cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TRIENNIAL GROWTH SYMPOSIUM— Vitamin D: Bones and beyond

The exploration of vitamin D metabolism and function has led to the discovery of active forms of vitamin D that find great usefulness in treating patients with bone disease or renal failure and also perhaps in topical application for the treatment of skin disorders, such as psoriasis. It may also be effective in some types of autoimmune disease. This warrants our attention to maintaining an adequate vitamin D level in our blood to assure that the expected functions of vitamin D take place. However, we must not get so overenthusiastic as to expect vitamin D to be effective in treating or preventing many diverse diseases and especially caution is urged in considering that vitamin D compounds might be used to suppress cancerous growth.
Principles and practices for standardizing laboratories

In the past few years, there has been a large expansion in the number and size of electrical standardizing laboratories. The National Bureau of Standards has prepared a short guide designed to assist in the solution of many of the management problems common to these organizations.
Life in the Fast Lane: Duration-Based Investigation of Driver Behavior Differences Across Freeway Lanes

The objective of this paper is to explore driver behavior in separate lane groups from a duration perspective by using hazard-based models. Driving is a continuous story divided into different experienced episodes. Each episode is terminated probabilistically on the basis of the surrounding traffic conditions as well as the drivers' characteristics. This termination reflects mainly lane-changing behaviors. By means of the next generation simulation (NGSIM) trajectory data, an analysis is performed of the time durations until lane-changing maneuvers are executed. The distributions of such durations are found to be lane specific in cases in which the leftmost lanes show higher duration mean than the rightmost lanes. This indicates that drivers wait longer before deciding to change lanes in the leftmost lanes. In the middle lanes a bipeak distribution constitutes a transition between satisfaction in traveling in the fast lanes (left) versus impatience while traveling in the slower lanes (right).
METASTABLE HEXAGONAL CLOSE-PACKED PHASES IN Ni-RICH Ni--Nb AND Ni--Ta ALLOYS.

Abstract Utilizing a splat-cooling technique, Ni-Nb and Ni-Ta alloys with compositions from 15 to 25 at.% Nb or Ta have been rapidly quenched from the melt. Four new metastable structural features involving metastable phases were identified, the most significant of which was the production of h.c.p. (Mg-A 3 ) ζ phases in both systems. Other new effects found were the extensions of α-Ni solid solutions to higher solute contents; the extension of the NbNi 3 solid solution to lower Nb contents; and the production of microcrystalline phases, especially at higher cooling rates. The ζ phase is structurally related to NbNi 3 and TaNi 3 . Arguments for the occurrence of ζ, based on average group number and on valence-electron concentration estimates, are presented.
Source coding with in-block memory and controllable causal side information

The recently proposed set-up of source coding with a side information “vending machine” allows the decoder to select actions in order to control the quality of the side information. The actions can depend on the message received from the encoder and on the previously measured samples of the side information, and are cost constrained. Moreover, the final estimate of the source by the decoder is a function of the encoder's message and depends causally on the side information sequence. Previous work by Permuter and Weissman has characterized the rate-distortion-cost function in the special case in which the source and the “vending machine” are memoryless. In this work, motivated by the related channel coding model introduced by Kramer, the rate-distortion-cost function characterization is extended to a model with in-block memory. Various special cases are studied including block-feedforward and side information repeat request models.
A natural theory of the K-M mixing angles, weak and strong CP

Abstract We present a natural model in which the quark mass matrices are of the symmetric Fritzsch form with the two physically relevant phases σ = τ = ± π 2 . The model is natural in the sense of 't Hooft and explains all of the known aspects of the weak interaction phenomenology of the K-M matrix (including the weak CP ) in terms of the observed quark mass eigenvalues only. The model solves the strong CP problem by the Peccei-Quinn mechanism while the phases σ = τ = ± π 2 are generated by spontaneous symmetry breaking. The invisibility of the axion is more natural than in the existing models and is related to the absence of FCNC and the observed long b-quark lifetime. The key predictions of the model are m t GeV and 5.0 × 10 −3 ⩽ R b ≡ Γ(b→ue v ) Γ(b→ce v ) ⩽ 1.46 × 10 −2 , while the present experimental upper bound on R b is 3 × 10 −2 . The prediction on R b is to be tested by experiments at CLEO and CUSB in the near future.
Size, Age, and Sex of American Eels in a Georgia River

Abstract Seasonal collections of American eels Anguilla rostrata were made with baited traps at an estuarine and a freshwater site in the Altamaha River, Georgia. Estuarine animals were on average shorter, lighter, and younger than freshwater animals, although growth was faster in the estuary. Both sites were characterized by greater weight gains in spring through fall and lesser weight gains during late winter. Males constituted 36% of sexually differentiated American eels in the estuarine population but only 6% in the freshwater population. Estuarine males grew more slowly than estuarine females. Males and females differentiated sexually at the same lengths and ages, but matured at younger ages in the estuary. Sexually undifferentiated and differentiated fish overlapped considerably in length, weight, and age at both sites. Glass eels were captured in late winter; they were 49–56 mm long and 250–300 days old. Maturing silver eels were caught during late winter-early spring and were 353–587 mm long and 3...
Planar metal plasmon waveguides: frequency-dependent dispersion, propagation, localization, and loss beyond the free electron model

