cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cleaning up after the Mess: The Individual-Community Nexus in Correctional Rehabilitation

The population of America's local, state, and federal prisons increased by nearly 340 percent between 1980 and 2005 (Paparozzi and Demichele 2008). Much of this increase reflects policy intended to get tough on criminals by locking them up longer and removing discretionary power of judges. Therefore, community corrections (i.e., probation and parole) have assumed increased attention recently as more prisoners are diverted and placed on probation and others are released through mandatory parole. One of the most measurable goals of community corrections is a reduction in recidivism. Much of what works today has its origins in symbolic interaction theory. Most social learning occurs through what Albert Bandura referred to as “observational learning.” One component of this approach as applied to community corrections involves parole officers modeling behavior for the offender. Research has shown us that successful modeling requires skill on the part of parole officers in order for the process of observational...
Computing the Galois Group of a Linear Differential Equation of Order Four

In 1978 J. Kovacic described an efficient algorithm for computing liouvillian solutions of a linear homogeneous differential equation of order two over a field C(x), where x′ = 1 and C is an algebraically closed field of characteristic 0. During the years from 1990 to 1994 M. Singer and F. Ulmer published several papers in which they describe efficient algorithms for determining the Galois group of such a differential equation of order two or three and computing liouvillian solutions using this group. In this paper we present results concerning Galois groups of order four linear differential equations. In particular we construct a list of irreducible linear algebraic subgroups of SL(4, C) where C is an algebraically closed field of characteristic zero. This list is complete up to conjugation, and in the finite primitive case, up to projective equivalence. Then, in keeping with the spirit of the work of Kovacic, Singer and Ulmer we use representation theory to distinguish between the groups in this list.
The fracture penetration depth of stress pulses

Abstract The destructive interaction of stress waves with materials is based on a previously described least action law for fracture in connection with Fourier methods of spectral pulse analysis. We are led to a number of new concepts and a quantitative meaning of fracture penetration depth and cross section for fracture. An uncertainty relation is discussed, according to which the spectral range of cracks participating in fracture is defined. A long and a short pulse of equal energy are compared to show that pulse attenuation by fracture depends not only on pulse energy but also on the energy density of the pulse. The residual pulse, i.e. the pulse shape and energy after it has lost its capability to rupture the material is determined.
Forage Quality of Tall Fescue across an Irrigation Gradient

Water available for irrigating pastures in the western USA is often limited and varies widely across sites and seasons. Objectives were to determine the trends in crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and in vitro true digestibility (IVTD) of 10 cultivars of tall fescue (Festuca arundinaceae Schreb.) at five levels of irrigation and three harvest dates (early, mid-, and late season). A secondary objective was to evaluate the effect of the endophytic fungus [Neotyphodium coenophialum (Morgan-Jones & Gams) Glenn, Bacon & Hanlin] on these trends. Cultivars differed significantly for CP, NDF, and IVTD, and differences were generally consistent across water levels (WLs). Concentration of CP increased in a near linear manner (154-189 g kg -1 ) from the highest to lowest WL; however, total protein yield decreased from 611 to 447 kg ha -1 with less water, closely following the trend in forage yield. Forage quality at the late-season harvest, as indicated by lower NDF and higher IVTD values, was significantly higher at the lowest compared with the highest WL. Also, NDF was significantly lower and IVTD significantly higher at the late-season harvest at all WL. Presence or absence of the endophyte was not associated with CP; however, there was a tendency for the endophytefree cultivar to have lower NDF and higher IVTD than its endophyteinfected counterpart at the higher WL. The magnitude of quality differences among the 10 cultivars indicates that forage quality should be a major consideration in the choice of cultivars for pastures of the Intermountain region.
Structure of a Tropical Cyclone Developed in a Three-Dimensional Numerical Simulation Model

Abstract A three-dimensional, 11-level, primitive equation model has been constructed for a simulation study of tropical cyclones. The model has four levels in the boundary layer and its 70×70 variable grid mesh encloses a 4000-km square domain with a 20-km resolution near the center. Details of the model, including the parameterization scheme for the subgrid-scale diffusion and convection processes, are described. A weak vortex in the conditionally unstable tropical atmosphere is given as the initial state for a numerical integration from which a tropical cyclone develops in the model. During the integration period of one week, the sea surface temperature is fixed at 302K. The central surface pressure drops to about 940 mb, while a warm moist core is established. The azimuthal component of mean horizontal wind is maximum at about 60 km from the center at all levels. A strong in-flow is observed in the boundary layer. At upper levels, a secondary radial-vertical circulation develops in and around the regi...
Minimal cardiac electro-physiological activity of alprenoxime, a site-activated ocular β-blocker, in dogs

