cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Approximated consistency for the automatic recording constraint

We introduce the automatic recording constraint (ARC) that can be used to model and solve scheduling problems where tasks may not overlap in time and the tasks linearly exhaust some resource. Since achieving generalized arc-consistency for the ARC is NP-hard, we develop a filtering algorithm that achieves approximated consistency only. Numerical results show the benefits of the new constraint on three out of four different types of benchmark sets for the automatic recording problem. On these instances, run-times can be achieved that are orders of magnitude better than those of the best previous constraint programming approach.
‘What went well, what didn’t go so well’: growth of reflection in pre‐service teachers

Teacher education programs operate with the notion that reflection is a critically important characteristic and skill of an effective teacher. The ability of a teacher to reflect on his or her teaching practice is one of the State of California’s Teacher Performance Expectations (TPE) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Standards for Teaching. Because having a skill does not always translate into the doing of a skill, these institutions want teachers to have the disposition to reflect. Teacher educators believe that having the disposition to reflect is more likely to result in the doing of reflection. Much curriculum and many assignments have been developed to foster reflection in novice teachers and teacher reflection has been analysed and studied from many vantage points. The purpose of this study was to better understand the role and development of reflection in novice teachers over time. I explored the effectiveness of a case writing assignment designed to foster re...
Reframing change: generating new images through multiple lenses

In The Case for Change: Rethinking the Preparation of Educators, Seymour B. Sarason continues his attempts to generate positive, substantive change in how students in our schools are educated. At the forefront of his argument is what Eisner (1993) set as the major target for future research in education, the improvement of education so that lives are enhanced and schools are better places for everyone involved. No matter what one sees as the aim of education, it is difficult to see schooling as successful on most measures, particularly for those students most neglected by society. Sarason’s book does not build an argument about the need for change nor does he attempt to suggest in any detail what form change should take. What he does is focus our attention on the preparation of teachers. He shows how teacher education is an essential link in fundamentally reconceptualizing the schooling process. But, as I read Sarason’s frequent references to other books he has written calling for change, I was left wondering whether we can change, or even worse, if we really want to change the way education is conducted in the U.S.A. If we genuinely desire change of the sorts Sarason has argued for, we must ask why previous “attempts” have not been particularly successful. Sarason suggests that one of the reasons for our lack of success is our failure to be more thoughtful about change. He charges that we frame our conception of change inappropriately, underestimate its complexity, and do not prepare educators for their role in change. In light of the argument he builds, these are charges it would be hard to deny.
Reflections on the President's 1991 Federal Budget

The president's new budget arrived to Congress two and one-half weeks late. Its contents had been reduced to a single volume and a brief pamphlet. And it included proposals for improving the federal budgetary process. That budget is profiled herein, including discussions of the conditions under which it was submitted, the economic assumptions made within it, and the proposed expenditures and anticipated revenues.
Effect of a Concentrated “Inert” Macromolecular Cosolute on the Stability of a Globular Protein with Respect to Denaturation by Heat and by Chaotropes: A Statistical-Thermodynamic Model

An equilibrium statistical-thermodynamic model for the effect of volume exclusion arising from high concentrations of stable macromolecules upon the stability of a trace globular protein with respect to denaturation by heat and by chaotropes is presented. The stable cosolute and the native form of the trace protein are modeled by effective hard spherical particles. The denatured state of the trace protein is represented as an ensemble of substates modeled by random coils having the same contour length but different rms end-to-end distances (i.e., different degrees of compaction). The excess or nonideal chemical potential of the native state and of each denatured substate is calculated as a function of the concentration of stable cosolute, leading to an estimate of the relative abundance of each state and substate, and the ensemble average free energy of the transition between native and denatured protein. The effect of the addition of stable cosolute upon the temperature of half-denaturation and upon the concentration of chaotrope required to half-denature the tracer at constant temperature is then estimated. At high cosolute concentration (>100 g/l) these effects are predicted to be large and readily measurable experimentally, provided that an experimental system exhibiting a fully reversible unfolding equilibrium at high total macromolecular concentration can be developed.
Does engagement with exposure yield better outcomes? Components of presence as a predictor of treatment response for virtual reality exposure therapy for social phobia

