cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Astronomy: A new twist on neutron stars

Theory suggests that neutron stars should be born rotating rapidly, but in reality they spin more slowly. New calculations suggest that they may be slowed by the emission of exotic gravity waves.
Linguistic and Cultural Challenges in Communication and Translation in US-Sponsored HIV Prevention Research in Emerging Economies.

Linguistic and cultural differences can impede comprehension among potential research participants during the informed consent process, but how researchers and IRBs respond to these challenges in practice is unclear. We conducted in-depth interviews with 15 researchers, research ethics committee (REC) chairs and members from 8 different countries with emerging economies, involved in HIV-related research sponsored by HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN), regarding the ethical and regulatory challenges they face in this regard. In the interviews, problems with translating study materials often arose as major concerns. Four sets of challenges were identified concerning linguistic and cultural translations of informed consent documents and other study materials, related to the: (1) context, (2) process, (3) content and (4) translation of these documents. Host country contextual issues included low literacy rates, education (e.g., documents may need to be written below 5th grade reading level), and experiences with research, and different views of written documentation. Certain terms and concepts may not exist in other languages, or have additional connotations that back translations do not always reveal. Challenges arise because of not only the content of word-for-word, literal translation, but the linguistic form of the language, such as tone (e.g., appropriate forms of politeness vs. legalese, seen as harsh), syntax, manner of questions posed, and the concept of the consent); and the contexts of use affect meaning. Problems also emerged in bilateral communications – US IRBs may misunderstand local practices, or communicate insufficiently the reasons for their decisions to foreign RECs. In sum, these data highlight several challenges that have received little, if any, attention in past literature on translation of informed consent and study materials, and have crucial implications for improving practice, education, research and policy, suggesting several strategies, including needs for broader open-source multilingual lexicons, and more awareness of the complexities involved.
Vernalization responses and subsequent fertility of two climatically distinct populations of rattail fescue (Vulpia myuros [L.] C.C. Gmel.)

Rattail fescue has become increasingly problematic in North America as a result of the greater adoption of no-till practices. While rattail fescue is described generally as a winter annual, there exists a wide variation in the life history documentation of the species. In some instances, rattail fescue has been observed behaving as a spring annual. In order to assess the vernalization plasticity of rattail fescue, laboratory-germinated seedlings from two climatically different rattail fescue populations, eastern versus western Oregon, were exposed to 4, 7 or 10°C temperatures for 0, 2, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7 or 8 weeks of vernalization. Following vernalization, the seedlings were transferred to a greenhouse and the developmental stages were recorded. After 13 weeks, the emergent inflorescences were clipped and the seeds were tested for germinability. The initiation of sexual development in the eastern population was affected significantly by the vernalization temperature and length, while the western population only responded to the vernalization length. In general, a faster progression through the reproductive stages of development was associated with longer vernalization lengths. Lastly, there was an increase in the germination rate of the seeds that were produced on the parent plants that were subjected to longer vernalization lengths, regardless of the population or vernalization temperature. The level of plasticity in the vernalization response between the two tested populations indicates that land managers should monitor local population life history traits in order to ensure that effective weed control is implemented at the correct growth stage.
An Information Processing Approach for Deciding Upon Control Strategies and Reducing Control Loss in Emerging Organizations

Control in emerging organizations is becoming increasingly problematic due to the need for increasing employee discretion of behavior stemming from greater uncertainty of how to accomplish tasks. Traditional control processes, based on the use of rules and supervision, are largely ineffective for effectively controlling behavior where there is uncertainty and ambiguity about how to successfully carry out tasks. This problem is approached here from an information processing perspective. Our contention is that effective control of tasks, that is, assuring goal attainment, is the result of linking the information processing (IP) requirements of tasks with information processing capabilities of three control strategies: objective controls, normative controls and self-management. A set of propositions are proposed suggesting that as IP requirements increase, there is greater reliance on normative and self-management control strategies for effective task completion. However, these high IP capability strategies ...
Design and analysis tools for concurrent blackboard systems

A set of blackboard system design and analysis tools that consists of a knowledge source organizer, a knowledge source input/output connectivity analyzer, and a validated blackboard system simulation model is discussed. The author presents the structure and functionality of the knowledge source input/output connectivity analyzer. An example outlining the use of the analyzer to aid in the design of a concurrent tactical decision generator for air-to-air combat is presented. The blackboard system design and analysis tools were designed for generic blackboard systems and are application independent. >
Plant development. The making of a plant hair

The identification of genes required for leaf-hair formation in the plant Arabidopsis thaliana is leading to the detailed dissection of a cell-differentiation pathway.
The Genus Cypraea

RECENT literature abounds with criticism of the current trend to split genera. The subfamily Cypraeinae (family Cypraeidae) is a case in point1,2. Linnaeus's genus Cypraea, which forms the basis for the subfamily, contained 42 species. At present approximately 160 are recognized. These species have been distributed in no fewer than 60 genera over the past twenty-five years, 52 of which appear in the latest work on the group3.
GENERALIZED SURFACE HARMONICS.