A closed chest catheter technique was used in dogs to examine the potential cardiac effects of alprenoxime, a potent new ocular antihypertensive agent. Alprenoxime was designed to undergo metabolic activation to the beta-blocker, alprenolol, specifically within the eye using hydrolase and reductase enzymes that reside in the iris-ciliary body. Previous studies in rabbits confirmed that intraocular pressure (IOP) significantly decreased after topically instilling ophthalmic drops of alprenoxime, while heart rates remained essentially unchanged after intravenous dosing. To further explore the safety and ocular specificity of this potential antiglaucoma drug, several cardiac electrophysiologic parameters were monitored during alprenoxime infusion in anesthetized dogs. In contrast to the pharmacologically significant increases (33-144%) measured after alprenolol or other previously tested beta antagonist infusion, the identical dose of alprenoxime had no effect on sinus cycle length (SCL), conduction times through the bundle of His and atrium (H and AH), or any other monitored cardiac electrophysiologic parameter. No changes greater than 6% from baseline were detected with alprenoxime infusion. Similarly, no beta-antagonist cardiac activity could be detected in isoproterenol stimulated dogs after alprenoxime. The results demonstrate that alprenoxime has no significant cardiac activity at doses much greater than potential therapeutic levels. The study provides further support that the new agent could be safely used in treating glaucoma.
The perception of nonemergency helping situations: Costs, rewards, and the altruistic personality

Individual differences in the perception of nonemergency helping situations were examined using descriptions of five situations in which a person asked for assistance. Four versions of each situation were created so as to differ in the costs (low vs. high) and rewards (low vs. high) associated with helping. One hundred and thirty-two undergraduates indicated the amount of help they would be willing to provide in each situation and rated the perceived rewards and costs of providing help. Subjects also completed the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale and a measure of altruism taken from the Omnibus Personality Inventory. Controlling for individual differences in approval motivation, willingness to help in the five nonemergency situations was negatively related to the costs for helping and was positively related to the rewards for helping and to personality differences in altruism. In addition, highly altruistic persons viewed the identical situations as more rewarding and less costly than persons low in altruism. Individual differences in willingness to help may reflect variations in situation perception. In this case, the altruistic person would be an individual who consistently evaluates helping situations more favorably in terms of the potential rewards and costs of providing help.
Effects of insulin and glucose on pulmonary insulin receptors in late gestation fetal rats.

The effects of high glucose and insulin concentrations on fetal lung insulin receptors and tyrosine kinase activity were studied in an in vitro system utilizing 19- or 20-d fetal rat lung explants. Exposure of the explants to 100 mM glucose and insulin (0.1 unit/mL) for 72 h resulted in a significant decrease in specific binding of insulin to partially purified receptors [5.78% ± 0.66 (SEM) vs. 9.64% ± 1.68; P < .01] when compared with lung explants exposed to 10 mM glucose alone. When individual effects of high insulin and glucose were studied, down-regulation of specific insulin binding was also observed, but to a lesser extent than that observed using both high glucose and insulin. Differences in insulin receptor affinity were not noted. Insulin receptor tyrosine kinase activity was also significantly decreased (52% of control values) under high-glucose/high-insulin conditions. Total phosphatidylcholine and disaturated phosphatidylcholine concentrations were significantly decreased in explants grown un...
Mantle contribution to the evolution of Middle Tertiary silicic magmatism during early stages of extension: the Egan Range volcanic complex, east-central Nevada

The Egan Range volcanic complex lies 30 km northwest of Ely, on the edge of a highly extended domain in east-central Nevada. It consists mainly of lavas with subordinate tuffs and sedimentary rocks. The rocks are divided into three stratigraphic and lithologic groups that correlated with widespread middle Tertiary volcanic rocks associated with early stages of extension in the region. Volcanic rocks of the early group are predominantly two-pyroxene dacite and andesite lavas, all of which contain quenched, mafic inclusions and have compositions indicating they were derived by mixing between a contaminated mantle melt and a rhyodacitic crustal component. Rocks of the middle group are relatively homogeneous biotite, hornblende dacite and rhyodacite lavas. Elevated compatible and incompatible element concentrations and straight-line correlations of compositional data in the early and middle groups support a simple mixing model. Minor fractionation of clinopyroxene is required to explain some low Cr concentrations. Major element variations of the late group can be successfully modeled by crystal fractionation of observed phenocrysts accompanied by moderate assimilation of a crustal component to account for elevated Rb, Th, U, and light rare earth element concentrations. Rocks of all three groups appear to be related to a common primary magma type, the composition of which can be modeled from the mafic inclusions in the early group. Low Ni and Mg contents in the inclusions indicate that olivine was fractionated prior to their participation in mixing of early group magmas. Based on estimated volumes of volcanic rocks in the Egan Range volcanic complex and in the region, and on the petrologic models for each group, a significant amount of basalt must have been added to the crust during this middle Tertiary magmatic episode.
APB differentially affects the cone contributions to the zebrafish ERG