Virtual reality exposure (VRE) has been shown to be effective for treating a variety of anxiety disorders, including social phobia. Presence, or the level of connection an individual feels with the virtual environment, is widely discussed as a critical construct both for the experience of anxiety within a virtual environment and for a successful response to VRE. Two published studies show that whereas generalized presence relates to fear ratings during VRE, it does not relate to treatment response. However, presence has been conceptualized as multidimensional, with three primary factors (spatial presence, involvement, and realness). These factors can be linked to other research on the facilitation of fear during exposure, inhibitors of treatment response (e.g., distraction), and more recent theoretical discussions of the mechanisms of exposure therapy, such as Bouton's description of expectancy violation. As such, one or more of these components of presence may be more strongly associated with the experience of fear during VRE and treatment response than the overarching construct. The current study (N=41) evaluated relations between three theorized components of presence, fear ratings during VRE, and treatment response for VRE for social phobia. Results suggest that total presence and realness subscale scores were related to in-session peak fear ratings. However, only scores on the involvement subscale significantly predicted treatment response. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Observation of a New Ordered Structure of Oxygen on W(110)

Using both low energy electron diffraction (LEED) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), we have made the first observation of a new ordered surface structure of oxygen on W(110). This structure is characterized by the matrix $$\left( {_0^3\,_5^{ - 1}} \right)$$ relative to the (1×1) W(110) structure, in which 15 tungsten atoms make up the rectangular unit cell. Based on high resolution STM images, a model for the structure is proposed which includes 6 adsorbed oxygen atoms and has a coverage of 0.40 ML.
An age-dependent population model and its operator

Abstract An age-dependent single population model in the form of a partial differential equation is discussed. Properties of the associated age-dependent operator and the corresponding semigroup are obtained. We then use these properties to discuss the stability of the null solution of this model. The method proposed here may be useful for some other models.
The coelectrodeposition of magnesium with nickel and determination of magnesium in nickel plate

Abstract Titration with EDTA has been used to determine submilligram quantities of magnesium in electrodeposited nickel. Factors that govern the coelectrodeposition of magnesium with nickel have been examined. Although deposits of satisfactory appearance containing up to approximately 0.4% of magnesium can be prepared, the percentage of magnesium becomes very small if the solution is vigorously stirred during the electrolysis.
Shale beneficiation and oil recovery from the concentrate

Abstract A flow sheet and economic feasibility study of oil shale beneficiation and recovery showed that conceivable improvements in grinding, separation, and recovery could make a beneficiation-based system more attractive than conventional ore retorting although current technology (based on ball milling, froth flotation, and retorting) is less attractive. Experiments are needed.
A single plane method of rotation.

The method of rotation described here is applied to one hyperplane at a time. The method seems to be simple and quite effective and it can be applied by a relatively inexperienced computer. The method does not postulate a positive manifold, and hence it is applicable also to bipolar factors.
Uniqueness and continuous dependence of solutions to a multidimensional thermoelastic contact problem

Uniqueness and continuous dependence on the initial temperature are established for the solution of a multidimensional, quasistatic thermoelastic contact problem. The proof of this result does not depend on the ability to decouple the system of governing equations as required in the technique used by Shi and Shillor [European J. Appl. Math., 1990, 371–387] in the one dimensional analogue of this problem. Some extensions to other contact problems are suggested.
Comparative analysis of zymogen granule membrane polypeptides

Abstract Polypeptides of zymogen granule membranes from rat, beef, dog, pig, and rabbit pancreas were analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in 1% sodium dodecylsulfate. Granule membranes were characterized by a single major polypeptide species detected by the periodic acid-Schiff procedure. The relative mobilities of this component were similar for these mammals. The component was distinct from major polypeptides of mitochondrial or microsomal membranes. The zymogen granule membrane may, therefore, represent a highly specialized intracellular membrane.
Feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus-1 and feline calicivirus antibody responses in seronegative specific pathogen-free kittens after parenteral administration of an inactivated FVRCP vaccine or a modified live FVRCP vaccine

