cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kinetics of DC Discharge Plasma Polymerization of Hexamethyldisiloxane and Pyrrole

This paper investigates DC plasma polymerization kinetics by combining plasma parameters with film deposition rate in different conditions. The monomers hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) and pyrrole were used. Both single and double Langmuir probes were used to measure the plasma parameters in pulsed power and continuous discharges. In order to avoid probe tip contamination, the probe was heated. Plasma density and electron temperature are reported. The electron current wave form is obtained in pulse power conditions. From the data, a plasma polymerization model is proposed. The conclusion is that the monomer molecules and free radicals adsorbed on the substrate surface react with activated sites produced by high energy ions bombarding the film, resulting in polymerization at the film surface.
Looking beyond the model: Data input, collection, and analysis with SAS ® simulation studio

Discrete-event simulation as a methodology is often inextricably intertwined with many other forms of analytics. Source data often must be repaired or processed before being used (indirectly or directly) to characterize variation in a simulation model. Collection of simulated data needs to coordinate with and support the evaluation of performance metrics in the model. Or it might be necessary to integrate other analytics into a simulation model to capture particular complexities in the real world system. We show how SAS Simulation Studio, as an integral part of the SAS analytic ecosystem, enables you to tackle all of these challenges. You have full control over the use of input data and the creation of simulated data. Strong experimental design capabilities mean you can simulate for all needed scenarios. Additionally, you c an embed any SAS analytic program-optimization, data mining, or otherwise-directly into the execution of your simulation model.
Promoting Conditional Use of Communication Skills for Learners With Complex Communication Needs: A Tutorial.

Purpose Conditional use of communication skills refers to the ability of a learner to appropriately generalize and discriminate when, where, and how to communicate based on constant variation and s...
Quality Efforts for Reducing Mortality in Neurosurgery

Abstract Recently, mortality rates have increasingly been used as proxies for quality of care and determinants of hospital reimbursements. As a result, there has been an emphasis on implementing various quality initiatives in order to help reduce the disparaging mortality rates. When reviewing the quality and safety initiatives in neurosurgery, the best approaches are multifactorial. Recent quality improvement initiatives have focused on three main goals including (1) improvement of communication and coordination of care between providers, (2) enhancement of documentation to more accurately reflect patients' severity of illness, and (3) implementation of prospective reviews of adverse events. Hospitals and neurosurgery departments are encouraged to employ and report the impact of their respective quality initiatives, as well as detail the interventions in order to optimize the best approach in reducing neurosurgery mortality rates and improving overall patient care.
Marijuana in pregnancy.

Introduction The prevalence of recreational drug abuse among young adults, including women, has increased markedly over the last 2 decades. Nearly 90 % of these women are of childbearing age. Marijuana remains the drug most commonly used for recreational purposes in pregnancy. However, there appears to be an absence of uniform guidelines for obstetric and anaesthetic management of pregnant patients with a history of marijuana abuse. Materials and methods A Medline search for articles highlighting drug abuse in pregnancy, with particular emphasis on marijuana abuse in pregnancy, the drug 's impact on the fetus and implications for administration of obstetrical anaesthesia was performed. Results Because the pharmacological actions of marijuana are complex and include a unique blend of effects, the clinical picture could be very unpredictable, the diagnosis often difficult, and management at times controversial. Conclusion In the absence of uniform anaesthetic guidelines for pregnant patients with a history of drug abuse, including abuse of marijuana, the decision regarding administration of peripartum analgesia or anaesthesia should be individualised and conducted on a case-by-case basis.
Management of Eyelid Malposition in Thyroid Eye Disease

The ocular manifestations of Graves’ ophthalmopathy or thyroid eye disease (TED) include retraction and malposition of the upper and lower eyelids, strabismus due to infiltrative changes of the extraocular muscles, proptosis, globe exposure with keratitis, and optic neuropathy due to apical compression of the optic nerve [1–5]. Most patients presenting with TED have been treated or are in the course of treatment for thyroid dysfunction; therefore significant eye disease often occurs at a time when the patient is systemically euthyroid [5]. Orbital manifestations of TED and their management are considered elsewhere in this text. This chapter focuses on eyelid malpositions that are associated with TED.
Human Rights Theory, 1: What Are 'Human Rights'? Against the 'Orthodox' View

