cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The impacts of exercise on pediatric obesity

Over the last few decades, the rates of pediatric obesity have more than doubled regardless of sociodemographic categorization, and despite these rates plateauing in recent years there continues to be an increase in the severity of obesity in children and adolescents. This review will discuss the pediatric obesity mediated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors such as attenuated levels of satiety and energy metabolism hormones, insulin resistance, vascular endothelial dysfunction, and arterial stiffness. Additionally, early intervention to combat pediatric obesity is critical as obesity has been suggested to track into adulthood, and these obese children and adolescents are at an increased risk of early mortality. Current suggested strategies to combat pediatric obesity are modifying diet, limiting sedentary behavior, and increasing physical activity. The effects of exercise intervention on metabolic hormones such as leptin and adiponectin, insulin sensitivity/resistance, and body fat in obese children and adolescents will be discussed along with the exercise modality, intensity, and duration. Specifically, this review will focus on the differential effects of aerobic exercise, resistance training, and combined exercise on the cardiovascular risks in pediatric obesity. This review outlines the evidence that exercise intervention is a beneficial therapeutic strategy to reduce the risk factors for CVD and the ideal exercise prescription to combat pediatric obesity should contain both muscle strengthening and aerobic components with an emphasis on fat mass reduction and long-term adherence.
Vertext: An End-to-end AI Powered Conversation Management System for Multi-party Chat Platforms

Online communication platforms like Slack and Microsoft teams have become increasingly crucial for a digitized workplace to improve business efficiency and growth. However, these chat platforms can overwhelm the users with unstructured long streams of back and forth discussions scattered in various places. Thus, discussions become challenging to follow, leading to an increased likelihood of missing valuable information. Moreover, with the unsatisfying keyword-based chat search, users spend a significant amount of time to read, digest, and recall information from the conversations at the cost of productivity. In this paper, we present Vertext, an end-to-end AI system that ingests user conversations and automatically extracts information such as announcements, task assignments, and conversation summary. Moreover, Vertext gives a unique search experience to the users by providing search results along with their context, with an improved performance enabled by semantic search. For the ease of user interaction, all the information is consolidated on a single dashboard provided by Vertext.
Activated protein C has a regulatory role in factor VIII function

Abstract Mechanisms thought to regulate activated factor VIII (FVIIIa) cofactor function include A2-domain dissociation and activated protein C (APC) cleavage. Unlike A2-domain dissociation, there is no known phenotype associated with altered APC cleavage of FVIII, and biochemical studies have suggested APC plays a marginal role in FVIIIa regulation. However, the in vivo contribution of FVIIIa inactivation by APC is unexplored. Here we compared wild-type B-domainless FVIII (FVIII-WT) recombinant protein with an APC-resistant FVIII variant (FVIII-R336Q/R562Q; FVIII-QQ). FVIII-QQ demonstrated expected APC resistance without other changes in procoagulant function or A2-domain dissociation. In plasma-based studies, FVIII-WT/FVIIIa-WT demonstrated dose-dependent sensitivity to APC with or without protein S, whereas FVIII-QQ/FVIIIa-QQ did not. Importantly, FVIII-QQ demonstrated approximately fivefold increased procoagulant function relative to FVIII-WT in the tail clip and ferric chloride injury models in hemophilia A (HA) mice. To minimize the contribution of FV inactivation by APC in vivo, a tail clip assay was performed in homozygous HA/FV Leiden (FVL) mice infused with FVIII-QQ or FVIII-WT in the presence or absence of monoclonal antibody 1609, an antibody that blocks murine PC/APC hemostatic function. FVIII-QQ again demonstrated enhanced hemostatic function in HA/FVL mice; however, FVIII-QQ and FVIII-WT performed analogously in the presence of the PC/APC inhibitory antibody, indicating the increased hemostatic effect of FVIII-QQ was APC specific. Our data demonstrate APC contributes to the in vivo regulation of FVIIIa, which has the potential to be exploited to develop novel HA therapeutics.
The Rainbow Connection: A Time-Series Study of Rainbow Flag Display Across Nine Toronto Neighborhoods

Recently, the display and use of the rainbow flag in historically defined gay neighborhoods has grown even as gay residents and businesses have been driven away by gentrification, rising real-estate costs, and cultural homogenization. At the same time, prevelence and use of the rainbow flag and the rainbow motif has increased in areas not usually considered part of recognized gay neighborhoods. This chapter explores the prevalence and persistence of the display of the rainbow flag and rainbow motif in nine neighborhoods across Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The visual assessment of rainbow flag use across these neighborhoods serves as a potential model for examining the rate of spread of rainbow flags and visual rainbow motif symbols as a means for tracking the movement of the LGBTQ+ community across urban neighborhoods. Initial results suggest potential significance of the prevalence and persistence of the rainbow flag and the rainbow motif. These include; (1) a possible diaspora of LGBTQ+ residents from traditionally defined gay neighborhoods to newly emerging gay or LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods, (2) a newfound inclusivity or pride among residents of other neighborhoods, and (3) “rainbow washing” due to overuse of the rainbow motif by non-LGBTQ businesses and organizations connected with pride celebrations. While overuse of the rainbow flag may diminish historically coded meaning of the rainbow, that well-intentioned use of the rainbow flag is a positive and welcoming indicator for LGBTQ+ individuals and it may lead to the emergence of additional LGBTQ-friendly enclaves that, over time, could potentially emerge as new gay neighborhoods.
Abstract P107: Intraluminal Carotid Thrombosis and Acute Ischemic Stroke Associated With COVID-19

