% of the concentration range of the binary phase diagram at 38 K shows that these species exist as a mixture of two saturated solid solution phases. Recognizing this, we propose that both of these saturated phases are present on Pluto and the CH4-rich phase of the mixture, CH4:N2, is the source of the relatively unshifted CH4 spectrum attributed to pure CH4. We also propose that CH4 is less abundant in Triton’s ice to the point where either the ice is not saturated or the saturated CH4:N2 phase has not been detected. In this scenario, the partial vapor pressures do not change when the relative proportions of these saturated phases are varied in the mixture. Thus, the partial vapor pressures are independent of N2–CH4 concentrations if both saturated phases are present. Accordingly, the longitudinal and seasonal variations of CH4 and N2 features in Pluto’s spectrum would be attributed to spatial variations in the relative proportions of these species. This may occur during volatile transport in the sublimation wind through extensive influences. The lower, unsaturated, values of the mole fraction of CH4 in the ice reported by Owen et al. (Owen et al. [1993]. Science 261, 745–748) and Cruikshank et al. (Cruikshank, D.P., Rush, T.L., Owen, T.C., Quirico, E., de Bergh, C. [1998]. The surface compositions of Triton, Pluto, and Charon. In: Solar System Ices. Astrophysics and Space Science Library Series, vol. 227. Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht), and by Doute et al. (Doute, S., Schmitt, B., Quirico, E., Owen, T.C., Cruikshank, D.P., de Bergh, C., Geballe, T.R., Roush, T.L. [1999]. Icarus 142, 421–444) based on a compositional analysis of Pluto’s surface, were not obtained using optical constants for components consistent with the constraints of the phase diagram.
A Bayesian approach to binocular stereopsis

We develop a computational model for binocular stereopsis, attempting to explain the process by which the information detailing the 3-D geometry of object surfaces is encoded in a pair of stereo images. We design our model within a Bayesian framework, making explicit all of our assumptions about the nature of image coding and the structure of the world. We start by deriving our model for image formation, introducing a definition of half-occluded regions and deriving simple equations relating these regions to the disparity function. We show that the disparity function alone contains enough information to determine the half-occluded regions. We use these relations to derive a model for image formation in which the half-occluded regions are explicitly represented and computed. Next, we present our prior model in a series of three stages, or “worlds,” where each world considers an additional complication to the prior. We eventually argue that the prior model must be constructed from all of the local quantities in the scene geometry-i.e., depth, surface orientation, object boundaries, and surface creases. In addition, we present a new dynamic programming strategy for estimating these quantities. Throughout the article, we provide motivation for the development of our model by psychophysical examinations of the human visual system.
Absolute scattering cross-section measurements by a ratio technique

Abstract Calculations and measurements are presented which show that absolute scattering cross sections (“Rayleigh ratios”) can be determined by measuring the ratio of the depolarized intensity of doubly scattered light to the polarized intensity of singly scattered light. This technique should be useful in determining the susceptibilities of fluids and the molecular weights of macromolecules.
Modeling intra-household interactions and group decision-making

This is the inaugural edition of the annual Special Issue of "Transportation" comprising selected papers presented at the Annual Meeting of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) in January 2005. Two standing committees of TRB's Division A (Technical Activities), the Committee on Traveler Behavior and Values and the Committee on Travel Demand Forecasting, receive papers to be considered for presentation at the TRB Annual Meeting, held each January in Washington, D.C. A portion of those papers which are selected for presentation are published in the "Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board." Among those papers not published by TRB, five have been selected for publication in this Special Issue of "Transportation." These five papers address the topic of intra-household interactions and group decision making.
PEER TUTORING INTERVENTIONS FOR STUDENT WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS: A META – SYNTHESIS

percentage of non overlapp- ing data (PND)). Резултатите укажуваат дека врсничкото туторство е прифатлива интервен- ција за поддршка на социјалниот и академски- от развој. Претставени се ограничувањата, им- пликациите во практиката и насоките за пона- тамошни истражувања. A limitation in social interaction is a critical defining characteristic of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Peer tutoring is one of the most widely utilized interventions for improvement of social interaction and aca- demic performance. This synthesis examines the effectiveness of peer tutoring inter- ventions in the United States using percentage of nonoverlapping data (PND). Results suggest that peer tutoring is a viable intervention for supporting social and aca- demic development. Limitations, imply- cations for practice, and future research direc- tions are reported.
Analysis Of Backscatter Measurement Systems For Characterizing Spooled Optical Fiber

