cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Labour market regulation and subjective well‐being in low‐income countries

A growing literature suggests social democratic policies, as exemplified by the welfare state and active labour market policies, promote higher levels of life satisfaction compared to the neoliberal agenda of austerity, smaller government and more ‘flexible’ labour markets. In this article, this inquiry is extended to low‐income countries. A theoretical argument is developed for why labour market regulation (LMR) (rather than social welfare spending or the general size of government) is a more appropriate locus of attention outside of the industrial democracies. The relationship between LMR and several measures of well‐being is then empirically evaluated, finding robust evidence that people live more satisfying lives in countries that more stringently regulate their labour market. Moreover, it is found that positive benefits of LMR on well‐being are the largest among individuals with lower incomes. The implications for public policy and the study of human well‐being are discussed.
Broensted Acid Catalyzed Intramolecular Benzylic Cyclizations of Alkylpyridines.

A series of hydroxyl lactams (II), (V), and (VIII) is prepared by benzylic cyclization of corresponding ketoamides using TfOH as a catalyst.
Structure of the full-length Clostridium difficile toxin B.

Clostridium difficile is an opportunistic pathogen that establishes in the colon when the gut microbiota are disrupted by antibiotics or disease. C. difficile infection (CDI) is largely caused by two virulence factors, TcdA and TcdB. Here, we report a 3.87-A-resolution crystal structure of TcdB holotoxin that captures a unique conformation of TcdB at endosomal pH. Complementary biophysical studies suggest that the C-terminal combined repetitive oligopeptides (CROPs) domain of TcdB is dynamic and can sample open and closed conformations that may facilitate modulation of TcdB activity in response to environmental and cellular cues during intoxication. Furthermore, we report three crystal structures of TcdB-antibody complexes that reveal how antibodies could specifically inhibit the activities of individual TcdB domains. Our studies provide novel insight into the structure and function of TcdB holotoxin and identify intrinsic vulnerabilities that could be exploited to develop new therapeutics and vaccines for the treatment of CDI.
The missing indicator approach for censored covariates subject to limit of detection in logistic regression models.

Abstract Purpose In several biomedical studies, one or more exposures of interest may be subject to nonrandom missingness because of the failure of the measurement assay at levels below its limit of detection. This issue is commonly encountered in studies of the metabolome using tandem mass spectrometry–based technologies. Owing to a large number of metabolites measured in these studies, preserving statistical power is of utmost interest. In this article, we evaluate the small sample properties of the missing indicator approach in logistic and conditional logistic regression models. Methods For nested case-control or matched case control study designs, we evaluate the bias, power, and type I error associated with the missing indicator method using simulation. We compare the missing indicator approach to complete case analysis and several imputation approaches. Results We show that under a variety of settings, the missing indicator approach outperforms complete case analysis and other imputation approaches with regard to bias, mean squared error, and power. Conclusions For nested case-control and matched study designs of modest sample sizes, the missing indicator model minimizes loss of information and thus provides an attractive alternative to the oft-used complete case analysis and other imputation approaches.
The Impact of V2G on the Distribution System: Power Factors and Power Loss Issues

V2G penetration into the electric distribution system is growing. It comes with many prospects. However, it comes with several system operational issues. The key consideration of this study is to investigate how V2G would impact the power factors and the power losses in an electrical distribution system with V2G units. The attractiveness of this paper hinges on the use of V2G to bring about: (1) power loss reduction, and (2) possible control of power factor. The results obtained in this paper show that higher power factors ameliorate feeder line loses, thereby increasing the operational energy efficiency and reliability of the electric power system. It is believed that power system operators would find this study very insightful.
Percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy effectively debrides tendons of the extensor mechanism of the knee: A technical note.

Abstract Background Percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy (PUT) is a minimally-invasive method of treating patellar tendinosis, but its immediate effect on tendon structure has never been studied. Given the crucial nature of the extensor mechanism of the knee, it is important to understand the procedure's effect on tendon structure prior to clinical implementation. The aim of this study was to analyze the tendon structure of the extensor mechanism of the knee after PUT in a cadaveric model. Methods Four fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens (two patellar and two quadriceps tendons) underwent PUT. The tendons were then sectioned and stained with hematoxilin & eosin (H&E). The sections were analyzed for a clear area of debridement. The area of debridement was calculated as an average of three measurements. Results All four tendons demonstrated a clear area of debridement limited to the treatment area without damaging any surrounding tissue. The area of debridement for the patellar and quadriceps tendons treated was 2.89 mm2, 1.5 mm2, 2.98 mm2 and 7.29 mm2, respectively. Conclusions Percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy effectively debrided the treatment area in all tendons without damaging surrounding tissue. Further work is needed to report clinical outcomes, assess the risk of post-procedure tendon rupture and define return-to-sport progression.
Vesicle Navigation of Microtubule Ends Distinguished by A Single Rate-Constant Model