This is the first in a series of papers I plan to post in the next few months. Each paper addresses an issue, or a set of related issues, in Human Rights Theory. The overarching subject of the first two papers — of this paper and the next one — is the morality of human rights, which has become, in the period since the end of the Second World War, a global political morality.In this paper, I address the question “What are ‘human rights’?” Despite its ubiquity in contemporary political-moral discourse, the term “human rights” has no canonical meaning. As British philosopher James Griffin has observed, “[t]he term ‘human right’ is nearly criterionless. There are unusually few criteria for determining when the term is used correctly and when incorrectly — and not just among politicians, but among philosophers, political theorists, and jurisprudents as well.” John Tasioulas has claimed that the term has an “orthodox” meaning, which Tasioulas endorses: “rights possessed by all human beings simply in virtue of their humanity.” However, in the context of the principal contemporary discourse about human rights — discourse about international human rights — the orthodox meaning is mistaken, as I explain in this paper. I also explain here both the sense in which some human rights are legal rights and the sense in which some human rights are moral rights.Then, in the next paper, I pursue this inquiry: What reason (or reasons) do we have, if any, to take human rights seriously; more precisely, what reason do we have, if any, to live our lives in accord with this imperative, which is articulated in the very first article of the foundational human rights document of our time, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and which is the very heart of the morality of human rights: “Act towards all human beings in a spirit of brotherhood.” See Michael J. Perry, “Human Rights Theory, 2: What Reason Do We Have, if Any, to Take Human Rights Seriously? Beyond ‘Human Dignity’” (2015), http://ssrn.com/abstract=2597404.
Patterns of Pain in Adolescents with Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis.

Objective To prospectively characterize pain locations in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) and evaluate pain locations as predictors of a delay in diagnosis. Study design This was an institutional review board approved prospective study of 110 children who underwent surgery for SCFE at a tertiary children's hospital between 2009 and 2015. Standardized pain diagrams were completed by 107 children. Pain zones were designated via a composite diagram. Hips without hip pain were categorized as atypical; hips with hip pain were typical. Results In total, 122 hips were eligible for pain zone analysis. Seventy hips (57.4%) had hip pain. Atypical pain was present in 52 hips (42.6%), which included groin pain in 17 hips (13.9%), thigh/leg pain in 43 (35.2%), knee pain in 32 (26.2%), and posterolateral pain of the hip and leg in 13 (10.7%). A combination of pain zones was present in 48 hips (39.3%). Forty-nine percent of patients had more than 1 visit until diagnosis. The three most common pain locations for typical hips were hip, hip/thigh, and hip/knee pain (77.2% of typical hips). The 3 most common pain locations for atypical hips were isolated thigh, knee, and groin (65.4% of atypical hips). The least common pain presentations had a longer duration of symptoms (P = .04) and more healthcare visits before diagnosis (P = .04). Conclusions A combination of pain locations is common in SCFE. Less frequent pain presentations may delay diagnosis. Delays in diagnosis continue despite education efforts.
Responsive membranes for advanced separations

External physico-chemical switches may modulate the performances of stimuli-responsive membranes. The switches can be turned on and off in three different ways. Sites on a membrane can interact and respond to incoming chemical agents directly. Alternatively a membrane can respond to global environmental changes such as temperature or pressure. These two mechanisms involve mass transport or mass and heat transport. The switches for field-responsive membranes, on the other hand, are external fields, where mass transport or mass and heat transport between the environment and membrane are not required. Guided by advances in modern computational methods, stimuli-responsive membranes represent a new class of advanced membranes that are finding numerous niche applications.
Breathing Easier: Decreasing Tracheal Intubation-associated Adverse Events in the Pediatric ED and Urgent Care.

Tracheal intubation is a high-risk procedure in the pediatric emergency department (PED) and pediatric urgent care (PUC) settings. We aimed to develop an airway safety intervention to decrease severe tracheal intubation-associated adverse events (TIAEs) by decreasing process variation. Methods After gathering baseline data on TIAE, an interdisciplinary team underwent a mini-Delphi process to identify key drivers for decreasing severe TIAE rates. We launched a 4-part airway safety bundle that included: (1) color-coded weight-based equipment chart, (2) visual schematic of airway equipment, (3) recommended medication dosing, and (4) safety checklist across a single, tertiary PED and 5 satellite community PUCs/PEDs. Multiple plan-do-study-act cycles were undertaken, and results were monitored using statistical process control charts. Charts were restaged when special cause variation was achieved. This study aimed to decrease the severe TIAE rate from a baseline of 23% in the tertiary site and 25% in the community sites to <15% within 12 months and to sustain these outcomes for 6 months. Results During the study period, we noted decreased rates of severe TIAE in both the PED and PUC setting during the intervention period, and we have sustained this improvement for more than 6 months in all sites with no associated change in balancing measures. Conclusions Implementation of an airway safety bundle over a wide geographic area and among personnel with variable levels of training is possible and has the potential to decrease severe TIAE across multiple clinical settings.
Effects of development tax on leapfrog sprawl in a thinly traded land market