A numerical analysis of surface plasmon dispersion, propagation, and localization on smooth lossy films is presented. Particular attention is given to determining wavelength-dependent behavior of thin Ag slab waveguides embedded in a symmetric SiO2 environment. Rather than considering Ag as a damped free electron gas, the metal is defined by the experimentally determined optical constants of Johnson and Christy and Palik. As in free electron gas models, analytic dispersion results indicate a splitting of plasmon modes—corresponding to symmetric and antisymmetric field distributions—as film thickness is decreased below 50 nm. However, unlike free electron gas models, the surface plasmon wave vector remains finite at resonance with the antisymmetric-field plasmon converging to a pure photon mode for very thin films. In addition, allowed excitation modes are found to exist between the bound and radiative branches of the dispersion curve. The propagation characteristics of all modes are determined, and for thin films (depending upon electric field symmetry), propagation distances range from microns to centimeters in the near infrared. Propagation distances are correlated with both the field decay (skin depth) and energy density distribution in the metal and surrounding dielectric. While the energy density of most long-range surface plasmons exhibits a broad spatial extent with limited confinement in the waveguide, it is found that high-field confinement does not necessarily limit propagation. In fact, enhanced propagation is observed for silver films at ultraviolet wavelengths despite strong field localization in the metal. The surface plasmon characteristics described in this paper provide a numerical springboard for engineering nanoscale metal plasmon waveguides, and the results may provide a new avenue for integrated optoelectronic applications.
Solar flare forecasting using sunspot-groups classification and photospheric magnetic parameters

In this paper, we investigate whether incorporating sunspot-groups classification information would further improve the performance of our previous logistic regression based solar flare forecasting method, which uses only line-of-sight photospheric magnetic parameters. A dataset containing 4913 samples from the year 2000 to 2005 is constructed, in which 2721 samples from the year 2000, 2002 and 2004 are used as a training set, and the remaining 2192 samples from the year 2001, 2003 and 2005 are used as a testing set. Experimental results show that sunspot-groups classification combined with total gradient on the strong gradient polarity neutral line achieve the highest forecasting accuracy and thus it testifies sunspot-groups classification does help in solar flare forecasting.
Role of substrate in the regulation of hepatic gluconeogenesis in fasting man.

Abstract Prolonged starvation is characterized by diminished hepatic gluconeogenesis and sparing of body protein. Decreased hepatic uptake of amino acids is due to a marked diminution in plasma alanine inasmuch as fractional extraction remains unchanged. Administration of exogenous alanine results in a prompt hyperglycemic response. The data suggest that provision of precursor substrate is the rate-limiting step in the control of hepatic gluconeogenesis in prolonged starvation in man.
Lessons learned from the dissemination of parenting wisely, a parent training CD-ROM

An intervention was developed that did not rely upon trained or experienced service providers for its delivery to families with behavior disordered children and youth. The format is an interactive CD-ROM geared toward low-income, single-parent families. The very brief intervention offers privacy and engagement, unlike traditional methods, and its low cost to implement has enabled it to be disseminated to over 300 agencies in 4 years. The supporting research showing moderate effect sizes on child problem behavior, both in university and community settings, is described. Dissemination efforts began with the formation of a company for marketing the program through a university business incubation center. Of the agencies using the program, 93 were surveyed as to factors associated with successful implementation. Administrative support, practitioner buy-in, and a commitment to evaluate the program added accountability for client outcomes, all of which accounted for 30% to 40% of the variance in implementation success. Steps to maintain effective programs are outlined.
Synovial sarcoma. Uniform response of metastases to high dose ifosfamide.