APB (DL-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid) has been found to affect the retinal processing of many vertebrate species as evidenced by the suppression of the b-wave component of the electroretinogram (ERG). The present study examined the effects of APB on the cone contributions to the ERG response of adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). ERG responses were obtained from light-adapted adult zebrafish following intravitreal injection of either saline alone or saline with various concentrations of APB ranging from 10 microm to 500 microM. Visual stimuli were 200-ms flashes of various wavelengths and irradiances. Spectral sensitivity functions were calculated from the irradiance versus response amplitude functions of the a-, b-, and d-wave components of the ERG response. Saline had no effects on the ERG response. However, APB had differential effects on the sensitivity of the b- and d-wave components. The effects of APB on the b-wave component were most apparent in the ultraviolet and short-wavelength portions (320-440 nm) of the spectral sensitivity function, although the b-wave was not completely eliminated at these wavelengths. APB-treated subjects were found to possess the same cone mechanisms (L-M and M-S) in the middle- and long-wavelength areas of the spectrum as saline injected subjects, although absolute sensitivity was lower for the APB-injected subjects. Spectral sensitivity based on the d-wave response was affected by APB but only in the short-wavelength region. All results appear to be independent of the APB dose. These results support the notion that glutamate receptors play a specific role in zebrafish visual processing. In addition, the effects of APB support recent anatomical evidence that the zebrafish retina may possess different types of glutamate receptors.
Teaching for Social Justice: From Conceptual Frameworks to Classroom Practices.

In this article, the author presents the results of a multistate study examining how teachers, and specifically secondary English Language Arts (ELA) teachers, conceptualize and implement teaching for social justice in standards-based contexts. Additional analysis underscores how this practice both reflects and extends earlier equity-oriented reform movements.
Lactic Acidosis in Pheochromocytoma

Excerpt To the editor: Bornemann and associates (1) have stated that lactic acidosis may be the initial presentation of a pheochromocytoma. In addition to the patient they report, they also review ...
Prognostic markers in heart failure—congestion, neurohormones, and the cardiorenal syndrome

There are several markers of poor prognosis in heart failure (HF). The most established markers of poor prognosis in HF include neurohormonal (NH) imbalance, low ejection fraction (EF), ventricular arrhythmias, intraventricular conduction delays, low functional capacity, low SBP, and renal failure. The relative importance of these factors is unknown, as they have never been studied together. We present a 74-year-old female with nonischemic cardiomyopathy and an EF<20% who over 24 years since diagnosis, never developed clinical or hemodynamic congestion, was never hospitalized for HF, and never required a loop diuretic. She had all of the clinical indicators of poor prognosis in HF except for severe NH imbalance and renal failure, illustrating their importance in HF prognosis. While NH activation in HF is initially an adaptive mechanism, an imbalance of NH effectors causes congestion leading to a vicious cycle of congestion, renal dysfunction, and worsening of HF. The combination of NH activation and renal failure in HF is a vasomotor nephropathy known as the cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) and portends a poor prognosis. Pharmacological disruption of NH pathways early in HF may prevent CRS and, therefore, improve outcomes.
Innovations in survey research

The rapid expansion of Internet users has given Web-based surveys the potential to become a powerful tool in survey research. As an application of this technique for gathering data, the International Student Survey was designed to explore factors that might influence choices of college majors and the social support network system among international students at Arizona State University. Cover letters with the links to a Web-based questionnaire were sent through e-mail to the entire international students population. Given that no incentive was offered, this study received a total of 929 completed surveys for an overall response rate of 22% after three waves of solicitations. This article discusses the methodological concerns and problems that arise from using Web surveys, including noncoverage, nonresponse errors, confidentiality concerns, and technical problems. Suggestions for improving response rates also are discussed.
Factors promoting and inhibiting the development and use of clinical practice guidelines

Several of the factors that are currently promoting or inhibiting the development and use of clinical practice guidelines are reviewed. While many factors are moving the field toward the use of guidelines, a great deal remains to be learned about how to disseminate empirical knowledge through this means.
The spatial resolution of scalp EEG

Abstract The scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) exhibits spatiotemporal dynamics reflecting synchronous dendritic activity of cortical pyramidal neurons. Recent advances in EEG acquisition and electric head modeling are improving the spatial resolution of scalp EEG, but the skull remains an obstacle. We use lead field theory to quantify the spatial resolution of scalp EEG, contrasting two electrode spacings and two values of skull conductivity. We show that, without cortical constraints, 19-electrode EEG systems have optimal spatial resolution near 22– 37 cm 3 , while 129-electrode systems have 6– 8 cm 3 . These results emphasize the benefits of more electrodes, but also the need for methods of measuring local skull conductivity.
Deterministic Equivalents for Optimizing and Satisficing under Chance Constraints