Abstract We introduce certain functions which may be considered as generalizations of the usual surface harmonics. They enable us to express in concise form the relation between relativistic wave functions as given in the linear momentum basis and those given in the angular momentum basis for particles of any spin and any mass. Representations of finite rotations about any axis orthogonal to the z-axis can also be expressed simply in terms of these generalized surface harmonics. Completeness and orthogonality relations will be given for these functions as well as other properties such as expansions of products. The new functions form the basis of a ray representation of the rotation group in a manner similar to that which is formed by the usual surface harmonics. In addition to their usefulness in relating the linear momentum basis to the angular momentum basis for relativistic wave functions, in later papers we shall use the generalized surface harmonics to quantize the electromagnetic vector potential in terms of an angular momentum basis which is a close analogue to the expansions of classical radiation in terms of multipoles used by Blatt and Weisskopf. Also in a later paper we shall use the generalized surface harmonics to obtain the Clebsch-Gordan coefficients for the direct product of two massless representations of the proper, orthochronous Lorentz group.
“Current thoughts” in electrosurgery

The ongoing desire to improve hemostasis and efficiency during surgery is manifested in the rapid development of electrosurgical technology. These changes have brought about a wide variety of devices available to the practicing surgeon during both open and endoscopic cases. Depending on the instrument chosen, various clinical effects ranging from simple coagulation to the sealing of large vascular bundles are obtained. However potential pitfalls or complications also exist. A thorough understanding of the pros and cons of these technological advancements can improve the operative experience for both surgeon and patient.
Exploring the Use of Virtual World Technology for Idea-Generation Tasks

While the potential value of Virtual World Technologies (VWTs) lies in their promise to facilitate communication through new and novel forms of collaboration, there is a lack of prior research that examines how VWTs compare to other types of information and communication technologies (ICT) commonly used to support collaborative work. This study investigates the effects of VWTs on group ideation outcomes; specifically, it compares the use of Second Life to a chat environment for idea generation tasks. As hypothesized, groups using VWTs for an idea generation task generated significantly more unique ideas and enjoyed using the environment more than the chat environment. Contrary to our predictions, no significant difference between the two environments was observed for satisfaction, group cohesion, and social presence.
Possible reforms for financing long-term care.

This paper considers the market for long-term care services to treat and compensate for chronic health conditions and disabilities. This paper describes how the long-term care market has evolved and the resulting implications for expenditure control. It reviews recent developments in marketing private insurance for long-term care and questions the potential and desirability of such insurance. Finally, it discusses the argument for greater public financing within a universal social insurance program and alternative approaches to structuring such a program.
UNITARY EQUIVALENCE AND TRANSLATION REPRESENTATION IN WAVELET THEORY

Unitary Equivalence and Translation Representation play a key role in the Lax–Phillips Scattering Theory. In this paper we show that Translation Representation also plays an important role in Wavelet Theory, for Discrete Multi-Resolution Approximation as well as for Continuous Multi-Translation Approximation — to be defined in the paper.
Time-Specific Effects of Ethanol Exposure on Cranial Nerve Nuclei: Gastrulation and Neuronogenesis

During the development of the central nervous system, neurons pass through critical periods or periods of vulnerability. We explored periods of vulnerability for cranial nerve nuclei by determining the effects of acute exposure to ethanol during development on the number of neurons in mature brainstem. Long-Evans rats were injected with 2.9 g ethanol/kg body weight on one day between gestational day (G) 7 and G13, inclusive. Two hours later, animals received a second injection of 1.45 g/kg. Controls were injected with equivalent volumes of saline. Brainstems of 31-day-old offspring were cryosectioned and stained with cresyl violet. Stereological methods were used to determine the volume and numerical density of neurons in three trigeminal sensory nuclei (the principal sensory nucleus of the trigeminal nerve, and the oral and interpolar subnuclei of the spinal trigeminal nuclear complex) and three motor nuclei (the trigeminal, facial, and hypoglossal nuclei). The numbers of neurons in most nuclei were lower following early (on G7 and/or G8) or later (on G12 and/or G13) exposure. Only the trigeminal interpolar nucleus was affected by neither early nor late ethanol exposure. Thus, prenatal exposure to ethanol affects the number of neurons in brainstem nuclei in a time-dependent manner. Windows of vulnerability coincide with gastrulation (G7/G8) and the period of neuronal generation (G12/G13).
Transport of aniline, chloroaniline, nitroaniline, and urea through perfluorosulfonated ionomer membranes☆

Abstract The permeabilities of aniline, p -chloroaniline, p -nitroaniline, and urea were measured in a perfluorosulfonated ionomer membrane. Permeabilities for these compounds were of the order of 2 x 10 -10 m 2 /sec when the external solutions were pH 7. Permeabilities for these compounds were of the order of 6 x 10 -9 m 2 /sec when the sink solution was pH 1 and the source solution was pH 7. These results indicate that the rate at which these amines exit the isonomer is the rate-limiting step in the transport process.
Usage of the Tresca yield condition in finite element plane strain analysis

