cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis and management of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis

Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) is a rare, immunologically mediated cutaneous adverse reaction characterized by mucous membrane and epidermal detachment, with a mortality ranging from 15% to 25%. Risk factors for the development of SJS/TEN include immune dysregulation, active malignancy, and genetic predisposition. Medications are the most common cause, particularly antimicrobials, antiepileptics, allopurinol, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Drug-specific CD8 T-cells and natural killer cells are thought to be the major inducers of keratinocyte apoptosis via release of soluble cytotoxic mediators, including Fas ligand, perforin/granzyme, tumor necrosis factor, and granulysin. When SJS/TEN is suspected clinically, appropriate therapy should be instituted without delay. All patients should be managed initially in an intensive care unit or burn unit under a multidisciplinary team of physicians experienced in the care of patients with SJS/TEN. Available data support the use of various pharmacologic agents to halt disease progression and improve outcomes, but no single drug has been found to be superior or beneficial for all patients. Future research should focus on developing a better understanding of the genetic susceptibility and immunopathophysiology of the disease, as well as novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets to improve patient outcomes.
Myelin Gene Regulation in the Peripheral Nervous System

The regulatory mechanisms that control myelin gene expression are largely unknown. Further understanding of the transcriptional, translational, and posttranslational regulation of myelin gene expression will provide important information for advancing our unterstanding of human disease where demyelination is prominent as in, for example, the demyelinating peripheral neuropathies. In addition, understanding the complexities associated with the regulation of myelination will further our knowledge of the peripheral nerve during development and after injury, where demyelination and remyelination follow axonal degeneration and regeneration. The paradigms of crush injury and permanent transection of the adult rat sciatic nerve (classical Wallerian degeneration) have proven to be excellent models for evaluating the regulation of myelin gene expression. These experimental animal models of neuropathy are characterized by the presence and absence of axonal regeneration and subsequent myelin assembly (Poduslo, 1984; Poduslo et al., 1985). By evaluating the extent of myelin gene expression after nerve transection, information can be obtained as to the mechanisms by which myelin genes and their products are downregulated. Understanding this down-regulation will, in turn, facilitate our understanding of myelin gene induction.
The Impact of Coalition Loyalty Program Evolution on Member Purchases and Redemptions

This paper uses a new dataset from a major European credit card issuer to fill an important gap in the study of coalition loyalty program effectiveness by analyzing how complex spatial relationships influence card spend and redemption activity. A coalition program offers incentives to customers at multiple businesses; the primary challenge facing coalition managers is determining the value of each store in the network. We use detailed, individual-level transaction data to analyze how the spatial evolution of a coalition loyalty program network influences card usage and redemption activity. By augmenting traditional spatial models with advances in machine learning methods we are able to properly account for the influence of complex spatial interactions and provide actionable analyses to managers. Our results suggest that if the coalition reduces the size of their network to only include key branch locations estimated credit card revenue increases substantially.
The Effect of a Quality Improvement Intervention on Sleep and Delirium in Critically Ill Patients in a Surgical ICU.

Background Delirium is a deleterious condition affecting up to 60% of patients in the surgical ICU (SICU). Few SICU-focused delirium interventions have been implemented, including those addressing sleep-wake disruption, a modifiable delirium risk factor common in critically ill patients. Research Question What is the effect on delirium and sleep quality of a multicomponent nonpharmacologic intervention aimed at improving sleep-wake disruption in patients in the SICU setting? Study Design and Methods Using a staggered pre-post design, we implemented a quality improvement intervention in two SICUs (general surgery or trauma and cardiovascular) in an academic medical center. After a preintervention (baseline) period, a multicomponent unit-wide nighttime (ie, efforts to minimize unnecessary sound and light, provision of earplugs and eye masks) and daytime (ie, raising blinds, promotion of physical activity) intervention bundle was implemented. A daily checklist was used to prompt staff to complete intervention bundle elements. Delirium was evaluated twice daily using the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit. Patient sleep quality ratings were evaluated daily using the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ). Results Six hundred forty-six SICU admissions (332 baseline, 314 intervention) were analyzed. Median age was 61 years (interquartile range, 49-70 years); 35% of the cohort were women and 83% were White. During the intervention period, patients experienced fewer days of delirium (proportion ± SD of ICU days, 15 ± 27%) as compared with the preintervention period (20 ± 31%; P = .022), with an adjusted pre-post decrease of 4.9% (95% CI, 0.5%-9.2%; P = .03). Overall RCSQ-perceived sleep quality ratings did not change, but the RCSQ noise subscore increased (9.5% [95% CI, 1.1%-17.5%; P = .02). Interpretation Our multicomponent intervention was associated with a significant reduction in the proportion of days patients experienced delirium, reinforcing the feasibility and effectiveness of a nonpharmacologic sleep-wake bundle to reduce delirium in critically ill patients in the SICU. Trial Registry ClinicalTrials.gov; No.: NCT03313115; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov
Electrically-switchable foundry-processed phase change photonic devices