Two groups of feline panleukopenia (FPV), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) seronegative kittens (six cats per group) were administered one of two feline viral rhinotracheitis, calcivirus and panleukopenia (FVRCP) vaccines subcutaneously (one inactivated and one modified live) and the serological responses to each agent were followed over 49 days (days 0, 2, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49). While the kittens administered the modified live FPV vaccine were more likely to seroconvert on day 7 after the first inoculation than kittens administered the inactivated vaccine, all kittens had seroconverted by day 14. In contrast, FHV-1 serological responses were more rapid following administration of the inactivated FVRCP vaccine when compared with the modified live FVRCP vaccine. There were no statistical differences between the serological response rates between the two FVRCP vaccines in regard to FCV.
The politics of digital "refrom and revolution": Towards mainstreaming and African control of african digitisation

Current challenges regarding the frame of reference and control of African digitisation projects pose serious questions about their future direction. The author suggests practical strategies aimed at mainstreaming resources and increasing African control, including the need for readers of Innovation – librarians, information scientists, archivists, and historians – to engage in the "politics" of securing this control. By maintaining ethical approaches and flexibility, by listening closely to priorities of African partners, by continuing to initiate worthwhile projects in the North yet also practically supporting African initiatives and by directing limited-end pilot projects towards mainstreaming,we can help to turn expropriation of African resources towards the harvesting of African (and Northern-based) resources for mutually beneficial use.
The Faculty Field Liaison: An Essential Role for Advancing Graduate and Undergraduate Group Work Education

The faculty field liaison is responsible for representing a school’s social work program in monitoring agency internship sites and agency field instructors for an assigned cohort of the program’s BSW or MSW internship students. This article focuses on the faculty field liaison’s role in effectively monitoring the internship site and field instruction to ensure the internship experience is successfully providing the group work skills and knowledge the BSW or MSW student intern needs to be an effective group work practitioner. The field instructor role has been given a lot of attention in the social work literature, but the role of the faculty field liaison has been given little to no attention. This is despite the faculty field liaison’s significant responsibility of representing the BSW and MSW program by bridging the relationships between the program, the field instructor, and the internship student. This article identifies the importance of the faculty field liaison responding to concerns in group work ...
Learning problem-solving through making games at the game design and learning summer program

Today’s complex and fast-evolving world necessitates young students to possess design and problem-solving skills more than ever. One alternative method of teaching children problem-solving or thinking skills has been using computer programming, and more recently, game-design tasks. In this pre-experimental study, a group of middle school students (n = 18) with an age average of 12.6 attended a game-design summer program for 10 days. Students were assessed in their problem-solving skills, specifically in system analysis and design, decision-making, and troubleshooting domains, at the beginning and end of the program. The results indicated that there were significant improvements in students’ problem-solving skills after attending the summer program, Wilks’ Λ = .258, F (3, 15) = 14.397, p < .001, η 2 = .742. For system analysis and design, and decision-making follow-up t-tests pointed to large and medium effect sizes, while for troubleshooting the gains were not significant. This study is a contributes to the growing body of literature investigating the benefits of designing games for young children by adding that game-design activities can be suitable venues for young children to learn and practice problem-solving skills.
Podocyte number predicts long-term urinary albumin excretion in Pima Indians with Type II diabetes and microalbuminuria.

Aims/hypothesis. The predictive value of glomerular structure on progression of renal disease was examined in patients with Type II (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes and microalbuminuria (urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio = 30–299 mg/g). Methods. Kidney biopsy specimens were obtained from 16 diabetic Pima Indians (6 men, 10 women). Progression of renal disease was assessed by measuring urinary albumin excretion 4 years after the biopsy (UAE4 years) and by computing the change in urinary albumin excretion during the study (Δ UAE). Results. At baseline, the duration of diabetes averaged 13.3 years (range = 4.0–23.8 years) and the mean glomerular filtration rate was 159 ml · min–1· 1.73m–2 (range = 98 – 239 ml · min–1· 1.73m–2). Median urinary albumin excretion was 67 mg/g (range = 25–136 mg/g) and it increased to 625 mg/g (range = 9–13471 mg/g) after 4 years; 10 subjects (63 %; 4 men, 6 women) developed macroalbuminuria (urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio ≥ 300 mg/g). Neither mean arterial pressure nor HbA1 c changed substantially during follow-up. Among the glomerular morphologic characteristics, the number of visceral epithelial cells, or podocytes, per glomerulus was the strongest predictor of renal disease progression (UAE4 years, r = –0.49, p = 0.05; ΔUAE, r = –0.57, p = 0.02), with fewer cells predicting more rapid progression. Glomerular basement membrane thickness did not predict progression (UAE4 years, r = 0.11, p = 0.67; ΔUAE, r = 0.09, p = 0.73) and mesangial volume fraction had only a modest effect (UAE4 years, r = 0.42, p = 0.11; ΔUAE, r = 0.48, p = 0.06). Conclusion/interpretation. Whether lower epithelial cell number per glomerulus among those that progressed was due to cellular destruction, a reduced complement of epithelial cells, or both is uncertain. Nevertheless, these findings suggest that podocytes play an important part in the development and progression of diabetic renal disease. [Diabetologia (1999) 42: 1341–1344]
The design of an error-free data transmission system for telephone circuits