Abstract Plastic stress-strain relations for perfectly plastic and strain-hardening materials in plane strain condition are developed for materials that obey the Tresca yield condition. A method of handling the three-dimensional yield surface by constructing a two-dimensional equivalent yield surface is described. The plastic stress-strain relations are employed to obtain elastic-plastic solutions for a notched tension specimen subjected to monotonically increasing loads. The results are compared to those previously available in the literature for the von Mises yield condition. It is shown that the stress-strain relations developed for the Tresca yield condition in plane strain can be as easily used as those of the von Mises yield condition, which have commonly been employed. The resulting solution is more conservative and safe, suggesting that it is desirable to use the Tresca yield condition in elastic-plastic analyses of metal structures in design.
Measurements of nitrogen-broadened line widths of acetylene at low temperatures

Abstract Spectral transmittance measurements have been performed on N 2 -broadened lines of C 2 H 2 in the 7.53 μm region at 153 and 200 K with a spectral resolution of 0.06 cm -1 . The line widths have been determined as functions of temperature and rotational quantum number using line-by-line comparison of theoretical and experimental values of spectral transmittance.
Transforming Our Models of Learning and Development: Web‐Based Instruction as Enabler of Third‐Generation Instruction

In this paper, I suggest that our methods for how to train are based historically on what we understand learning to be. I briefly trace the history of instructional design models, which embody both first-generation objectivist and second-generation cognitive constructivist views of learning. I then suggest we are on the cusp of a third-generation instructional model, one that places greater emphasis on the learner forming understanding largely through a process of social negotiation, either in training or on the job. I argue that Web-based instruction offers a technology ideally suited to the social constructivist approach at the core of this third-generation model. I discuss the importance of interaction in learning and suggest why Web-based networked learning may result in more, not less, interaction during training. Finally, I discuss other applications of third-generation learning such as peer mentoring and professional forums.
Practical points in the differential diagnosis of chest pain

The differential diagnosis of chest pain in the PACU is presented, with cues for the PACU nurse to consider when determining the cause of the complaint, "my chest hurts".
Effects of interleukin-18 on cardiac fibroblast function and gene expression

Fibroblasts are the primary cell type responsible for synthesis and remodeling of the extracellular matrix in the heart. A number of factors including growth factors, hormones and mechanical forces have been identified that modulate the production of extracellular matrix by cardiac fibroblasts. Inflammatory mediators including pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines also impact fibrosis of the heart. Recent studies have illustrated that interleukin-18 promotes a pro-fibrotic response in cardiac fibroblasts; however the effects of this cytokine on other aspects of fibroblast function have not been examined. While fibroblasts have long been known for their role in production and remodeling of the extracellular matrix, other functions of these cells are only now beginning to be appreciated. We hypothesize that exposure to interleukin-18 will stimulate other aspects of fibroblast behavior important in myocardial remodeling including proliferation, migration and collagen reorganization. Fibroblasts were isolated from adult male rat hearts and bioassays performed to determine the effects of interleukin-18 on fibroblast function. Treatment of fibroblasts with interleukin-18 (1-100ng/ml) resulted in increased production of extracellular matrix components and remodeling or contraction of three-dimensional collagen scaffolds by these cells. Furthermore, exposure to interleukin-18 stimulated fibroblast migration and proliferation. Treatment of heart fibroblasts with interleukin-18 resulted in the rapid activation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) pathways. Studies with pharmacological inhibitors illustrated that activation of these pathways is critical to interleukin-18 mediated alterations in fibroblast function. These studies illustrate that interleukin-18 plays a role in modulation of cardiac fibroblast function and may be an important component of the inflammation-fibrosis cascade during pathological myocardial remodeling.
Polyurethane foam process development. A systems engineering approach

A seven-step systems engineering approach is described and applied to the integral-skin foam system. Through the use of a hybrid computer simulation of a dynamic mathematical model, the two process variables with the greatest lever on the skin-forming process are determined. These data are then utilized to develop a new foam concept which makes it possible to control skin thickness and core foam density independently.
Solar electric propulsion system evaluation

Solar electric propulsion system performance consisting of thrustors with thrust vector aligning actuators, switching network and flight type power conditioner
Oligodendrocyte responses to buprenorphine uncover novel and opposing roles of μ-opioid- and nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptors in cell development: Implications for drug addiction treatment during pregnancy

