cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Plea for More Aggregation: The Looming Threat to Empirical Legal Scholarship

Empirical scholarship in the social sciences and the law stands at a critical threshold. As the volume of statistical analysis grows, it becomes increasingly difficult to assess what we actually know about a particular phenomenon. Con-tradictory findings abound, and the social sciences and empirical legal studies currently lack effective tools to filter the good claims from the bad and to synthesize the high-quality findings. This paper explores how to fundamentally change and improve the way these fields generate and use empirical knowledge. I start by examining why the social sciences are poorly equipped to draw empirical conclusions. The root problem is a misguided philosophy of science. Contrary to what social scientists are taught and believe, empirical knowledge does not come from (deductively) testing hypotheses but rather from (inductively) measuring effect sizes. Induction, however, requires a far more holistic perspective than deduction. Given their mistaken philosophical foundation, the social sciences and empirical legal scholarship have undervalued and thus underdeveloped such perspectives. I then argue that the solution is to develop rigorous, evidence-based systematic reviews for observational research. These reviews have been revolutionizing fields like medicine and epidemiology that use randomized clinical trials, but they are almost unheard of in areas that rely on observational work. I demonstrate why these reviews are substantially su-perior to the more informal approaches currently used. I also discuss many of the significant challenges that face those who wish to design such reviews for observational work and point to possible solutions.
Robust Anisotropic Diffusion: Connections Between Robust Statistics, Line Processing, and Anisotropic Diffusion

Relations between anisotropic diffusion and robust statistics are described in this paper. We show that anisotropic diffusion can be seen as a robust estimation procedure that estimates a piecewise smooth image from a noisy input image. The “edge-stopping” function in the anisotropic diffusion equation is closely related to the error norm and influence function in the robust estimation framework. This connection leads to a new “edge-stopping” function based on Tukey's biweight robust estimator, that preserves sharper boundaries than previous formulations and improves the automatic stopping of the diffusion. The robust statistical interpretation also provides a means for detecting the boundaries (edges) between the piecewise smooth regions in the image. Finally, connections between robust estimation and line processing provide a framework to introduce spatial coherence in anisotropic diffusion flows.
Imperial Visions: Nationalist Imagination and Geographical Expansion in the Russian Far East, 1840–1865 . By Mark Bassin. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1999. Pp. xv, 329. $69.95.

In 1857 Alexander Herzen boasted to Giuseppe Mazzini that Russia's annexation of the Amur river region in the late 1850s signaled “one of civilization's most important steps forward” (p. 2). With a foothold in the Far East, Herzen claimed, Russia appeared poised to capitalize on the Pacific as the “Mediterranean of the future” (p. 144). From the 1840s educated Russians celebrated the Amur river, the essential artery linking Russia through Siberia to its Pacific destiny, as a “Russian Mississippi” and the key to Russia's role as a maritime power and a civilizing force in Asia. By 1865, however, this “Amur euphoria” had abruptly dissipated. Dreams of the rebirth of a prosperous and, by some accounts, “free” Russia on the Siberian Mississippi faded as suddenly as they had appeared.
An adaptive privacy-preserving scheme for location tracking of a mobile user

Many popular mobile applications require the continuous monitoring and sharing of a mobile user's location. However, exploiting a user's location leads to disclosing sensitive information about the users daily activity. Several location privacy-preserving schemes have been proposed, but it remains challenging for a user to achieve visibility of the associated threats as well as to control the impact of those threats. This paper presents an adaptive location privacy-preserving system (ALPS) that allows for a user to control the level of privacy disclosure with different quality of location-based service (LBS). We have identified key attack models on location tracking using powerful map-matching algorithms, and then defined a scheme that allows a user to control the privacy of tracking information. We have implemented ALPS on Android OS and evaluated the implementation extensively via trace-based simulation, showing the effectiveness of user-controllable privacy preservation.
Note on an approximate method for computing consistent conjugate stresses in elastic finite elements

SUMMARY A technique is described wherein improved stresses can be computed in finite clement models based on displace- ment approximations. The method is based on the idea of consistent stress approximations and it approximates such stresses using the notion of a domain of influence of the stress intensity at a nodal point. Considerable improvement in accuracy of the stresses is obtained with little difficulty. The calculation of so-called 'consistent' or 'conjugate' approximations of stresses in displacement finite element formulations involves, in addition to the usual computations, the solution of an auxiliary system of linear equations, the order of which is comparable to that of the stiffness matrix itselp-<i For this reason (and despite the fact that rigorous arguments can be made that such conjugate stresses represent 'best approxi- mations' in a certain sense),5 the calculation of consistent stresses may be time consuming and expensive compared to conventional averaging methods. To overcome these shortcomings, an approximate method for computing consistent stresses in finite elements is presented in this paper. The method is also based on ideas drawn from the theory of conjugate approximations;2 it leads to smooth stress approximations in regions in which high stress gradients are experienced, and it involves only the solution of rather small systems of narrowly banded linear equations. CONSISTENT STRESSES We must first review some of the basic ideas of conjugate approximations. Consider a finite element model of an elastic body ~ which consists of a collection of E elements connected together at G nodes, and suppose that the finite element model of the displacement components ui(X) is of the form
A directed-overflow and damage-control N-glycosidase in riboflavin biosynthesis