Optical phase change materials (PCMs) are a unique class of materials which exhibit extraordinarily large optical property change (e.g. refractive index change > 1) when undergoing a solid-state phase transition, and they have witnessed increasing adoption in active integrated photonics and metasurface devices in recent years. Here we report integration of chalcogenide phase change materials in the Lincoln Laboratory 8-inch Si foundry process and the demonstration of electrothermally switched phase-change photonic devices building on a wafer-scale silicon-on-insulator heater platform.
What Inspired That Tweet: A Comparative Analysis of Official and Stakeholder-Enacted Crisis Responses During the Urban Meyer/Zach Smith Scandal:

This study investigated the relationship between stakeholder enacted crisis communication and organizational crisis response. Through textual analysis, the reputation repair strategies that head co...
Replication Defect of Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus with a Mutant Reverse Transcriptase That Can Incorporate Ribonucleotides and Deoxyribonucleotides

Reverse transcriptase (RT) plays a critical role in retrovirus replication, directing the synthesis of a double- stranded DNA copy of the viral RNA genome. We have previously described a mutant RT of the Moloney murine leukemia virus in which F155 was replaced by valine, and we demonstrated that this substitution allowed the enzyme to incorporate ribonucleotides to form RNA while still retaining its normal ability to incorporate deoxyribonucleotides to form DNA. When introduced into the viral genome, this mutation rendered the virus incapable of replication. Characterization of the mutant virus revealed that the enzyme was still active and able to synthesize minus-strand strong stop DNA and some longer products but failed to make full-length minus-strand DNA. We propose that the failure of the enzyme to complete DNA synthesis in vivo resulted from its ability to incorporate ribonucleotides into the products, which served as inhibitors for DNA synthesis. We also tested seven other amino acid residues for their abilities to substitute for F155 in virus replication; of these, only tyrosine could support virus replication. In an attempt to select for second-site suppressor mutations, the F155V mutant was subjected to random mutagenesis and was used as a parent for the isolation of revertant viruses. Two independent revertants were found to have changed the valine residue at position 155 back to the wild- type phenylalanine. These results suggest that an aromatic ring at this position is important for virus replication.
Forest conservation programs and the landowners who prefer them: Profiling family forest owners in the New York City watershed

Voluntary forest conservation programs offer family forest owners (FFO) financial incentives in exchange for legally-binding land use restrictions and/or management obligations. Protecting family forests in the Catskill Mountains region of New York is an important policy objective, as these watersheds provide clean drinking water to New York City. Multiple methods were used to elicit preferences for forest conservation program attributes and to identify potential barriers to participation. Respondents to a mailed survey were grouped according to the program attribute that most influenced their likely participation into forest conservation programs. Respondents were identified as time-sensitive, payment value-sensitive, rights-sensitive, payment mode-sensitive, or harvest-sensitive. Comparing groups revealed significant differences in age, attitudes towards harvesting trees, income, and importance of timber production. Supplemental qualitative data was collected during three focus groups of survey respondents and analyzed for general themes. Focus group discussions revealed a lack of knowledge about conservation easement programs, reluctance to burden landowners’ children with encumbered land inheritances, concerns for resale values and tax assessment, and a simmering animosity towards New York City’s watershed management efforts. We offer strategies to address these concerns and to design programs that will foster greater participation among FFOs in the region.
Metabolism: Plugging the leak.

Multiple mitochondrial components generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), but separating the consequences of each ROS-generating source from overall mitochondrial health is challenging. A new class of small-molecule inhibitors that selectively block ROS generation from one of the most active sources may provide a new approach toward achieving that goal.
The Field System Eco-Map

Abstract Rapid changes in social services have altered the organizational context of student practicum experiences. Field experiences have become increasingly complex, requiring that students demonstrate independent practice skills earlier in practicum than was required previously. As a result students need a tool to assist them in understanding the complexities of agency-based practice. The Field System Eco-map, an extension of the traditional eco-map, was developed to help students create a schema for organizing practicum experiences. Additionally the Eco-map can be used to assist students in developing strategies for independent, constructive problem solving in the face of baffling organizational systems and practicum dilemmas.
Design of data glove and arm type haptic interface

In this paper a new data glove with tactile feedback and an exsoskeleton arm type haptic interface are addressed. The data glove has 11 degree of freedom, and vibrators are mounted on the tip of 5 glove fingers. The arm type haptic interface has 5 degree of freedom. It can be worn on operator arm, and the operator can obtain real time force feedback. The combination of data glove and arm type haptic interface provide both external forces of contact and internal forces of grasping. They can be used to complete a complex work such as teleoperation and to interact with virtual environment. Some experiments have been done to prove its usefulness.
Approximation Orders of Principal Shift-Invariant Spaces Generated by Box Splines

We investigate the approximation orders of principal shift-invariant subspaces ofLp(Rd), 1<p<∞, generated by exponential box splinesMassociated to rational matrices. Moreover, under some regularity assumptions onMthe exact approximation orders are determined.
Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade in high-risk hypertensive patients: current approaches and future trends.