Background. This report describes the unusually high response rate of metastatic synovial sarcoma to high dose ifosfamide (14–18 g/m2) when that drug was used to treat 13 consecutive patients with recurrent metastatic synovial sarcoma before surgery (or thoracotomies) to provide optimal salvage therapy for these patients. Patients and Methods. Thirteen patients with recurrent or pulmonary metastatic synovial sarcoma seen at the Cedars-Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center (Los Angeles, CA) from April, 1989 through January, 1993 were treated with high dose ifosfamide (14–18 g/m2). Ifosfamide was infused at the dose of 2 g/m2 over a 4-hour bolus infusion, followed by 2-g/m2 24-hour continuous infusions of ifosfamide, for a total of 14 or 18 g/m2 (6–8 days). Mesna (Mesnex, Bristol-Myers Oncology, Princeton, NJ) was infused with the ifosfamide at equimolar doses. Supplemental sodium bicarbonate (180 mEq) was given daily to prevent severe acidosis. Nine of the thirteen patients were treated with prior chemotherapy for their primary tumors. Prior chemotherapy consisted of doxorubicin (Adriamycin, Adria Labs, Dublin, OH) in all patients and doxorubicin combined with cisplatin in eight of them. Results. All 13 patients had objective responses to high dose ifosfamide chemotherapy. There were nine partial responses and four complete responses. Five of the patients died of disease at 20–40 months (median, 27 months) from initial therapy. Eight patients have survived from 2 to 43 months (median, 20 months) from initial therapy, and three of these patients are disease free. Those patients surviving disease free had successful surgical removal of their residual metastatic disease after chemotherapy. Conclusion. Metastatic synovial sarcoma appears to be particularly sensitive to high dose ifosfamide chemotherapy. This experience suggests that there is a role for high dose ifosfamide chemotherapy in preoperative and postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy for primary synovial sarcoma, which is usually always a high grade malignant lesion with a poor prognosis after surgery alone.
Electronic spectral properties of solid nickel(II) nucleotides

Abstract The electronic spectra of solid [Ni(5′-IMP)(H 2 O) 5 ]·2 H 2 O, [Ni(5′-GMP)(H 2 O) 5 ]·3 H 2 O, [Ni(5′-AMP)(H 2 O) 5 ]·H 2 O, and Na 2 Ni(5′-ATP)·8 H 2 O have been obtained in the visible-near IR region at liquid N 2 temperature. The spectra of the first three compounds have been analyzed using a weak field, pseudo-tetragonally distorted octahedral model, with the distortion occurring in the direction of the NiN bond. The ligand field parameters Dq , Dt , Ds , B and C have been determined by comparison of the calculated and observed spectra. The spectrum of solid Na 2 Ni(5′-ATP)·8 H 2 O did not exhibit any splitting which could be attributed to a distortion from octahedral symmetry. The experimental Dq was found to agree with that of an average ligand field produced by three phosphate oxygens, the adenine N(7) and two water molecules around the Ni(II), a model which is also consistent with NMR data. The spectra of several solid P-⪹ containing ligands were obtained to provide a representative value of Dq for an oxygen donor atom attached to a phosphorus. A comparison of a D 2 O solution and a room temperature solid spectrum of Na 2 Ni(5′-ATP)·8 H 2 O indicates the probable existence of the same Ni(II) environment in both states. The magnetic moments at room temperature were determined.
On a Possible Rotation State of (433) Eros

Abstract Due to its extremely prolate figure, Asteroid (433) Eros may exhibit an unusual nonprincipal axis rotation state. As a result of a relatively small difference between the maximum and intermediate moments of inertia, a small perturbation such as the gravitational torques experienced during a close planetary encounter could have induced a rather large amplitude libration about the longest axis. Observation of such a state will permit measurement of the moment of inertia ratios; this task may be possible once the NEAR spacecraft enters orbit around Eros in early 2000 to begin an extensive study of its composition and structure.
Comets and asteroids: searches and scares

Abstract Concern that the Earth might be struck by a comet, with potentially devasting consequences, dates back some two centuries. With the growing appreciation in the twentieth century that asteroidal impacts are also a danger, search programs have been devised in the hope of discovering a specific hazard at least decades, and probably centuries or more, before impact. In describing some of the historical scares, this paper shows an evolution of perceptions of the extent of the threat. It also discusses the development of search programs and procedures. In detailing the particular role of the Minor Planet Center, the paper considers the important legacies, both political and scientific, of the 1997 XF 11 scare, as well as what is needed to maintain viable search programs in the twenty-first century.
Spectra and structure of phosphorus-boron compounds—XVI. Vibrational studies of P-octamethylcyclotetraboraphosphane☆

Abstract The i.r. spectra of P-octamethylcyclotetraboraphosphane was examined in the solid phase (3500-30 cm −1 ) and in the gaseous phase (3500-200 cm −1 ). The Raman spectra of this compound (3500-10cm −1 ) were recorded in the solid and liquid phases. The vibrational spectra are consistent with D 2d symmetry in all phases. There appears to be minimal factor group effects in the solid phase. The results are discussed in relation to recent NMR work and vibrational work with the closely related six-membered boron phosphorus rings.
Stereo: The challenges