Although the classical function of myelin is the facilitation of saltatory conduction, this membrane and the oligodendrocytes, the cells that make myelin in the central nervous system (CNS), are now recognized as important regulators of plasticity and remodeling in the developing brain. As such, oligodendrocyte maturation and myelination are among the most vulnerable processes along CNS development. We have shown previously that rat brain myelination is significantly altered by buprenorphine, an opioid analogue currently used in clinical trials for managing pregnant opioid addicts. Perinatal exposure to low levels of this drug induced accelerated and increased expression of myelin basic proteins (MBPs), cellular and myelin components that are markers of mature oligodendrocytes. In contrast, supra-therapeutic drug doses delayed MBP brain expression and resulted in a decreased number of myelinated axons. We have now found that this biphasic-dose response to buprenorphine can be attributed to the participation of both the μ-opioid receptor (MOR) and the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor (NOP receptor) in the oligodendrocytes. This is particularly intriguing because the NOP receptor/nociceptin system has been primarily linked to behavior and pain regulation, but a role in CNS development or myelination has not been described before. Our findings suggest that balance between signaling mediated by (a) MOR activation and (b) a novel, yet unidentified pathway that includes the NOP receptor, plays a crucial role in the timing of oligodendrocyte maturation and myelin synthesis. Moreover, exposure to opioids could disrupt the normal interplay between these two systems altering the developmental pattern of brain myelination.
Monozygotic twin girls with congenital malformations resembling fanconi anemia.

Monozygotic (MZ) twin girls, diagnosed at birth to have Fanconi anemia (FA) on the basis of multiple anomalies and an apparently increased baseline chromosomal breakage frequency in one twin, have been followed prospectively for 13 years. They have not developed aplastic anemia or other hematologic manifestations of FA. There was no evidence for increased baseline or diepoxybutane (DEB)-induced chromosomal breakage in either twin when the studies were repeated in Denver as well as in New York. Since the cellular phenotype must be considered in establishing the diagnosis of FA, these MZ twins should not be classified as affected with FA. Using the scoring system for FA diagnosis developed by Auerbach et al. [1989], the probability coefficients of their having FA based solely on clinical findings, prior to DEB testing, were .75 and .92, respectively. When the combination of their anomalies are taken together, their FA probability coefficient is .98. Through the International FA Registry, 15 additional patients have been identified with an FA probability score of .75 or greater, but who have not developed aplastic anemia and who are DEB negative. These patients, as well as the twins described in this report, are most likely a heterogeneous group and may represent other syndromes like Holt-Oram, VATER, VACTERL and IVIC, with genetic as well as nongenetic etiologies. These cases demonstrate the importance of testing with DEB or other DNA crosslinking agent in order to discriminate between FA and other syndromes with a similar phenotype.
Cascade depolarization of the negative muons

A classical description of the atomic capture and cascade is used to calculate the muon spin precession. The binding energies and orbital angular momenta at which the total angular momentumj becomes a good quantum number are calculated. The depolarization in the quantall part of the cascade is also studied. Using this information, and assuming a statistical initial angular momentum distribution, we calculate the residual polarization of the muon in the 1s state. The results agree substantially better with the experimental data than the previously used theoretical predictions. Moreover, it is shown that the residual polarization does not depend very sensitively on the initial angular momentum distribution.
"Don't knows" and public opinion towards economic reform: Evidence from Russia

Abstract As market reform has spread throughout the globe, both scholars and policy makers have become increasingly interested in measuring public opinion towards economic changes. However, recent research from American politics suggests that special care must be paid to how surveys treat non-respondents to these types of questions. We extend this line of inquiry to a well-known case of large-scale economic reform, Russia in the mid-1990s. Our major finding is that Russians who fail to answer survey questions tend to be consistently less “liberal” than their counterparts who are able to answer such questions. This finding has implications both for our understanding of Russian public opinion in the 1990s, as well as for measuring attitudes towards economic reform more generally.
An alternate form of Ueno's X- and Y-equations for inhomogeneous atmospheres

Nonlinear integral equations for inhomogeneous atmospheres derived from radiative transfer equations global form, noting relations to Ueno and Chandrasekhar equations
Mediated efflux of IgG molecules from brain to blood across the blood-brain barrier.

Abstract Dextrans and albumin exit brain from blood following intra-cerebral injection by a slow process of convection with a halftime of 10–12 h in the rat. The present studies show that immunoglobulin G (IgG) molecules rapidly efflux from brain to blood across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) following intracerebral injection. The IgG efflux is rapid with a halftime of 48 min in the rat. The efflux of [3H]mouse IgG2a from brain to blood is competitively inhibited by intracerebral injection of unlabeled mouse IgG molecules, but is not inhibited by intracerebral injection of comparable doses of unlabeled rat albumin. The IgG efflux system has characteristics of an Fc receptor, as the efflux from brain is competitively inhibited by Fc fragments but is not blocked by F(ab′)2 fragments. Precipitation of brain homogenate by trichloroacetic acid indicates there is no significant metabolism of the IgG molecules during the experimental time period. In conclusion, these studies provide evidence for a BBB Fc receptor that mediates the reverse transcytosis of IgG molecules in the direction of brain to blood.
Laparoscopic vs open surgery: a preliminary comparison of quality-of-life outcomes.