Axonal motor driven cargo utilizes the microtubule cytoskeleton in order to direct cargo, such as presynaptic vesicle precursors, to where they are needed. This transport requires vesicles to travel up to microns in distance. It has recently been observed that finite microtubule lengths can act as roadblocks inhibiting vesicles and increasing the time required for transport. Vesicles reach the end of a microtubule and pause until they can navigate to a neighboring microtubule in order to continue transport. The mechanism by which axonal vesicles navigate the end of a microtubule in order to continue mobility is unknown. In this manuscript we model experimentally observed vesicle pausing at microtubule ends in C. elegans. We show that a single rate-constant model reproduces the time vesicles pause at MT-ends. This model is based on the time a vesicle must detach from its current microtubule and re-attach to a neighboring microtubule. We show that vesicle pause times are different for anterograde and retrograde motion, suggesting that vesicles utilize different proteins at plus and minus end sites. Last, we show that vesicles do not likely utilize a tug-of-war like mechanism and reverse direction in order to navigate microtubule ends.
Detecting Potential Overbilling in Medicare Reimbursement via Hours Worked: Comment

Fang and Gong (2017) develop a procedure to detect potential overbilling of Medicare by physicians. In their empirical analysis, they use aggregated claims data that can overstate the number of services performed due to features of Medicare billing. In this comment, I show how auditors can use detailed claims-level data to better target improper overbilling.
Lateral Axillary Exposure for Antegrade Access during Endovascular Repair of Complex Abdominal Aortic and Thoracoabdominal Aneurysms.

Background During endovascular treatment of pararenal aortic aneurysms (PAA) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA), our antegrade vascular access of choice is a lateral axillary exposure (LAE). We directly access the axillary artery with multiple sheaths followed by primary closure of the axillary artery at case completion. The aim of this study is to describe our technique and to report our results with this approach. Methods This study is a single-institution, retrospective review of 53 patients who were treated with parallel grafts for endovascular repair of PAA and TAAA from 2006 to 2018. The aortic repairs requiring LAE included: 9 cases of endo-leaks from prior endovascular repair, 20 TAAAs, and 24 PAAs. The axillary artery was exposed with a vertical axillary skin incision followed by retraction of the lateral border of the pectoralis major to expose the axillary artery distal to the pectoralis minor. A 5-French (F) through 12F sheaths were used to directly access the axillary artery for delivery of endovascular devices. Results Two hundred and sixty reno-visceral stents were delivered through 125 axillary sheaths in an antegrade fashion to 114 arteries without intraoperative complications or technical failures. Two postoperative complications included an access-site hematoma managed conservatively (1.9%) and a left brachial vein thrombosis treated with anticoagulation (1.9%). There were no cases of cerebrovascular or peripheral neurologic events, upper extremity ischemia, or reoperation related to LAE. Conclusions LAE is a valid approach for upper extremity access during the endovascular repair of complex aortic aneurysms requiring simultaneous delivery of multiple reno-visceral devices. It does not require the use of a prosthetic conduit. There were no neurologic events or upper extremity ischemia in our series.
Implicit Communication Through Social Distancing: Can Social Navigation Communicate Social Norms?

Socially-aware navigation seeks to codify the rules of human-human and human-robot proxemics using formal planning algorithms. However, the rules that define these proxemic systems are highly sensitive to a variety of contextual factors. Recently, human proxemic norms have been heavily influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the guidelines put forth by the CDC and WHO encouraging people to maintain six feet of social distance. In this paper, we present a study of observer perceptions of a robot that not only follows this social distancing norm, but also leverages it to implicitly communicate disapproval of norm-violating behavior. Our results show that people can relate a robot's social navigation behavior to COVID safety protocols, and view robots that navigate in this way as more socially intelligent and safe.
Abstract 3046: In situ analysis of microenvironmental glycogen in Ewing's sarcoma patient samples by mass spectrometry imaging

Ewing9s sarcoma (ES) is a rare pediatric cancer of the bone and soft tissues affecting adolescents and young adults, with peak incidence from ages 10 to 15 years. A clinical feature of ES is the accumulation of Periodic acid-Schiff positive (PAS+) aggregates. PAS+ staining in ES histopathology analysis has been speculated to be glycogen accumulation, however, this has not been confirmed. To interrogate these aggregates, we developed a novel workflow for the high-sensitive detection of in situ glycogen via enzymatic release of glycogen substrates coupled to matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) from formalin-fixed patient tissues. We utilized this method to study the nature of PAS+ staining in a cohort of ES patient samples surgically removed from tibia, rib, chest, shoulder, abdomen and testicle tissues. Using this innovative technique, we discovered profound intra-tumoral glycogen accumulation compared to adjacent stroma, normal, muscle and/or necrotic tissue. Further, intra-tumoral glycogen also has an increased phosphate content and distinct chain length profile compared to normal glycogen found in adjacent and patient-matched tissue. Notably, genetic manipulation and pharmacological inhibition of glycogen synthesis, or removal of glycogen phosphates, blunted ES tumor growth in xenografted mouse models. These findings suggest an important role of ES glycogen aggregates in tumor growth. Together, application of this novel MALDI-IMS technique, and the insights provided by formalin-fixed ES patient samples, reveals a distinct role of ES glycogen aggregates and uncovers a new therapeutic opportunity for this rare pediatric cancer. Citation Format: Lyndsay E. Young, Lindsey R. Conroy, Harrison A. Clarke, Derek B. Allison, Richard R. Drake, Matthew S. Gentry, Ramon C. Sun. In situ analysis of microenvironmental glycogen in Ewing9s sarcoma patient samples by mass spectrometry imaging [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 3046.
Custodial grandchildren and foster children: A school performance comparison