Chance constrained programming admits random data variations and permits constraint violations up to specified probability limits. Different kinds of decision rules and optimizing objectives may be used so that, under certain conditions, a programming problem not necessarily linear can be achieved that is deterministic---in that all random elements have been eliminated. Existence of such “deterministic equivalents” in the form of specified convex programming problems is here established for a general class of linear decision rules under the following 3 classes of objectives 1 maximum expected value “E model”, 2 minimum variance “V model”, and 3 maximum probability “P model”. Various explanations and interpretations of these results are supplied along with other aspects of chance constrained programming. For example, the “P model” is interpreted so that H. A. Simon's suggestions for “satisficing” can be studied relative to more traditional optimizing objectives associated with “E” and “V model” variants.
Calculation of entropies of solute atoms from solid solubilities

Abstract The theories of the excess entropy due to a lattice defect are applied to the case where the defect is a solute atom. For such a case the intrinsic entropy (i.e. excess entropy per solute atom) is obtained from the intercept of a plot of the logarithm of solubility against the reciprocal absolute temperature, provided that the solubilities are very small, or by a slightly modified method when the solubilities are higher (up to 3 at. per cent). Applying this analysis, available solubility data are examined for simple systems in which two terminal substitutional solid solutions are separated by a two-phase region and also for systems involving equilibrium between a terminal solution and a well-defined intermetallic compound. The intrinsic entropies obtained are compared with the theory of Zener and that of Huntington, Shim and Wajda.
Identification of the gene coding for the hemagglutinin of reovirus

Abstract A genetic approach has been used to identify the gene which codes for the hemagglutinin of reovirus. Hemagglutination by reovirus serotypes is type specific; type 1 hemagglutinates human but not bovine erythrocytes and type 3 hemagglutinates bovine but not human erythrocytes. Using recombinants derived from mixed infections of reovirus types 1 and 3, we have determined that the hemagglutinating properties of reovirus are a function of the σ1 outer capsid polypeptide, the polypeptide encoded in the S1 dsRNA segment of the virus.
An Ocean Too Far: Offshore Balancing in the Indian Ocean

Abstract We take aim at “offshore balancing,” a foreign-policy concept that has come into vogue in a United States beset by war weariness, a stagnant economy, and skyrocketing defense procurement costs. Retiring from continental Eurasia is an appealing prospect, but returning in times of systemic conflict would be problematic – even in the relatively accessible rimlands of Western Europe and East Asia. It verges on impossible in the remote, inaccessible Indian Ocean. As it turns out, offshore balancing in the Indian Ocean is no balancing at all.
Correlates of spirituality in older women.

Introduction: The role of spirituality in the context of mental health and successful aging is not well understood. In a sample of community-dwelling older women enrolled at the San Diego site of the Women's Health Initiative study, we examined the association between spirituality and a range of variables associated with successful cognitive and emotional aging, including optimism, resilience, depression, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: A detailed cross-sectional survey questionnaire on successful aging was completed by 1973 older women. It included multiple self-reported measures of positive psychological functioning (e.g., resilience and optimism), as well as depression and HRQoL. Spirituality was measured using a five-item self-report scale constructed using two items from the Brief Multidimensional Measure of Religiosity/Spirituality and three items from Hoge's Intrinsic Religious Motivation Scale. Results: Overall, 40% women reported regular attendance in organized religious prac...
Thin film solid electrolyte systems

Abstract Materials which are potentially useful for thin film electrochemical cells are reviewed. Some general comments concerning physical properties and the growth of thin films are presented as an introduction. Preparation procedures and electrochemical properties of solid electrolytes such as silver halides, lithium iodide, metal halides and metal oxides are described. Typical metal electrode materials (Au, Ag, Pt, Li and Pb) are discussed and thin film cathode materials (I 2 , metal iodides, copper halides, AgCl, Te, Se, Ag 2 Se, Ag 2 Te, sodium tungsten bronze and fuel cell electrodes) are reviewed. The final section deals with practical applications using these materials including galvanic cells, fuel cells, coulometers, sensors and displays.
A homotopy for solving polynomial systems

This paper presents a continuation method for finding all solutions to polynomial systems. It features a simpler homotopy than has been previously published.
The genetics of episodic memory.