Background The purported advantages of laparoscopic surgery over conventional open techniques are less pain and faster return to normal functional status. Very few studies have included validated measures of quality of life as end points. This study prospectively assessed the health status outcomes of patients undergoing four types of laparoscopic and open operations. Methods Preoperatively, patients undergoing elective inguinal hernioplasty, esophageal surgery, cholecystectomy, and splenectomy completed the SF-36, a well-tested, validated health-status instrument. This instrument measures physical functioning (PF), role-physical (RP), role-emotional (RE), bodily pain (BP), vitality (VT), mental health (MH), social functioning (SF), and general health (GH) health status domains. Patients then underwent either laparoscopic or open surgery. Patients were reassessed with the instrument > or =6 weeks after surgery. A total of 100 patients underwent these procedures. Results Compared to preoperative values, median SF-36 scores for laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients were improved in the domains of PF (85 vs 95, p = 0.01), BP (42 vs 75, p = 0.002), and VT (47.5 vs 70, p = 0.04); open cholecystectomy patients did not show statistically significant improvements over preoperative values. In addition, laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients had a better score than open cholecystectomy patients in the BP domain (75 vs 41, p = 0.05). Laparoscopic esophageal surgery patients had better scores than open surgery patients in the domains of RP (100 vs 0, p = 0.02) and VT (65 vs 52.5, p = 0.05). Compared to preoperative values, laparoscopic splenectomy patients had an improved score in GH (52 vs 77, p = 0.02) and better scores than open splenectomy patients in PF (90 vs 45, p = 0.05) and BP (84 vs 55.5, p = 0.01). Compared to preoperative values, open mesh hernioplasty patients showed improved scores in PF (70 vs 92.5, p = 0.03) and MH (72 vs 84, p = 0.05). Laparoscopic hernioplasty did not produce improved scores compared to either preoperative values or open hernioplasty. Conclusions Laparoscopic surgery has demonstrably better quality-of-life outcomes than open surgery for cholecystectomy, splenectomy, and esophageal surgery. However, open hernioplasty has at least as good, if not better, health status outcomes than laparoscopic repair.
Hypercalcemia in coccidioidomycosis.

Abstract Two patients with disseminated Coccidioidomycosis and hypercalcemia are presented. One patient studied showed normal levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D with depressed levels of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. The serum calcitonin level was appropriate for the level of serum calcium, and the serum parathyroid hormone level was suppressed with elevation of the nephrogenous cAMP level. Intestinal absorption of calcium was elevated at 63 percent. Hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria persisted despite a 300 mg calcium diet. An osteotropic substance similar to the humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy is postulated.
Power, frustration, and “fierce negotiation” in mentoring relationships: Four women tell their stories

(1995). Power, frustration, and “fierce negotiation” in mentoring relationships: Four women tell their stories. Women's Studies: Vol. 24, No. 5, pp. 447-481.
Overshadowing as a function of trial number: Dynamics of first- and second-order comparator effects

In two conditioned lick suppression experiments with rats, we examined the permanence of the overshadowing effect as a function of the number of compound reinforced training trials. In Experiment 1, robust overshadowing was observed following 4 compound-US pairings but dissipated with 36 pairings. Overshadowing decreased because responding to the overshadowed stimulus increased, not because responding by the control group decreased. This dissipation was stimulus specific and not attributable to a response ceiling. Experiment 2 extended the generality of the effect to a sensory preconditioning design and further demonstrated that overshadowing lost through many compound-US pairings was restored by posttraining extinction of the training context. The results are explicable in terms of the extended comparator hypothesis (Denniston, Savastano, & Miller, 2001) under the assumption that the impacts of first- and second-order comparator processes grow differentially as a function of number of trials.
Treating Anemia in Older Adults With Heart Failure With a Preserved Ejection Fraction With Epoetin Alfa Single-blind Randomized Clinical Trial of Safety and Efficacy

Background— Anemia is a common comorbidity in older adults with heart failure and a preserved ejection fraction and is associated with worse outcomes. We hypothesized that treating anemia with subcutaneous epoetin alfa would be associated with reverse ventricular remodeling and improved exercise capacity and health status compared with placebo. Methods and Results— Prospective, randomized, single-blind, 24-week study with blinded end point assessment among anemic (average hemoglobin of 10.4±1 g/dL) older adult patients (n=56; 77±11 years; 68% women) with heart failure and a preserved ejection fraction (ejection fraction=63±15%; B-type natriuretic peptide=431±366 pg/mL) was conducted. Treatment with epoetin alfa resulted in significant increases in hemoglobin ( P <0.0001). Changes in end-diastolic volume (−6±14 versus −4±16 mL; P =0.67) at 6 months did not differ between epoetin alfa and placebo, but declines in stroke volume (−5±8 versus 2±10 mL; P =0.09) without significant changes in left ventricular mass were observed. Changes in 6-minute walk distance (16±11 versus 5±12 m; P =0.52) did not differ. Although quality of life improved by the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire in both cohorts, there were no significant differences between groups. Conclusions— Administration of epoetin alfa to older adult patients with heart failure and a preserved ejection fraction compared with placebo did not change left ventricular end-diastolic volume and left ventricular mass nor did it improve submaximal exercise capacity or quality of life. Clinical Trial Registration— URL: . Unique identifier: [NCT00286182][1]. [1]: /lookup/external-ref?link_type=CLINTRIALGOV&access_num=NCT00286182&atom=%2Fcirchf%2F6%2F2%2F254.atom
Building Organizational Supports for Research-Minded Practitioners