Abstract The goal of the Solar-Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO) mission is to advance understanding og the three-dimensional structure of the Sun's corona and especially the of the origin of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), their evolutions inthe interplanterary medium, and the dynamic couplingn between CMEs and the Earth environment, CMEs, the most energic eruptions on the Sun, are the primary cause of major geomagnetic storms and are believed to be responsible for the largest solar energetic particles events. They may also be a critical element in the operation of the solar dynamo, because they appear to remove dynamo-generated magnetic flux from the Sun. The STEREO mission will study CMEs and the Sun's coronal structure using two spacecraft orbiting the Sun, one drifting ahead of the Earth and one behind. STEREO will obtain simultaneous extreme ultraviolet and visible image pairs along with simultaneous measurements of fields and particles, at gradually increasing angular separations over the course of the mission. The STEREO spacecraft will be outfitted with two instrument suites and two instruments: IMPACT (In situ Measurements of Particles and CME Transients); SECCHI (Sun-Earth Connection Coronal and Heliospheric Investigation); Plastic (Plasma and Suprathermal Ion Composition); and SWAVES (STEREO/WAVES). STEREO Phase C/D confirmation occured in March 2002; the dual observatories will be launched on a single Delta II from Cape Canaveral in November 2005. This presentation focuses on the goals and approach of the Mission.
Degenerative neuropathy in insulin-treated diabetic rats☆

Abstract Peripheral neuropathic alterations associated with diabetes and its treatment with insulin were studied in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Treatment regimens included daily injections of Protamine Zinc Insulin (PZI), daily injections of Ultralente Insulin and subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipump delivered insulin. Non-diabetic and untreated diabetic groups served as controls. Two separate but similar studies were run, one lasting 4 weeks and the other 8 weeks. Conduction velocities performed on both sensory and motor nerves revealed no statistically significant differences among groups. Anatomical analysis of teased fibers from tibial nerves showed a significant number of fibers with ovoids, consistent with Wallerian-type axonal degeneration, only in the treated diabetic groups. Degeneration was especially severe in the PZI-treated group. Metabolic studies were performed using incorporation of radioactive isotopes ([3H]fucose, [14C]leucine) into myelin proteins of sciatic nerves. The ratio of [ 3 H]fucose [ 14 C]leucine for the PZI-treated group was significantly decreased when compared to the control groups in both the 4 and 8 week study whereas the minipump-treated group showed no statistically significant difference from the control group in either study. Similar decreases in this ratio have been seen in conditions of peripheral nerve degeneration. It is concluded that daily injections of PZI insulin result in significant nerve degeneration in the alloxan diabetic rat, while continuous levels of insulin delivered by osmotic minipumps result in less degeneration.
Multiracial and Biracial Individuals: A Content Analysis of Counseling Journals, 1991–2013

This content analysis examines the counseling literature on multiracial individuals using the top journals. The authors conducted an exhaustive search for research articles and identified 10 published articles that addressed biracial and multiracial individuals from the years 1991 to 2013 in top-tier counseling journals. Of the 10 counseling journals, 4 journals addressed multiracial individuals (Journal of Counseling & Development, Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, Journal of Humanistic Counseling, and Journal of College Counseling). Recommendations for counselors and researchers are provided. Este analisis de contenido examina las investigaciones en el campo de la consejeria sobre individuos multirraciales publicadas en las revistas academicas mas importantes. Los autores llevaron a cabo una busqueda exhaustiva de articulos de investigacion e identificaron 10 articulos publicados en revistas academicas de consejeria de alto nivel que trataban sobre individuos birraciales y multirraciales entre los anos 1991 y 2013. Cuatro de las 10 revistas academicas de consejeria trataban sobre individuos multirraciales (Journal of Counseling & Development, Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, Journal of Humanistic Counseling y Journal of College Counseling). Se ofrecen recomendaciones para consejeros e investigadores.
Well There's Your Problem: Isolating the Crash-Inducing Bits in a Fuzzed File

Abstract : Mutational input testing (fuzzing, and in particular dumb fuzzing) is an effective technique for discovering vulnerabilities in software. However, many of the bitwise changes in fuzzed input files are not relevant to the actual software crashes found. In this report, we describe an algorithm that efficiently reverts bits from the fuzzed file to those found in the original seed file, keeping only the minimal bits required to recreate the crash under investigation. This technique reduces the complexity of analyzing a crashing test case by eliminating the changes to the seed file that are not essential to the crash being evaluated.
Mice lacking the Na+/H+ exchanger 2 have impaired recovery of intestinal barrier function.

Ischemic injury induces breakdown of the intestinal barrier. Recent studies in porcine postischemic tissues indicate that inhibition of NHE2 results in enhanced recovery of barrier function in vitr...
Endocarditis-Associated Oral Streptococci Promote Rapid Differentiation of Monocytes into Mature Dendritic Cells