A novel technique for analyzing commercially available Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs) , to be used in fiber diagnostic and characterization tests, is described. Three OTDR models are selected for evaluation. A series of optical fiber loss and length measurements are made on several single mode fibers to evaluate the performance capability of each of the selected OTDRs. The OTDR properties examined are pulse recovery following a Fresnel reflection, measurement accuracy, and distance accuracy/fault detection capability. The measurements are accomplished both manually and automatically under ambient and low temperature conditions. Pulse recovery immediately following a Fresnel reflection is given primary attention in this paper. A novel measurement technique is adopted for the collection of discrete optical loss data in the region immediately following the Fresnel reflections. An exponential-type curve is assumed for the drop off of the Fresnel reflections. It is found that bases much greater than e (2.72) gives the best fit to the optical loss data. The minimum distance beyond the Fresnel reflection zone at which the backscattered signal is obscured or distorted is determined from the data and model comparison. The minimum extent of the Fresnel reflection zone ranges from 180m to 600m depending the OTDR type and operating mode. Results of preliminary analysis of the measurement accuracy and distance accuracy/fault location capability for each OTDR are also given in this paper.
The complexing of yeast transfer-RNATyr by tyrosyl-transfer-RNA synthetase of hog pancreas

Summary L-Tyrosyl-transfer-RNA synthetase (AMP) (EC 6.1.1.1) of hog pancreas forms a specific complex with yeast transfer-RNA Tyr , which can be isolated by gel filtration. Stoichiometric analysis of this complex reveals a maximum of one transfer-RNA Tyr per synthetase molecule, even though hog tyrosyl-transfer-RNA synthetase contains two identical protein subunits.
Energy management for a customer owned grid-tied photovoltaic micro generator

The advancement of renewable energy technologies has offered an opportunity for most governments to regulate the utility grid and lower energy costs. Through government driven demand side management programs, policies have been developed that generally encourage the development of customer centered microgrids. Some of the incentives offered to energy users include provision of cash rebates for installation of wind turbines, availing free or subsidized photovoltaic (PV) panels to customers and through offering renewable energy credits to the consumers. These microgrids are connected to the main utility grid where there is a two way exchange of power. However, proper mechanisms must be put in place to regulate the interaction between the main grid and the microgrids. Among the critical issues that need to be addressed include the amount of renewable power that can be fed to the main grid as well as the energy price at which this is done. This paper therefore presents the demand side energy management for a grid connected household with a locally generated photovoltaic energy.
Phase separation of copolyurethanes: A study of annealing and slow solvent evaporation methods by FTIR

Copolyether-urethane-ureas based on methylene bis(4-phenylisocyanate), polypropylene glycol (or polytetramethylene glycol), and ethylene diamine showed improvement in packing order within the already present phases when subject to both thermal annealing and slow solvent evaporation techniques using glass as the casting substrate. However, formation of these copolymer films directly onto IR salt crystals led to major disturbances in the copolymer morphology due to the dissolving of inorganic salt into the polymer casting solution. These disturbances appear to be caused by a salt-urea segment interaction. The urea amide I band (1635 cm−1) appears to be a sensitive indicator of such changes in these copolymers. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The effects of ethanol on cerebral regional acetylcholine concentration and utilization.

SummaryThis study assessed the effect of alcohol, given as single increasing doses or chronically, on regional cerebral acetylcholine concentration. In the acute studies in both rats and mice, brain acetylcholine rose significantly, but modestly, at higher blood ethanol concentrations. This effect was most consistent in the corpus striatum. At low blood alcohol levels, when brain acetylcholine levels were unaltered, the utilization rate of acetylcholine decreased in all brain areas and this was statistically significant in the cortex and midbrain. By contrast, in rats exposed to chronic oral ethanol intake but studied when blood alcohol was normal, brain acetylcholine was unaltered. These data are most consistent with the concept that alcohol directly depresses neuronal function resulting in decreased release (utilization) of acetylcholine and at high alcohol concentrations induces a modest accumulation of acetylcholine in brain.
The effects of changes in the exchange rate on output, prices and the balance of payments