Recent experimental results verify that easily implemented codes can detect essentially all errors occurring in digital data sent over toll-grade telephone circuits. A 2-way communications system uses these codes, first to find and then to request a retransmission of any data in error. The feedback logic is detailed herein, and the buffer required to adapt the system to various data sources is discussed. Extrapolated experimental results indicate an average delivery rate in each direction of approximately 7/8 the modem (modulation system) bit rate with a mean time to error of several hundred years. The philosophy which guided the design of this system can be applied to other media, where high noise bursts or low signal levels occur infrequently.
Existence of infinitely many smooth, static, global solutions of the Einstein / Yang-Mills equations

We prove the existence of infinitely-many globally defined singularity- free solutions, to the EYM equations with SU(2) gauge group. The solutions are indexed by a coupling constant, have distinct winding numbers, and their corresponding Einstein metrics decay at infinity to the flat Minkowski metric. Each solution has a finite (ADM) mass; these masses are derived from the solutions, and are not arbitrary constants.
Formation of a nickel-methyl species in methyl-coenzyme m reductase, an enzyme catalyzing methane formation.

An organometallic methyl−nickel species was detected in the enzyme methyl-coenzyme M reductase (MCR). This is the key enzyme in microbial methane production and is probably also involved in anaerobic methane oxidation. Incubation of MCR with 13C-bromomethane results in the formation of an electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) active nickel−methyl species in the active site of this enzyme. High-resolution pulse electron nuclear double resonance and hyperfine sublevel correlation investigations showed the presence of 13C hyperfine couplings of 18−44 MHz that are associated with the nickel-based EPR signal. The large 13C hyperfine interaction shows unambiguously that the methyl group from bromomethane is directly coordinated to the nickel ion. The EPR structure and parameters are fully supported by density functional theory calculations.
An empirical analysis of factors explaining foreign joint venture performance in China

Abstract Little empirical evidence exists to explain the success factors in international joint ventures in developing countries. This article fills a void in the literature by studying factors underlying the performance of foreign joint ventures in China. An intersection of 2,442 joint ventures registered with the Ministry of Foreign Economics Relations and Trade from 1979 to 1990 and 383 joint ventures honored by the China Association of Enterprises with Foreign Investment constitutes the sample of this study. Level of partner commitment, the number of joint venture partners, sociocultural distance among partners, product/industry characteristics, foreign control, and joint venture location in China are factors used to explain performance. Some of the prescribed relationships are supported by the empirical findings. With the exception of product/industry, control, and location, the factors used in this study are found to be significantly related to performance.
Multinuclear and multidimensional solid-state NMR characterization of EMM-8