One of the biggest challenges facing human service organizations is the proliferation of information from inside and outside the agency that needs to be managed if it is to be of use. The concepts of tacit and explicit knowledge can inform an approach to this challenge. Tacit knowledge is stored in the minds of practitioners (often called practice wisdom) and the explicit knowledge is often found in organizational procedure manuals and educational and training materials. Building on this perspective, this analysis provides a preliminary definition of research-minded practitioners by explicating the elements of curiosity, critical reflection, and critical thinking. The organizational implications of developing a cadre of research-minded practitioners include the commitment of top management to support "link officers", evidence request services, research and development units, and service standards. The challenges include the capacity to identify/support research-minded practitioners, promote an organizational culture of evidence-informed practice, redefine staff development and training, redefine job descriptions, and specify the nature of managerial leadership.
Reply to "Particle transport on d-dimensional disorderly lattices"

In this response we clarify the remarks made by J. W. Haus and K. W. Kehr [Phys. Rev. A 37, 4522 (1988)] regarding the definition of the diffusion coefficient in the random-trapping model.
Interaction of 1.5-Bev Negative π Mesons with Emulsion Nuclei

The energy spectrum of charged pion secondaries, produced from emulsion nuclei by bombardment with 1.5-Bev negative pions, has been measured. The spectrum was observed to be sharply peaked for pions of laboratory energies from 100 to 150 Mev. The mean pion energy was 148 Mev, and 75% of the pions were in the energy range from 50 to 150 Mev. The observed number of charged pions per star was 0.66. Half of the emulsion stars had no meson track, 36% had a single meson, 12% two mesons, and 2% more than two mesons. The experimental results have been compared with Monte Carlo nuclear cascade calculations.
Alternative methods for dehydrating castor oil

Castor oil can be effectively dehydrated by non-conjugated oil-maleic anhydride adducts to give use-ful paint or yarnish oils. Castor acids dehydrated in the presence of alumina form diene acids of 60% two double bond conjugation. The glyceride from these acids dries more rapidly to a tack-free film than conventional dehydrated castor oil. In both of these processes the course of dehydration is believed to be the decomposition of esters of the alcohol groups in ricinoleic acid. Acidic ion exchange resins exert some catalytic effect in the dehydration of castor oil, but the oil so made is inferior in color and film properties.
let-7 Overexpression Leads to an Increased Fraction of Cells in G2/M, Direct Down-regulation of Cdc34, and Stabilization of Wee1 Kinase in Primary Fibroblasts

microRNAs play a critically important role in a wide array of biological processes including those implicated in cancer, neuro-degenerative and metabolic disorders, and viral infection. Although we have begun to understand microRNA biogenesis and function, experimental demonstration of their functional effects and the molecular mechanisms by which they function remains a challenge. Members of the let-7/miR-98 family play a critical role in cell cycle control with respect to differentiation and tumorigenesis. In this study, we show that exogenous addition of pre-let-7 in primary human fibroblasts results in a decrease in cell number and an increased fraction of cells in the G2/M cell cycle phase. Combining microarray techniques with DNA sequence analysis to identify potential let-7 targets, we discovered 838 genes with a let-7 binding site in their 3′-untranslated region that were down-regulated upon overexpression of let-7b. Among these genes is cdc34, the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme of the Skp1/cullin/F-box (SCF) complex. Cdc34 protein levels are strongly down-regulated by let-7 overexpression. Reporter assays demonstrated direct regulation of the cdc34 3′-untranslated region by let-7. We hypothesized that low Cdc34 levels would result in decreased SCF activity, stabilization of the SCF target Wee1, and G2/M accumulation. Consistent with this hypothesis, small interfering RNA-mediated down-regulation of Wee1 reversed the G2/M phenotype induced by let-7 overexpression. We conclude that Cdc34 is a functional target of let-7 and that let-7 induces down-regulation of Cdc34, stabilization of the Wee1 kinase, and an increased fraction of cells in G2/M in primary fibroblasts.
The primary linkage between opsin and its chromophore in the visual pigment rhodopsin

Abstract There is no direct evidence for the Schiffs base linkage between op an and 11-cis retinene. An alternative linkage involving a chelate type linkage between opsin and the enolate form of the 11-cis retinene ion is proposed. This linkage would also agree with the experimental data.
Performance enhancement of H.263 encoder based on zero coefficient prediction