Agents that block the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) are the cornerstones of antihypertensive therapy in patients at high risk for cardiovascular or renal disease. Recently, it was shown that activation of RAAS may occur through alternate pathways not inhibited by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), or mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and that ACEIs, ARBs, or MRAs may actually cause a reactive increase in plasma renin concentration and activity. While these agents, alone or in combination, decrease blood pressure and cardiovascular events to varying degrees, the direct renin inhibitor is a new class of RAAS blocking agent. Aliskiren is the first US Food and Drug Administration-approved direct renin inhibitor with good oral bioavailability. ASPIRE HIGHER is an ongoing series of clinical trials designed to investigate the effect of aliskiren on cardiovascular/renal surrogate endpoints and morbidity/mortality in patients with hype...
Mechanism of kinase activation in the receptor for colony-stimulating factor 1.

Abstract Receptor tyrosine kinases remain dormant until activated by ligand binding to the extracellular domain. Two mechanisms have been proposed for kinase activation: (i) ligand binding to the external domain of a receptor monomer may induce a conformational change that is transmitted across the cell membrane (intramolecular model) or (ii) the ligand may facilitate oligomerization, thereby allowing interactions between the juxtaposed kinase domains (intermolecular model). The receptor for colony-stimulating factor 1 was used to test these models. Large insertions at the junction between the external and transmembrane domains of the receptor, introduced by site-directed mutagenesis of the cDNA, were positioned to isolate the external domain and prevent transmembrane conformational propagation while allowing for receptor oligomerization. Such mutant receptors were expressed on the cell surface, bound ligand with high affinity, exhibited ligand-stimulated autophosphorylation, and signaled mitogenesis and cellular proliferation in the presence of ligand. A second experimental strategy directly tested the intermolecular model of ligand activation. A hybrid receptor composed of the external domain of human glycophorin A and the transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains of the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor exhibited anti-glycophorin antibody-induced kinase activity that supported mitogenesis. Our data strongly support a mechanism of receptor activation based on ligand-induced receptor oligomerization.
Strategies to reduce hemostatic activation during cardiopulmonary bypass.

Abstract Introduction We evaluated whether a modified protocol for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) could reduced the systemic hemostatic activation associated with this procedure. Materials and methods The in vivo rates of thrombin, fibrin, plasmin and D-dimer generation were determined in each subject during CPB using measured levels of hemostatic factors combined with a computer model of the cardiovascular and hemostatic systems. A standard CPB group using uncoated circuits, standard heparin levels and direct shed blood reinfusion (n = 9) was compared to a modified CPB group using heparin-coated circuits, shed blood collection, washing and reinfusion post-operatively, lower heparin levels and epsilon-amino-caproic acid (n = 10). Results and conclusions Standard CPB increased average thrombin generation 9-fold, decreased fibrin generation 2-fold, increased plasmin generation 11-fold and increased fibrin degradation and D-dimer generation 19-fold. During CPB in the modified group thrombin generation was not increased beyond surgical levels, lower heparin concentrations allowed each thrombin to make more fibrin prior to inhibition, while fibrin degradation was suppressed by epsilon-amino-caproic acid. At baseline for every 100 fibrins formed only 1–2 were degraded to D-dimer. During standard CPB for every 100 fibrins generated on average 34 fibrins were degraded with some subjects showing a net fibrin loss. In contrast, in the modified CPB group for every 100 fibrins formed only 4 fibrins were degraded (p
Neither Serotonin nor Adenosine-dependent Mechanisms Preserve Ventilatory Capacity in ALS rats

In rats over-expressing SOD1G93A, ventilation is preserved despite significant loss of respiratory motor neurons. Thus, unknown forms of compensatory respiratory plasticity may offset respiratory motor neuron cell death. Although mechanisms of such compensation are unknown, other models of respiratory motor plasticity may provide a conceptual guide. Multiple cellular mechanisms give rise to phrenic motor facilitation; one mechanism requires spinal serotonin receptor and NADPH oxidase activity whereas another requires spinal adenosine receptor activation. Here, we studied whether these mechanisms contribute to compensatory respiratory plasticity in SOD1G93A rats. Using plethysmography, we assessed ventilation in end-stage SOD1G93A rats after: (1) serotonin depletion with parachlorophenylalanine (PCPA), (2) serotonin (methysergide) and A2A (MSX-3) receptor inhibition, (3) NADPH oxidase inhibition (apocynin), and (4) combined treatments. The ability to increase ventilation was not decreased by individual or combined treatments; thus, these mechanisms do not maintain breathing capacity at end-stage motor neuron disease. Possible mechanisms giving rise to enhanced breathing capacity with combined treatment in end-stage SOD1G93A rats are discussed.
Prevalence and risk factors of morning headaches in the general population