Plants and bacteria synthesize the essential human micronutrient riboflavin (vitamin B2) via the same multi-step pathway. The early intermediates of this pathway are notoriously reactive and may be overproduced in vivo because riboflavin biosynthesis enzymes lack feedback controls. In the present paper, we demonstrate disposal of riboflavin intermediates by COG3236 (DUF1768), a protein of previously unknown function that is fused to two different riboflavin pathway enzymes in plants and bacteria (RIBR and RibA respectively). We present cheminformatic, biochemical, genetic and genomic evidence to show that: (i) plant and bacterial COG3236 proteins cleave the N-glycosidic bond of the first two intermediates of riboflavin biosynthesis, yielding relatively innocuous products; (ii) certain COG3236 proteins are in a multi-enzyme riboflavin biosynthesis complex that gives them privileged access to riboflavin intermediates; and (iii) COG3236 action in Arabidopsis thaliana and Escherichia coli helps maintain flavin levels. COG3236 proteins thus illustrate two emerging principles in chemical biology: directed overflow metabolism, in which excess flux is diverted out of a pathway, and the pre-emption of damage from reactive metabolites.
The impact of intense laparoscopic skills training on the operative performance of urology residents.

Purpose: As laparoscopy has become more commonplace in urology, increased emphasis has been placed on laparoscopic education. We assessed the impact of laparoscopic skills training on the operative performance of urological surgeons inexperienced with laparoscopy.Materials and Methods: Urology residents were prospectively randomized to undergo laparoscopic skills training (6) or no training (6). Baseline assessment of operative performance (scale 0 to 35) during porcine laparoscopic nephrectomy was completed by all subjects. Cumulative time to complete laparoscopic tasks using an inanimate trainer was also recorded. The skills training group then practiced inanimate trainer tasks for 30 minutes daily for 10 days. The 2 groups then repeated the timed inanimate trainer tasks and underwent repeat assessment of the ability to perform porcine laparoscopic nephrectomy.Results: At baseline no statistical difference was noted in laparoscopic experience, inanimate trainer time or overall operative assessment in th...
Modified Condylotomy for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

The modified condylotomy is an extra-articular surgical procedure used to manage patients with temporomandibularjointdysfunction.Theprimarypurposeoftheprocedureistoincreasejointspaceby allowing the mandibularcondyle tomoveinferiorly with respect toboththearticulardiscandeminence (Figs 1 and 2). An additional goal in some patients is to establish a more normal condyle/disc relationship, particularly for Wilkes I, II, and III (early) internal derangements. This disc relationship can be achieved in many patients by allowing the condyle to move anteriorly in addition to inferiorly (Fig. 3). Condylotomy may be considered in patients with intra-articular pain or locking in association with internal derangement. The procedure has also been advocated for recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation. The main advantages of the procedure over arthroplasty are the extra-articular approach that avoids entry into the temporomandibular joint, the short duration of the procedure, and the ability to complete the surgery in an ambulatory setting. Disadvantages of the technique include the inability to address additional sources of intra-articular pain and locking, such as synovitis, fibrous adhesions, pseudowalls, osteoarthritis, chondromalacia, and synovial chondromatosis. Furthermore, patients require arch-bars and a period of elastic maxillomandibular fixation lasting 10 days to 6 weeks. A change in the occlusion following this procedure is common, although spontaneous tooth movement over time compensates adequately for the malocclusion in many patients. However, a small number of patients will need occlusal equilibration, orthodontics, or additional surgery to correct the malocclusion. The use of modified condylotomy in patients with an existing anterior open bite or a class II malocclusion is not recommended because of the potential for worsening of the anterior open bite or class II dental relationship.
Host cell selection of influenza neuraminidase variants: Implications for drug resistance monitoring in A(H1N1) viruses