A behavior-driven agent-based model of exurban land market is used to assess the effectiveness of development tax on the control of leapfrog development. Acknowledging the stylized fact that land demand decreases while the supply increases along the urban-rural gradient, we show that development tax becomes ineffective when it limits the market competition on undeveloped land.
Random access channel assignment on a collision erasure channel

Channel assignment for wireless radios employing random access is found in several contexts, including low-power wide area network (LPWAN) protocols such as LoRaWAN. This paper considers the assignment of a set of N radios to M available channels with the objective of maximizing the sum throughput. The difficulty lies in the facts that i) the radios connect to the access point (or gateway) over independent erasure channels and ii) the radios are subject to collision, i.e., if two or more packets arrive at the access point on the same channel then all such packets "collide" and are lost. The problem is approached by defining lower and upper bounds on the throughput, and then extremizing the bounds. Initial numerical results for M = 2 channels suggest i) there is notable variation in sum throughput across problem instances, but ii) the impact of scheduling on the throughput for a given problem instance is relatively small.
The Value of Heterogeneity in Practices to Promote Ethical Research.

In this paper, Mergenthaler and colleagues (2020) solicit perspectives and practices from investigators who conduct intracranial electrophysiology studies, focusing on investigators’ (i) practices ...
Priority Scheduling for Multi-Function Apertures with Hard- and Soft-Time Constraints

A multi-function aperture (MFA) is an antenna array that supports multiple RF signals for a diverse set of activities. An MFA may support multiple activities simultaneously if they are compatible, and platforms may utilize multiple MFAs to meet field-of-regard and frequency range requirements. Efficient MFA utilization requires a Resource Manager (RM) that routes signals to the correct MFA based on field-of-view and other requirements, and schedules MFA access to resolve conflicts based on request priority. An efficient RM scheduler time-interleaves requests from different activities as needed. Requested access events may be hard-time-that is, the event must be scheduled at a specified time or not at all, or soft-time, indicating it may be scheduled anytime in a specified window. Hard-time events include communications channels with assigned time slots, and soft-time events include asynchronous communications channels. This paper describes and evaluates an optimal algorithm to jointly schedule sequences of hard-time requests, maximizing the number of scheduled events while meeting priority requirements. An extension of this algorithm provides near-optimal schedules for sequences of soft-time or mixed hard- and soft-time events. Algorithms are evaluated by simulation, using two conflict models. The first is based on fixed signal paths that conflict if two paths share a common resource. The second model assumes the RM dynamically assigns resources. As implemented, these algorithms are too slow for real-time operation, and further work is required. They do provide insight into the MFA management problem, a useful metric for evaluating resource sharing and scheduling approaches, and may suggest efficient sub-optimal algorithms.
Parenting self-efficacy in fathers of medically complex infants: A longitudinal study

Abstract Introduction Infants with medical complexity have multiple complex chronic conditions and require specialized intensive care. One important factor in optimizing infant health and development is parenting self-efficacy (PSE). The purpose of this study was to examine parental self-efficacy in fathers over time. Methods A longitudinal survey study was conducted with fathers of medically complex infants. We used the validated Karitane Parent Confidence Scale to assess PSE and multivariable linear regression examined the associations between father and infant characteristics on PSE. Results Fathers (n = 27) were white (74%), married (85%), high school educated (37%), with incomes ≥ $US50,000 (66%). Father's mean PSE score was 39.28 (±3.9). Hispanic ethnicity and total number of chronic conditions were significant predictors of lower PSE in fathers. Conclusions Fathers of medically complex infants reported low PSE. More strategic interventions need to focus on self-efficacy and creating opportunities for connection between fathers and infants.
Historical and projected datasets of the United States electricity-water-climate nexus

Abstract This article describes datasets that were produced in connection with the research article: “Visualizing the United States electricity-water-climate nexus” published in Environmental Modeling and Software ( https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsoft.2021.105128 ). Data cover 9,961 individual power plants across the United States, including monthly values for electricity generation, greenhouse gas emissions, water withdrawal, and water consumption between 2003 and 2020, as well as projections out to 2050. Data were retrieved from publicly available sources and processed for the purpose of providing plant-level information that can be aggregated according to various user needs. Power plant information was retrieved from the US EPA Facility Registry Service (FRS) web service through the filter of “EIA860.” For these plants, we retrieved electricity generation, greenhouse emission, water consumption, and water withdrawal of each plant from heterogeneous data sources, including web services and files, clean and process them, and save them in our database tables. We filled remaining data gaps using a coefficient-based approach. This data article describes metadata and methods for producing the historical and projected datasets in the format of CSV files. The datasets are beneficial for researchers to view electricity generation in the context of emissions and water usage at the granularity of power plants, such as for data analysis and machine learning. These data also can be aggregated to different spatial scales, such as watershed, county, state, and national level, according to different analytical needs. In addition, decision makers can use these data for future energy and resource allocations with the awareness of emission and water constraints.
Retroviruses and cancer genes.