conditions and disorders were found positively associated with CMH. The most significant associated factors were comorbid anxiety and depressive disorders (28.5% vs5.5%),majordepressivedisorderalone(21.3%vs5.5%), dyssomnia not otherwise specified (17.1% vs 6.9%), insomnia disorder (14.4% vs 6.9%), and circadian rhythm disorder (20.0% vs 7.5%). Sleep-related breathing disorder (15.2% vs 7.5%), hypertension (11.0% vs 7.2%), musculoskeletal diseases (14.1% vs 7.1%), use of anxiolyticmedication(20.1%vs7.3%),andheavyalcoholconsumption (12.6% vs 7.7%) were also significantly associated with CMH. Conclusions: Morning headache affects 1 individual in 13 in the general population. Chronic morning headaches are a good indicator of major depressive disorders and insomnia disorders. Contrary to what was previously suggested, however, they are not specific to sleeprelated breathing disorder. Arch Intern Med. 2004;164:97-102
Yin and Yan of Cytokine Regulation in Solid Organ Graft Rejection and Tolerance

Solid organ transplantation is the therapy of choice for end stage diseases. The alloimmune response generated after transplantation induces the production of a "cytokine storm" that can lead to either the rejection of the organ or graft acceptance. These key decisions, which determine the transplant fate, depend on the type of cytokine response (Th1/Th2). An inflammatory response will lead to graft loss; a tolerogenic response assists in graft acceptance. A balance between different factors often determines outcome. The same cytokine may assist in either allograft rejection or graft survival depending on: (1) the cell types in the vicinity, (2) the amount of each cytokine produced, (3) different sites, and (4) if it acts in a synergistic or antagonistic manner with other cytokines. This review focuses on cytokines that manipulate the alloimmune response after organ transplantation and that play a role either in graft rejection (yin) or tolerance (yang).
CRACK PROBLEMS IN FGM LAYERS UNDER THERMAL STRESSES

In this study an unconstrained elastic layer under statically self-equilibrating thermal or residual stresses is considered. The layer is assumed to be a functionally graded material (FGM), meaning that its thermo-mechanical properties are assumed to be continuous functions of the thickness coordinate. The layer contains an embedded or a surface crack perpendicular to its boundaries. Using superposition the problem is reduced to a perturbation problem in which the crack surface tractions are the only external forces. The dimensions, geometry, and loading conditions of the original problem are such that the perturbation problem may be approximated by a plane strain mode I crack problem for an infinite layer. After a general discussion of the thermal stress problem, the crack problem in the nonhomogeneous medium is formulated. With the application to graded coatings and interfacial zones in mind, the thickness variation of the thermo-mechanical properties is assumed to be monotonous. Thus, the functions suc...
Purification and partial characterization of nonspecific lipase from rat pancreas.

Abstract Nonspecific lipase (also referred to as micelle lipase and secondary ester hydrolase) has been purified to electrophoretic homogeneity starting from acetone powder of rat pancreas. The purified enzyme is found to have a molecular weight (gel filtration) of 64 000 ± 2000, and an equivalent weight (titration with E-600) of 65 000. Nonspecific lipase is seen to be very sensitive to inhibition by organophosphates but resistant to quinine. Evidence for the presence of sulfhydryl and imidazole groups essential for activity is presented, and some observations on substrate specificity are made. The purified enzyme appears to lack phosphate groups and lipids, and is unstable under conditions of low ionic strength and/or exposure to 2-mercaptoethanol.
REVISITING THE SOUTHERN CULTURE OF VIOLENCE

This analysis revisits the Southern culture of violence thesis. Several limitations of prior research are addressed by probing for a cultural influence on situation- and race-specific rates of homicide in both rural and urban communities. Negative binomial regression analyses of county-level homicide and census data indicate that the density of Southern-born whites is positively associated with white argument-based homicide rates in rural areas. When this relationship is examined outside of the spatial boundaries of the South—a critical test for a regionally based cultural influence on violence—the results are identical. We interpret these findings as suggestive of a cultural influence and situate them in a discussion of the broader theoretical state of research on regional variations in violence.
Can proton decay be rotated away

Abstract We examine the question of whether the gauge interactions leading to proton decay can be rotated away from grand unified models, via a suitable choice of values for the flavor mixing angles. Grand unified models with an arbitrary number of families and an arbitrary gauge group will be considered. In the case of the SU(5) model with three generations, it is shown that proton decay can be rotated away only if s 3 = 0. ( S 3 is the sine of the third Kobayashi-Maskawa mixing angle.)
Isoenergetic jamming transition in particle-filled systems