Background: Intraluminal carotid thrombi (ILT) are uncommon and present in only 0.4 to 1.5 % of patients with stroke. The endothelial inflammation and hypercoagulable state associated with COVID-19 (caused by SARS-CoV-2) poses a risk of arterial and venous thromboembolism. Herein, we present a series of stroke patients with ILT in the setting of a recent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods and Results: From July 9 , 2020 to August 17 , 2020, four patients were identified with acute ischemic stroke with varying thrombus burden but similar morphological patterns of ILT. All patients had evidence of recent SARS-CoV-2 infection as confirmed by PCR (n=3) or IgG antibody (n=1) in addition to clinical and radiological manifestations consistent with COVID-19. General characteristics and imaging of the patients are shown in table 1. Mean age was 55.3 ±7.7 years. Most patients (3) had at least two vascular risk factors and none had a central embolic source other than ILT. D-Dimer was profoundly elevated in 3 patients. ILT involved the cervical (3) and intracranial (1) internal carotid artery. COVID-19 symptoms ranged from mild transient respiratory symptoms to severe pneumonia requiring critical care support. None of the patients received acute reperfusion therapy either due to presentation beyond the therapeutic window or due to the absence of large vessel occlusion and/or unfavorable imaging profile. Conclusion: In this small case series of relatively young patients with acute ischemic stroke we found an association between COVID-19 infection and ILT. This suggests a distinctive pathophysiological pattern of stroke in COVID-19 patients. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the underlying pathophysiology and target specific treatment modalities. (Figure Presented).
The "Y" Double Spiral Cord: An Anatomic Variant of Dupuytren Disease: A Report of 2 Cases.

Case We report 2 cases of a spiral nerve variant that has only 1 previously reported description in the literature. A pretendinous cord was found to branch into a "Y" configuration, extending distally on both the radial and ulnar sides of the same digit, with the radial and ulnar digital nerves spiraling around each limb of the "Y cord". Conclusion Rare spiral nerve variants exist which place the digital neurovascular bundles (NVBs) at risk. Awareness of these variants and adherence to conservative surgical principles allow the surgeon to identify these scenarios intraoperatively and safely dissect the digital NVBs free of pathologic tissue.
The effect of postoperative oral antibiotic therapy on the incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis after phacoemulsification surgery in dogs: 368 eyes (1997-2010).

Purpose To assess the effectiveness of postoperative administration of oral antibiotics at reducing the incidence of endophthalmitis following phacoemulsification cataract extraction in dogs. Methods Medical records of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine were reviewed for cases having undergone phacoemulsification and divided according to whether or not they had received oral antibiotics postoperatively. Records were then evaluated for a diagnosis of endophthalmitis and incidence rates between the group receiving postoperative oral antibiotics and the group not receiving postoperative oral antibiotics were compared. Results A total of 215 patients (368 eyes) were identified by the search. One-hundred twelve patients (197 eyes) were treated with oral antibiotics postoperatively. One-hundred and three patients (171 eyes) were not treated with oral antibiotics postoperatively. Three cases of endophthalmitis were identified, with one in the antibiotic-treated group and two in the non-antibiotic treated group (P > 0.05, Fisher's exact test). Conclusions The overall incidence of endophthalmitis at the University of Tennessee from 1997-2010 was 0.82%. The rate of post-phacoemulsification endophthalmitis was unaffected by the postoperative administration of oral antibiotics.
The Powerhouse of Language

IN HER MOST RECENT COLLECTION of poems, Alice Fulton uses her impressive verbal resources and dizzying mastery of form to explore the powers of congress. As she did in Palladium, Fulton allows the mul tiple meanings of a word (in this case, congress) to work as controlling metaphors for the collection. One of the powers of the United States Con gress, for example, is to wage war; and several poems ?"OVERLORD" and "Home Fires, 1943," most notably?take up the subject of warfare. In the largest sense, however, in the sense that informs most of these poems, the powers of congress are the powers that generate from coming together, from union ?especially sexual union. Exploring those powers of congress prompts Fulton to explore fundamental questions of being and origin. In Fulton's poems, humans are "towers/ of blood and ignorance" and any attainment of order is a "sculpted composure" that resists the "planless cascade" at the center of things. For Fulton, everything is something made and in time remade, from the planets to the mountains to the words we speak and the poems we tell. All things generated by congress form and reform. In this universe, there is no such creature as permanence, and our human desire for constancy leads only to trouble. In the title poem, Fulton begins by describing a universe in flux.
Distinct and Overlapping Features of Rumination and Worry: The Relationship of Cognitive Production to Negative Affective States