Introduction: Studies suggest that there is a considerable genetic contribution to individual episodic memory performance. Identifying genes which impact recollection may further elucidate an emerging biology and pave the way towards novel cognitive interventions. To date, several candidate genes have been explored and a few seem to have modest but measurable effects. Methods: Here we review the biology of memory with particular focus on episodic memory, critically appraise the published evidence supporting the role of several candidate genes, and make suggestions for future pathways of research. Results: We found moderate evidence for several candidate genes implicated in episodic memory formation, with converging lines of neurobiologic evidence especially strong for only a select few. Perhaps unexpectedly, little work has been done on other aspects of memory, including the semantic and autobiographical systems. Conclusions: Larger studies utilizing more elaborate methodologies to measure the spectrum of...
Targeting elders for geriatric evaluation and management: Reliability, validity, and practicality of a questionnaire

Geriatric evaluation and management (GEM) is most cost-effective when provided to persons at high risk for functional decline or heavy use of health services. Identifying high-risk members of elderly populations is, therefore, the first step in conducting successful GEM programs. We have developed and tested a mailed, self-administered, eight-item questionnaire to identify home-dwelling elders at risk for heavy use of hospitals. Scored by a logistic formula, this questionnaire estimates each respondent’s probability of repeated admission (Pra) to a hospital within four years. Its primary purpose is to help select elders who are likely to benefit from outpatient GEM. We created this instrument by analyzing data from half the subjects in the Longitudinal Study of Aging (LSOA); its test-retest reliability is high (r=0.78). In a preliminary test of its predictive validity among the other half of the LSOA subjects, the instrument prospectively identified high-risk elders who went on to use hospitals at twice the rate of their lower-risk peers. In a separate study of its predictive validity among low-income urban elders, the instrument again identified a high-risk group that went on to use hospital days at twice the rate of its lower-risk counterpart. In a pilot study, we used the questionnaire to identify potential recipients of outpatient GEM. The identified elders appeared to be appropriate candidates for GEM. They averaged 9.6 significant medical problems, 6.7 significant prescription medications, and two IADL limitations. We are now using this instrument to identify subjects for a randomized clinical trial of outpatient GEM. (Aging Clin. Exp. Res. 7: 159-164, 1995)
The Impact of Therapist Actions on the Balance of Power Within the Couple System: A Qualitative Analysis of Therapy Sessions

Power inequality is an important concern in couple therapy, yet little research addresses how therapists deal with this issue. This qualitative, grounded theory analysis of 21 transcripts of couple therapy sessions examined how therapist actions influenced the balance of power between partners in the moment to moment processes of therapy. The analysis identified five kinds of therapist actions that perpetuated power imbalances: (a) discounting the person in the one-down position, (b) allowing the one-up person to define the conversation, (c) reinforcing dominant person's negative comments about partner, (d) using professional privilege to assume experience of the one-down person, and (e) speaking as though the relationship was equal when it was not. Six other actions helped interrupt current power imbalances and encouraged more equal power: (a) using therapist voice to create balance, (b) creating space for one-down voice, (c) naming power discrepancies, (d) validating competence of the one-down person, (...
Elastoplastic Analysis of Layered Metal Matrix Composite Cylinders—Part I: Theory

An exact elastic-plastic analytical solution for an arbitrarily laminated metal matrix composite tube subjected to axisymmetric thermo-mechanical and torsional loading is presented. First, exact solutions for transversely isotropic and monoclinic (off-axis) elastoplastic cylindrical shells are developed which are then reformulated in terms of the interfacial displacements as the fundamental unknowns by constructing a local stiffness matrix for the shell. Assembly of the local stiffness matrices into a global stiffness matrix in a particular manner ensures satisfaction of interfacial traction and displacement continuity conditions, as well as the external boundary conditions. Due to the lack of a general macroscopic constitutive theory for the elastic-plastic response of unidirectional metal matrix composites, the micromechanics method of cells model is employed to calculate the effective elastic-plastic properties of the individual layers used in determining the elements of the local and thus global stiffness matrices. The resulting system of equations is then solved using Mendelson`s iterative method of successive elastic solutions developed for elastoplastic boundary-value problems. Part 1 of the paper outlines the aforementioned solution strategy. In Part 2 (Salzar et al., 1996), this solution strategy is first validated by comparison with available closed-form solutions, as well as with results obtained using the finite-element approach.more » Subsequently, examples are presented that illustrate the utility of the developed solution methodology in predicting the elastic-plastic response of arbitrarily laminated metal matrix composite tubes. In particular, optimization of the response of composite tubes under internal pressure is considered through the use of functionally graded architectures.« less
Serial angiographic follow-up after successful direct angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction

This serial follow-up study was designed to identify the time course of reocclusion and/or restenosis after direct angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction. Direct angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction was attempted in 160 patients. Of the 141 patients who underwent successful reperfusion and were discharged, 137 (97%) were enrolled in this study. At the 3-week follow-up study (100% eligible), angiographic restenosis of the infarct-related artery was documented in 21 patients (16%), 9 (43%) of which were reocclusions. At 4 months in 100 patients (92% of those eligible), restenosis was newly documented in 28 infarct-related arteries (28%), 3 of which were reocclusions (11%). At 1 year in 64 patient (89% of those eligible), restenosis was newly documented in 5 infarct-related arteries (7.8%), with no reocclusions. The cumulative restenosis rate was 20% at 3 weeks, 43% at 4 months, and 47% at 1 year; when divided into occlusive and nonocclusive types, restenosis rates were 12% and 8.8% at 3 weeks and 14% and 29% at 4 months, respectively. Restenosis was most prevalent within the first 4 months and rarely occurred after that. When restenosis is manifested as reocclusion, it occurs earlier than in nonocclusive restenosis, often within 3 weeks.
On the stability of an algorithmic biped locomotion machine