A full understanding of the jamming transition remains elusive, but recent advances which draw upon the common features of frustrated systems are encouraging. Herein, we show that, for mixtures of oil and silica particles, the dependence of the dejamming stress on filler volume fraction, $\ensuremath{\phi}$, is consistent with the shape of a reported jamming phase diagram [Trappe et al., Nature (London) 411, 772 (2001)]. We discover for the first time, however, that the role of $\ensuremath{\phi}$ disappears when mechanical energy input, defined as stress multiplied by strain, is used instead of stress as the critical parameter. We also examine literature results for aqueous suspensions of boehmite alumina powders, latex dispersions of polystyrene particles, and carbon black-filled elastomers in order to illustrate the universality of our finding. This study provides evidence for a thermodynamic interpretation of the jamming transition.
Underpowering in randomized trials reporting a sample size calculation

Abstract Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether standard deviations (SDs) used in sample size calculations are smaller than those found in the resulting study sample, thereby leading to underpowered studies. Method: The predicted SD used in the sample size calculation and the actual SD of the study sample were recorded for randomized trials recently published in one of four major journals. Results: Sample SD was greater than predicted SD for 80% of endpoints. About one quarter of trials required five times as many patients as specified in the sample size calculation. Conclusion: Trials reporting sample size calculations for continuous endpoints published in the most reputable medical journals are often underpowered. There seems to be insufficient understanding that the SD of a sample of patients is a random variable, associated with imprecision, that cannot easily be extrapolated from one population to another.
Hyaluronic acid and hyaluronidase: molecular markers associated with prostate cancer biology and detection.

Hyaluronic acid and hyaluronidase: molecular markers associated with prostate cancer biology and detection
Thyroid hormone replacement in women of reproductive age: is surgeon knowledge related to operative volume?

Background: It is not known if surgeons who place women of reproductive age on thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine, LT4) routinely inform them of the increased LT4 demands with future pregna...
Laser Sensing Of Electric And Magnetic Fields For Power Transmission Applications

Polarization modulation of light from a 633 nm He-Ne laser, using the Pockels and Faraday effects in appropriate materials, can serve as an electrometer and magnetometer with sensitivities to 0.06 volt/cm and 0.03 gauss or better. With the sensor material placed in the field and the laser illuminator and receiver mounted remotely, this technique can be used for precise, wideband measurement of transient effects and power flow in substation environments where high fields prohibit direct measurements. This paper describes the performance of these devices used in prototype systems for voltage transient monitoring and also for precise voltage and current metering. The latter system requires thermal sensing as well, with an accuracy of 0.1°C; optical methods for accomplishing this will be described.© (1976) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Optimum utilization and replacement policies for decaying catalysts

The optimum catalyst replacement policy, length of operating cycle, and temperature program are determined for simple types of reactors operated with constant exit conversion. For certain circumstances it is shown that the spent catalyst should not be replaced completely by new catalyst at the beginning of a cycle. On determine la meilleure maniere de remplacer le catalyseur, la longueur du cycle d'operation et les conditions de temperature dans le cas de genres simples de reacteurs a la sortie desquels il se fait une transformation constante. On montre que, dans certaines circonstances, il vaut mieux ne pas remplacer completement le catalyseur epuise par un nouveau au commencement du cycle.
Event Based Interpretation of Schrödinger’s Equation for the Two-slit Experiment

A discrete time event based model is constructed for particles emitted one-at-a-time in the two slit experiment of quantum mechanics. It is shown that the simulations of the model align with the solutions of the time-dependent non-relativistic Schrodinger’s equation corresponding to the experiment. The event based model provides an interpretation of the two slit experiment as the aggregate behaviour of individual particles, whose paths are probabilistically differentiated according to sequential rules for their discrete spatial movements in time.
The coherently pumped laser: The simplest system for lasers without inversion☆

Abstract We study the operation of a coherently pumped two-level laser, in which atoms are prepared initially in a coherent superposition of the upper and lower levels. There is phase locking but no threshold for the laser field. The coherently pumped laser can exhibit “lasing without population inversion” and is the simplest system for lasers without inversion. A simple physical picture is given to explain the lasing without inversion.
Unobserved systematic risk factor and default prediction

Abstract We conduct a thorough analysis on the role played by the unobserved systematic risk factor in default prediction. We find that this latent factor outweighs the observed systematic risk factors and can substantially improve the in-sample predictive accuracy at the firm, rating group, and aggregate levels. Thus it might be helpful to include the unobserved systematic risk factor when simulating portfolio credit losses. However, we also find that this factor only marginally improves out-of-sample model performance. Therefore, although the models we investigated all show reasonably good ability to rank order firms by default risk, accurate prediction of default rate remains challenging even when the unobserved systematic risk factor is considered.
Modelling covariance structure in the analysis of repeated measures data.