Worry and rumination are cognitive processes, often represented as verbal or linguistic activities. Despite similarities in definition and description, worry has been most closely examined in relation to anxiety whereas rumination has traditionally been related to depression. This distinction remains in spite of high rates of comorbidity between anxiety and depression. This study sought to better understand the distinct and overlapping features of worry and rumination as well as their relationship to anxiety and depression. Seven hundred eighty-four unselected college students completed self-report measures of worry, rumination, anxiety, and depression. Items from the respective worry and rumination scales were submitted to factor analysis, which revealed a four-factor solution comprised of 2 worry factors and 2 rumination factors. A Worry Engagement factor as well as a Dwelling on the Negative factor emerged as distilled measures of worry and rumination, respectively. Scores on these factors were highly correlated with each other and demonstrated equally strong relationships to both anxiety and depression. Findings from this study suggest that worry and rumination represent related but distinct cognitive processes that are similarly related to anxiety and depression.
Force-Based Interaction for Distributed Precision Assembly

This paper documents our efforts to instantiate force-guided cooperative behaviors between robotic agents in the minifactory environment. Minifactory incorporates high-precision 2-DOF robotic agents to perform micron-level precision 4-DOF assembly tasks. Here we utilize two mini-factory agents to perform compliant insertion. We present a custom force sensing device which has been developed as well as the control and communication systems used to coordinate the action of the agents. Finally, we conclude by presenting a set of experimental results which document the performance of the new force sensor as integrated in the minifactory system. These results document the first experimental confirmation of high-bandwidth (> 100Hz) coordination between agents within the minifactory system.
Relectura del discurso narrativo de las tres primeras décadas de la República cubana en el contexto de los rasgos de la picaresca

OF THE DISSERTATION RELECTURA DEL DISCURSO NARRATIVO DE LAS PRIMERAS TRES DECADAS DE LA REPUBLICA CUBANA EN EL CONTEXTO DE LOS RASGOS DE LA PICARESCA by Gisela Bencomo Florida International University, 2003 Miami, Florida Professor Reinaldo Sanchez, Major Professor The purpose of this dissertation was to study the narrative discourse of three Cuban novelists who produced their works from 1902 to 1933, using a typology that reveals a picaresque view of Cuban society. Focusing on La conjura and La manigua sentimental by Jesus Castellanos (1879-1912), Las honradas and Las impuras by Miguel de Carrion (1875-1929), and Generales y doctores and Juan Criollo by Carlos Loveira (1882-1928), this dissertation identified and defined picaresque traits and elements in the characterization, contrasting main and secondary, male and female characters, at all social levels. The study considered the theories of the Spanish picaresque novel proposed by Antonio Maravall, Americo Castro, Claudio Guillen, Marcel Bataillon, and other critics, in order to delineate a model of traditional picaresque behavior, which was then applied to the analysis of each
Privatization and Democracy: Resources in Administrative Law

Governing by contract in the U. S. today should be understood as integral to the processes, both political and economic, that made privatization a major domestic response to as well as driver of globalization. Faced with increased competition in global markets, the “Reagan revolution” responded with a domestic political program aimed, in part, at curtailing market regulation and other government functions in favor of “privatization.” Globalization as we understand it today in the United States is inseparable from its domestic politicization as neoliberal reform because they were, and are, interrelated as mutual cause and effect. Democratic and Republican administrations over the past two decades have claimed electoral mandates for government reforms under the banner of (in successive eras) “privatization,” “contracting out,” “competitive sourcing,” as well as other means of “disembedding” the state from the market. Today, the dominance of the public/private distinction as a feature of governance and contemporary political vocabulary makes it difficult for us to recognize these frames as something other than common sense categories, and their effects as anything other than a rational response to the natural operation of the global economy. It also makes it difficult to conceptualize alternatives. This essay argues that alternatives and the application of administrative law principles are necessary if we are to repair the democracy deficit attendant on the common sense view that markets and government operate in separate spheres, such that markets belong to a global sphere, while government is domestic.
Determining false-positives requires considering the totality of evidence

Fowler and Montagnes (1) independently replicate one finding in Healy et al. (2): that college football wins increase incumbent vote share. Although we interpret this result as evidence of irrelevant events impacting voters’ decisions, which is consistent with established theory in the psychological and decision sciences literatures, Fowler and Montagnes (1) conclude that chance is responsible. False-positives can occur. Consequently, we performed several tests to address that possibility (2), but Fowler and Montagnes (1) surprisingly ignore these analyses. Although replication and reanalysis are important to scientific discovery, one cannot selectively consider pieces of evidence when evaluating past research. Our consideration of the totality of evidence [the full results in Healy et al. (2) and the new results in Fowler and Montagnes (1)] leads us to conclude that college football games influence elections.
Time-resolved investigation of pulsed-DC magnetron reactive plasma