Abstract The neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs), oseltamivir and zanamivir, are essential for treatment and prevention of influenza A and B infections. Oseltamivir resistance among influenza A (H1N1) viruses rapidly emerged and spread globally during the 2007–2008 and 2008–2009 influenza seasons. Approximately 20% and 90% of viruses tested for NAI susceptibility at CDC during these seasons, respectively, were resistant to oseltamivir (IC50 ∼100–3000 time > those of sensitive viruses), based on the chemiluminescent NA inhibition assay. Pyrosequencing analysis confirmed H274Y mutation (H275Y in N1 numbering) in the neuraminidase (NA) gene of oseltamivir-resistant viruses. Full NA sequence analysis of a subset of oseltamivir-resistant and sensitive virus isolates from both seasons (n = 725) showed that 53 (7.3%) had mutations at residue D151 (D → E/G/N), while 9 (1.2%) had mutations at Q136 (Q → K) and 2 (0.3%) had mutations at both residues. Viruses with very high IC50 for oseltamivir and peramivir, and elevated IC50 for zanamivir, had H274Y in addition to mutations at D151 and/or Q136, residues which can potentially confer NAI resistance based on recent N1 NA crystal structure data. Mutations at D151 without H274Y, did not elevate IC50 for any tested NAI, however, Q136K alone significantly reduced susceptibility to zanamivir (36-fold), peramivir (80-fold) and A-315675 (114-fold) but not oseltamivir. Mutations at D151 and Q136 were present only in MDCK grown viruses but not in matching original clinical specimens (n = 33) which were available for testing, suggesting that these variants were the result of cell culture selection or they were present in very low proportions. Our findings provide evidence that propagation of influenza virus outside its natural host may lead to selection of virus variants with mutations in the NA that affect sensitivity to NAIs and thus poses implications for drug resistance monitoring and diagnostics.
L. Heracleous, J. Wirts, N. Pangarkar: Flying high in a competitive industry

customers and tough competitors. The authors of ‘‘Flying High in a Competitive Industry: Cost-effective Service Excellence at Singapore Airlines’’ present a comprehensive description and analysis of a company that is highly successful in not just any service industry but in the extremely challenging airline industry. The presentation is very thorough, examining Singapore Airlines from top to bottom. Extensive use of data from a variety of sources and specific details from Singapore Airline enhance the discussion of strategic choices, promotion and support of innovation, and human resource management that contribute to Singapore’s continued success. Readers will be inspired to learn that service excellence can be achieved in a cost-effective manner. The book begins with an in-depth history of the airline industry as a preface to a description of Singapore Airlines (SIA) and its successful management system. The background chapter is invaluable in setting up the SIA story. In addition, the presentation of SIAs own history adds to the understanding of its long-term success. The introduction relates the ups and downs of the airline industry along with examples of how different companies have responded and reacted to external and internal pressures. A specific discussion of economics describes governmental impacts on the industry and a well-developed explanation of airline alliances help the reader understand some of the distinct elements of the industry. Supporting data from a wide variety of sources is presented effectively in graphical form here and throughout the book. The chapter concludes with a discussion of key factors for successful strategies for
A Study of the Thermohydrodynamic Performance of Steadily Loaded Journal Bearings

A comprehensive thermohydrodynamic (THD) analysis of steadily loaded journal bearings has been developed that includes mass conserving cavitation, full solution of the 3-D energy equation in the oil film, heat conduction in the bushing and journal, mixing of hot circulating oil with fresh supply oil and solution of the inverse problem (given the load, find the film thickness). The temperature distribution in the oil film and bushing is found using a coupled approach where the same 3-D energy equation is solved in both the oil film and bushing. With this approach the steady-state problem can be solved without iterations between the thermal solutions in the oil film and the bushing, thereby allowing ready analysis of multilayer bushings. Predictions of the analysis compared very well with measurements reported by Dowson et al. (1). A thermohydro-dynamic study of bearing performance as a function of clearance for a typical automotive bearing revealed that there is an optimum clearance that gives the largest ...
Narcolepsy: genetic predisposition and neuropharmacological mechanisms: REVIEW ARTICLE

Narcolepsy is a disabling sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime somnolence (EDS), cataplexy and REM sleep-related abnormalities. It is a frequently-occurring but under-diagnosed condition that affects 0.02 to 0.18% of the general population in various countries. Although most cases occur sporadically, familial clustering may be observed; the risk of a first-degree relative of a narcoleptic developing narcolepsy is 10-40 times higher than in the general population. The disorder is tightly associated with the specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele, DQB1*0602 [most often in combination with HLA-DR2 (DRB1*15)]. Genetic transmission is, however, likely to be polygenic in most cases, and genetic factors other than HLA-DQ are also likely to be implicated. In addition, environmental factors are involved in disease predisposition; most monozygotic twins pairs reported in the literature are discordant for narcolepsy. Narcolepsy was reported to exist in canines in the early 1970s. Both sporadic and familial cases are also observed in this animal species. A highly-penetrant single autosomal recessive gene, canarc-1, is involved in the transmission of narcolepsy in Doberman pinschers and Labrador retrievers. Positional cloning of this gene is in progress, and a human homologue of this gene, or a gene with a functional relationship to canarc-1, might be involved in some human cases. Human narcolepsy is currently treated with central nervous system (CNS) stimulants for EDS and antidepressants for cataplexy and abnormal REM sleep. These treatments are purely symptomatic and induce numerous side effects. These compounds disturb nocturnal sleep in many patients, and tolerance may develop as a result of continuous treatment. The canine model is an invaluable resource for studying the pharmacological and physiological control of EDS and cataplexy. Experiments using canine narcolepsy have demonstrated that increased cholinergic and decreased monoaminergic transmission are likely to be at the basis of the pathophysiology of the disorder. Pharmacological studies have shown that blockade of norepinephrine uptake mediates the anticataplectic effect of currently prescribed antidepressants, while blockade of dopamine uptake and/or stimulation of dopamine release mediates the awake-promoting effect of CNS stimulants. Studies in canine narcolepsy also suggest that mechanisms and brain sites for triggering cataplexy are not identical to those regulating REM sleep. It may thus be possible to develop new pharmacological compounds that specifically target abnormal symptoms in narcolepsy, but do not disturb physiological sleep/wake cycles. (See also postscript remarks).
A new incompressibility discretization for a hybrid particle MAC grid representation with surface tension