The term 'repeated measures' refers to data with multiple observations on the same sampling unit. In most cases, the multiple observations are taken over time, but they could be over space. It is usually plausible to assume that observations on the same unit are correlated. Hence, statistical analysis of repeated measures data must address the issue of covariation between measures on the same unit. Until recently, analysis techniques available in computer software only offered the user limited and inadequate choices. One choice was to ignore covariance structure and make invalid assumptions. Another was to avoid the covariance structure issue by analysing transformed data or making adjustments to otherwise inadequate analyses. Ignoring covariance structure may result in erroneous inference, and avoiding it may result in inefficient inference. Recently available mixed model methodology permits the covariance structure to be incorporated into the statistical model. The MIXED procedure of the SAS((R)) System provides a rich selection of covariance structures through the RANDOM and REPEATED statements. Modelling the covariance structure is a major hurdle in the use of PROC MIXED. However, once the covariance structure is modelled, inference about fixed effects proceeds essentially as when using PROC GLM. An example from the pharmaceutical industry is used to illustrate how to choose a covariance structure. The example also illustrates the effects of choice of covariance structure on tests and estimates of fixed effects. In many situations, estimates of linear combinations are invariant with respect to covariance structure, yet standard errors of the estimates may still depend on the covariance structure.
Recombination by Tunneling in Electroluminescent Diodes

The theory of photon-assisted tunneling in the presence of an electric field is developed and used to obtain quantitative expressions for the line shape and intensity of light emitted by forward-biased electroluminescent diodes in the "peak-shift" region. Recombination of tunneling electrons and holes through one or more intermediate states is also considered and shown to produce an "excess" current which varies as the nth root of the "peak shift" intensity, where $n\ensuremath{\approx}2$ for processes involving one intermediate state and $ng2$ for more than one. Auger recombination through these same states is shown to provide an explanation for the high-energy emission ($h\ensuremath{\nu}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{eV}\ensuremath{\gg}\mathrm{kT}$), which varies as the square of the current and is frequently observed at low currents in electroluminescent diodes.
Structure–Function Parameters in the Convective Boundary Layer from Large-Eddy Simulation

Abstract The conventional theory of the scattering of transmitted acoustic, microwave, and optical radiation by turbulence uses the refractive index structure-function parameter CN2. The authors calculate the vertical profiles of the structure function parameters on which CN2 depends, those for temperature and humility, CT2 and CQ2, and their joint structure-function parameter, CTQ, from large-eddy simulation (LES) data for convective boundary layers. The results agree well with experimental measurements. Modern views of wave propagation through turbulence with substantial intermittency, such as that found in the high Reynolds number flows in geophysics, suggest that the structure–function parameter be interpreted as a local flow variable rather than the traditional ensemble average. Through the refined Kolmogorov–Obukhov similarity hypotheses, a set of local structure–function parameters is defined that depends on locally averaged values of the molecular destruction rates of velocity and scalar variances...
Analysis of isoaspartate in peptides and proteins without the use of radioisotopes.

A rapid and sensitive HPLC-based method for quantitating isoaspartate levels in peptides and proteins is described. The analyte is incubated for 40 min with S-adenosyl-l-methionine and the commercially available enzyme protein l-isoaspartyl methyltransferase. Methylation of isoaspartyl sites results in stoichiometric production of S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine that is separated from the other components of the reaction by reversed-phase HPLC and quantitated online by absorbance at 260 nm. This method can accurately detect 5 pmol or less of isoaspartate and works with tryptic digests as well as intact proteins. Using a commercially available isoaspartyl peptide, the relationship between isoaspartate levels and S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine production was found to be linear and stoichiometric over a range of 5-250 pmol. Compared to methods that measure [(3)H]methanol production after methylation with S-adenosyl-l-[methyl-(3)H]methionine, the HPLC method is safer, faster, less expensive, and equally sensitive.
Various disconnectivities of spaces and projectabilities of ℓ -groups

Arch denotes the category of archimedean l-groups and l-homomorphisms. Tych denotes the category of Tychonoff spaces with continuous maps, and α denotes an infinite cardinal or ∞. This work introduces the concept of an αcc-disconnected space and demonstrates that the class of αcc-disconnected spaces forms a covering class in Tych. On the algebraic side, we introduce the concept of an αcc-projectable l-group and demonstrate that the class of αcc-projectable l-groups forms a hull class in Arch. In addition, we characterize the αcc-projectable objects in W—the category of Arch-objects with designated weak unit and l-homomorphisms that preserve the weak unit—and construct the αcc-hull for G in W. Lastly, we apply our results to negatively answer the question of whether every hull class (resp., covering class) is epireflective (resp., monocoreflective) in the category of W-objects with complete l-homomorphisms (resp., the category of compact Hausdorff spaces with skeletal maps).
Differential expression and function of synaptotagmin 1 isoforms in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Abstract Synaptotagmin 1, encoded by the snt-1 gene in Caenorhabditis elegans, is a major synaptic vesicle protein containing two Ca2+-binding (C2) domains. Alternative splicing gives rise to two synaptotagmin 1 isoforms, designated SNT-1A and SNT-1B, which differ in amino acid sequence in the third, fourth, and fifth β-strands of the second C2 domain (C2B). We report here that expression of either SNT-1 isoform under control of a strong pan-neural promoter fully rescues the snt-1 null phenotype. Furthermore, C-terminal fusions of either isoform with GFP are trafficked properly to synapses and are fully functional, unlike synaptotagmin 1∷GFP fusions in mice. Analysis of isoform expression with genomic GFP reporter constructs revealed that the SNT-1A and-1B isoforms are differentially expressed and localized in the C. elegans nervous system. We also report molecular, behavioral, and immunocytochemical analyses of twenty snt-1 mutations. One of these mutations, md259, specifically disrupts expression of the SNT-1A isoform and has defects in a subset of synaptotagmin 1-mediated behaviors. A second mutation, md220, is an in-frame 9-bp deletion that removes a conserved tri-peptide sequence (VIL) in the second β-strand of the C2B domain and disrupts the proper intracellular trafficking of synaptotagmin. Site-directed mutagenesis of a functional SNT-1∷GFP fusion protein was used to examine the potential role of the VIL sequence in synaptotagmin trafficking. Although our results suggest the VIL sequence is most likely not a specific targeting motif, the use of SNT-1∷GFP fusions has great potential for investigating synaptotagmin trafficking and localization.
Central elements in core-free groups