Summary form only given, as follows. DC reactive sputter deposition of dielectric films can be greatly affected by arcing. Observations have indicated that arcing is due to breakdown of the dielectric (oxide) film, which grows on the surface of the metal target as a result of positive charge accumulation. The use of pulsed-DC power in the pulsing frequency range of 20-350 kHz has been employed to reduce or eliminate arcing. Using duty cycles, which could be varied between 50% and 90%, plasma dynamics were studied. The relationships between various deposition process parameters (power, pressure, pulsing frequency, duty cycle, etc.) were studied using time-resolved general electrical, Langmuir probe and optical emission measurement techniques and the results are discussed.
Induction of p21WAF/CIP1 during Hyperoxia

p21WAF/CIP1 is an important regulator of cell cycle progression (1-4). When induced, p21WAF/CIP1 protein inhibits cell cycle progression at the G1/S interface, resulting in growth arrest of the cell. To determine if p21WAF/CIP1 is involved in growth arrest and lung injury during hyperoxia, several cell lines were exposed to high levels of hyperoxia. p21WAF/CIP1 was found to be induced by 72 h in all three cell lines. Next, using an in vivo model, p21WAF/CIP1 was found to be induced at both the mRNA and protein level in neonatal murine lung born and maintained in hyperoxia. Localization of p21WAF/CIP1 was found in the peripheral airway cells. Hyperoxia-induced p21WAF/CIP1 expression was then shown to be mediated through the p53 pathway, using adult p53 mutant mice. These studies demonstrated that p21WAF/CIP1 is induced both in cells grown in culture and in neonatal and adult lung exposed to high levels of hyperoxia. Localization of p21WAF/CIP1 expression to the peripheral airway cells suggests that p21WAF/...
In-Situ Permittivity Measurements using Ring Resonators

Proper development of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology requires a unique understanding of the electromagnetic (EM) properties of targets and background media. Thus, electromagnetic characterization of targets and backgrounds is fundamental to the success or failure of UWB GPR as a threat detection technique. In many cases, threats are buried in soil. Soil properties directly affect the radar signature of targets and determine the depth at which they can be detected by radar. One such property is permittivity. A portable system recently developed at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory measures permittivity in-situ with minimal disturbance of the dielectric sample. The measurement technique uses ring resonators. Design equations and physical dimensions are presented for fabricating resonators at frequencies between 600 MHz and 2 GHz. Only a handheld vector network analyzer, coaxial cabling, and the ring resonators are necessary for each measurement. Lookup curves generated in simulation are referenced to calculate the complex permittivity of the sample. The permittivity measurement is explained step-by-step, and data is presented for samples of soils from Ft. Irwin, California and Yuma, Arizona.
Toxoplasma gondii: Cold Stress-Induced Modulation of Antibody Responses

Abstract Aviles, H. O., and Monroy, F. P. 2001. Toxoplasma gondii: Cold stress-induced modulation of antibody responses. Experimental Parasitology 99, 89–96. Physical or psychological stressors have been shown to have significant consequences in the immune function and the outcome of disease in human and animal models. Recent work has demonstrated that products released during stress, such as glucocorticoids and catecholamines, can profoundly influence the in vitro growth of pathogens by modulating immune responses. The present study examined the effects of a physical stressor (cold stress) on antigens of Toxoplasma gondii that elicits an antibody-mediated immune response during the acute and chronic phases of infection. Sera obtained from different groups of mice subjected to cold stress during the acute and chronic phases of T. gondii infection were used to measure the levels of antibodies and to localize by Western blot the dominant antigens eliciting IgG and IgM antibody responses. Serum antibodies collected from stressed and infected mice recognized antigens different from those recognized by infected mice without stress. During the acute phase, a stronger IgM antibody response against antigens of 30, 42, 54, and 60 kDa was detected in stressed animals at 3 weeks postinfection. In addition, a 5-kDa antigen was specifically detected in mice subjected to stress during the acute and chronic phases of infection. Levels of specific IgG were increased in infected and in infected and stressed animals that underwent stress in the chronic phase. IgM production did not increase following cold stress in the chronic phase. These results suggest that the strong antibody response in stressed animals is associated with longer parasite persistence in circulation. Stress modulated not only the host immune response but also the ability of parasite antigens to elicit specific antibody responses by the host.
Lake ecosystem effects associated with top-predator removal due to selenium toxicity