In this paper, we propose a method that reduces the computational requirements of the encoder, while still upholding picture fidelity and remaining compatible with the H.263 bitstream standard. Our method is motivated by our observation that, often, a substantial number of inter-macroblocks in the encoder are reduced to all-zero values after quantization. We have developed a method of predicting when those macroblocks will quantize to zeros, which in turn allows us to eliminate the computation that would normally be required for those macroblocks. For our performance studies, we utilized the latest software version of H.263 written by Telenor Permission 10 t~~~ke digit:dhrd copies ofnll or pa11 ofthis mnterinl for
Ergodic expansions in small noise problems

Abstract A class of stochastic differential equations is considered which arises by adding an additive white noise term with a small noise coefficient (2ϵ) 1 2 B and for which there exists a unique ergodic measure. An expansion in powers of ϵ of the expectations of functions with respect to the invariant measure is established. This paper was suggested by work of Fleming in which the corresponding finite time expansions were proven.
Cosmic Radiation and the Weather

THE purpose of this communication is to point out the existence of a large tropospheric and stratospheric effect produced by the solar-cycle modulation of cosmic rays. Since there is some evidence for solar-cycle correlations in the weather, the phenomena described here should be considered in attempts to understand climatological effects of solar-cycle period.
Effects of component imperfections on ellipsometer calibration

The accuracy of determination of film properties from ellipsometer measurements is determined by the accuracy with which ψ and Δ can be measured. This paper examines the effects of off-diagonal elements in the Jones matrices on calibration measurements in P -A, P -C -A, and P -S -A configurations. Based on these results, specific calibration procedures for determining instrument constants are given that will minimize the effects of off-diagonal elements. In particular, the method of McCrackin et al. for determining the polarizer–prism offset is found to be influenced by off-diagonal elements, and a simpler method based on extinction readings is presented. The advantages of using a sample with ρ˜=±j during P -S -A calibration measurements and a subsequent P -C -S -A check are pointed out. Polarizer–prism beam deviation in combination with photomultiplier sensitivity variations has been found to be a source of error. However, a specific procedure for determining the relative phase retardation δ′ of the compensator in the P -C -A configuration is described, which eliminates beam-deviation effects.
Effect of Oxygen on the Electrical Properties of Lead Telluride Films

The effect of oxygen on the electrical properties of PbTe films has been investigated. Oxygen, which presumably is adsorbed on the surface of the film, causes an increase in film resistance, followed by a decrease in resistance with increasing exposure to oxygen. The film which is originally "$n$" type changes to "$p$" type in the vicinity of the resistance maximum. The magnitude of the photoresistive and photovoltaic effect varies with the amount of oxygen adsorbed by the film. A model has been presented whereby oxygen removes electrons first from the conduction band, then from trapping states, and finally from the valence band, thereby producing the observed effects.
OPTIMAL APODIZATIONS FOR FINITE APERTURES

A method is presented for determining the aperture apodization functions needed to optimize any given product of powers of the even-order moments of the beam intensity in the near and far zones. The results are a generalization of previous work [Pure Appl. Opt.7, 1221 (1998)] that dealt only with the far-zone moments. These methods are applied to the problem of optimizing the so-called beam propagation factor, MP2.
Welfare Reform and Women's Wages

Abstract The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 seeks to get single mothers off welfare and into the job market. Women on welfare, however, will accomplish self-sufficiency only when the jobs available to them pay high enough wages to pull them and their families out of poverty. This study, using multiple regression analyses on data from the Family Income Study (FIS), examines factors that account for wage levels of women workers who are at risk of requiring public assistance. The findings show that for many women workers income from their jobs alone is not sufficient to support their families. The reality of the labor market suggests that a harsh future awaits welfare recipients who are leaving the rolls.
Sesquiterpene lactones of Artemisia arbuscula and A. tridentata

Abstract Chloroform extracts of Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana f. spiciformis (Osterhout) Beetle and Artemisia arbuscula Nutt. ssp. arbuscula gave identical TLC patterns and contained the known germacranolides tatridin-A (I) and tatridin-B (II), and two new germacranolides deacetyllaurenobiolide (III) and spiciformin (IV). The structures of these lactones were shown through spectral studies and chemical transformations. Deacetyllaurenobiolide was converted to the known germacranolide laurenobiolide (IIIb) and spiciformin (IV) was synthesized from deacetyllaurenobiolide along with an isomeric epoxy lactone (V).
Structured Group Work for Individuals with Schizophrenia: A Coping Skills Approach

Research regarding persons with schizophrenia has been a neglected area in social work group research. This article describes the development and testing of a structured group treatment. This experimental pretest-posttest treatment control study examines the effecriveness of group coping skills training (CST) in reducing relapse in persons with schizophrenia. CST involves training in time management, managing physiological arousal, cognitive restructuring, and social skills training. Results indicate that clients in CST had fewer hospitalizations, shorter hospital stays, and significantly better achievement of treatment goals compared with clients in the treatment control group both at posttest and at six-month follow-up.
Magnetic Field Effects on Triplet-Triplet Annihilation in Solutions: Modulation of Visible/NIR Luminescence.