Abstract A general equilibrium model shows how the government, by using aggregate demand policies, temporarily influences economic activity. In the long run, however, aggregate supply determines output and employment levels. International reserves are lost (gained) during the adjustment process due to policies which keep aggregate demand above (below) its long-run sustainable level. Such policies, if maintained, induce expectations of exchange rate changes. The self-fulfilling character of these expectations will force the government to devalue or revalue, thus neutralizing its previous demand policies.
Growing Up Can Be Painful: A Case Report of the Bat Mitzvah and Chronic Pain

Among a subgroup of adolescents with chronic pain syndromes, anxiety about “growing up” appears common and may be exacerbated by developmental transitions. Using the bat mitzvah ceremony as one example of a developmental rite of passage, we present two cases in which adolescent girls facing this transition developed new chronic musculoskeletal pain syndromes or experienced recurrences of pain symptoms. In both cases, the transition to adulthood, symbolized by the bat mitzvah, was associated with anxiety in adolescents who were unusually focused on the negative aspects of becoming independent adults. The aims of this case report are (1) to highlight the role of developmental transitions as a possible factor in the biopsychosocial model of pediatric pain; (2) to illustrate how to address emotional and cognitive responses to these transitions in the context of cognitive-behavioral treatment for pain; and (3) to suggest systematic approaches to investigating this clinically-observed phenomenon in future research.
The process of change in cognitive therapy for depression: Predictors of early inter-session symptom gains

Although cognitive therapy for depression is an efficacious treatment, questions about the aspects of the therapy that are most critical to successful implementation remain. In a sample of 60 cognitive therapy patients with moderate to severe depression, we examined three aspects of therapists' adherence to cognitive therapy techniques, the patients' facilitation or inhibition of these techniques, and the therapeutic alliance as predictors of session-to-session symptom improvement across the first five therapy sessions. Two elements of therapist adherence (viz., cognitive methods and negotiating content/structuring sessions) emerged as the strongest predictors of symptom improvement. Patient facilitation or inhibition of therapist adherence also predicted subsequent symptom change. Neither adherence to behavioral methods/homework nor the therapeutic alliance was a significant predictor in parallel analyses. Although alliance scores did not predict subsequent symptom change, they were significantly predicted by prior symptom change. These findings support the model of change that motivates cognitive therapy for depression, and they highlight the potential role of patient facilitation of therapists' adherence in treatment response.
Discussion of various views on popcorn noise

Conflicting ideas regarding popcorn (burst) noise are compared. It is shown that it is premature to use a single model or claim for a unique representation and explanation.
ROLE OF ARACHIDONIC ACID METABOLITES (AAM) IN HEMODYNAMIC and HEMATOLOGIC MANIFESTATION OF GROUND B STREPTOCOCCAL (STREP) SEPSIS

Although STREP-induced shock appears to be modulated by AAM, the importance of the AAM in mediating neutropenia and thrombo-cytopenia and the role of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia in development of shock is unknown. To assess these relationships in rabbits, the changes from baseline (BASE) in mean arterial pressure (MAP), neutrophil (NT) and platelet count (PLT) were correlated with changes in thromboxane B2 (TB), prostacyclin metabolite 6KPGF1α (6K) and 5-HETE, a lipoxygenase metabolite following heat-killed STREP (1012 cells/kg) infusion before and after prostaglandin (PG) inhibition with indomethacin (IND) (4 mg/kg). The table shows modulation of STREP effects by IND when given before (GpII) and after (GpI) STREP. Values are X ±SEM. *=P<0.05 vs BASE. IND did not inhibit STREP-induced increases in 5-HETE production. This study shows 1) that STREP shock is dependent on PG formation but independent of the 5-lipoxygenase pathway, and 2) thrombocytopenia and neutropenia are independent of shock or PG synthesis.
The Effect of Prescribed Burning on Epigeic Springtails (Insecta: Collembola) of Woodland Litter

Abstract Species richness, frequency and density of litter-dwelling springtails (Collembola) were analyzed from woodland litter samples collected for 4 y, over a 12 y interval, from The East Woods of The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Illinois. The 162 samples were divided equally between areas that had been previously burned and areas that had not been burned. There were significantly fewer springtail species in burned areas and 8 of the 10 most common species had lower frequencies in burned areas. The effect of fire varied for the 30 species identified in the study. Isotoma notabilis, Lepidocyrtus spp., Neanura muscorum and Tomocerus flavescens had a significantly higher frequency and density in unburned areas and Isotoma viridis and Xenylla grisea had a significantly higher frequency and density in burned areas. The mean dry weight of litter from 126 samples (equal number from burned and unburned areas) over 3 y was significantly heavier from the unburned areas. To maintain the richness of the litter inverte...
Temperature-dependent versus constant-rate blood perfusion modelling in ferromagnetic thermoseed hyperthermia: results with a model of the human prostate