We take a particle based approach to incompressible free surface flow motivated by the fact that an explicit representation of the interface geometry and internal deformations gives precise feedback to an implicit solver for surface tension. Methods that enforce incompressibility directly on the particles are typically numerically inefficient compared to those that utilize a background grid. However, background grid discretizations suffer from inaccuracy near the free surface where they do not properly capture the interface geometry. Therefore, our incompressibility discretization utilizes a particle based projection near the interface and a background MAC grid based projection for efficiency in the vast interior of the liquid domain - as well as a novel method for coupling these two disparate projections together. We show that the overall coupled elliptic solver is second order accurate, and remains second order accurate when used in conjunction with an appropriate temporal discretization for parabolic problems. A similar second order accurate discretization is derived when the MAC grid unknowns are located on faces (as opposed to cell centers) so that Navier-Stokes viscosity can be solved for implicitly as well. Finally, we present a fully implicit approach to surface tension that is robust enough to achieve a steady state solution in a single time step. Beyond stable implicit surface tension for our novel hybrid discretization, we demonstrate preliminary results for both standard front tracking and the particle level set method.
Support forMiranda among police chiefs: A qualitative examination

The U.S. Supreme Court recently grappled with the question of whether it should overturn the landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona. Abolitionists argued the warnings handcuffed the police and allowed many criminals to go free. Proponents maintained Miranda protected offenders and engendered a certain level of professionalism among police officers. Before the Court decided to uphold Miranda, 95 police chiefs from the Commonwealth of Virginia were surveyed about their perceptions concerning Miranda. While one could categorize many chiefs as conformists who wished to keep the warnings, a significant proportion were innovators who advocated various changes. Reasons for these beliefs and their implications are discussed.
Synchrotron radiation as an excitation source in time-domain and frequency-domain fluorometry

Synchrotron radiation is an excellent excitation source for both the time-domain (pulse) and the frequency-domain (phase/modulation) methods of time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. All possible wavelengths are available to excite fluorescent biological probes since synchrotron radiation consists of an intense continuum of energies from the IR to X-rays. The pulsed nature of synchrotron radiation permits time-correlated single photon-counting techniques to collect a histogram of the probability of the decay of the excited state. The harmonics of the pulsed exciting light also provide a wide range of modulation frequencies that permit the frequency-domain method to match the current resolution for time-domain measurements.
Relations among motivation, performance achievement, and music experience variables in secondary instrumental music students.

The purpose of this study was to (1) reexamine academic achievement motivation orientations within the context of instrumental music, and (2) examine relations among achievement motivation orientations, self-concept in instrumental music, and attitude to band in relation to teachers' ratings of performance achievement and effort, and students' grade level, gender, instrument, self-reported practice time, and selected music experience variables. Participants (N= 300) were band students (Grades 7-12) in four school districts. Data were gathered concerning students' (a) motivation orientations (mastery, intrinsic, individual, cooperative, ego, competitive, approach success, avoid failure), self-concept, and commitment to band; (b) instrument, grade level and gender, practice time per week, and experience in private lessons, solo festival, and all-county band; and (c) performance achievement and effort as rated by their teachers. Results indicated that ratings of performance and effort were most strongly corr...
Life expectancy, antagonistic pleiotropy, and the testis of dogs and men.

BACKGROUND Prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia are important age-related prostatic diseases that are under the influence of testicular hormones. However, the disparity between male and female life expectancy within the human population cannot be explained solely by the prevalence of prostatic disease-related mortality. The purpose of this paper is to explore the possibility that the testis exerts a detrimental effect on life span. METHODS First, we review previously published and unpublished data on the influence of the testis on the life span of dogs and men. Aging in pet dogs and men is then discussed in terms of evolutionary theory, emphasizing the significance of a prolonged postreproductive life span and possible consequences of late-acting deleterious genes in these two species. Finally, we present preliminary data that orchiectomy can reduce DNA damage within the brain of elderly male dogs. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these observations raise the intriguing possibility that interventions to antagonize the testis might have much broader therapeutic applications that will extend well beyond the treatment of prostate cancer. Prostate 43:272–277, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Effect of Photoperiod on the Gonadal Cycle in an Equatorial Bird, Quelea quelea