Abstract Several nationwide and state-level programs exist to help the educational achievement and scholastic performance of foster children. However, most non-parental care is actually provided by grandparents. Prior research concerning the academic achievement and behaviors of custodial grandchildren is limited, with most current research using children raised by their parents as a comparison group. This study sought to compare custodial grandchildren instead to foster children, as they share similar background characteristics and circumstances for alternative care. The current study hypothesized that positive parenting practices would increase academic performance, and that differences would exist between foster children and custodial grandchildren in academic achievement. Secondly, it was hypothesized that caregiver role would moderate the relation between positive parenting practices and academic achievement. These hypotheses were mostly supported, in that custodial grandchildren were rated as having higher levels of self-control, persistence, and academic self-efficacy related to school. Beyond academic achievement, custodial grandchildren were reported as having less instances of behavioral misconduct. Additionally, caregiver type was found to be a significant moderator. These findings may help inform parenting practices and school interventions to better support children raised by non-parental caregivers.
A price for peace: troop contributing countries’ responses to peacekeeper fatalities

How do states respond to fatalities of their troops in UN peacekeeping operations (PKOs)? Recent research highlights that participation in peacekeeping is costly for most states. Personnel fataliti...
Direct Observation of Plasma-Stimulated Activation of Surface Species Using Multimodal In Situ/Operando Spectroscopy Combining Polarization-Modulation Infrared Reflection-Absorption Spectroscopy, Optical Emission Spectroscopy, and Mass Spectrometry.

Nonthermal plasmas (NTPs) produce reactive chemical environments, including electrons, ions, radicals, and vibrationally excited molecules, that can drive chemistry at temperatures at which such sp...
Anxiety and stress over COVID-19 pandemic associated with increased eating

Objective Stressful experiences can dramatically affect eating. The relatively sudden, global emergence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic served as a massive stressor to virtually all people, regardless of infection status. This study hypothesized that actual and perceived stressors from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, in the categories of recurring disruptions, environmental threat, and social isolation would be positively associated with increased self-reported eating in the United States (U.S.). Methods Over 1,100 English-fluent adults (52.8% women) living in the U.S. were recruited for a cross-sectional online survey about eating, COVID-19 consequences, and stress experiences. Linear regressions examined associations between perceived stress on five eating measures, and individual differences in personal/work situations, perceptions, and adverse experiences during the pandemic. Results Anxiety, worry, and stress over, rather than direct consequences of, COVID-19 were most consistently associated with self-reported increased eating. Largely, these fell into the stressor categories of environmental threat and social isolation, not recurring disruptions. Body mass index and current self-reported eating pathology symptoms were also consistently associated with these outcomes. Conclusions These correlational findings suggest specific stressors have pronounced influences on eating behavior of U.S. adults. Remotely deliverable stress mitigation strategies should be explored to attenuate increased eating. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Influence of Residual Tumor Volume and Radiation Dose Coverage in Outcomes for Clival Chordoma

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors associated with tumor control in clival chordomas. Methods and Materials A retrospective review of 39 patients treated with surgery and proton therapy for clival chordomas between 2004 and 2014 was performed. The median prescribed dose was 77.4 Gy (relative biological effectiveness [RBE]); range was 70.2-79.2 Gy (RBE). Minimum and median doses to gross tumor volume (GTV), radiation dose received by 1 cm 3 of GTV (D1cm 3 ), and the equivalent uniform dose were calculated. Receiver operating characteristics curves evaluated the predictive sensitivity and specificity for local failure of potential cutpoint values for GTV and D1cm 3 . Results After a median follow-up of 51 months, the 5-year estimate of local control (LC) was 69.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 50.0%-89.2%), and overall survival (OS) was 81.4% (95% CI: 65.3%-97.5%). Tumor histology, GTV at the time of radiation, and prescribed radiation dose were significantly associated with local control on multivariate analysis, whereas D1cm 3 was associated with overall survival. Compared to those patients whose conditions remained controlled, patients experiencing tumor failure had statistically significant larger GTVs and lower D1cm 3 , and prescribed and median doses to GTV. A subset of 21 patients with GTV of ≤20 cm 3 and D1cm 3 of >67 Gy (RBE) had a median follow-up of 47 months. The 5-year estimate of local control in this subset was 81.1% (95% CI: 61.7%-100%; P =.004, overall comparison by GTV ≤20 cm 3 stratified by D1cm 3 ). A D1cm 3 of 74.5 Gy (RBE) had 80% sensitivity for local control and 60% specificity, whereas a GTV of 9.3 cm 3 had 80% sensitivity for local control and 66.7% specificity. Conclusions Local control of clival chordomas was associated with both smaller size of residual tumor and more complete high-dose coverage of residual tumor. Multidisciplinary care should seek maximal safe surgical resection, particularly to facilitate delivery of high-dose radiation therapy in proximity to critical structures. A D1cm 3 ≥74.5 Gy (RBE) represents a proposed treatment planning objective.
Triaging patients to the ICU: a pilot study of factors influencing admission decisions and patient outcomes