Finite-element solutions to the Pennes bioheat equation are obtained with a model of a tumour-containing, human prostate and surrounding normal tissues. Simulations of ferromagnetic hyperthermia treatments are conducted on the tissue model in which the prostate is implanted with an irregularly spaced array of thermoseeds. Several combinations of thermoseed temperatures with different Curie points are investigated. Non-uniform, constant-rate blood perfusion models are studied and compared with temperature-dependent descriptions of blood perfusion. Blood perfusions in the temperature-dependent models initially increase with tissue temperature and then decrease at higher temperatures. Simulations with temperature-dependent versus constant-rate blood perfusion models reveal significant differences in temperature distributions in and surrounding the tumour-containing prostate. Results from the simulations include differences (between temperature-dependent and constant-rate models) in (1) the percentage of normal tissue volume and tumour volume at temperatures > 42 degrees C, and (2) temperature descriptors in the tumour (subscript t) and normal (subscript n) tissues including Tmax.t, Tmin.t and Tmax.n. Isotherms and grey-scale contours in the tumour and surrounding normal tissues are presented for four simulations that model a combination of high-temperature thermoseeds. Several simulations show that Tmin.t is between 1.7 and 2.6 degrees C higher and Tmax.n is between 2.1 and 3.3 degrees C higher with a temperature-dependent versus a comparable constant-rate blood perfusion model. The same simulations reveal that the percentages of tumour volume at temperatures > 42 degrees C are between 0 and 68% higher with the temperature-dependent versus the constant-rate perfusion model over all seed combinations studied. In summary, a numerical method is presented which makes it possible to investigate temperature-dependent, continuous functions of blood perfusion in simulations of hyperthermia treatments. Simulations with this numerical method reveal that the use of constant-rate instead of temperature-dependent blood perfusion models can be a conservative approach in treatment planning of ferromagnetic hyperthermia.
Paradox, truth and logic part I: Paradox and truth

The discussion of the semantics of inconsistent truth theories now comes to a pause. The preceding is of course but a sketch; many interesting questions remain to be answered. The second part of this essay, however, will not seek to answer them. Rather, I will turn to the discussion of the proof theory of truth theory: the local and global logic of truth.
Posterolateral fusion using laminectomy bone chips in the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis

We retrospectively reviewed the outcome of posterolateral fusion (PLF) in 136 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis (LS), who had undergone posterior decompression laminectomy with foraminotomy and PLF using laminectomy bone chips as bone graft, with reduction of the slipped vertebra with transpedicle screws, between 1993 and 2003. Diagnosis of LS was confirmed by plain lumbar radiography, with computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies performed to confirm an associated condition, such as ruptured disc and spinal stenosis. The outcome of spinal fusion was good with 129 (94.85%) patients attaining solid fusion, while failed fusion was noted in seven (5.15%) patients. None of our patients complained of excessive postoperative wound pain. Additionally, no complications, such as wound infection, were encountered. Proper decortication of the posterior paravertebral gutters with an osteotome and removal of all soft tissues from the laminectomy bone chips are significant factors contributing to the successful outcome of the laminectomy bone chips in PLF. The fusion rate obtained with this type of autogenous bone graft is comparable to that of the iliac bone crest autogenous graft; hence, it is a good substitute for the iliac crest bone autogenous graft in performing PLF in treating lumbar spondylolisthesis.
Suture anchor fixation of displaced olecranon fractures in the elderly: a case series and surgical technique.