ROWAN'S1 discovery that increasing day-lengths in winter induce reproductive activity and migratory behaviour has been amply confirmed for many species and has contributed greatly to our understanding of the timing of these events in birds of the north temperate zone2. There still remain, however, the problems of regulation of migration in species that winter in the tropics and south temperate zone and regulation of breeding in species that are permanent residents in the tropics. The great dissimilarities in day-length conditions in these zones, and particularly the relative constancy of day-length in the equatorial region, have raised considerable doubt about a possible regulatory function of day-length in equatorial and transequatorial migrants and in tropical species.
Selecting a best multiattribute alternative with partial information about attribute weights

Abstract Use of approximate weights would greatly simplify decision analysis under certainty since detailed weight elicitation could be avoided. This paper examines the degree to which rank order information about weights can be used to identify a best alternative, or falling uniqueness prescribes an easily implemented rule for selecting a ‘best’ alternative. The prescribed rule uses as weights the centroid of the feasible region defined by the rank order information. In conjunction with the rule, the value of the rank order information can be determined using an ‘expected gain from weight precision’ (EGWP) measure, analogous to ‘expected value of perfect information’ in decision analysis under uncertainty.
Applications of electron paramagnetic resonance and optically-detected magnetic resonance to InP materials

Abstract Phosphorus antisite defects and complexes have been identified using magnetic resonance in a variety of as-grown, annealed and electron-irradiated InP samples. Isolated P In defects are found following electron irradiation of n- and p-type InP, and as native defects in InP:Zn. An antisite-defect pair (P In -X In ) is found in an undoped InP sample which converted to high resistivity after a P-overpressure anneal.
Organic geochemistry of late Cenozoic sediments from the subtropical South Atlantic Ocean

Abstract Organic matter has been characterized in samples of Pleistocene, Pliocene, and Miocene sediments from seven Deep Sea Drilling Project sites in the subtropical South Atlantic Ocean. Organic carbon concentrations average 0.3% for most samples, and n-alkanoic acid, n-alkanol, and alkane biomarkers indicate extensive microbial reworking of organic matter in these organic-carbon-lean sediments. Samples from the easternmost parts of the South Atlantic contain an average of 4.1% organic carbon and reflect the high productivity associated with the Benguela Current. Lipid biomarkers show less microbial reworking in these sediments. Eolian transport of land-derived hydrocarbons is evident at most of these oceanic locations.
Single Strand Annealing and ATP-independent Strand Exchange Activities of Yeast and Human DNA2 POSSIBLE ROLE IN OKAZAKI FRAGMENT MATURATION

The Dna2 protein is a multifunctional enzyme with 5'-3' DNA helicase, DNA-dependent ATPase, 3' exo/endonuclease, and 5' exo/endonuclease. The enzyme is highly specific for structures containing single-stranded flaps adjacent to duplex regions. We report here two novel activities of both the yeast and human Dna2 helicase/nuclease protein: single strand annealing and ATP-independent strand exchange on short duplexes. These activities are independent of ATPase/helicase and nuclease activities in that mutations eliminating either nuclease or ATPase/helicase do not inhibit strand annealing or strand exchange. ATP inhibits strand exchange. A model rationalizing the multiple catalytic functions of Dna2 and leading to its coordination with other enzymes in processing single-stranded flaps during DNA replication and repair is presented.
Increased Incorporation of Methyl-14C-choline,Methyl-14C-methionine and l,2-14C-ethanolamine Into Phospholipids by Liver Slices from Pregnant Rats

The incorporation of Me-14Ccholine, Me-14C-L-methionine and l,2-14C-ethanolamine into phospholipids by liver slices from pregnant and nonpregnant rats was determined. Radioactivity from Me-14C-choline and Me-14C-L-methionine was incorporated specifically into the choline of choline glycerophosphatides. The radioactivity from l,2-14C-ethanolamine was incorporated specifically into the ethanolamine of ethanolamine glycerophosphatides. The incorporation of radioactivity into phospholipid from the 3 carbon-14 labeled precursors was significantly higher in liver slices from pregnant rats than from nonpregnant rats. The incorporation of Me-14C-choline, Me-14C-L-methionine and l,2-14C-ethanolamine was 80, 25 and 55% higher, respectively, in liver slices from pregnant rats. (Endocrinology85: 1216, 1969)
Fundamental mechanisms of electroluminescence refrigeration in heterostructure light-emitting diodes

The fundamental mechanisms of electroluminescence (EL) refrigeration in heterostructure light emitting diodes, is examined via carrier energy loss (and gain) during transport, relaxation, and recombination, where the contribution of electrons and holes are treated separately. This analysis shows that the EL refrigeration process is a combination of thermoelectric cooling that mainly occurs near the metal/semiconductor contacts and radiative recombination which mainly occurs in the active region. In semiconductors such as GaAs, electrons and holes make different contributions to the refrigeration processes as a result of their different densities of states.
Online Reviews of 500 Urologists