Endocarditis is frequently attributable to oral streptococci, but mechanisms of pathogenesis are not well understood, although monocytes appear to be important. High titers of interleukin-12 (IL-12) are produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) after engaging Streptococcus mutans, but monocytes in developing endocardial vegetations tend to disappear rather than become macrophages. These data prompted the hypothesis that streptococcus-infected monocytes differentiate into short-lived IL-12-producing dendritic cells (DCs) rather than macrophages. PBMC from healthy subjects were stimulated with six isolates of oral streptococci, three nonstreptococcal oral bacteria, or IL-4 plus granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and the appearance of cells with markers typical of mature DCs (CD83(+), CD86(+), CD11c(+), and CD14(-)) was monitored. Supernatant fluids from the PBMC cultures were harvested and IL-12 p70 levels were determined. S. mutans-stimulated monocytes were analyzed for their ability to elicit allogeneic mixed-lymphocyte reactions. All streptococci examined, except one strain of Streptococcus oralis (35037), rapidly induced up-regulation of CD83 and CD86 and a loss of CD14 in the CD11c(+) monocyte population within 20 h. Induction of IL-12 was CD14 dependent and correlated with streptococcal isolates that promoted the DC phenotype. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II expression was up-regulated by S. mutans, and these cells were short-lived and elicited potent allogeneic mixed-lymphocyte reactions typical of DCs. In summary, monocytes stimulated with endocarditis-associated oral streptococci rapidly exhibited the DC phenotype and functions. These data suggest that the initiation of bacterial endocarditis by oral streptococci may involve monocyte-to-DC differentiation, and this may help explain the low levels of macrophages in the site.
Mutual clock synchronization in global digital communication networks

There are numerous synchronization methodologies available for consideration in solving the problem of network synchronization in digital communication networks [1, 2]. They include : independent clocks, pulse stuffing, elastic stores, master-slave hierarchical, time reference distribution, mutual synchronization, etc. This paper considers the network synchronization performance achievable using the method of mutual clock synchronization observed first by Christiaan Huygens in 1665 [3]. Network synchronization performance metrics studied include : nodal timing accuracy, timing jitter, slip rate, time interval between slips, probability of loss of synchronization. These metrics are shown to depend upon the distance (range) between clocks, ranging error, clock stability, nodal phase error processing bandwidth, data rate, signal-to-noise ratio and network connectivity. In this regard, the mutual synchronization performance achievable with long wavelength biological rhythms and electric power system rhythms is compared with the performance achievable using short wavelength rhythms required in wideband and broadband digital communications networks. The results are further applied to the problem of synchronizing a satellite communications network. When intrasatellite communication crosslinks (links between satellites in the same orbital plane) are used in a constellation of communication satellites, it is shown that the maximum data rate, the network connectivity and the constellation altitude drive the achievable network synchronization performance; the latter is set by technological limitations due to clock frequency stability, the maximum range between satellites and the minimum ranging error achievable by the ranging system. In this sense, low Earth orbits (LEO) are preferred over geosynchronous (GEO)Earth orbits. The theory is also applied to the Teledesic and Iridium networks.
Changes in erythrocyte metabolism following acute blood loss in chickens.

Abstract The effect of acute blood loss on erythrocyte metabolism has been studied in a number of mammals. This study was designated to provide comparative data in chickens. Twenty to 30 ml of blood were removed from 7 chickens for 3 successive days. Packed red cell volumes were restored at the rate of 1.46% per day, and a maximum reticulocyte count (26.7%) occurred on the third day after the initial phlebotomy. Fourteen of the 16 erythrocyte enzymes measured became elevated significantly. Enzymatic activity was increased when the greatest numbers of young red cells were in the circulation and declined as the erythrocytes aged. Initial enzymatic activity was not related to the subsequent magnitude of increased activity. Inositol pentaphosphate, adenosine 5′-triphosphate, and reduced glutathione, but not 2,3-diphosphoglycerate, increased significantly in the postphlebotomy period. The markedly rapid and significant rise of inositol pentaphosphate suggested that it was controlled. That could be the way hemoglobin function is controlled during changing physiologic requirements.
Polarization switching of light interacting with a degenerate two-level optical medium

Abstract Polarization switching of light in a degenerate two-level medium, known as the Λ-configuration, is described. The polarization dynamics of light pulses is investigated by means of the inverse-scattering transform. The mathematical formalism of the inverse-scattering transform that takes into account the initial fluctuations of the medium polarization components corresponding to atomic transitions between the excited state and the two degenerate ground sub-levels in Λ-configuration atomic system is formulated. The characteristic switching length is evaluated via the physical parameters of the prepared medium and the optical pulse.
3rd order curvature corrected bandgap cell

A curvature corrected bandgap voltage reference cell is described which exhibits a compensation of temperature for powers of T up to 3. The curvature correction is fully implemented with the addition of only two passive resistors to a standard Brokaw bandgap cell. Aside from the improved linearity a benefit over prior art is a fivefold decrease in sensitivity to processing variations on the diffused resistor. Theoretical performance of 0.02 ppm/C can be simulated, but limitations of real circuit devices (in particular the thermal hysteresis of transistors) limit the actual performance of the circuit to around 1 ppm/C typical.
Predictors of nurturant parenting in teen mothers living in three generational families

Direct and indirect effects of grandparents on maternal nurturance in teen mothers (TM) living in three-generational families were explored with path analytic techniques in a sample of 107 working-class families. Perceived support from the teen's mother, grandparents' nurturance toward the baby, and the presence of the grandfather as a father figure in the home were hypothesized as increasing TM nurturance. TM nurturance was found to be positively predicted by grandparent nurturance and negatively predicted by TM perceived support from her mother. The strongest predictor of TM nurturance was grandfather nurturance toward the baby.
Psychology and the study of inter-group conflict