To assess the appropriateness of ICU triage decisions. Prospective descriptive single-center study. Ten-bed, medical-surgical ICU in an acute-care 460-bed, tertiary care hospital. All patients triaged for admission were entered prospectively. None. Age, underlying diseases, admission diagnoses, Mortality Probability Model (MPM0) score, information available to ICU physicians, and mortality were recorded. Of the 334 patients (96% medical), 145 (46.4%) were refused. Reasons for refusal were being too-sick-to-benefit (48, 14%) and too-well-to-benefit (93, 28%). Factors independently associated with refusal were patient location, ICU physician seniority, bed availability, patient age, underlying diseases, and disability. Hospital mortality was 23% and 27% for patients admitted to our ICU and other ICUs, respectively, and 7.5% and 60% for patients too well and too sick to benefit, respectively. In the multivariate Cox model, McCabe = 1 [hazard ratio (HR), 0.44 (95% CI, 0.24–0.77), P=0.001], living at home without help (HR, 0.440, 95% CI, 0.28–0.68, P=0.0003), and immunosuppression (HR, 1.91, 95% CI, 1.09–3.33, P=0.02) were independent predictors of hospital death. Neither later ICU admission nor refusal was associated with cohort survival. MPM0 was not associated with hospital mortality. Refusal of ICU admission was related to the ability of the triaging physician to examine the patient, ICU physician seniority, patient age, underlying diseases, self-sufficiency, and number of beds available. Specific training of junior physicians in triaging might bring further improvements. Scores that are more accurate than the MPM0 are needed.
Immunologic Aspects of Renal Disease

In this chapter, I will review information on mechanisms of immune renal diseases published only during 1986-1987, with particular attention to new directions, concepts, and processes that may have significant implications for the future. In setting this course, I inevitably exclude from review isolated observations of interest that do not blend easily into currents of the field in general. In the second half of the chapter, I will review new data on clinical entities considered in the category of immune renal disease. Whenever possible, I have linked observations on disease mechanisms made experimentally with the clinical entities that are believed to result from them.
Consensual Sexual Intercourse

The article by Resnick and Blum1 in the December 1994 issue of Pediatrics disturbed me greatly. The authors contend that adolescents who report having had sexual intercourse at or before the age of 10 years, but did not indicate that they had been sexually abused, must have had consensual intercourse. The data was obtained from the Minnesota Adolescent Health Survey, which was completed by 9th through 12th grade students during the 1986 through 1987 school year.
The use of mobile technology for proactive healthcare in tribal communities

In Arizona, a state with one of the largest Native American populations in the United States, life expectancy is 55 years for Native Americans compared to 74 years for white Americans (Arizona Department of Health Services, 2000). Diabetes, in particular, is of epidemic proportions in most Native American communities; approximately 15 percent of those receiving healthcare from Indian Health Services are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, 2002).
Convex optimization methods for graphs and statistical modeling

An outstanding challenge in many problems throughout science and engineering is to succinctly characterize the relationships among a large number of interacting entities. Models based on graphs form one major thrust in this thesis, as graphs often provide a concise representation of the interactions among a large set of variables. A second major emphasis of this thesis are classes of structured models that satisfy certain algebraic constraints. The common theme underlying these approaches is the development of computational methods based on convex optimization, which are in turn useful in a broad array of problems in signal processing and machine learning. The specific contributions are as follows: • We propose a convex optimization method for decomposing the sum of a sparse matrix and a low-rank matrix into the individual components. Based on new rank-sparsity uncertainty principles, we give conditions under which the convex program exactly recovers the underlying components. • Building on the previous point, we describe a convex optimization approach to latent variable Gaussian graphical model selection. We provide theoretical guarantees of the statistical consistency of this convex program in the high-dimensional scaling regime in which the number of latent/observed variables grows with the number of samples of the observed variables. The algebraic varieties of sparse and low-rank matrices play a prominent role in this analysis. • We present a general convex optimization formulation for linear inverse problems, in which we have limited measurements in the form of linear functionals of a signal or model of interest. When these underlying models have algebraic structure, the resulting convex programs can be solved exactly or approximately via semidefinite programming. We provide sharp estimates (based on computing certain Gaussian statistics related to the underlying model geometry) of the number of generic linear measurements required for exact and robust recovery in a variety of settings. • We present convex graph invariants, which are invariants of a graph that are convex functions of the underlying adjacency matrix. Graph invariants characterize structural properties of a graph that do not depend on the labeling of the nodes; convex graph invariants constitute an important subclass, and they provide a systematic and unified computational framework based on convex optimization for solving a number of interesting graph problems. We emphasize a unified view of the underlying convex geometry common to these different frameworks. We describe applications of both these methods to problems in financial modeling and network analysis, and conclude with a discussion of directions for future research. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
Anomalous Origin of the Left Coronary Artery Arising from the Main Pulmonary Artery