We examined the fish and zooplankton composition of Belews Lake, a 1,564-ha impoundment located in north-central North Carolina, which experienced a temporary surge of selenium that subsequently eliminated piscivorous fish stocks from the lake basin. Beginning in 1974 and ending in 2004, we focused on three 14 month sampling periods. In 1974/1975 the piscivorous fish community was comparable to that of near-by lakes. In the high selenium impact period of 1985/1986 piscivorous fish species were eliminated from the lake basin. In 2003/2004 piscivorous species again constituted a significant component of the fish community of the lake, although fish species diversity declined significantly. Lepomis cyanellus, which had been limited to 63% from 1993 to 2004. Macrozooplankton density was >17 times higher in 1974/1975 than in 1985/1986. During 1985/1986, all cladocera except the smallest species were eliminated or were present at extremely low densities. As the piscivore population at Belews Lake returned to its pre-impact density, macrozooplankton recovered to baseline levels for density, raw species counts, and Shannon–Wiener diversity. Since zooplankton is resistant to selenium at the exposure levels experienced at Belews Lake, we attribute the changes in the restructuring of the zooplankton community and phytoplankton densities to changes in top-down predation.
Cell-based bio-optical sensors using chalcogenide fibers

An optical bio-sensor is built based on an infrared chalcogenide fiber coated with live cells. The fiber is immersed in an aqueous media appropriate for cell viability. The response of the cells to small quantities of toxicant can be monitored spectroscopically. The properties of chalcogenide fibers used for cell-based biosensors are investigated. The chemical stability of Te-As-Se fibers in aqueous media is shown to depend on the previous storage time of the fiber. Older fibers are shown to generate an oxide layer during extended exposure to air. This layer readily dissolves in aqueous solution and causes the release of As in the cell environment. The release of As during dissolution of the oxide layer is measured with ICP-MS and is shown to be complete after a couple hours. Fresh fibers do not show any detectable oxide layer and show excellent stability in aqueous solution. The surface roughness of old and fresh fibers is investigated with AFM before and after dissolution in aqueous media. Old fibers immersed in solution show sizable roughness due to the oxide surface layer dissolution. Fresh fibers do not show any detectable changes even after extended immersion in aqueous solution. The toxicity of As to various types of vertebrate cells is quantified using a colorimetric assay. Old fibers are shown to be notably toxic due to As released during dissolution. The fiber toxicity is shown to decrease when the fibers are previously washed in solution. The toxicity of the resulting wash water is then shown to increase due to the increase in As concentration.
DFQL: dataflow query language for relational databases

Abstract This paper proposes a new query language, DFQL, which has been designed to mitigate SQL's ease-of-use problems. DFQL provides a graphical interface based on the dataflow paradigm in order to allow a user to construct queries easily and incrementally for a relational database. DFQL is relationally complete, maintains relational operational closure, and is designed to be easily extensible by the end user. A prototype DFQL system has been implemented.
Applications Of Photorefractive Devices For Optical Computing

An introduction to photorefractive devices is provided, which compares the basic operation, fundamental functional capabilities, and performances of these devices. Applications of photorefractive devices for analog and digital parallel optical computing architectures and systems are discussed; their performance characteristics are evaluated with respect to theoretical and practical limitations and advances of current technology.
RAT DUODENAL SMOOTH MUSCLE CONTRACTILE RESPONSES TO ANGIOTENSIN II ARE DEPENDENT ON CALMODULIN

SUMMARY 1. Isolated duodenal segments were pretreated with either of the calmodulin inhibitors proadifien or trifluoroperazine and the subsequent contractile force and frequency response to angiotensin II monitored. 2. Both proadifien and trifluoroperazine decreased the spontaneous contractile force and frequency in isolated perfused duodenal segments and attenuated the force generation following exposure to angiotensin II. Proadifien and trifluoroperazine also altered the qualitative behaviour of duodenal segments. 3. These results suggest that the action of angiotensin II on duodenal smooth muscle motility is dependent on calmodulin. Furthermore, the change in qualitative behaviour of duodenal segments following treatment with calmodulin inhibitors suggest that the function of intrinsic intestinal neurons is also altered.
Electron Microscopic Analysis of Biofilm on Endotracheal Tubes Removed from Intubated Neonates

OBJECTIVE: To determine if the phenomenon of biofilm accumulation and associated microbial colonization occurs on the surface of endotracheal tubes in the region of the subglottis in neonates.METHODS: Endotracheal tubes removed from 9 consecutive neonatal patients intubated for more than 12 hours were processed (range, 13 hours to 8 days). A sterile control tube was also processed. For each, the portion of the endotracheal tube that had been in contact with the subglottis was determined using a previously published nomogram. A 1-cm-long cross-sectional segment of the endotracheal tube corresponding to the level of the subglottis was divided into 2 portions for both electron microscopy and aerobic/anaerobic cultures.RESULTS: Two of 9 (22%) luminal surface cultures grew Staphylococcus species, 1 (11%) grew normal flora, and 6 (66%) had no growth. Three of 9 (33%) outer-surface cultures grew Staphylococcus species, 1 (11%) had gram-negative rods on staining but a sterile culture, and one enterococcal contami...
Developing an internal auditing department balanced scorecard

This article demonstrates the use of the “Balanced Scorecard” methodology developed by Kaplan and Norton in selecting performance measures for internal auditing departments. It then describes: professional standards and guidance concerning the use of performance measures and benchmarking; the “Balanced Scorecard” methodology; and a comprehensive example. Finally, this article concludes with specific recommendations concerning the use of performance measures.
Type X Silicon Carbide Presolar Grains: Type Ia Supernova Condensates?