[Abstract: The quantitative study of inter-group conflict, most notably war, has attended to objectively measured variables of aggregate units such as the state or the conflict event. The relevance of psychology, which focuses on the individual, is not guaranteed even though the aggregates are composed of individuals. The discipline might be relevant by providing some further understanding/explanation for the existence of relationships among the larger units and empirical psychology has developed a number of generalizations about individual behavior based on replicable observations. By itself, this would not guarantee the contribution of psychological research and concepts to the prediction of the occasion and/or intensity of human conflict. The most elementary requirement would involve establishing that group properties are at least somewhat dependent upon individual characteristics. Were this the case, an important contribution might be through theories of human behavior. However, psychological theory engenders a number of logical problems. Although internal mental processes not easily predictable from known environmentalbiological facts may reasonably be established, much psychological theory consists of hypothetical constructs that do not represent conjectures about internal physical reality. These constructs, by their nature, connote more than that contained in either operational definitions or indices of them. Their potential utility requires a deductive system that conforms to the logical requirements of any logical system and which is activated under specifiable conditions and also includes overt behavior as a consequence. Psychological models then might contribute more than understanding/explanation such as the ability to predict behavior from environments not yet observed as well as alternative behaviors under similar environmental circumstances. A number of implications for the unit of analysis and for conflict theory derive from these considerations.]
Metrics-based test and evaluation of group detection software for counter-terrorism

Multiple intelligence databases contain volumes of link information connecting terrorism-related individuals. Software to identify active groups within this mass of data has been an important focus of research and development. This paper describes experience with an integrated set of test methods developed to evaluate the technical accuracy and real-world value of group detection algorithms as applied to link datasets of varying size and characteristics. The testing includes an automated software harness to score the algorithms against representative datasets that are generated by a controlled random process from known ground truth. It also applies novel statistical benchmarks and techniques to evaluate the value of the algorithms as applied by analysts to real intelligence data where ground-truth is absent. Together, these tests have increased understanding of the determinants of algorithmic accuracy, aided in selection among competing software packages, and resulted in significantly improved accuracy and value-in-use as a result of feedback to developers.
CZT virtual Frisch-grid detector: Principles and applications

Cadmium Zinc Telluride (CdZnTe or CZT) is a very attractive material for using as room-temperature semiconductor detectors, because it has a wide bandgap and a high atomic number. However, due to the material's poor hole mobility, several special techniques were developed to ensure its suitability for radiation detection. Among them, the virtual Frisch-grid CZT detector is an attractive option, having a simple configuration, yet delivering an outstanding spectral performance. The goal of our group in Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is to improve the performance of Frisch-ring CZT detectors; most recently, that effort focused on the non-contacting Frisch-ring detector, allowing us to build an inexpensive, large-volume detector array with high energy-resolution and a large effective area. In this paper, the principles of virtual Frisch-grid detectors are described, especially BNL's innovative improvements. The potential applications of virtual Frisch-grid detectors are discussed, and as an example, a hand-held gamma-ray spectrometer using a CZT virtual Frisch-grid detector array is introduced, which is a self-contained device with a radiation detector, readout circuit, communication circuit, and high-voltage supply. It has good energy resolution of 1.4% (FWHM of 662-keV peak) with a total detection volume of ∼20 cm3. Such a portable inexpensive device can be used widely in nonproliferation applications, non-destructive detection, radiation imaging, and for homeland security. Extended systems based on the same technology have potential applications in industrial- and nuclear-medical-imaging.
Nonviolence in Our Abortion Discourse? A Postelection Opening

Some believe that there is no hope for moving beyond the culture wars in the United States—especially when they are connected to the persistently difficult abortion debate. This article argues, however, that the situation is more hopeful than most realize. The imagined “choice” and “life” camps do not map onto the complex reality of public opinion, especially among the Millennials. This article contends that “nonviolence” is an important common value for different kinds of people who imagine themselves to be on very different sides in the abortion debate. When applied consistently to rhetoric, individual persons and bodies, and social structures, a commitment to nonviolence not only provides an opening for productive and authentic discussion but also highlights broad areas of agreement and common ground.
Dynamic Cache Tuning for Efficient Memory Based Computing in Multicore Architectures

Memory-based computing (MBC) is a promising approach to improve overall system reliability when few functional units are defective or unreliable under process-induced or thermal variations. A major challenge in using MBC for reliability improvement is that it can introduce significant energy and performance overhead. In this paper, we present an efficient dynamic cache reconfiguration and partitioning technique to improve performance and energy efficiency in MBC-enabled reliable multicore systems. We use genetic algorithm to search effectively in a large and complex design space. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed cache reconfiguration and partitioning approach can significantly improve both performance and energy efficiency for on-demand memory based computing without sacrificing reliability.
Simultaneous shape repulsion and global assimilation in the perception of aspect ratio.