Publisher Summary The oncogenic potential of many animal viruses is now well established, and the use of tumor viruses now dominates efforts to dissect the mechanisms of tumorigenesis. Although several themes appear to unite oncogenesis by diverse viral agents, and each family of tumor viruses has important distinctive features, it is the retroviruses that have provided the most coherent and penetrating view of tumorigenesis. Three features of retroviruses account for this sentiment. First, the oncogenes of retroviruses have proved exceptionally accessible to definition and study, and as a consequence, they have provided first glimpse of enzymatic mechanisms responsible for neoplastic transformation. Second, the diversity of retrovirus oncogenes has provided a rich set of oncogenic agents whose versatility far exceeds that of DNA tumor virus oncogenes, and whose tumorigenic capacities provide separate experimental models for most major forms of malignancy. Finally, oncogenes appear not to be indigenous components of retrovirus genomes, but instead have been transduced from normal genetic loci of the vertebrate hosts in which retroviruses replicate.
The Biggest Idea in Development That No One Really Tried

A question that continues to puzzle development economists is why, despite tremendous efforts to the contrary, we do not see a consistent pattern of wealth convergence between the developed and developing worlds. Drawing upon the post-Apartheid experience of South Africa in which black South Africans were allowed for the first time to migrate to central Johannesburg, Clemens argues that dismantling restrictions on international migration could play an important role in closing the international wealth gap between rich and poor.
Correlation between annual volume of cystectomy, professional staffing, and outcomes: a statewide, population-based study.

BACKGROUND The association between high procedure volume and lower perioperative mortality is well established among cancer patients who undergo cystectomy. However, to the authors' knowledge, the association between volume and perioperative complications has not been studied to date and hospital characteristics contributing to the volume-outcome correlation are unknown. In the current study, the authors studied these associations, emphasizing hospital factors that contribute to the volume-outcome correlation. METHODS Multiple-variable models of inpatient mortality and complications were developed among all 1302 bladder carcinoma patients who underwent cystectomy between January 1, 1999 and December 31, 2001 in all Texas hospitals. General estimating equations were used to adjust for clustering within the 133 hospitals. Data were obtained from hospital claims, the 2000 U.S. Census, and databases from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the American Hospital Association. RESULTS Complications were reported to occur in 12% of patients, 2.2% of whom died. Mortality was higher in low-volume hospitals compared with high-volume hospitals (3.1% vs. 0.7%; P < 0.001); mortality in moderate-volume hospitals was reported to be intermediate (2.9%). After adjustment for advanced age and comorbid conditions, treatment in high-volume hospitals was associated with lower risks of mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 0.35; P = 0.02) and complications (OR = 0.53; P = 0.01). Hospitals with a high registered nurse-to-patient ratio also had a lower mortality risk (OR = 0.43; P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Mortality after cystectomy was found to be significantly lower in high-volume hospitals, regardless of patient age. Referral to a hospital performing greater than 10 cystectomies annually is indicated for all patients. However, patients with poor access to a high-volume hospital may derive similar benefit from treatment at a hospital with a high-registered nurse-to-patient ratio. This finding requires further confirmation. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
A simple analytical model of a probe-based traffic information system

As traffic congestion continues to worsen, the need for accurate, timely traffic information becomes stronger. With recent advances in technology, a growing number of vehicles are now equipped with wireless communication systems and global positioning satellite (GPS) sensors. Using such vehicles as mobile traffic probes has the promise of accurate and timely information without large infrastructure construction and maintenance expenses. To address some of the basic design and feasibility questions for the concept of using probe vehicles to provide real-time traffic information, an analytical model was developed that examines the relationships between key system parameters. The results of this modeling show that a real-time traffic information system based on probe vehicles is very feasible, and should work for freeways at penetrations over 3%, while surface roads would require more than 5%.
Prevalence and risk factors for musculoskeletal problems associated with microlaryngeal surgery: a national survey.