In terms of nucleosynthesis issues alone, we demonstrate that the type X silicon carbide particles have chemical and isotopic compositions resembling those from explosive helium burning in 14N-rich matter. These particles are extracted chemically from meteorites and were once interstellar particles. They have already been identi-ed by their discoverers as supernova particles on the basis of their isotopic composi- tions, but we argue that they are from supernovae of Type Ia that explode with a cap of helium atop their CO structure. The relative abundances of the isotopes of C and Si and trace N, Mg, and Ca match those in the X particles without need of complicated and arbitrary mixing postulates. Furthermore, both C and Si abundances are enhanced and more abundant than O, which suggests that SiC is in fact the natural condensate of such matter. We also brieNy address special issues relevant to the growth of dust within Type Ia interiors during their expansions. Subject headings: dust, extinction E ISM: abundances E ISM: molecules E nuclear reactions, nucleosynthesis, abundances E supernovae: general
Negative magnetoresistance in Cr-containing diamond-like carbon-based heterostructures

We have characterized the local structure around the Cr atom, as a function of Cr content, in films of chromium-doped hydrogenated amorphous diamond-like carbon (Cr-DLC) synthesized by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). The composition appears to be related to the structure and forward bias magnetoresistance in heterojunction devices. Chromium in diamond-like carbon (DLC) has a chemical state much like chromium carbide and, at low Cr content, the Cr is dissolved in an amorphous DLC matrix forming an atomic-scale composite. At higher Cr content, Cr is present as nano-composite and chromium carbide precipitates preferentially form at the surface of the film. In these films of higher chromium concentration, a large coefficient of negative magnetoresistance is observed in heterojunction devices with n-type silicon.
The time-asymptotic behavior of vortex breakdown in tubes

Abstract Numerical solutions of unsteady, viscous, swirling flows that experience vortex breakdown in a pipe were obtained. Solutions were computed assuming rotational symmetry and frictionless flow at the pipe wall. Both time-independent and time-varying (ramp to steady-state) vortex properties were specified at the inlet. Time-asymptotic solutions were found to be in agreement with results of calculations using the governing equations in steady-state form. However, where, as a function of vortex strength, multiple equilibrium solutions of the Navier-Stokes were admissible, time-asymptotic behavior was found to be sensitive to initial condition and the rate at which vortex strength was varied at the inlet. Time-asympototic solutions either exhibited vortex breakdown (i.e., reversed flow was present) or were quasi-cylindrical in nature.
Nonlinear feedback control of multivariable non-minimum-phase processes

Abstract A new method of controlling nonlinear processes with a non-minimum-phase delay-free part is presented. Two control laws are derived for stable, multiple-input multiple-output processes. They are obtained by requesting an approximately linear, input–output response and exploiting the connections between model-predictive control and input–output linearization. Conditions under which the closed-loop system is asymptotically stable are given. The application and performance of the control laws are illustrated using numerical simulation of two chemical reactor examples that exhibit non-minimum-phase behavior.
Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetric Measurements of Trace Molybdenum at the Bismuth Film Electrode

Bismuth-film electrodes on glassy-carbon substrates have been successfully applied for adsorptive-stripping voltammetric measurements of trace molybdenum in the presence of chloranilic acid (CAA). The procedure is based on the preconcentration of the molybdenum-chloranilic acid complex at a preplated bismuth film electrode held at −0.55 V (vs. Ag/AgCl), followed by a negatively-sweeping square-wave voltammetric scan. Factors influencing the adsorptive stripping performance, including different ligands, solution pH, CAA concentration, preconcentration time and potential, have been optimized. The response compares favorably with that observed at mercury film electrodes, and is linear over the 5–50 μg/L Mo concentration range (one min preconcentration). A detection limit of 0.2 μg/L molybdenum is obtained following a 10 min accumulation. High stability is indicated from the reproducible response of a 100 μg/L molybdenum solution (n= 60; RSD=2.6%). Applicability to seawater samples is demonstrated.
Normalization of network generalized extreme value models

Abstract Generalized extreme value (GEV) models provide a convenient way to model choice behavior that is consistent with utility maximization theory, but the development of specific new models within the GEV family has been slow, due to the difficulty of ensuring new formulations comply with all the GEV rules. The network GEV structure introduced by Daly and Bierlaire [Daly, A. and M. Bierlaire, 2006. A general and operational representation of Generalised Extreme Value models. Transportation Research Part B, v. 40, pp. 285-305.] provides a tool to quickly generate new models in the GEV family, without the burden of complex analysis of the new model to ensure its properties. This paper further develops the network GEV tool, describing several methodologies for correctly normalizing the allocation parameters in such models, to ensure unbiasedness. These methods vary depending on the structure of the underlying network.
Calculation of optical excitations in cubic semiconductors. I. Electronic structure and linear response.