Anomalous left coronary artery arising from the main pulmonary artery, although rare, should be differentiated from other diseases caus ing cardiomegaly or myocardial infarction in an acyanotic infant. A definitive diagnosis can be established by typical electrocardiographic, radioisotopic, and angiocardiographic findings. The clinical course is variable, depending on the age of onset and on the direction and magni tude of the blood flow through the anomalous vessel. Recent surgical advances offer new hopes for a better prognosis. Echocardiography and systolic time intervals are noninvasive means suitable for monitoring the myocardial functions periodically. The author suggests the use of nitro glycerin ointment as an important part of medical management, and the adoption of a modified surgical technique for coronary transferral in selected patients.
Pediatric Difficult Airway Management: Current Devices and Techniques

The anesthesiologist confronting the difficult pediatric airway is presented with a unique set of challenges. Adult difficult airway management techniques, such as awake or invasive approaches to airway management, often cannot be applied to children because of inadequate cooperation. Consequently, awake intubation in pediatrics is uncommon; most intubations are performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation. From a physiologic perspective, children have higher rates of oxygen consumption, significantly shortening the period of apnea that can be safely tolerated. Normal developmental anatomic differences of the pediatric airway and the presence of craniofacial dysmorphisms, presents additional challenges to tracheal intubation.
Reversal of diffusion restriction after embolization of dural arteriovenous fistula: case report.

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE: We report a rare case of diffusion restriction caused by venous hypertension resulting from a dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) that completely reversed after successful embolization. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: A 54-year-old man presented with symptoms secondary to a DAVF. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed left parieto-temporo-occipital diffusion restriction. The angiogram revealed a Cognard type III left lateral tentorial DAVF resulting in severe venous hypertension. Transarterial Onyx embolization was performed, resulting in angiographic cure of the fistula with normalization of the venous drainage in the left parieto-temporo-occipital region. A follow-up MRI examination performed 4 weeks after the embolization revealed resolution of the previously seen area of restricted diffusion. CONCLUSION: It is important to consider the possibility of diffusion restriction reversal, because misdiagnosis or the false assumption that irreversible cerebral infarction has occurred may inappropriately alter or delay the treatment of these aggressive lesions.
Health behavior change and the college personal health class: a multifaceted approach.

Abstract Both the literature review and the results of a behavioral change project conducted at the University of Oregon indicate that health courses can bring about positive lifestyle changes when behavior is made a focus of the class. A multi-faceted behavioral intervention strategy was developed and used with 433 students enrolled in personal health classes during the fall term, 1983. At the end of the term, 23% of the students reported they were 100% successful in obtaining their desired behavioral changes. Another 40% reported they had just missed their goal. Overall, it appears the intervention was highly successful. More research is needed to validate the approach.
Electronic contribution to friction on GaAs: An atomic force microscope study

The electronic contribution to friction at semiconductor surfaces was investigated by using a Pt-coated tip with 50 nm radius in an atomic force microscope sliding against an $n$-type GaAs(100) substrate. The GaAs surface was covered by an approximately 1 nm thick oxide layer. Charge accumulation or depletion was induced by the application of forward or reverse bias voltages. We observed a substantial increase in friction force in accumulation (forward bias) with respect to depletion (reverse bias). We propose a model based on the force exerted by the trapped charges that quantitatively explains the experimental observations of excess friction.
An Evolved eHealth Monitoring System for a Nuclear Medicine Department

The use of medical devices and wearable sensor-based systems to monitor patients' health conditions are continuously increasing both internally to hospitals and at home. In this paper we propose a system that is intended to monitor patients' physiological parameters to detect abnormal cardiac accelerations and patient falls in real-time. The core of this paper is the realization of a user-friendly and context-aware system that uses a rule-based Decision Support System to elaborate the captured sensors data. The paper also describes a case study where the system has revealed important benefits for both patients and medical staff.
Simulation of the color ratio associated with the backscattering of radiation by ice particles at the wavelengths of 0.532 and 1.064 μm