Let G be a finite group. By using transfer methods, several authors have determined sufficient conditions for G to have a nontrivial Abelian factor group [9, Chapter 141. In this paper we establish some sufficient conditions for G to have a nontrivial center or a nontrivial normal subgroup of odd order. For every finite group G, let Z(G) be the center of G. Following Brauer [I, 21, we define the COY~ of G, K(G), to be the largest normal subgroup of odd order in G, and we say that G is core-free if K(G) = 1. Define Z*(G) to be the subgroup of G containing K(G) for which Z*(G)/K(G) = Z(G/K(G)). Note that Z*(G) = Z(G) if G is core-free. For every pair of subgroups J and K of G, denote the centralizer and normalizer of J in K by CK(J) and NK(J), respectively. Similarly, denote by C,(x) the centralizer in K of an element x of G. The main result of this paper is the following proposition:
Efficiency and optimality in constrained variance control

For the class of linear discrete systems with square nonsingular disturbance matrix we consider the constrained variance control problem in which there are constraints on the magnitudes of each of the state variances. This is a special case of a generalized constrained cost problem. Assuming that a solution exists to the constrained cost problem, multiobjective optimization theory is used to develop sufficient conditions for this probieal to have an efficient (nondominated, Pareto-optimal) solution and for any efficient solution to solve an associated scalar optimiaization problem, it is then proved that these sufficient conditions are satisfied for the constrained variance problem. Therefore. if a solution exists to the constrained variance problem, then there exists a solution which also solves an optional linear quadratic problem which weights only the state variances.
Methods of by-passing distribution substation equipment

The most practical methods in use today for bypassing substation equipment are presented together with the advantages, limitations, and comparative costs for each of the schemes.
Placement Moves of Foster Children as Perceived by Foster Parents Residing in Urban and Semi-Urban Communities

Placement instability is a concern in foster care. Understanding foster parents' perceptions of the children's move experiences within their homes is important to developing policy and practices that aid foster families and children through these difficult transitions. A sample of 105 foster parents randomly selected from a statewide list responded to a cross-sectional survey that was designed to explore: (1) the nature of placement moves in foster homes over a 2-year period, (2) foster parents' perceptions of children's emotions during placement transitions, and (3) parents' perceived impact of placement moves on their own lives. Foster parents are negatively affected when foster children move out of their homes, and their perspective of the move transition is likely different from the viewpoint of foster children.
Pediatric hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) differs from adult HES

The idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) developed in a 15-year-old boy who presented with colitis, cough, rash, and hepatitis. Molecular analysis failed to demonstrate the Fip1-like1-Platelet Derived Growth Factor Receptor α chain (FIP1L1-PDGFRA) mutation described in adult patients with HES. There are significant clinical differences between the pediatric and adult presentations of HES.
Does fetal diagnosis make a difference

Fetal echocardiography has clearly made a difference in the world of pediatric cardiology today. It has taught us much about the natural history of fetal cardiac disease, and with ongoing collaborative studies, it should continue to enhance our knowledge base. Fetal echocardiography has enabled us to identify potential candidates for fetal cardiac intervention and has promoted the development of an exciting new discipline within pediatric cardiology. We hope that the recognition of critical congenital heart disease in utero improves the long-term outcome of our patients, including neurodevelopmental outcome and quality of life.
Prediction of low-velocity impact damage in thin circular laminates