Although local interactions involving orientation and spatial frequency are well understood, less is known about spatial interactions involving higher level pattern features. We examined interactive coding of aspect ratio, a prevalent twodimensional feature. We measured perception of two simultaneously flashed ellipses by randomly post-cueing one of them and having observers indicate its aspect ratio. Aspect ratios interacted in two ways. One manifested as an aspect-ratiorepulsion effect. For example, when a slightly tall ellipse and a taller ellipse were simultaneously flashed, the less tall ellipse appeared flatter and the taller ellipse appeared even taller. This repulsive interaction was long range, occurring even when the ellipses were presented in different visual hemifields. The other interaction manifested as a global assimilation effect. An ellipse appeared taller when it was a part of a global vertical organization than when it was a part of a global horizontal organization. The repulsion and assimilation effects temporally dissociated as the former slightly strengthened, and the latter disappeared when the ellipse-to-mask stimulus onset asynchrony was increased from 40 to 140 ms. These results are consistent with the idea that shape perception emerges from rapid lateral and hierarchical neural interactions.
ANALYSIS OF ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE CARTRIDGES, REFILL SOLUTIONS, AND SMOKE FOR NICOTINE AND NICOTINE RELATED IMPURITIES

The objective of this study was to determine nicotine and the nicotine related impurities, that is, cotinine, myosmine, anatabine, anabasine, and β-nicotyrine, in electronic cigarette cartridges, the liquid used to fill the cartridges, and from smoke generated using the electronic cigarette devices. An HPLC method was validated for the determination. Samples of nicotine containing products were purchased via the internet from NJOY, Smoking Everywhere, CIXI, and Johnson Creek. Electronic cigarette devices were purchased from NJOY, Smoking Everywhere, and CIXI. The results from the testing found that (1) the nicotine content labeling was not accurate with some manufacturers, (2) nicotine is present in the “smoke” from electronic cigarettes, and (3) nicotine related impurities contents in cartridges and refills were found to vary by electronic cigarette manufacturer.
MIGRATORY MOVEMENTS OF SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS (ACCIPITER STRIATUS) CAPTURED IN NEW MEXICO IN RELATION TO PREVALENCE, INTENSITY, AND BIOGEOGRAPHY OF AVIAN HEMATOZOA

Abstract Previous interspecific studies have shown that migratory birds have a higher prevalence of blood parasites than nonmigratory birds. It is thought that birds that move greater distances are exposed to a larger parasite fauna, because of uneven distribution of vectors that carry such parasites. Current hypotheses also suggest that the stress of migration may allow parasites to persist, by weakening the immune system and allowing latent infections to recur. We captured migrating hatching-year Sharp-shinned Hawks (Accipiter striatus) in New Mexico and estimated natal latitudes of each individual by analyzing stable-hydrogen isotope ratios of feathers. That enabled us to estimate distances traveled up to point of capture. We also collected blood to quantify hematozoan infection prevalence and intensity. We related distance traveled to prevalence and intensity of hematozoan infections. Contrary to previous hypotheses, our results show no relationship between distance traveled by migrants and prevalence...
METHODS OF ASSESSING THE PERCUTANEOUS ABSORPTION OF VOLATILE CHEMICALS IN ISOLATED PERFUSED SKIN: STUDIES WITH CHLOROPENT AFLUOROBENZENE AND DICHLOROBENZENE

The experimental determination of dermal absorption of volatile chemicals is fraught with difficulties. The isolated perfused porcine skin flap (IPPSF) is a biologically intact, perfused skin preparation that has been employed to predict dermal absorption of chemicals in humans. The purpose of this work was to explore various experimental dosing strategies for volatile chemicals using dichlorobenzene (DCB) and chloropentafluorobenzene (CPFB) as model compounds. Effects of complete occlusion and various strategies of vapor trapping, vapor dosing, and solvent effects were explored. The results suggest that dosing methodology is a major determinant of dermal absorption and could easily skew results obtained from different systems. A biologically sensitive system such as the IPPSF is particularly sensitive to the manipulations required to ensure precise dosing of these compounds. An interesting finding was that the effects of solvents on compound absorption that are routinely described in liquid dosing scenar...
Modeling leukocyte trafficking at the human blood-nerve barrier in vitro and in vivo geared towards targeted molecular therapies for peripheral neuroinflammation

Peripheral neuroinflammation is characterized by hematogenous mononuclear leukocyte infiltration into peripheral nerves. Despite significant clinical knowledge, advancements in molecular biology and progress in developing specific drugs for inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis, there are currently no specific therapies that modulate pathogenic peripheral nerve inflammation. Modeling leukocyte trafficking at the blood-nerve barrier using a reliable human in vitro model and potential intravital microscopy techniques in representative animal models guided by human observational data should facilitate the targeted modulation of the complex inflammatory cascade needed to develop safe and efficacious therapeutics for immune-mediated neuropathies and chronic neuropathic pain.
Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation: A Reference Guide to Fetal and Neonatal Risk, 9th Edition