[1] This study explores a simulation of ice cloud optical properties similar to those observed using the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP), a dual-wavelength (0.532 and 1.064 μm) lidar. The goal is to better understand the sensitivity of the color ratio (the ratio of the backscatter coefficients at the wavelengths of 1.064 and 0.532 μm) to ice particle habit. The single-scattering properties of randomly oriented hexagonal ice particles are simulated from the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method for particles with size parameters less than 50, and from an improved geometric optics method (IGOM) for particles with larger size parameters (a quantity proportional to the ratio of the particle characteristic dimension to the incident wavelength). Based on the assumption that ice particles are hexagonal particles, the color ratio values are found to be less than unity with a peak value near 0.7 for columns and 0.8 for plates. If spherical ice particles are assumed, the color ratio values can be larger than unity and may even approach 2 for many size distributions. The deviation in the value of the color ratio from unity is due to different distributions of size parameters for the two wavelengths, and to smaller single-scattering albedo values for large particles at 1.064 μm than at 0.532 μm. The present simulations of the color ratio for hexagonal columns are qualitatively consistent with measurements from a ground-based lidar, located at Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, which peak near 0.88, but the two results differ quantitatively by 10–20 percent.
Oil-Isolated Hydrogel Microstructures for Sensitive Bioassays On-Chip

National Institutes of Health (U.S.). Center for Future Technologies in Cancer Care (U54-EB-015403-01)
The millimeter wave spectra of isocyanic and isothiocyanic acids

Abstract An investigation of the mm-wave rotational spectra of the very slightly asymmetric tops HNCS, DNCS, HNCO and DNCO has been carried out in the frequency range 80 000–190 000 Mc/sec. Several R -branch, a -type, transitions were observed for each molecule and the rotational constants A 0 , B 0 , and C 0 were determined for the four species containing the most abundant isotopes of N, C, O, or S. B 0 and C 0 were also found for HNCS 34 . The centrifugal distortion constant D J was obtained for each abundant form. The constants are HNCS: A 0 = 1 483 000 ± 167 000 Mc/sec, B 0 = 5883.42 ± 0.02 Mc/sec, C 0 = 5845.62 ± 0.02 Mc/sec, D j = 1.17 ± 0.05 Kc/sec; DNCS: A 0 = 723 400 ± 25 000 Mc/sec, B 0 = 5500.51 ± 0.05 Mc/sec, C 0 = 5445.26 ± 0.05 Mc/sec, D j = 1.22 ± 0.31 Kc/sec; HNCS 34 : B 0 = 5744.81 ± 0.20 Mc/sec, C 0 = 5708.73 ± 0.20 Mc/sec; HNCO: A 0 = 956 400 ± 50 000 Mc/sec, B 0 = 11 071.02 ± 0.05 Mc/sec, C 0 = 10 910.58 ± 0.05 Mc/sec, D j = 3.5 ± 0.5 Kc/sec; DNCO: A 0 = 534 500 ± 70 000 Mc/sec, B 0 = 10 313.61 ± 0.05 Mc/sec, C 0 = 10 079.67 ± 0.05 Mc/sec, D j = 2.9 ± 0.5 Kc/sec. The centrifugal distortion K -pattern is different in character for each of the four molecules. Agreement between calculation and experiment is obtained for HNCO and DNCO with the additional constants; HNCO; D JK = +837 Kc/sec, H JJK = −0.056 Kc/sec, H JKK = +2.81 Kc/sec. DNCO: D JK = −227.1 Kc/sec, H JJK = +0.15 Kc/sec, H JKK = −5.61 Kc/sec, H JJJ = 0, utilizing the expression given by Costain. This expression gives a poor fit for DNCS and no fit for HNCS, and at present no treatment has been found to fit or explain satisfactorily the K -patterns for these two molecules. An improved molecular structure has been calculated for HNCS the structural parameters being revised to r (HN) = 0.988 7 ± 0.003 A, r (NC) = 1.216 4 ± 0.007 A, r (CS) = 1.560 5 ± 0.003 A A number of lines due to rotational transitions of vibrationally excited molecules were also observed and are assigned to the states v 5 = 1 and v 6 = 1 for HNCS and HNCO and probably, in addition, v 4 = 1 for DNCS.
Antisense RNA, fur, iron, and the regulation of iron transport genes in Vibrio anguillarum.