Background Olecranon fractures are common in elderly patients, causing significant morbidity and functional impairment. Traditional surgical treatments are often complicated by hardware failure and prominence, frequently requiring reoperation. To address these concerns, a suture anchor fixation technique was developed and clinically evaluated. Methods A consecutive series of elderly patients treated with this technique from 2006 to 2013 at a single institution were studied. All cases were surgically repaired with nonmetallic fully threaded suture anchors in a double-row fashion. Clinical outcome measures including the shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, the Oxford Elbow Score, and the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey score were obtained. Results Eight female patients with Mayo IIA or IIB fractures were identified. The mean age of the patients at time of operation was 73.5 ± 10.7 years (range, 59.3-88.8 years). The average time from injury to operation was 5.7 ± 3.7 days. The average follow-up was 5.1 ± 2.5 years (range, 0.8-7.4 years). Six patients were available for long-term follow-up; 1 patient had died, and 1 patient was unable to be contacted despite multiple attempts. There were no intraoperative complications or reoperations. All 8 patients healed uneventfully in an acceptable position without displacement. Postoperatively, the average Oxford Elbow Score was 47.17 ± 2.04; the average shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 6.43 ± 9.47; and the average 12-Item Short Form Health Survey scores were 49.02 ± 16.59 and 55.38 ± 4.05 for the physical and mental component scales, respectively. Conclusion Suture anchor fixation of olecranon fractures in the elderly population provides excellent long-term radiographic and clinical outcomes without hardware complications associated with traditional fixation methods.
Murine sarcoma viruses block corticosteroid-induced differentiation of bone marrow preadipocytes associated with long-term in vitro hemopoiesis.

Abstract A unique population of clonagenic bone marrow cells accumulates neutral fat and differentiates to adipocyte morphology in response to 10−7M 17-hydroxy-corticosteroid. Differentiation of these adherent marrow preadipocytes is associated with maintenance of pluripotent hemopoietic stem cell and granulocyte-macrophage progenitor cell proliferation in bone marrow cultures in vitro. The present studies demonstrate that infection of preadipocytes with Harvey, Kirsten, or Moloney strains of murine sarcoma virus (MSV) but not the associated helper leukemia virus blocks corticosteroid-induced lipogenesis. This effect is observed both in whole marrow culture and in a new assay for the individual colony-forming unit adipocyte (CFUa). CFUa are single cells concentrated in light density fractions of an isopycnic density gradient, normally accumulate lipid, and grow to ≥50 cell colonies following suspension in 0.8% methylcellulose-containing medium with horse serum and hydrocortisone. An MSV-specific block of both CFUa formation and insulin-dependent differentiation of the 3T3-L1 embryo preadipocyte cell line is detected by 14 days. In contrast, MSV infection of granulocyte-macrophage progenitor cells in the same marrow does not block differentiation in response to colony-stimulating factor. These data indicate that cells of a specific phenotype can be identified within an organ culture as targets for the early biological effects of a particular class of RNA type-C viruses.
First-principles study of the origin of retarded diffusion of boron in silicon in the presence of germanium

Dopant diffusion plays an important role in the formation of ultrashallow junctions. To avoid unwanted transient enhanced diffusion of dopants, especially boron, other species (e.g., $\mathrm{Ge}$, $\mathrm{C}$, $\mathrm{N}$, and $\mathrm{F}$) are introduced into the $\mathrm{Si}$ substrate. Here, ab initio calculations have been carried out using a density functional theory code, $\mathrm{DFT}++$, to investigate the origin of the experimentally observed retardation of boron diffusion in $\mathrm{SiGe}$ alloys. The formation energies of individual $\mathrm{Si}$, $\mathrm{B}$, and $\mathrm{Ge}$ point defects, and $\mathrm{Si}\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{B}$, $\mathrm{Ge}\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{B}$, and $\mathrm{Si}\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{Ge}$ pair defects were calculated. Based on these calculations, the energetics of $\mathrm{Si}:\mathrm{Ge}:\mathrm{B}$ systems suggest that one mechanism to retard boron diffusion involves the effect of $\mathrm{Ge}$ atoms to decrease the number of available $\mathrm{Si}$ self-interstitials by increasing the migration energy and, concomitantly, to increase the migration energy of boron atoms. Our results also show that it is difficult for a $\mathrm{Ge}$ interstitial to approach a substitutional boron atom compared with a $\mathrm{Si}$ self-interstitial.
Seismic isolation of civil buildings in Europe

This review outlines the present state of applications of seismic isolation to civil buildings in Europe (with particular reference to Italy), including the countries formerly belonging to the USSR. Some information is also given on the use of other passive innovative antiseismic devices, like energy dissipators and shock transmitters, as well as on applications to bridges, viaducts and industrial plants. The adopted innovative antiseismic systems are described. Research projects, mainly in the framework of Programmes funded by the European Commission, which have been completed recently or are in progress, are briefly outlined. The available or proposed design rules and guidelines and statistics of applications (based on the outcome of recent international seminars) are included. Some examples of applications are briefly illustrated. Finally, the perspectives for future applications are discussed, highlighting the issues which have so far restrained a wider use of innovative antiseismic techniques in Europe.
Syntheses and ultraviolet absorption of aza-steroids.