Abstract There has been recent activity in the constructed of biped locomotion machines. One class of such machines is designed to move “slowly”. If the motion is slow enough the dynamics of the machine can be ignored. The various joints of the biped are then related by an algebraic expression. The stability of such a machine can be considered in a very special manner. The paper provides an approach to the analysis of the stability problem when a biped operates in this mode.
Smart cards: integrating for portable complexity

The decreasing cost of embedded chips is one of many factors that have spurred growing interest in smart cards. Today, typical markets for smart cards fall into three broad areas: electronic currency, an application in which smart cards replace cash or traditional credit cards in pay phone, transit, and toll collection systems; electronic identification, which permits controlled access to buildings or systems (like computers or cash registers); and data warehousing, applications that must opportunistically store and retrieve data, such as medical records, object tracking information, or process verification information. Such applications are only the beginning-future applications could make smart cards an integral and almost transparent part of our daily lives. Two factors seem to be converging to make this possible. First, as the world we live in becomes increasingly complex, smart cards offer a way to integrate that complexity into a compact and portable package. Second, the increasing functionality developers can integrate into a smart card opens new avenues for application development.
The Diffusion of an Innovation through Inter-Organizational Linkages

A comparative case study explores the inter-organizational relationships among a research and development center, state education agencies, teacher education institutions, and local education agencies involved with diffusing a complex organizational and administrative innovation—the multi-unit school. A heuristic approach was used to describe diffusion, linkage, structure, and capability. The efficacy of the approach and recommendations for future research are discussed.
The Role of Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in the Therapy of Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can now achieve complete remission (CR) rates of 80-90% [1–3]. However, only 25–50% of these patients achieve long-term, disease-free survival. Current research efforts are focused on innovative postremission strategies with the goal of improving disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS). The identification of different prognostic groups based on the biology of the malignant clone and prognostic factors allows for risk-adapted therapy. Multiple randomized trials have demonstrated that hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) improves the outcome of patients with high-risk ALL. In this chapter, we will define the different disease risk groups, the clinical outcomes of major transplant trials for ALL, and the therapeutic factors that affect outcome after SCT.
7.2 243.3pJ/pixel bio-inspired time-stamp-based 2D optic flow sensor for artificial compound eyes

Miniaturized low-power artificial compound eyes in a small form factor and a low payload can be a promising approach to provide wide-field information for micro-air-vehicle (MAV) applications. Recently, research efforts have been made to realize bio-inspired artificial compound eyes to mimic the wide field of view (FoV) of insect visual organs by implementing photoreceptors to independently face different angles [1-2]. However, these approaches have drawbacks. They use complicated fabrication processes to form a hemispherical lens configuration and secure an independent optical path to each photoreceptor. We take a simple and practical approach to realize wide-field optic flow sensing in a pseudo-hemispherical configuration by mounting a number of 2D array optic flow sensors on a flexible PCB module as shown in Figure 7.2.1. In this scheme, the 2D optic flow sensor should meet the requirements of MAV applications: extremely low power consumption while maintaining robust optic flow generation. Conventional optic flow algorithms, such as Lucas-and-Kanade, require huge amounts of numerical calculations; therefore, they require substantial digital hardware (CPU and/or FPGA), resulting in large power consumption [3-4]. As an alternative approach for low-power implementation, bio-inspired elementary motion detector (EMD) based algorithms (or neuromorphic algorithms) have been studied and implemented in analog VLSI circuits for autonomous navigation [5-6]. However, pure analog signal processing is easily susceptible to temperature and process variations and it is difficult to scale the pixel size or apply low-power design techniques because extensive analog processing is implemented in pixel-level circuits. In this work, we have devised and implemented a time-stamp-based optic flow algorithm, which is modified from the conventional EMD algorithm to give an optimum partitioning of hardware blocks in analog and digital domains as well as assign adequate allocation of pixel-level, column-parallel, and chip-level processing. Temporal filtering, which may require huge hardware resources if implemented in the digital domain, remains in a pixel-level analog processing unit. Feature detection is implemented using digital circuits that are column parallel. The embedded digital core decodes the 2D time-stamp information into velocity using chip-level processing. Finally, the estimated 16b optic flow data are compressed and transmitted to the host through a 4-wired Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) bus.
The effects of reinforcing concurrent behavior on self-monitoring