Objectives/Hypothesis Microlaryngeal surgery (MLS) presents ergonomic challenges to surgeons and potential risks for developing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSSx). This study describes prevalence and risk factors of MLS-associated MSSx. Study Design Cross-sectional survey. Methods A questionnaire was administered to members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Outcome measures related to surgeon demographics, training, MLS experience, operating room setup, experience of MSSx in relation to MLS, treatment sought, and practice changes due to MSSx. Results Response rate was 9.2% (n = 476); 83% reported musculoskeletal symptoms during MLS, and 21% reported rest breaks during MLS. Taking breaks was independently associated with back support lack (odds ratio [OR] = 2.08) and surgery lasting >30 minutes (OR = 1.68). Areas most commonly affected were neck, upper back, shoulder, and lower back. Ten percent reported treatment for MLS-related MSSx. Some respondents reported major practice changes due to MSSx, including fewer cases, ceasing to perform MLS, applying for disability, and early retirement. Conclusions Musculoskeletal symptoms are common (83%) among surgeons performing microlaryngeal surgery. Findings suggest multiple factors may contribute to development of MSSx in otolaryngologists. Risk factors for MSSx and taking breaks during surgery include average case operating time >30 minutes and absence of back support. Previous studies have identified neck flexion and lack of arm support as associated with risk of musculoskeletal injury. This study demonstrates that MSSx related to surgery do occur in otolaryngologists, and that poor surgical ergonomics may play a role. Surgeons should consider proper support and positioning during MLS to protect their health. Level of Evidence NA Laryngoscope, 124:1854–1861, 2014
High‐grade contact metamorphism in the Reykjanes geothermal system: Implications for fluid‐rock interactions at mid‐oceanic ridge spreading centers

Granoblastic hornfels identified in cuttings from the Reykjanes seawater-dominated hydrothermal system contains secondary pyroxene, anorthite, and hornblendic amphibole in locally equilibrated assemblages. Granoblastic assemblages containing secondary orthopyroxene, olivine, and, locally, cordierite and spinel occur within groups of cuttings that show dominantly greenschist facies hydrothermal alteration. Granoblastic plagioclase ranges continuously in composition from An54 to An96, in contrast with relict igneous plagioclase that ranges from An42 to An80. Typical hydrothermal clinopyroxene compositions range from Wo49En3Fs48 to Wo53En30Fo17; clinopyroxene from the granoblastic grains is less calcic with an average composition of Wo48En27Fs25. The hornfels is interpreted to form during contact metamorphism in response to dike emplacement, resulting in local recrystallization of previously hydrothermally altered basalts. Temperatures of granoblastic recrystallization estimated from the 2-pyroxene geothermometer range from 927°C to 967°C. Redox estimates based on the 2-oxide oxybarometer range from log fO2 of −13.4 to −15.9. Granoblastic hornfels comprised of clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene, and calcic plagioclase have been described in a number of ancient hydrothermal systems from the conductive boundary layer between the hydrothermal system and the underlying magma source, most notably in Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Hole 1256D, Ocean Drilling Program Hole 504B, and in the Troodos and Oman ophiolites. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence of high-grade contact metamorphism from an active geothermal system and the first description of equilibrated amphibole-absent pyroxene hornfels facies contact metamorphism in any mid-ocean ridge (MOR) hydrothermal system. This contribution describes how these assemblages develop through metamorphic reactions and allows us to predict that higher-temperature assemblages may also be present in MOR systems.
Identifying the Sources of Community Corrections Professionals’ Attitudes About Sex Offender Residence Restrictions: The Impact of Demographics and Perceptions

Over the past two decades, a number of different types of policies have been developed to govern sex offenders. Sex offender residence restriction policies have proliferated as part of this growth in sex offender policies. Several studies have focused on how different types of respondents perceive these policies. These studies show that individuals have mixed perceptions about the policies. Less attention has been given to the factors that influence professionals’ attitudes about sex offender residence restriction. In this study, 716 community corrections professionals were surveyed in an effort to identify how they framed their perceptions about residence restriction. Specific attention was given to the impact of demographic factors, education, and perceptions of the fairness and efficacy of sex offender policies. Results show that support for the policies is tied to gender, education, and perceptions of fairness and effectiveness. Implications are discussed.
I/O reference behavior of production database workloads and the TPC benchmarks—an analysis at the logical level

As improvements in processor performance continue to far outpace improvements in storage performance, I/O is increasingly the bottleneck in computer systems, especially in large database systems that manage huge amoungs of data. The key to achieving good I/O performance is to thoroughly understand its characteristics. In this article we present a comprehensive analysis of the logical I/O reference behavior of the peak productiondatabase workloads from ten of the world's largest corporations. In particular, we focus on how these workloads respond to different techniques for caching, prefetching, and write buffering. Our findings include several broadly applicable rules of thumb that describe how effective the various I/O optimization techniques are for the production workloads. For instance, our results indicate that the buffer pool miss ratio tends to be related to the ratio of buffer pool size to data size by an inverse square root rule. A similar fourth root rule relates the write miss ratio and the ration of buffer pool size to data size. In addition, we characterize the reference characteristics of workloads similar to the Transaction Processing Performance Council (TPC) benchmarks C (TPC-C) and D(TPC-D), which are de facto standard performance measures for online transaction processing (OLTP) systems and decision support systems (DSS), respectively. Since benchmarks such as TPC-C and TPC-D can only be used effectively if their strengths and limitations are understood, a major focus of our analysis is to identify aspects of the benchmarks that stress the system differently than the production workloads. We discover that for the most part, the reference behavior of TPC-C and TPC-D fall within the range of behavior exhibited by the production workloads. However, there are some noteworthy exceptions that affect well-known I/O optimization techniques such as caching (LRU is further from the optimal for TPC-C, while there is little sharing of pages between transactions for TPC-D), prefetching (TPC-C exhibits no significant sequentiality), and write buffering (write buffering is lees effective for the TPC benchmarks). While the two TPC benchmarks generally complement one another in reflecting the characteristics of the production workloads, there remain aspects of the real workloads that are not represented by either of the benchmarks.
Analysis of the QQQ spot and option volatility behaviour around the QQQ move from AMEX to NASDAQ