Abstract A series of aza-steroids was synthesized containing chromophoric groups, such as α, β-unsaturated ketones and doubly unsaturated conjugated and monoconjugated heteroannular dienones with the heteroatom in the D ring at the 20 and 17a positions. The effect of an appositely placed electronegative center in these molecules upon their ultra-violet absorptions was studied. In order to obtain a basis for the observed spectral changes, the corresponding carbocyclic compounds were also synthesized. The maximum absorptions of the aza-steroids were hypsochromically shifted relative to the carbocyclic compounds in all cases (n = 8). The displacement caused by the electronegative center on absorption maximum of the chromophores is, however, highly dependent on its location within the molecules.
SAR modeling of genotoxic phenomena: the effect of supplementation with physiological chemicals

Structure-activity relationship (SAR) modeling of toxicological phenomena is optimal when the ratio of toxicants to non-toxicants included in the model is unity. Frequently, however, the experimental data available are enriched with toxicants, this appears to be especially true for genotoxicity data sets. It is demonstrated herein, using a Salmonella mutagenicity data set, that when there is a paucity of non-toxicants, the learning set may be augmented with physiological chemicals on the assumption that they are non-genotoxic.
Native Plant Regeneration on Abandoned Desert Farmland: Effects of Irrigation, Soil Preparation, and Amendments on Seedling Establishment

Direct seeding methods to revegetate abandoned farmland were tested at a desert site west of Phoenix, Arizona. Native seeds were broadcast onto plots prepared by mulching, imprinting, chiseling, and fertilizing with phosphorous in a split-plot design. Each main plot was split into subplots that were not irrigated, irrigated with saline (3.25 dS/m) well water, or irrigated and hand weeded of Salsola iberica. Native seeds germinated poorly on all treatments, and three annual exotic weeds (Brassica nigra, S. iberica, and Schismus spp.) dominated the plots. None of the main plot treatments (mulching, imprinting, chiseling, or fertilizing) had a significant effect on seed germination or canopy cover. Irrigation increased plant cover on plots, but weeds dominated the cover (<4% native species, up to 50% weeds). Near the end of the second growing season a seed bank study was conducted in the greenhouse. Undisturbed desert soil had relatively few weed seeds and more native plant seeds than the disturbed agricultural soil samples, which had few viable native seeds and were dominated by Schismus spp., B. nigra, and S. iberica. The results illustrate the difficulty of establishing native plants on abandoned desert farmland due to the dominance of weedy species, the presence of salts in the soil, and the lack of adequate soil moisture in the treatments without supplemental irrigation.
Good guys wear black: uniform color and citizen impressions of police

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to examine whether officer uniform color influences impressions the public forms about the character of police officers.Design/methodology/approach – A survey using digitally manipulated photographic prompts was used to examine how various levels of officer race, posture, and uniform color as well as a number of other experiential, attitudinal and demographic variables influenced subjects' impressions of officers' character on factor scores constructed from a set of semantic differential scales.Findings – Officer uniform color influences impression formation, but not in the expected manner. Black uniforms elicited more positive impressions of officers than did lighter uniforms.Research limitations/implications – Convenience sample was drawn from university undergraduates.Practical implications – Darker uniforms for police may enhance favorable character impressions formed by some sectors of the public.Originality/value – The research instrument improves measurement...
The solid-liquid interfacial tension of diamond-structure Si and Ge

The authors extend their previously developed Ginzburg-Landau theory for the solid-liquid interfaces of BCC elements to treat the diamond-structure elements Si and Ge. They use as an order parameter the amplitude of the (220) components of the density of solid. This order parameter is inserted into a simplified density-functional theory for the freezing of Si and Ge, and used to estimate explicitly the crystal-melt interfacial tensions.
Experimental and theoretical study of uncertainty in pyranometers for surface radiation