Purpose: Patient demand for easily accessible information about physician quality has led to the development of physician review websites. These sites concern some physicians who argue that ratings can be misleading. In this study we describe the landscape of online reviews of urologists by looking at a sample of ratings and written reviews from popular physician review websites.Materials and Methods: A total of 500 urologists were randomly selected from a database of 9,940. Numerical ratings from 10 popular physician review websites were collected for each physician and analyzed. Written reviews from a single physician review website were also collected and then categorized as extremely negative/positive, negative/positive or neutral.Results: Our sample consisted of 471 male and 29 female urologists from 39 states including small and large cities and 4 census regions. There were 398 (79.6%) urologists who had at least 1 rating on any of the 10 physician review websites (range 0 to 64). On average the com...
Guest emission processes in doped organic light-emitting diodes: Use of phthalocyanine and naphthalocyanine near-IR dopants

A series of near-IR emitting organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) have been prepared using poly(vinylcarbazole) (PVK) as the hole transport polymer, aluminum quinolate (Alq3) or a sulfonamide derivative (Al(qs)3) as the host dye (H), and phthalocyanine (Pc) or naphthalocyanine (NPc) dopants as guest dyes (G). The separation of the emission spectrum of the guest dye from that of the host dye allows for independent assessment of their relative efficiencies and correlation of these efficiencies with their tendencies toward charge capture and recombination reminiscent of solution electrogenerated chemiluminescent reactions. Although the absorbance spectra of the guest dyes are significantly separated from the emission spectra of the host dyes, the high molar absorptivities of the Pc and NPc dopants lead to Forster radii and relative energy-transfer (ET) efficiencies comparable to values previously obtained for quinacridone or rubrene dopants, which have been used to create intense green or yellow emission in...
On the K-theory spectrum of a smooth curve over a finite field

Suppose that X is a nonsingular curve over a finite field F. According to ideas of Quillen and others, there is an algebraic K-theory spectrum KX associated to the category of locally free sheaves on X . The word “spectrum” here designates an object in the stable homotopy category of spaces. If X = SpecO is affine, then KX is equivalent to the usual K-theory spectrum associated to the category of finitely generated projective modules over O. A certain amount is known about the groups KiX = πiKX. They are abelian, and they vanish for i < 0. They are finitely generated and with a few exceptions are actually finite: if X is complete then K0X has rank 2, while if X is affine then K0X has rank 1 and K1X has rank s−1, where s is the number of points at infinity of X. For i ≤ 2, KiX can be described in fairly classical terms (see §2). In general, though, these groups seem very difficult to pin down. In this paper we detour around the groups KiX in favor of studying the entire spectrum KX, or more accurately the `-completion KX of KX, where ` is an odd rational prime different from the characteristic of F. Let K be the `-completion of the periodic topological complex K-theory spectrum and K∗ the associated cohomology theory. We begin by calculating K∗(KX) = K∗(KX) as a module over the ring of cohomology operations in K∗ (5.1, 5.2). The answer is surprisingly simple and leads to a formula for the `-adic topological K-theory K(Ω0 KX) of the basepoint component of the zero space in the associated Ω-spectrum (7.5). If X = SpecO is affine, then K(Ω0 KX) is the same as K∗(BGL(O)), so in this case we obtain a formula for the `-adic topological K-theory of the classifying space of the infinite general linear group of O. Next we compute the homotopy type of a certain localization L(KX) = L(KX) of KX; this is localization in the sense of Bousfield with respect to the cohomology theory K∗ (4.2). The homotopy groups πiL(KX) do not vanish for i < 0, but there is a form of the Lichtenbaum-Quillen conjecture which suggests that the localization map KX −→ L(KX)
Ultrahigh-temperature tensile properties of a powder metallurgy processed tungsten-3.6w/o rhenium-1.0w/o thoria alloy

Metals that have been dispersion hardened with stable oxides provide ideal systems to study the strengthening effect of second-phase particles at high temperatures. Thoria (ThO{sub 2}), a compound having the highest melting temperature among all the metallic oxides, is one of the most promising second-phase particles in strengthening tungsten at ultrahigh temperatures. On the other hand, tungsten has been severely limited due to the difficulties experienced in fabrication. An effective way to lower the ductile-brittle transition temperature of tungsten is to alloy with rhenium at a composition of about 4.0 weight percent rhenium. Therefore, it is necessary to add both thoria and rhenium to tungsten in order to improve the high-temperature strength and room-temperature fabricability. The present paper reports the tensile properties of a thoria particle strengthened W-Re alloy at ultrahigh temperatures. The present study was focused on the strengthening mechanism of dispersed thoria particles in the W-Re matrix and the deformation behavior of a power metallurgy processed W-Re-ThO{sub 2} alloy in a temperatures range of 1400 to 2600 K.
Activation of protooncogenes in mouse lung tumors