Edited by Gerald G. Briggs, B.Pharm., FCCP, Roger K. Freeman, M.D., and Summer J. Yaffe, M.D. Published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Two Commerce Square, 2001 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, 2011. 1703 p. Price $135.00. This is the ninth edition of a guide to the risks posed by the use
The Effects of Life Domains, Constraints, and Motivations on Academic Dishonesty A Partial Test and Extension of Agnew’s General Theory

Recently, Robert Agnew introduced a new general theory of crime and delinquency in which he attempted to corral the vast array of theoretical "causes" of criminal conduct into a more parsimonious statement organized into one of five life domains: self, family, peers, school, and work as well as constraints against crime and motivation for it. These domains are depicted as the source of constraints and motivations and whose effects are, in part, mediated by these constraints and motivations. Based on self-report data on academic dishonesty from a sample of college students, the present study attempts to test this general theory. While several of the life domain variables had significant effects of cheating in the baseline model, all of these effects were fully mediated by constraints and motivations. In the final model, academic dishonesty was observed to be most significantly affected by the perceived severity of formal sanction threats, the number of credit hours enrolled, the frequency of skipping classes, and pressure from friends.
Who's In and Who's Out: Congressional Power Over Individuals Under the Indian Commerce Clause

For over two hundred years, Congress has enjoyed plenary power over Indian affairs under the Indian Commerce Clause. This Clause has allowed preferential treatment for Native Americans to bypass strict scrutiny despite the evolution of modern race law. But late last year, the Bureau of Indian Affairs published new regulations requiring courts to follow a strict set of procedures to ensure that Native American children will be placed with tribe-affiliated families.This sparked immediate backlash. Adoption agencies argue that the BIA’s new regulations impose undue burdens on Native American children because of their race. This litigation has profound implications for the continued existence of modern Indian law, which rests on the assumption that government regulations affecting Native Americans is a “political” — not “racial” — classification. So far, current scholarship has failed to foresee or respond to these equality-based attacks.This note proposes a new response, and a new interpretation of Congress’s powers under the Indian Commerce Clause. It focuses on the word “Indian” in Article I to argue that the Constitution contains a latent ambiguity highlighted by the BIA’s rulemaking. It proposes that the term “Indian” refers to an individual’s political, social, and cultural connections rather than their ethnic heritage. This novel interpretation accords with historical practice, the evolution of judicial precedent, and an intra-textual analysis of the Constitution. The effect of this interpretation is to recognize a previously unarticulated constitutional limit on Congress’s power to regulate individual Native Americans, granting the ultimate recognition of tribal citizenship to the eligible individual.
Reciprocal Communication in Online Health Support Groups: Effects of Message Format and Social Support on Individual Responses to Health Issues

This study examines the extent to which message format and social support may affect individuals’ participatory responses in online health support groups and their subsequent affective and attitudinal responses. An experiment with a 2 (message format: narrative vs. nonnarrative) × 2 (social support: emotional support vs. informational support) between-subjects factorial design was conducted among 98 participants. Results indicated that narrative messages facilitated reciprocal communication. In turn, participants who provided such participatory responses reported less fear and sadness, more favorable health attitudes, and greater behavioral intentions.
pH-Dependent Thermal Transitions in Hydrated Layer-by-Layer Assemblies Containing Weak Polyelectrolytes

Layer-by-layer (LbL) assemblies have remarkable potential as advanced functional materials with applications in energy and biomedical related areas. However, very little is known about their therma...
Sound Attenuation in Acoustically Treated Turbomachinery Ducts

The paper presents a theoretical development, accompanied by an experimental data check, of the attenuation in acoustically lined ducts with no airflow. The results indicate that the number of spinning lobes, as well as the generation frequency, have a major effect on the performance of the acoustic material. It also was indicated that the impedance components of the acoustic lining can be optimized to give a maximum sound energy reduction over a given range of engine speeds.Copyright © 1969 by ASME
Algorithms, Graph Theory, and Linear Equations in Laplacian Matrices

The Laplacian matrices of graphs are fundamental. In addition to facilitating the application of linear algebra to graph theory, they arise in many practical problems. In this talk we survey recent progress on the design of provably fast algorithms for solving linear equations in the Laplacian matrices of graphs. These algorithms motivate and rely upon fascinating primitives in graph theory, including low-stretch spanning trees, graph sparsifiers, ultra-sparsifiers, and local graph clustering. These are all connected by a definition of what it means for one graph to approximate another. While this definition is dictated by Numerical Linear Algebra, it proves useful and natural from a graph theoretic perspective. Mathematics Subject Classification (2010). Primary 68Q25; Secondary 65F08.