Clamped circular composite plates were analyzed for static equivalent impact loads. Three plate sizes—25.4, 38.1, and 50.8 mm radii—made of quasi-isotropic graphite/epoxy laminate were analyzed. The analysis was based on the minimum total potential energy method and used the von Karman strain-displacement equations. A step-by-step incremental transverse displacement procedure was used to calculate plate load and ply stresses. The ply failure region and modes (splitting and fiber break) were calculated using the Tsai-Wu and the maximum stress criteria, respectively. Reduced moduli were then used in the failed region in subsequent increments of analyses. The analysis predicted that the failure would initiate as splitting in the bottom-most ply and then progress to other plies. Larger radii plates had a lower splitting threshold (load or energy) and a higher first-fiber failure threshold. The size and shape of the ply damage regions were different for different plies. The bottom ply damage was the largest and elongated in its ply-fiber direction. Calculated splitting damage for a 25.4 mm radius plate agreed with reported test data.
Insulin Resistance and Obesity: Resistin, A Hormone Secreted by Adipose Tissue

A newly discovered hormone named adipocyte-secreted factor, or resistin, is secreted by adipocytes in mice. Expression of resistin is low during food deprivation and in diabetes, and increased greatly during refeeding and insulin treatment. It is found in serum in mice and humans, and is greatly increased in obesity. Resistin inhibits adipocyte differentiation and may function as a feedback regulator of adipogenesis. Administration of resistin to mice resulted in increased glucose production and blood glucose levels. Therefore, resistin also functions as a regulator of glucose homeostasis and a physiologic antagonist to hepatic insulin action.
Marginal Likelihood and Bayes Factors for Dirichlet Process Mixture Models

We present a method for comparing semiparametric Bayesian models, constructed under the Dirichlet process mixture (DPM) framework, with alternative semiparameteric or parameteric Bayesian models. A distinctive feature of the method is that it can be applied to semiparametric models containing covariates and hierarchical prior structures, and is apparently the first method of its kind. Formally, the method is based on the marginal likelihood estimation approach of Chib (1995) and requires estimation of the likelihood and posterior ordinates of the DPM model at a single high-density point. An interesting computation is involved in the estimation of the likelihood ordinate, which is devised via collapsed sequential importance sampling. Extensive experiments with synthetic and real data involving semiparametric binary data regression models and hierarchical longitudinal mixed-effects models are used to illustrate the implementation, performance, and applicability of the method.
Micropatterned superhydrophobic textile for biofluidic transport

Textile-enabled interfacial microfluidics, utilizes the capillary force generated by fibrous hydrophilic yarns (e.g., cotton) to drive biological reagents, has been extended to various biochemical analyses recently. However, the restricted capillary-driving mechanism persists to be a major challenge for continuous and facilitated biofluidic transport. In this abstract, we have first introduced a new interfacial microfluidic transport principle to automatically drive three-dimensional liquid flows on a micropatterned superhydrophobic textile (MST) platform in a controllable and continuous manner. Specifically, the MST system utilizes the surface tension-induced Laplace pressure to facilitate the liquid motion along the fabric, in addition to the capillary force existing in the fibrous structure. The surface tension-induced pressure as well as pumping speed can be highly controllable by the sizes of the stitching patterns of hydrophilic yarns and the confined liquid volume. The MST can be potentially applied to large volume and continuous biofluidic collection and removal.
Volatiles and volatile-bearing melts in the Earth's interior

Volatiles and melts in Earth's deep interior play a key role in the dynamics, differentiation and evolution of the planet. Volatiles such as hydrogen, carbon, sulfur, and halogens stored at depths in various forms and concentrations, are known to have significant effect on the generation of partial melts. Extraction or impregnation of partial melts in turn can deplete or enrich the mantle in volatiles and causes compositional changes in major and trace elements. The presence of volatiles and melts is also known to influence the rheology and seismic properties of minerals, and likely has considerable influence on convective processes in the mantle. In this special volume we bring together nine selected papers that cover recent advances in geochemical, geophysical, and petrologic constraints on the origin, stability, characterization, and detection of volatiles and volatile-bearing melts in the mantle and on the physical and chemical consequence of the presence of fluids and melts in the mantle processes and properties. This effort is an outgrowth of a successful special session organized in the American Geophysical Union's Fall meeting in 2007 in San Francisco, California, USA as part of Studies of the Earth's Deep Interior focus group. The uniqueness of this volume is that it brings together papers from disciplines spanning solid Earth petrology, geochemistry, and geophysics that are based on natural observations, experimental determinations, and theoretical calculations, that touch on various aspects of volatile cycling in the Earth's interior and influence of volatiles in partial melting and melt properties.
Tensile deformation of a flat sheet

Abstract Strain rate sensitivity is known to produce a significant delay in necking of tensile specimens. This effect is analysed for a fairly general material constitutive law on the basis of two approximations. A part of the deformation is assumed to occur at constant load; and the development of necking is assumed to follow a particular geometry. These two approximations lead to an analysis of the sheet tensile specimen that predicts, among other things, the dependence of post-uniform elongation upon strain rate sensitivity. The results of this analysis are similar in form, although not in detail, to those of a previous analysis for round tensile bars.