The electronic structures and the linear optical dielectric functions of 18 cubic semiconductors are studied by the first-principles orthogonalized linear-combination-of-atomic-orbitals (OLCAO) method in the local-density approximation. The crystals studied include the group-IV semiconductors C, Si, and Ge; the III-V compounds AlP, AlAs, AlSb, GaP, GaAs, GaSb, InP, InAs, InSb; and the II-VI semiconductors ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, CdS, CdSe, and CdTe. Results are presented for the band structures, for the density of states, and for the real and imaginary parts of the linear dielectric functions for photon energies up to 12 eV. The results are compared with other existing calculations and experimental data. Some interesting correlations and trends among the 18 semiconductors studied are pointed out, and possible problems with the optical excitation calculation are discussed. These results provide the groundwork for the calculation of nonlinear optical properties on these crystals using the full band-structure approach in the two papers to follow. It is argued that optical excitations in semiconductors can be efficiently carried out using the OLCAO method without resorting to empirical methods or model studies. The present calculation gives band gaps larger than the well-converged result of first-principles pseudopotential calculations. The consequence of this difference on the optical properties is discussed.
Evaluation of a Novel Seal for Space Applications

To meet the requirements of future exploration missions to low Earth orbit, to the moon, and to Mars, a new docking system was developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. A gas pressure seal is positioned at the interface between the twomating halves of the newdocking system. This interface sealmust operate across a wide range of temperatures while maintaining acceptable performance levels of both leak rate and the load required to compress the seal. A novel subscale test article was designed andmanufactured for evaluation purposes. The candidate seal was composed of a primary and a redundant elastomer seal retained by a metallic ring. The elastomer used to manufacture the seal was Esterline ELA-SA-401. The seal performance was characterized at environmental conditions across the representative system operational temperature range of 58 to 167 F.With a pressure differential of 14.7 psid applied, themass leak rate of air was quantified when the seal was fully compressed and at two levels of partial compression. The highest leak rate observed, 13:1 10 7 lbm=day-in:, was recorded when the seal was partially compressed at the highest test temperature. The force required to compress the seal increased with the test temperature and the largest force, 3700 lbf , was recorded at the highest test temperature. When compared with the system leak rate and compression force requirements, the seal met all of the requirements for all of the configurations tested.
Di-μ-thiolbis(tricarbonyliron),(μ-HS)2 Fe2(CO)6: an inorganic mimic of organic thiols

Abstract Di-μ-thiolbis(tricarbonyliron) reacts at room temperature with organic halides in the presence of triethylamine to give high yields of products in wh
The Punishment Dilemma

Abstract The punishment issue is immersed in a maze of complicated issues, assumptions and competing ideologies. Some of these are considered. Factors contributing to the dilemma are considered. Questions and selected comments are offered concerning the major contenders in the dilemma-retribution, deterrence, rehabilitation and integration. The resolution of the punishment must ultimately come to terms with the question, what values do we try to support and sustain and what values do we sacrifice and deempha-size? The punishment issue is imbedded in a maze of complicated issues, conflicts, and erroneous beliefs. This paper raises a variety of questions, considers some of the areas which in this writer's opinion need to be addressed in dealing with the punishment dilemma, presents selected observations with respect to the major competing theories of punishment and offers some concluding observations on the subject.
Intergenic regions of Borrelia plasmids contain phylogenetically conserved RNA secondary structure motifs

Borrelia species are unusual in that they contain a large number of linear and circular plasmids. Many of these plasmids have long intergenic regions. These regions have many fragmented genes, repeated sequences and appear to be in a state of flux, but they may serve as reservoirs for evolutionary change and/or maintain stable motifs such as small RNA genes. In an in silico study, intergenic regions of Borrelia plasmids were scanned for phylogenetically conserved stem loop structures that may represent functional units at the RNA level. Five repeat sequences were found that could fold into stable RNA-type stem loop structures, three of which are closely linked to protein genes, one of which is a member of the Borrelia lipoprotein_1 super family genes and another is the complement regulator-acquiring surface protein_1 (CRASP-1) family. Modeled secondary structures of repeat sequences display numerous base-pair compensatory changes in stem regions, including C-G→A-U transversions when orthologous sequences are compared. Base-pair compensatory changes constitute strong evidence for phylogenetic conservation of secondary structure. Intergenic regions of Borrelia species carry evolutionarily stable RNA secondary structure motifs. Of major interest is that some motifs are associated with protein genes that show large sequence variability. The cell may conserve these RNA motifs whereas allow a large flux in amino acid sequence, possibly to create new virulence factors but with associated RNA motifs intact.
Low long-term erosion rates and extreme continental stability documented by ancient (U-Th)/He dates