Photon upconversion based on sensitized triplet–triplet annihilation (TTA) presents interest for such areas as photovoltaics and imaging. Usually, energy upconversion is observed as p-type delayed fluorescence from molecules whose triplet states are populated via energy transfer from a suitable triplet donor, followed by TTA. Magnetic field effects (MFEs) on delayed fluorescence in molecular crystals are well-known; however, there exist only a few examples of MFEs on TTA in solutions, and all of them are limited to UV-emitting materials. Here, we present MFE on TTA-mediated visible and near-infrared (NIR) emission, sensitized by far-red-absorbing metalloporphyrins in solutions at room temperature. In addition to visible delayed fluorescence from the annihilator, we also observed NIR emission from the sensitizer, occurring as a result of triplet–triplet energy transfer back from the annihilator, termed “delayed phosphorescence”. This emission also exhibits MFEs, but opposite in sign to the annihilator fluo...
Four cases with hypoplastic thumbs and encephaloceles.

We report on four infants with hypoplastic thumbs and occipital encephaloceles. None had either a chromosome abnormality or a family history of any major malformation. The literature and database were searched intensively. No similar cases were reported previously, suggesting that the constellations might represent a new genetic syndrome.
Characterization of tectoRNA assembly with cationic conjugated polymers.

Association between RNAs with preprogrammed molecular recognition units can be quantified by using cationic, water-soluble conjugated polymers. The method uses a fluorophore-labeled probe RNA (RNA-...
Carbohydrate antigens as targets for active specific immunotherapy

Carbohydrate antigens such as GM2, GD2 and GD3 (gangliosides), Lewisy and globo-H (neutral glycolipids and glycoproteins), and Tn, TF and sTn (glycoproteins) are overexpressed in a variety of cancers. Antibodies against several of these carbohydrate antigens have been detected in sera from patients treated with cancer vaccines, and have been associated with a more favorable prognosis. Clinical responses have been reported after treatment with monoclonal antibodies against some of these antigens. Hence cell-surface carbohydrate antigens have been identified as suitable targets for immune attack by both active and passive immunotherapies. Different approaches have been adopted to induce immune responses against these carbohydrate antigens. These includes vaccination with whole or lysed tumor cells, purified or synthetic carbohydrates, immunogenic carbohydrate derivatives, or carbohydrates conjugated with immunogenic carriers and administered with immunological adjuvants. In the case of gangliosides, immunization with either whole tumor cells or cell lysates has only occasionally induced responses against carbohydrate antigens, and the antibodies were generally IgM antibodies of low titer. Compared with other methods of vaccination, conjugate vaccines have consistently induced the highest titer of IgM and IgG antibodies against gangliosides and other carbohydrate antigens. Preclinical and clinical studies with conjugate carbohydrate vaccines have induced IgM and IgG antibody responses capable of inducing complement-mediated cytotoxicity of tumor cells in vitro and associated with prolonged disease-free and overall survival in patients.
Revisiting Myth and Ritual in Early Judaism

In the final centuries of the Second Temple period, Jews had come to believe that there was a connection between their own ritual behavior and the behavior of their biblical ancestors. The purpose of this essay is to identify some of the ways in which Jews at this time linked their ritual practices to their biblical past and to explore the reasons they did so. How do we identify these links? What do they tell us about how early Jews perceived their sacred history and its relation to their present? And what do they reveal about the meaning(s) of both the Bible and ritual for Jews at this time. Through the analysis of a single example, I will try to indicate how new evidence can help us to answer these questions, and along the way, I will suggest why they are worth asking in the first place. If these questions remain unanswered until now, it is not because scholars have failed to ask them. A century ago, a group of boldly imaginative scholars centered in Cambridge broached similar questions in connection to Greek literature, claiming that Greek mythology, tragedy and other literary genres originated in or reflected ritual practices. It was not long before this approach found devotees among scholars of other mythologies and literatures-most famously perhaps in the field of ancient Near Eastern literature where it spawned what came to be known as the Myth and Ritual School. The members of this school endeavored to show that many of the stories and poems composed in the ancient Near East-be they from Mesopotamia, Egypt, biblical Israel, early Judaism or nascent Christianity-were shaped by their association with or use within ritual occasions.' In its best known form, this
Energy-transfer measurement and determination of the phase shift between the holographic grating and the fringe pattern in photorefractive materials

We describe a novel accurate method to measure energy transfer between two beams coupling in photorefractive materials. We have used this method to measure the on-line energy-transfer signal in an electrically poled BaTiO3 crystal and to record the growth of the grating responsible for energy transfer. We also used this technique to determine the phase shift between the grating that is written in the crystal and the fringe pattern responsible for writing that grating. The phase shift in our BaTiO3 is found to be 90°, as predicted by the diffusion model.