The detection of activated protooncogenes in mouse lung tumors has led to a major advance in our understanding of carcinogenesis of the lung at the molecular level. A high frequency of activated K-ras protooncogenes has been detected in tetranitro-methane (TNM)- and 1,3-hutadiene-induced lung tumors in B6C3F1 mice. In the past several years, we have pursued protooncogene activation in spontaneous and chemically induced tumors of strain A mice. The strain A mouse has a high incidence of spontaneous lung tumors and is susceptible to tumor induction by chemical carcinogens. We have detected and characterized the activated protooncogenes in the DNA of both spontaneously occurring and chemically induced lung tumors of strain A mice. Activated K-ras genes were detected using the NIH/3T3 transfection assay, and the activating mutations were identified by utilizing the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and direct sequence analysis. A strong selectivity of mutations in the K-ras genes were observed in chemically ind...
Thin filament activation and unloaded shortening velocity of rabbit skinned muscle fibres

The unloaded shortening velocity of skinned rabbit psoas muscle fibres is sensitive to [Ca2+]. To determine whether Ca2+ affects the unloaded shortening velocity via regulation of crossbridge kinetics or crossbridge number, the shortening velocity was measured following changes in either [Ca2+] or the number of active thin filament regulatory units. The native troponin C (TnC) was extracted and replaced with either cardiac TnC (cTnC) or a mixture of cTnC and an inactive mutant cardiac TnC (CBMII TnC). The unloaded shortening velocity of the cTnC-replaced fibres was determined at various values of [Ca2+] and compared with different cTnC:CBMII TnC ratios at a saturating [Ca2+]. If Ca2+ regulates the unloaded shortening velocity via kinetic modulation, differences in the velocity-tension relationship between the cTnC fibres and the cTnC:CBMII TnC fibres would be apparent. Alternatively, Ca2+ control of the number of active crossbridges would yield similar velocity-tension relationships when comparing the cTnC and cTnC:CBMII TnC fibres. The results show a decline in the unloaded shortening velocity that is determined by the relative tension, defined as the level of thin filament activation, rather than the [Ca2+]. Furthermore, at lower levels of relative tension, the reduction in unloaded shortening is not the result of changes in any cooperative effects of myosin on Ca2+ binding to the thin filament. Rather, it may be related to a decrease in crossbridge-induced activation of the thin filament at the level of the individual regulatory unit. In summary, the results suggest that Ca2+ regulates the unloaded shortening velocity in skinned fibres by reducing the number of crossbridges able to productively bind to the thin filament without affecting any inherent property of the myosin.
Paramagnetic salt pill design for magnetic refrigerators used in space applications

Abstract An adiabatic demagnetization refrigerator (ADR) is described which was designed for use in the multiband imaging photometer for the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF). This refrigerator was required to cool bolometric detectors for infrared and millimetre waves to 0.1 K. A paramagnetic salt pill with a number of novel features was developed to meet the stringent requirements for an ADR used in space. An unusual paramagnetic salt, chromic caesium alum (CCA), is used to meet the requirement of thermal stability under the bake-out temperatures used in commissioning space cryogenic vacuum systems. The cycle time for the refrigerator has been reduced to ≈30 min by attention to thermal time constants and by growing the CCA salt directly on to an array of gold wires. Crystal growing procedures were developed to overcome problems with the low solubility of CCA in water. The salt pill is sealed in stainless steel to retain water of hydration and is constructed of materials which are not corroded by commonly used paramagnetic salts.
India's economic liberalization, interjurisdictional competition and development

Abstract This article discusses the impact that economic liberalization has had on federal relations in India. The article argues that economic liberalization has transformed federal relations in India from intergovernmental cooperation between the central government and the states towards insterjurisdictional competition among the states. The author posits that this change has resulted in an inconclusive legacy regarding economic polarization among the states. The article concludes that interjurisdictional competition has complicated the Indian state's ability to address fundamental developmental challenges.
Differentiation of Intracardiac Tumors and Thrombi by Echocardiography Tissue Characterization: Comparison of an Artificial Neural Network and Human Observers

The feasibility of classifying ultrasound images of intracardiac tumors and thrombi with a neural network-based algorithm was compared with the performance of experienced echocardiographers. The neural network used statistical descriptors of the apparent echocardiographic texture of the masses, and the blinded echocardiographers were given photographic prints of enlarged regions of interest without clinical data. The network classified 66% of the images correctly and the echocardiographers, 83%. The network and echocardiographers agreed in 88% of the images. Human observers usually base their classification of intracardiac masses on clinical data. The echocardiographic texture of tumors is quantitatively different from that of thrombi. This difference can be recognized by a neural network and potentially be useful in assisting with the diagnosis when clinical clues are insufficient.
Modelling of computer systems: a tutorial