Zircon and apatite crystals from the western Canadian shield yield (U-Th)/He dates that are the oldest yet reported for terrestrial rocks. Zircon dates from 1.73 to 1.58 Ga are consistent with independent geological and thermochronological constraints, and indicate that the rocks were at temperatures ≤180 °C and crustal depths ≤7–10 km since ca. 1.7 Ga. Apatite dates from 0.95 to 0.55 Ga suggest residence of rocks at temperatures ≤40–50 °C and crustal depths ≤1.5–2 km for ∼1.0–0.6 b.y., when interpreted using conventionally accepted apatite He diffusion kinetics and considering the proposed effect of radiation damage on apatite He retentivity. Our analysis implies long-term integrated unroofing rates of ≤2.5 μm/yr since ca. 1.7 Ga. These rates are significantly lower than the long-term rates suggested by previous thermochronological data sets in continental interiors, but are within the range of short-term erosional estimates. The results are consistent with the extreme stability of this region since the Proterozoic.
Fear of success as a situational phenomenon

This study was designed to determine whether different arousing situations will generate different responses in fear-of-success (FOS) and performance behavior. Female subjects were given instructions stating that the tasks they were going to complete would later be evaluated by a panel of males, females, or persons in order to determine whether the panel would select them as a potential friend, co-worker, or acquaintance. Results indicated that no significant differences in FOS were due to the different situations. However, there was evidence to conclude that level of performance behavior depends on the situation in which it is measured. Possible explanations for the failure to find FOS situational are discussed, as well as the inability to explain the significant interaction in performance behavior.
Grassroots Peacebuilding and Vertical Integration: A Case Study of the Peace-Rings Approach:

This article examines the practicalities of grassroots peacebuilding and discusses challenges they present to vertical integration through a case study of the Northern Uganda Early Recovery Project...
The Solidification of PEEK. Part II: Kinetics:

Crystallization at constant temperature and under nonisothermal conditions was analyzed using the time-temperature-transformation concept. The correlation between isothermal and continuous cooling ...
A theoretical investigation of tautomeric equilibria and proton transfer in isolated and hydrated thiocytosine

Abstract The results of an ab initio post Hartree–Fock study of the relative stabilities and mechanism of intramolecular proton transfer in isolated and monohydrated thiocytosine are reported. The geometries of local minima and transition states were optimized without symmetry restrictions by the gradient procedure at the HF and MP2 levels of theory and were verified by energy second derivative calculations. The standard 6-31G(d) basis set was used. The single point calculations have been performed at the MP4(SDQ)/6-31+G(d,p)//MP2/6-31G(d) and MP2/6-311++G(d,p)//MP2/6-31G(d) approximations. The post Hartree–Fock ab initio theory predicts different distributions of the tautomers for cytosine and thiocytosine both in the gas phase and in polar media (PCM solvation model). Interaction of thiocytosine tautomers with one water molecule decreases the difference in the energies of the two most stable tautomers significantly but does not change the order of the stability of tautomers. However, five water molecules forming a first solvation shell change the stability pattern. The heights of the barriers of sulfur-involved proton transfers in thiocytosine are much smaller than analogous barriers in cytosine. In contrast, corresponding barriers for the complexes with one water molecule are higher in thiocytosine.
Time-resolved UV fluorescence spectroscopy of aorta using 320-nm excitation

Fluorescence decay of aorta and its fluorophores has been studied at 380, 440, and 480 nm using 320 nm picosecond dye laser excitation and time-correlated single photon counting technique. Fluorescence decay was found to be nonexponential at all emission frequencies. Fluorescence decay at 380 nm shows biggest differences between normal and plaque tissues.
Combination chemotherapy with cisplatin and nifedipine: synergistic antitumor effects against a cisplatin-resistant subline of the B16 amelanotic melanoma

Cisplatin has become one of the most commonly prescribed cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents. Unfortunately, the cure rate is low due to the development or outgrowth of cisplatin-resistant cells which repopulate tumors, resulting in patient death. We reported previously that the calcium channel blocker nifedipine enhances the antitumour actions of cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (II)) against murine tumors which are inherently cisplatin-sensitive (B16a) or inherently cisplatin-resistant (ML). We have developed an induced cisplatin-resistant tumor variant (B16a-Pt) that is 30 times more resistant to cisplatin than its cisplatin-sensitive parent line. In short-term studies, we report that nifedipine significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of cisplatin against primary B16a-Pt tumors and their spontaneous pulmonary metastases. In long term studies, we report that combination therapy with nifedipine and cisplatin results in significantly enhanced survival.