In this paper, we study the behaviour of QQQ volatility in the spot and option markets around QQQ's move from AMEX to NASDAQ on 1 December 2004. We test whether the QQQ option implied volatility has changed around this event and whether this was a result of a change in spot volatility or hedging demand. We find that indeed the QQQ option implied volatility has changed around the time of the move. We document that neither QQQ spot volatility nor speculation has had an impact on the implied volatility change. We find that investor hedging activity is the driving force behind this change, in support of Bollen and Whaley's net buying pressure hypothesis. To the best of our knowledge, analysis of spot and option markets around moves of trading from one exchange to another and name changes have not been done before.
Interleukin-6 modulates interferon-regulated gene expression by inducing the ISGF3 gamma gene using CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-beta(C/EBP-beta).

Abstract Although interleukin-6 (IL-6) alone does not induce the expression of IFN stimulated genes (ISG), a low dose priming of cells with IL-6 strongly enhances the cellular responses to interferon-α (IFN-α). This effect of IL-6 is not due to superstimulation of the JAK-STAT pathway. Rather, IL-6 induces expression of ISGF3γ (p48), a subunit of the multimeric transcription factor ISGF3. As a result IFN-α robustly activates gene transcription in IL-6 primed cells. We have shown earlier that the transcription of ISGF3γ gene is regulated through a novel element GATE (gamma-IFN activated transcriptional element). We show here IL-6 induces the ISGF3γ gene through GATE. Transcription factor C/EBP-β is required for inducing ISGF3γ gene expression through GATE. A mutant C/EBP-β inhibits the IL-6 inducible ISGF3γ gene expression through GATE. Together, these results establish a molecular basis for the synergy between IFNs and IL-6.
An inventory investment model for a rent-to-own firm

Presentation d'un algorithme simple pour calculer le nombre optimal d'unites a louer en stock, qui utilise une analyse incrementale pour minimiser les couts anticipes de detention et de rupture de stock par unite de temps
Release of DNA template restrictions in rabbit spermatozoa and rat liver nuclei

The effects of disulfide reduction on DNA template activity of rabbit sperm and rat liver nuclei are compared. After treatment of rabbit spermatozoa with 5 mM dithiothreitol and 1% Triton X-100 for 90 minutes at room temperature, sperm nuclei decondense and nuclear template restrictions for DNA synthesis are released. By contrast, similar thiol treatment of isolated rat liver nuclei fails to release DNA template restrictions. These results suggest a significant difference in the control of template activity in mammalian sperm and somatic cell nuclei.
SOME NOTES ON CONDITIONED SUPPRESSION AND REINFORCEMENT SCHEDULES

Two pigeons were trained on an FR 150 schedule of reinforcement. An Estes-Skinner conditioned suppression procedure was then superimposed on this performance at varied intervals. If the CS occurred during the early stages of the ratio run, complete suppression resulted. If the CS occurred during the later stages of the run, the birds continued to respond until the reinforcement was obtained, which was then followed by complete suppression.
Elastoidin: A two-component member of the collagen class☆

Abstract Elastoidin, a member of the collagen class of proteins, proves to be a tightly bonded mixture of a characteristic collagen which may be extracted by autoclaving as a water-soluble gelatin, and a water-insoluble, tyrosine-rich residue. The cleaned fibers of three species of selachian fishes yielded 14 to 26% of the insoluble residue, containing 18 to 25% tyrosine.
How treatment monitoring is influencing treatment decisions in glioblastomas.

Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common malignant primary tumor in adults, carries a dismal prognosis with an average median survival of 14–16 months. The current standard of care for newly diagnosed GBM consists of maximal safe resection followed by fractionated radiotherapy combined with concurrent temozolomide and 6 to 12 cycles of adjuvant temozolomide. The determination of treatment response and clinical decision-making in the treatment of GBM depends on accurate radiographic assessment. Differentiating treatment response from tumor progression is challenging and combines long-term follow-up using standard MRI, with assessing clinical status and corticosteroid dependency. At progression, bevacizumab is the mainstay of treatment. Incorporation of antiangiogenic therapies leads to rapid blood-brain barrier normalization with remarkable radiographic response often not accompanied by the expected survival benefit, further complicating imaging assessment. Improved radiographic interpretation criteria, such as the Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) criteria, incorporate non-enhancing disease but still fall short of definitely distinguishing tumor progression, pseudoresponse, and pseudoprogression. With new evolving treatment modalities for this devastating disease, advanced imaging modalities are increasingly becoming part of routine clinical care in a field where neuroimaging has such essential role in guiding treatment decisions and defining clinical trial eligibility and efficacy.
Natural Disasters and Nontuberculous Mycobacteria: A Recipe for Increased Disease?

Infectious diseases acquired by survivors of large-scale natural disasters complicate the recovery process. During events such as tsunamis, hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornados and well into the recovery period, victims often are exposed to water-soil mixtures that have relocated with indigenous microbes. Because nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous in water and soil, there is potential for increased exposure to these organisms during natural disasters. In this hypothesis-driven commentary, we discuss the rise in NTM lung disease and natural disasters and examine the geographic overlap of NTM infections and disaster frequencies in the United States. Moreover, we show an increased number of positive NTM cultures from Louisiana residents in the years following three of the relatively recent epic hurricanes and posit that such natural disasters may help to drive the increased number of NTM infections. Finally, we advocate for increased environmental studies and surveillance of NTM infections before and after natural disasters.
The relationship of application risks to application controls: a study of microcomputer-based database applications

End-user computing has posed serious concerns to MIS professionals for a number of years. One of the primary concerns harbored by MIS professionals is the quality of the end-user applications that are developed by those whose primary function and training are outside the information systems field. MIS professionals are naturally apprehensive about the applications developed by relatively naive users. These professionals fear that the applications developed will not possess sufficient controls and that these poorly controlled applications will create significant risks to the users and to the organizations for which they work.
2-Deoxyribose Radicals in the Gas Phase and Aqueous Solution. Transient Intermediates of Hydrogen Atom Abstraction from 2-Deoxyribofuranose

A computational study at correlated levels of theory is reported to address the structures and energetics of transient radicals produced by hydrogen atom abstraction from C-1, C-2, C-3 C-4, C-5, O-1, 0-3, and O-5 positions in 2-deoxyribofuranose in the gas phase and in aqueous solution. In general, the carbon-centered radicals are found to be thermodynamically and kinetically more stable than the oxygen-centered ones. The most stable gas-phase radical, 2-deoxyribofuranos-S-yl (5), is produced by H-atom abstraction from C-5 and stabilized by an intramolecular hydrogen bond between the 0-5 hydroxy group and 0-1. The order of radical stabilities is altered in aqueous solution due to different solvation free energies. These prefer conformers that lack intramolecular hydrogen bonds and expose O-H bonds to the solvent. Carbon-centered deoxyribose radicals can undergo competitive dissociations by loss of H atoms, OH radical, or by ring cleavages that all require threshold dissociation or transition state energies >100 kJ mol - 1 . This points to largely non-specific dissociations of 2-deoxyribose radicals when produced by exothermic hydrogen atom abstraction from the saccharide molecule. Oxygen-centered 2-deoxyribose radicals show only marginal thermodynamic and kinetic stability and are expected to readily fragment upon formation.
Cluster free energies and nucleation: a density functional approach

Density functional methods of statistical mechanics are applied to calculate the average density profiles and free energies of small (50–500 particles) liquid clusters in unstable or metastable equilibrium with respect to the vapor. The results are compared with those obtained from experiments on homogeneous nucleation of liquids from the vapor.
Dialogism and Polyphony in Organizing Theorizing in Organization Studies: Action Guiding Anticipations and the Continuous Creation of Novelty

Bakhtin's ideas of polyphony and dialogism in language are explored as ways of organizing our thinking in organizational theorizing. Traditionally, language has been thought of as an already established, self-contained system of linguistic communication that sets out a set of rules or social conventions that people make use of in expressing themselves. In this account, what could be called the intellectualist, Cartesian account of language, people understand the linguistic representations contained or encoded in each other's sentences. However, another account—a relationally responsive, emotionalvolitional account articulated by Bakhtin (1981, 1984, 1986, 1993), along with a number of others, such as Wittgenstein, Merleau-Ponty, James, and Bergson—is of a much more dynamic, participatory, relational kind. In it, language and the world are intertwined in a dialogical or chiasmic relation with each other, in which we are shaped just as much, if not more, by the world, as the world by us. Indeed, in arguing ...
Knowing your Rights: A Cross‐Cultural Study