Each of 12 subjects served in three experimental conditions involving selfmonitoring of respiration, responding on a multiple FI 15″-VI 15″ schedule of reinforcement to produce steady states of lever pressing, and concurrent selfmonitoring and operant conditioning. Lever pressing was always reinforced, selfmonitoring was not. The percentage of self-monitoring errors more than doubled during the concurrent situation compared to self-monitoring alone. Increase in self-monitoring errors was associated with a decrease in response efficiency during VI schedule components. Also, self-monitoring was associated with decreased respiration rates, independent of increased monitoring errors. These results replicate the reactive effects of self-monitoring and indicate the importance of assessing the concurrent environmental demands when using self-monitoring as a treatment or in the evaluation of therapeutic effects.
Possible role for the glucose-fatty acid cycle in dexamethasone-induced insulin antagonism in rats☆

Abstract This study was undertaken to elucidate the mechanism(s) involved in glucocorticoid-induced insulin antagonism. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (200 to 210 g) were injected with 1 mg/kg dexamethasone-phosphate (Dex) or the vehicle every other day for 10 days. Two days after the last injection, fasted anesthetized animals were infused (per kg body weight per min) with 8 mg glucose, 5 mU porcine insulin and 1.4 μg somatostatin with blood sampling before, and at 10 min intervals between 90 and 130 min after the pancreatic suppression test was begun. At the end of the test, abdominal muscle was quickly freeze-clamped and the substrates and products of the rate-determining reactions of glycolysis and glycogenesis were measured. Dex-treated rats had higher basal (0 min) and steady-state levels (90–130 min) of both glucose and insulin signifying insulin antagonism. The pattern of muscle tissue metabolites revealed no free intracellular glucose in either group and concentrations of all other metabolites in the Dex-treated rats were less than those in the control animals (except for a small increase in glycogen). These results suggest a site of insulin antagonism between (and including) insulin binding and glucose transport. Further studies in the Dex-treated rats revealed normal: a) insulin binding to freshly isolated hepatocytes; b) basal and insulin-stimulated xylose transport in soleus muscle; c) basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in hemidiaphragms. These normal in-vitro results suggested that a circulating factor may be responsible. Repeat pancreatic suppression tests in the Dex-treated rats revealed blunted suppression of serum FFA concentrations. Epididymal fat pads from Dex-treated animals had increased basal lipolysis and normal submaximally stimulated lipolysis by epinephrine (10 −6 mol/L), but were almost completely refractory to the anti-lipolytic effect of sub-maximal concentrations of insulin (25 μU/mL). FFA oxidation by hemidiaphragms from the Dex-treated rats was also significantly increased. Insulin (0.2 U/kg)-glucose (0.7 g/kg) tolerance tests revealed decreased glucose disappearance rates in the Dex group. These values were restored to normal when FFA levels were lowered before the test by nicotinic acid. These data suggest a role for the glucose-fatty acid cycle in the insulin antagonism induced by glucocorticoid administration.
Sexist speech and the first amendment

This essay focuses on an analysis of sexist expression by men against women. This includes, at one extreme, direct intimidation or harassment and, at the other extreme, utterances that, though derogatory, are statements of an ideology or point of view. Problems of analysis arise when considering a school context, whether a classroom, a dormitory, or open spaces on campus.
Functional analysis of the PP2A subfamily of protein phosphatases in regulating Drosophila S6 kinase.

Phosphorylation and activation of ribosomal S6 protein kinase is an important link in the regulation of cell size by the target of rapamycin (TOR) protein kinase. A combination of selective inhibition and RNA interference were used to test the roles of members of the PP2A subfamily of protein phosphatases in dephosphorylation of Drosophila S6 kinase (dS6K). Treatment of Drosophila Schneider 2 cells with calyculin A, a selective inhibitor of PP2A-like phosphatases, resulted in a 7-fold increase in the basal level of dS6K phosphorylation at the TOR phosphorylation site (Thr398) and blocked dephosphorylation following inactivation of TOR by amino acid starvation or rapamycin treatment. Knockdown of the PP2A catalytic subunit increased basal dS6K phosphorylation and inhibited dephosphorylation induced by amino acid withdrawal. In contrast, depletion of the catalytic subunits of the other two members of the subfamily did not enhance dS6K phosphorylation. Knockdown of PP4 caused a 20% decrease in dS6K phosphorylation and knockdown of PP6 had no effect. Knockdown of the Drosophila B56-2 subunit resulted in enhanced dephosphorylation of dS6K following removal of amino acids. In contrast, knockdown of the homologs of the other PP2A regulatory subunits had no effects. Knockdown of the Drosophila homolog of the PP2A/PP4/PP6 interaction protein α4/Tap42 did not affect S6K phosphorylation, but did induce apoptosis. These results indicate that PP2A, but not other members of this subfamily, is likely to be a major S6K phosphatase in intact cells and is consistent with an important role for this phosphatase in the TOR pathway.
Freshwater conservation options for a changing climate in California's Sierra Nevada