The Eppley pyranometer is widely used to measure shortwave irradiances. This instrument consists of a blackened surface in intimate thermal contact with the hot junction of a thermopile. The cold junction of the thermopile is in thermal contact with a heat sink. Shortwave radiation transmitted through two concentric hemispherical domes is absorbed by the blackened surface. The voltage developed by the thermopile is then interpreted in terms of the shortwave irradiance. Measurements obtained using these instruments are known to be influenced by thermal radiation that produces an offset from the signal that would result solely from the incident shortwave radiation. The thermal radiation emitted and reflected by the filters modifies the net radiation at the detector surface. The ongoing efforts to model these exchanges and to use experimental results to verify the model are described. The parallel experimental effort consists of determining the sensitivity of instrument response to thermal radiation effects. In this effort, thermistors are used to characterize the thermal gradients responsible for the instrument offset. The ultimate goal of the work described is to provide reliable protocols, based on an appropriate instrument model, for correcting measured SW irradiance for variable thermal radiation effects.
Review of "ACM'84 Conference"

The significance of the Fifth Generation was the target topic of the ACM'84 Conference. The opening session established the environment for those to follow. Following President Adele Goldberg's welcome address, the panel discussion of the Fifth Generation was led by Pamela McCorduck. Ms. McCorduck will, no doubt, be remembered in years to come as the Countess of Lovelace for Artificial Intelligence and the Fifth Generation.
Idiopathic membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis in childhood

Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN), recognized since 1965, is now known to have three forms, designated types I, II, and III. The types are similar in the frequency of hypocomplementemia and clinical course but are dissimilar in glomerular ultrastructure, pathogenesis, mechanisms of complement activation, predisposition to recur in the renal transplant, and, to some extent, in clinical presentation. Although glomerular proliferation is usually diffuse, it may be focal and segmental particularly in mild cases of MPGN I. Hypocomplementemia, present in about 80% of patients, is the result of hypercatabolism of C3 by three mechanisms as well as of diminished C3 synthesis. The hypocomplementemia is unrelated to clinical course or prognosis. Although MPGN I and III both have a high frequency of an extended haplotype on chromosome 6, which has known associations with autoimmune phenomena, and both have a high frequency of inherited complement defects, they are nevertheless dissimilar in glomerular ultrastructure, complement profile, and immunohistology in ways which suggest a wide difference in pathogenesis. Abnormalities in humoral immunity appear not to be involved in MPGN III. Treatment with anticoagulant, antiplatelet and cytotoxic drugs have, in controlled trials, been either ineffective or marginally effective. Long-term use of alternate-day prednisone in high dosage appears to be the most efficacious regimen in both controlled and uncontrolled studies.
Correlated z-values and the accuracy of large-scale statistical estimates.

We consider large-scale studies in which there are hundreds or thousands of correlated cases to investigate, each represented by its own normal variate, typically a z-value. A familiar example is provided by a microarray experiment comparing healthy with sick subjects’ expression levels for thousands of genes. This paper concerns the accuracy of summary statistics for the collection of normal variates, such as their empirical cdf or a false discovery rate statistic. It seems like we must estimate an N by N correlation matrix, N the number of cases, but our main result shows that this is not necessary: good accuracy approximations can be based on the root mean square correlation over all N ⋅ (N − 1)/2 pairs, a quantity often easily estimated. A second result shows that z-values closely follow normal distributions even under nonnull conditions, supporting application of the main theorem. Practical application of the theory is illustrated for a large leukemia microarray study.
Carotenoids, ergosterol and tocopherols in fresh and preserved herbage and their transfer to bovine milk fat and adipose tissues: a review.

The requirements of cattle for the fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E, their provitamins and some carotenoids have increased under conditions of intensive husbandry with insufficient provision of fresh forage, their cheapest natural source. Moreover, bovine milk fat and adipose tissues participate in the intake of these micronutrients by humans. Four major carotenoids occurring in forage crops are lutein, all-trans-β-carotene, zeaxanthin and epilutein. Fresh forage is their richest source. Losses are significantly higher in hay as compared with silage, particularly if prepared from unwilted herbage. Maize silage is a poor source of carotenoids as compared with ensiled grasses and legumes. Ergosterol contents in forages increase under environmental conditions favourable for the growing of moulds, particularly at higher humidity and lower temperatures. Credible data on changes of ergosterol during herbage preservation, particularly drying and ensiling, have been lacking. Alpha-tocopherol is the most important among eight related compounds marked as vitamin E. It is vulnerable to oxidation and herbage ensiling is thus a safer preservation method than haymaking. As with carotenoids, maize silage is a poor source of α-tocopherol. Overall, information on factors affecting the content of ergosterol and tocopherols in fresh herbage, on changes during forage preservation and on transfer to bovine fats has been much more limited than data for β-carotene.
Some aspects of plasma polymerization of fluorine-containing organic compounds. II. Comparison of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene

Plasma polymerizations of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene are compared. In the plasma polymerization of ethylene and of tetrafluoroethylene, glow characteristics play an important role. Glow characteristic is dependent on a combined factor of W/Fm, where W is discharge power and Fm is monomer flow rate. At higher flow rates, higher wattages are required to maintain “full glow.” In the plasma polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene, simultaneous decomposition of the monomer competes with plasma polymerization. Above a certain value of W/Fm, decomposition becomes the predominant reaction, and the polymer deposition rate decreases with increasing discharge power. ESCA results indicate that the plasma polymer of tetrafluoroethylene that is formed in an incomplete glow region (low W/Fm) is a hybrid of polymers of plasma polymerization and of plasma-induced polymerization of the monomer. Polymers formed under conditions of high W/Fm to produce “full glow” are similar, regardless of the extent of decomposition of the monomer. They contain carbons with different numbers of F(CF3, CF2, >CF, >C<) and carbons bonded to other more electronegative substituents.
Role of sensory and cognitive information in the enhancement of certainty and liking for novel and familiar foods.

Abstract Expected and actual liking for novel and familiar foods were examined under various conditions of sensory and verbal information with 121 subjects who differed in food neophobia. The possible mediating roles uncertainty about product identity and resemblance to familiar foods were also investigated. Subjects were divided into three verbal information groups (no information; product name; ingredient and use information) balanced for neophobia, age and gender. All groups rated test samples under three sensory conditions: (1) appearance only, (2) appearance and smell and (3) appearance, smell and taste. Neophilics rated novel foods more favorably than did neophobics. Accumulating sensory experience (appearance, smell, taste) decreased liking for novel foods but increased liking for familiar foods. Verbal information generally increased liking for all samples. Liking and certainty of product identity were curvilinearly related for novel foods, but linearly related for familiar foods. Liking for products judged to closely resemble the test product predicted up to 64% of the variability in expected and actual liking. Eight weeks later, subjects rated one of the two novel foods higher than in the first exposure, but no other exposure effects were observed. Our data suggest that information (possibly via reduced uncertainty), resemblance to more familiar foods, and exposure contribute to reducing initially negative responses to novel foods; furthermore, neophobia decreases liking for novel foods similarly at all levels of sensory input (visual, smell and taste).
Stabilizing route panoramas

The route panorama (RP) has been proposed as a new digital medium to record and visualize cityscapes along a route. It is a compact, continuous and complete visual representation of scenes collected from a sequence of slit views with a camera moving along a smooth path. In real scene acquisition, a camera may suffer from vehicle shaking and the obtained route panoramas are jagged and waved. To improve the quality of route panoramas, we develop an algorithm to stabilize them. By referring the continuous linear features, we use median filters to smooth the 2D route panorama. By setting the slit properly with respect to the camera, we can reduce the influence from the vehicle shaking in the RP without matching consecutive video frames. We have rectified long distance route panoramas to a moderate level for virtual tours and visual navigation.
Spatial uniformity comparison of two nonimaging concentrators

The spatial uniformity of two nonimaging concentrators is measured, each with a silicon photodetector positioned immediately behind the concentrator. The comparison is made between a compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) and a ?i/?o concentrator. The latter consists of a parabolic section followed by a cone section to restrict the divergence angle of the exit beam. The spatial uniformity of the ?i/?o concentrator measured with an f/4 beam diverging from a circular aperture is 1.2% across the central 4 mm of the entrance aperture of the concentrator, and demonstrates the use of this type of concentrator for effectively maintaining high throughput when using small-area (<2-mmdiam) detectors in applications requiring small fields of view. The uniformity of the gold-coated ?i/?o concentrator measured with a nearly collimated HeNe laser beam is not nearly as good, due in part to the imperfect reflectance of gold. The uniformity of the CPC in the f/4 beam is not nearly as good as that of the ?i/?o concentrator in the f/4 beam.