The negative regulation of the expression of iron transport genes fatA and fatB in Vibrio anguillarum is mediated by a chromosome-encoded Fur protein and a plasmid pJM1-derived antisense RNA (RNAα), which is preferentially expressed under iron-rich conditions. In this work, we characterized the RNAα promoter region, and by using promoter fusion and rifampicin experiments we were able to demonstrate that iron regulates RNAα synthesis posttranscriptionally by stabilizing RNAα half-life rather than enhancing transcription initiation. The Fur protein is also essential for RNAα synthesis at the transcription initiation level, independently of the iron status of the cell. From experiments assessing the relative contribution of Fur and RNAα, we were able to show that RNAα may indeed play an important role on the negative regulation of the expression of the iron transport genes under physiological conditions.
Altering the Structure of U.S. Trade: Discussion

Cesal, Hanson, and Robinson take the view that changing trade patterns are driven by changes in the relative endowments of capital and labor. They argue that the U.S. is becoming increasingly capital abundant (both in an absolute and relative sense) and thus must expect its comparative advantage to lie increasingly with capital-intensive exports. Their study is aimed at exploring the implications of this, as well as other potential shifts in the composition of U.S. trade.
Oversimplifying quantum factoring

Shor's quantum factoring algorithm exponentially outperforms known classical methods. Previous experimental implementations have used simplifications dependent on knowing the factors in advance. However, as we show here, all composite numbers admit simplification of the algorithm to a circuit equivalent to flipping coins. The difficulty of a particular experiment therefore depends on the level of simplification chosen, not the size of the number factored. Valid implementations should not make use of the answer sought.
Estimation of airborne fungal flora by the Andersen sampler versus the gravity settling culture plate: I. Isolation frequency and numbers of colonies

Abstract The gravity settling culture (GSC) plate and the sequential impaction cascade sieve volumetric air (SICSVA) sampler devised by Andersen were critically compared in the estimation of airborne fungal flora. One hundred twenty-seven side-by-side simultaneous 15 minute samples were obtained on Mehrlich's medium in Northern California. The SICSVA sampler collected 25 fungal types totaling 14,300 colonies, and the adjacent GSC plates displayed 18 genera in 1,091 colonies. Statistically significant differences in total colonies and frequency of isolation were noted for Penicillium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Gliocladium, Pullularia, Rhizopus, Saccharomyces, Stemphilium, Ustilago zeae, and other (unidentified) fungi. The capability of the SICSVA sampler to isolate volumetrically in a reproducible fashion numbers of airborne fungal spores was demonstrated. It is suggested that these colonies can be logically grouped into a fraction that generally would lodge in the upper respiratory tract and another fraction which, because of the small spore sizes, would largely be capable of lung penetrance. Both methods demonstrated a capacity to produce falsely negative data, but this was especially true for the GSC plate. The GSC plate method cannot be endorsed for the quantitative evaluation of airborne fungal spores.
A thermochemical phase space for combustion in engines

The phase space introduced in this paper is based on the recognition that the combustion system is nonlinear, and takes advantage, therefore, of the classical concept of nonlinear mechanics: a space whose coordinates are all the dependent variables of the problem. In the case at hand, they consist of all the thermochemical parameters of the system. The dimension of this space is thus equal to the number of degrees of freedom. The authors name it the Le Chatelier Space. Its major asset lies in providing a map for the global effects of the thermochemical processes occurring in the physical space of the combustion chamber, expressed in terms of trajectories or manifolds. Obtained thereby is an analytical insight into the effective mechanism of the combustion system. Application of the method is illustrated by the evaluation of advantages one can accrue on this basis for a premixed charge engine. It is shown, in particular, that if, instead of a throttled homogeneous charge combustion, the exothermic process is executed in a fireball mode of a direct injection stratified charge system, the engine can be rendered the ability for part-load operation at wide-open throttle, with significant gains in fuel economy and concomitant reduction inmore » pollutant emissions. Such a mode of combustion takes place within large-scale vortex structures generated and sustained by pulsed jets.« less
Chiral symmetry and pion condensation. II. General formalism

The role of chiral symmetry in pion condensation was explored through model calculations in the preceding paper. Here we present model-independent results which justify and sometimes go beyond the previous work. Our methods are based on functional techniques used in field theory. The paper is not self-contained and is meant to be read in conjunction with the preceding one. In the course of this work we were led to look at lowenergy $\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{-}N$ interactions. In a brief survey, it is pointed out that they are more complicated than is commonly assumed.
On a monadic NP vs monadic co-NP

Abstract It is a well-known result of Fagin that the complexity class NP coincides with the class of problems expressible in existential second-order logic (Σ11). Monadic NP is the class of problems expressible in monadic Σ11, i.e., Σ11 with the restriction that the second-order quantifiers range only over sets (as opposed to ranging over, say, binary relations). We prove that connectivity of finite graphs is not in monadic NP, even in the presence of arbitrary built-in relations of moderate degree (that is, degree (log n)o(1)). This extends earlier results of Fagin and de Rougemont. Our proof uses a combination of three techniques: (1) an old technique of Hanf for showing that two (infinite) structures agree on all first-order sentences, under certain conditions, (2) a recent new approach to second-order Ehrenfeucht-Fraisse games by Ajtai and Fagin, and (3) playing Ehrenfeucht-Fraisse games over random structures (this was also used by Ajtai and Fagin). Regarding (1), we give a version of Hanf′s result that is better suited for use as a tool in inexpressibility proofs for classes of finite structures. The power of these techniques is further demonstrated by using them (actually, using just the first two techniques) to give a very simple proof of the separation of monadic NP from monadic co-NP without the presence of built-in relations.
The effect of indomethacin on the pulsatility index of the umbilical artery in human fetuses.