Catchments of California's Sierra Nevada have been managed for hydropower, water supply, recreation and the environment, during which regional freshwater ecosystems have experienced extirpations of anadromous fishes, widespread loss in amphibian abundance and increases in non-native species. California's Mediterranean-montane climateis expectedtowarmby 2-68C overthe nextcentury, reducingsnowpack,causingearlier runoffandalteringflows. Freshwater conservation efforts currently rely on a patchwork of legal and regulatory mechanisms, and have failed to achieve their full potential because of weak and uncoordinated implementation. No scheme adequately addresses freshwater conservation objectives such as representation and persistence, and all ignore anticipated impacts of climate change. We recommend that (1) existing legislation be fully implemented, with explicit anticipation of future conditions, (2) local institutions develop and implement a systematic freshwater conservation plan, focusing on resilience to climate warming, (3) policies be crafted to prioritise catchments to emphasise key regional objectives (e.g. conservation) and (4) regional planning agencies with regulatory authority be formed at the catchment level.
NASA'S MISSION TO PLANET EARTH: WILL CIVIL ENGINEERING REAP BENEFITS?

The U.S. government plans to spend approximately $10 billion through NASA's Mission to Planet Earth to better understand global change. The program will produce enormous data sets of physical and biological parameters of the Earth. These data sets are being collected for scientific research, but can have great utility in engineering applications, notably those that fall within the province of civil engineering. To date, however, civil engineering interests are not represented in the program that represents the largest single project in the earth sciences ever undertaken. In the absence of strong civil engineering participation, the data produced will likely not be collected or formatted in the manner needed to ease use. Professional societies should exert a strong effort to ensure that the Mission to Planet Earth both profits from existing expertise and best serves the needs of civil engineering.
Synthesis of CJ-15,208, a novel κ-opioid receptor antagonist.

The tryptophan isomers of the cyclic tetrapeptide CJ-15,208, reported to be a kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonist [Saito, T.; Hirai, H.; Kim, Y. J.; Kojima, Y.; Matsunaga, Y.; Nishida, H.; Sakakibara, T.; Suga, O.; Sujaku, T.; Kojima, N. J. Antibiot. (Tokyo) 2002, 55, 847–854.], were synthesized to determine the tryptophan stereochemistry in the natural product. A strategy was developed to select linear precursor peptides that favor cyclization using molecular modeling, and optimized cyclization conditions are reported. The optical rotation of the l-Trp isomer is consistent with that of the natural product. Unexpectedly both isomers exhibit similar nanomolar affinity for KOR.
Body mass index and cognitive decline in mild cognitive impairment.

Objective: To examine the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive decline in subjects diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods: Neuropsychologic and clinical evaluations were conducted at baseline, 6-months, and 1-year on 286 MCI subjects enrolled in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. A global cognitive composite score was derived (mean Z-score) from performance on 9 neuropsychologic subtests. Height and weight were assessed at baseline and used to calculate BMI. Generalized estimating equations (linear and logistic) assessed the relationships of baseline BMI with cognitive outcomes, clinician judgment of "clinically significant decline" over 1-year, and diagnostic progression from MCI to Alzheimer disease. Results: Lower baseline BMI was associated with significant declines in cognitive performance in individuals with MCI over 1 year (Mini-Mental State Examination, Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale, and a global cognitive composite; all P < 0.05). We observed a significant protective effect of baseline BMI in reducing the risk of a clinically significant decline in Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale and mini-mental state examination (P < 0.05). No association was found between BMI and changes in the clinical dementia rating sum of boxes or conversion to Alzheimer disease. Conclusions: Lower baseline BMI is associated with more rapid cognitive decline in MCI. This relationship suggests either body composition may influence the rate of cognitive decline in MCI or factors related to MCI influence body composition.
An analysis of van der Waals attractive forces in DNA-minor groove binding

Abstract Force field methodology (AMBER) has been used in conjunction with X-ray crystallographic data to evaluate the importance of attractive van der Waals forces in complexes of d(CGCGAATTCGCG)2, d(CGCAAATTTGCG)2, and d(CGCGTTAACGCG)2 with a variety of ligands. Large negative energies were obtained (−128 to −246 kJ/mol) which, with exception of netropsin, were insensitive to base-pair sequence. In conjunction with X-ray crystallographic data, force field methodology (AMBER) was used to evaluate the relative magnitude of van der Waals attractive forces in d(CGCGAATTCGCG)2, d(CGCAAATTTGCG)2 and d(CGCGTTAACGCG)2 complexes. In every case, large negative attractive energies were obtained (-128 to -246 kJ/mol) which, with exception of netropsin, were insensitive to base-pair sequence. Ligands with several contiguous aromatic rings (e.g., Hoechst 33258) utilize significantly greater van der Waals attractive forces than ligands with aliphatic linkers of CH, O, and/or N atoms (e.g., pentamidine, distamycin).