Computer system performance modelling is a relatively restricted problem domain. Because of this, much is known about which performance measures are and are not important, which system characteristics do and do not influence these performance measures, what degree of confidence the available measurement data will and will not support, what approximations are and are not reasonable, etc.Because computer systems are large, and because modelling is used as a regular part of the “capacity planning” process at many installations, fast and acceptably accurate analytic techniques have been developed for many applications. But because these analytic techniques do not accommodate certain important system characteristics, and because they do not yield certain important performance measures, simulation and hybrid analytic/simulation techniques also are of considerable importance. Computer system performance modelling thus provides a nice case study of the tradeoffs between simulation and analysis.These are the sorts of issues that will be discussed in this tutorial. In addition, since WSC attendees are apt not to be familiar with the techniques of analytic modelling, a brief overview of this material will be presented. In brief outline form:Applications of computer system performance modelling.A small set of case studies will be used to exhibit the range of problems that are considered.An introduction to analytic models.A brief discussion of how analytic queueing network models differ from their simulation counterparts: their inputs, their outputs, and the evaluation techniques that transform the inputs into the outputs.The case for analytic models.The key strength of analytic models is not that they're accurate; rather, it's that they provide ballpark projections very quickly. In what situations is this especially advantageous?The case for simulation models.Situations will be discussed in which simulation is the appropriate tool for computer system performance modelling: situations in which system characteristics or required performance measures preclude an analytic approach.The interplay of analysis and simulation.A discussion of areas such as the analysis of models via decomposition, hybrid analytic/simulation models, etc.Much of this material is based on the 1984 Prentice-Hall text Quantitative System Performance: Computer System Analysis Using Queueing Network Models by Edward D. Lazowska, John Zahorjan, G. Scott Graham, and Kenneth C. Sevcik, and on the 1984 AUERBACH portfolio Capacity Planning Using Queueing Network Models by Edward D. Lazowska.
Finger tip necroses after dihydroergotamine medication in limited systemic scleroderma

A 78 year old women developed acute fingertip necrosis just a few days after starting dihydroergotamine. The lesions healed in 3 weeks after the medication was stopped. The patient had suffered from Raynaud syndrome for 5 years and limited systemic sclerosis was diagnosed during the necrotic episode. Advanced age and microangiopathies are contraindications to the use of ergot-containing preparations.
On quasi-interpolation with radial basis functions

Abstract It has been known since 1987 that quasi-interpolation with radial functions on the integer grid can be exact for certain order polynomials. If, however, we require that the basis functions of the quasi-interpolants be finite linear combinations of translates of the radial functions, then this can be done only in spaces whose dimension has a prescribed parity. In this paper we show how infinite linear combinations of translates of a given radial function can be found that provide polynomial exactness in spaces whose dimensions do not have this prescribed parity. These infinite linear combinations are of a simple form. They are, in particular, easier to find than the cardinal functions of radial basis function interpolation, which provide polynomial exactness in all dimensions. The techniques that are used in this work also give rise to some remarks about interpolation with radial functions both on the integers and on the nonnegative integers.
Reengineering intravenous drug and fluid administration processes in the operating room: step one: task analysis of existing processes.

BackgroundA reengineering approach to intravenous drug and fluid administration processes could improve anesthesia care. In this initial study, current intravenous administration tasks were examined to identify opportunities for improved design.MethodsAfter institutional review board approval was ob
Molecular Requirements for the Interaction of Class II Major Histocompatibility Complex Molecules and Invariant Chain with Calnexin

Molecular chaperones are believed to retain misfolded and incompletely assembled oligomeric proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Here, we have further analyzed the association of one such chaperone, calnexin, with human major histocompatibility complex class II α and β subunits and the invariant chain. Calnexin associates with transport-competent invariant chain trimers (p33 or p41), as well as ER-retained trimers (p35/33 or p43/41), suggesting that ER retention of the latter is not because of calnexin association. Neither the replacement of the transmembrane segment of the DRβ subunit with a glycosyl phosphatidylinositol anchor nor deglycosylation of any of these proteins with tunicamycin or endoglycosidase H treatment abolished calnexin association. Using a cell-permeabilization system, we were unable to observe association of newly synthesized glycopeptides with calnexin, arguing that calnexin may not act like a simple lectin for association with glycoproteins. The results indicate that neither transmembrane regions nor N-linked glycans are exclusively responsible for calnexin association. Based on our data and the observations of others, we suggest that these features may have varying significance for different glycoproteins in determining their interaction with calnexin.
Decomposition of deciduous leaf litter in a woodland stream : I. A. Scanning electron microscopic study.

Microorganisms associated with decomposing deciduous leaf litter in a woodland stream were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The use of a critical point drying method allowed the preservation of a wide variety of microorganisms as well as the decomposing litter with a minimum of distortion. The micrographs provide evidence that the aquatic hyphomycetes are the major fungal flora present during decomposition. Two distinct groups of these fungi were found during the seasonal cycle with one group occurring only in the summer while the other occurred throughout the rest of the year. The presence of all developmental stages of these organisms in the environment is considered further evidence of their active role in the decomposition of litter.