Regardless of their income level, Dutch consumers often appear to lack knowledge of the legal remedies available to them under today's consumer protection laws, and this study measures their familiarity with laws regarding deceptive advertising, door‐to‐door selling, warranties, truth‐in‐lending, labelling and other marketing practices. The findings are compared to those of earlier research performed in the US, and what are needed in both countries are more effective ways of informing all consumers of their rights.
Meta-analysis with heteroscedastic effects

To enhance the utility of meta-analysis as an integrative tool for marketing research, heteroscedastic MLE (HMLE), a maximum-likelihood-based estimation procedure, is proposed as a method that over...
Development and testing of HMD display formats for M1A2 tank commanders

This paper presents a brief overview of the Combat Vehicle Crew Helmet Mounted Display (CVCHMD) enhanced user system which allows M1A2 rank commanders to accesss electronic battlefield information while out of hatch. The system provides the same information as the commanders independent display located in the turret of the M1A2, but provides it on a HMD. This paper describes the development and testing of the prototype CVCHMD symbology and screens. It discusses the design trade-offs of providing a maximum amount of information while keeping the HMD screens clutter free. It describes the systems symbology, screen layout, and functionality. This paper also describes tests conducted with the enhanced user system by integrating it into an M1A2 tank simulator at the Army's Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) facility at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The DIS testing showed that the CVCHMD enhanced user system would greatly cut down on the number of times an M1A2 tank commander would have to jump back into the tank turret, thus increasing the amount of time they could spend out of hatch. The testing also showed that the system can improve the fightability and survivability of the M1A2 tank.
A new method of investigating recrystallization on the basis of positron annihilation

Abstract It is shown that the volume fraction of recrystallized material can be directly determined from the relative change of the peak counting rate of the angular correlation curve. Isothermal measurements of plastically deformed Ni of 99.99% purity are compared with the results available in the literature.
Infarct size reduction: a review of the clinical trials

The most important finding to emerge from this review of experimental and clinical studies is that the earlier therapy is begun after the onset of symptoms of acute MI, the greater the potential for reduction of infarct size and possibly mortality. It is difficult to define a precise time after which therapy would not have an effect, since the clinical trials for each drug group vary significantly in respect to time of therapy initiation. In experimental studies, major salvage of ischemic myocardium occurs when the drug is given within two hours of coronary artery occlusion. If drug therapy is begun four to six hours postocclusion, then only minor or no reductions in infarct size will occur. The ability of any drug or intervention to reduce infarct size in humans would be optimized if therapy were begun less than four hours of onset of symptoms. With the realization of the wavefront phenomenon and the potential salvage of myocardium at risk with reperfusion, the introduction of reperfusion in the clinical setting with thrombolytic agents or other procedures becomes highly desirable. Clot-selective thrombolytic agents, such as tissue plasminogen activator, diminish the adverse effects and high costs of intracoronary thrombolytic therapy or PTCA. Consequently, it is probable that the initial procedure of choice would be the use of clot-selective thrombolytic therapy. Thrombolytic therapy only lyses thrombi and does not affect the underlying causes of the coronary artery occlusion. Therefore, therapy to reduce the chances of reinfarction and death must also be initiated. Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, in selected patients, should reduce the reocclusion rate. Beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents appear to be an excellent therapy for reducing mortality when administered chronically; these agents reduce myocardial oxygen consumption and reverse the imbalance between oxygen supply and oxygen demand caused by activation of the sympathetic nervous system and actions of catecholamines. Since thrombus formation has occurred at least once in patients who survive an MI, it is probable that the conditions for thrombus formation still exist. Therefore, institution of antiplatelet aggregating drugs, such as aspirin, would seem to be an appropriate prophylactic regimen. Beta blockers and possibly nitroglycerin have desirable effects when thrombolysis is unavailable. The efficacy of calcium-channel blocking agents on reduction of infarct size appears to be limited, although in the setting of stable and unstable angina postinfarction, these agents can play an important role.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Introduction to the XV International Symposium on Very High Energy Cosmic Ray Interactions

A brief history of this conference series is noted, with particular reference to the most recent meeting in Weihai, China in 2006 and the meeting in Tarbes in 1990. The historically relevant emulsion chamber results are recalled, and the promise of the CERN Large Hadron Collider experiments in this area of physics is discussed.
Engaging rational discrimination: exploring reasons for placing regulatory constraints on decision support systems

In the future systems of ambient intelligence will include decision support systems that will automate the process of discrimination among people that seek entry into environments and to engage in search of the opportunities that are available there. This article argues that these systems must be subject to active and continuous assessment and regulation because of the ways in which they are likely to contribute to economic and social inequality. This regulatory constraint must involve limitations on the collection and use of information about individuals and groups. The article explores a variety of rationales or justifications for establishing these limits. It emphasizes the unintended consequences that flow from the use of these systems as the most compelling rationale.