Pulsed and continuous-wave Doppler ultrasonography was used to assess blood velocities in the ductus arteriosus and the pulsatility index of the umbilical artery in 20 fetuses (1 pair of twins and 18 singletons) at 23 to 33 weeks' gestation during maternal indomethacin therapy for preterm labor or polyhydramnios. There was no statistically significant difference in the pulsatility index of the umbilical artery during maternal indomethacin treatment (mean ± SD, 1.11 ± 0.20) when compared with baseline values (1.12 ± 0.19) in all 20 fetuses studied. An increase in the peak systolic and diastolic blood velocities in the ductus arteriosus consistent with ductal constriction was noted in 9 fetuses. Analysis of the umbilical artery pulsatility index values before and during indomethacin in this subgroup of fetuses failed to reveal a statistically significant change (1.12 ± 0.19 vs. 1.11 ± 0.20). Indomethacin therapy does not influence the pulsatility index of the umbilical artery at the gestational ages studied. (Ann J OBSTET GYNECOL 1990;162: 199-202.)
Two Carrier Heat Transfer Modeling for Heat Assisted Magnetic Recording

In this work we show the structure and application of a two carrier thermal model applied to a near field transducer, representative of that used in Heat Assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR). As part of the HAMR device operation, high energy non-thermalized electrons are initially excited by laser incidence on a gold nanostructure. The high energy electrons can travel in a ballistic fashion over longer distances than the optical thickness of gold, resulting in a spreading of the local heat. During their travel the hot electrons collide with lower-energy electrons, thermalizing the hot electrons via inelastic scattering. The thermalized electrons then transfer energy to the lattice due to electron-phonon coupling, as captured in the two carrier model. Starting with an electromagnetic solution for local heating in a sub-micron-scale microfabricated gold structure, the chosen modeling technique applies physical effects of unique interest at the nanometer scale, including brief ballistic transport of hot electrons, experimentally-verified interface thermal resistance, and electron-phonon temperature mismatch. By design, the model is built to use far-field boundary conditions from conventional one-carrier FEMs as well as lubrication-flow computational fluid dynamics. The fundamental governing equations of the two carrier model are two versions of Poisson’s Equation for heat diffusion, coupled by empirically determined terms. These equations are combined with equations for interfacial discontinuities in the temperature fields, yielding a third degree of freedom. The continuous fields are discretized using the finite difference method, and solved using algorithms developed for linear algebra, such as Gaussian Elimination, or non-direct iterative methods. Through use of the model we explore effects of ballistic electron transport length, electron-phonon coupling, as well as interfacial thermal resistance between gold and neighboring ceramics. The model results show the relative impact of the nanoscale heat transfer phenomena in a nanometer scale metal-ceramic structure, allowing us to identify the relative importance of design features and compare candidate designs.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Increasing employment in ex-heroin addicts II: Methadone maintenance sample

Sixty job-seeking methadone maintenance clients were assigned to either the Job-Seekers' Workshop (n=30), a treatment program designed to increase job interview and job-seeking skills, or to an information only control condition (n=30), in a factorial design where leaders were crossed with treatments. At a 3-month follow-up, more experimental subjects (52%) than controls (30%) were employed, and workshop participation produced superior ratings of job interview behavior. Although major comparisons tended to produce results below traditionally acceptable levels of significance, differences were consistently in the expected direction. Leader × Treatment Condition interactions were not found, although main effects for leader were noted. Subjects who reported no job history in the past 5 years did not find employment, regardless of treatment condition, but previous work history above this threshold was not related to employment.
Oxymorphone-naltrexonazine, a mixed opiate agonist-antagonist.

Abstract Previous studies from our laboratories have reported the synthesis and pharmacological characteristics of a series of symmetrical opiate azines: naloxonazine, oxymorphonazine and naltrexonazine. We have now synthesized and characterized in binding assays and in vivo two asymmetrical azines: oxymorphone-naltrexonazine and oxymorphone-3-methoxynaltrex-onazine. Oxymorphone-naltrexonazine, which theoretically could interact with the receptor as either an agonist or antagonist, displayed antagonist properties in vitro and in vivo. Oxymorphone-3-methoxynaltrexonazine, which theoretically could bind only as an agonist, possessed agonist properties in binding studies and was a potent analgesic in vivo.
THE CONCEPT OF FUNDAMENTAL EDUCATIONAL CHANGE

Abstract In this essay, Leonard Waks contributes to a reconceptualization of “fundamental educational change.” By distinguishing sharply between educational change at the organizational and the institutional levels, Waks shows that the mechanisms of change at these two levels are entirely different. He then establishes, by means of a conceptual argument, that fundamental educational change takes place not at the organizational, but rather at the institutional level. Along the way Waks takes Larry Cuban’s influential conceptual framework regarding educational change as both a starting point and target of appraisal.