Abstract The characterization of the AlPO and SAPO forms of EMM-8 with multifield, multinuclear, and multidimensional solid-state NMR techniques is essential to developing a detailed understanding of local and topological structure upon calcination, hydration, and subsequent dehydration. 31 P MAS NMR shows there are at least three distinct environments for the P atoms in the as-synthesized AlPO EMM-8 in a ratio of 2:1:1 and two in a ratio of 1:1 in the calcined material. 27 Al MAS NMR shows tetrahedral and penta-coordinated Al in the as-synthesized AlPO EMM-8 in the ratio of 1:1 and only Td Al in the calcined material. 27 Al 3QMAS NMR shows higher resolution revealing the presence of at least two types of Td and penta Al in the as-synthesized and two distinct Td species in the calcined forms of both the AlPO and SAPO forms of EMM-8. MQMAS-selected 27 Al– 31 P heteronuclear correlation experiments map the Al–P connectivities and indicate multiple P species that are consistent with the proposed structure of EMM-8. The AlPO EMM-8 was made with fluoride in the gel and the combination of 27 Al and 19 F MAS along with 19 F → 27 Al and 27 Al → 19 F CPMAS data show that the F is only coordinated with the penta-coordinated Al. The removal of F upon calcination results in a completely tetrahedral framework and only Td Al are observed. 13 C NMR of as-synthesized EMM-8 (AlPO and SAPO) shows that the dimethylamino pyridine structure-directing agent remains intact. 29 Si and 1 H NMR indicate non-uniform incorporation of Si into SAPO EMM-8.
40-Gb/s Widely Tunable Transceivers

We present the first monolithic widely tunable 40-Gb/s transceivers. The devices integrate sampled grating distributed Bragg reflector (SG-DBR) lasers, quantum-well electroabsorption modulators (EAM), low-confinement semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA), and uni-traveling carrier (UTC) photodiodes for state-of-the-art light generation, modulation, amplification, and detection. A relatively simple high-flexibility fabrication scheme combining quantum-well intermixing (QWI) and blanket metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) regrowth was used to integrate components with performance rivaling optimized discrete devices. The SG-DBR/EAM transmitters demonstrate 30 nm of tuning, 39-GHz bandwidth, low-drive voltage, and low power penalty 40-Gb/s transmission through 2.3 km of fiber. The SOA/UTC photodetector receivers provide 23-28 dB of gain, saturation powers up to 18.6 dBm, and -20.2 dBm of chip-coupled sensitivity at 40 Gb/s. By connecting the transmitters and receivers off-chip, we demonstrate 40-Gb/s wavelength conversion
The absence of flares in λ3835 and the heating of the chromosphere

Simultaneous observations of flares in Hα and a band 15 A wide centered on 3835 A show no change whatever in 3835 A at the time of several flares, although the chromospheric network is easily visible. Flares are therefore transparent in this wavelength.
Synoptic and dynamic climate controls of North American mid-continental aridity

Abstract The mid-continent of North America was likely drier than present during the mid-Holocene, based on inferences from fossil-pollen data and estimates of past lake levels. Mid-Holocene dry conditions have often been explained by increases in the dominance (frequency and/or duration) of Pacific airmasses, zonal flow patterns, or enhanced westerlies. We analyzed modern episodes between 1959 and 1997 when westerly flow was anomalously strong (an indication of zonal flow) to determine if zonal flow is associated with drier-than-normal conditions in the mid-continent. In contrast to that expectation, composite-anomaly patterns of 500 mb geopotential heights show similar meridional, as opposed to zonal, patterns for both anomalously dry and anomalously wet years, suggesting that large-scale circulation patterns alone may not provide a full explanation of surface-moisture anomalies. Anomalous moisture conditions in the mid-continent at present develop due to the dynamic interplay between surface conditions and atmospheric processes. Consideration of both moisture availability (determined by atmospheric moisture flux and soil-moisture recycling) and mechanisms for enhancing or suppressing precipitation (vertical motions in the atmosphere) is therefore required to describe the establishment of anomalously dry or wet conditions in the region today, as well as during the mid-Holocene.
Comparative analysis of active retrotransposons in the transcriptomes of three species of heteromyid rodents

Virtually every eukaryotic genome is replete with transposable elements (TEs). TE activity, or lack thereof, is of considerable evolutionary interest as TE insertions actively drive genome evolution by altering gene expression and/or function through different mechanisms. Herein, we take a comparative approach to better understand the variation in TE transcriptional activity. Our goals were to identify transcriptionally active TEs and to evaluate their relative expression levels in an effort to identify key determinants of TE activity. We do so in three related non-model rodent species (Dipodomys spectabilis, Chaetodipus baileyi, and Heteromys desmarestianus). We used these species (a) because rodents have long been productive models for the study of TEs; (b) because the known and dated relationships among these species permit strong phylogenetic inference (e.g., ancestral character states); and (c) because we have previously characterized key genes that underlie evolutionary adaptations in these species (e.g., osmoregulation). We used RNA-seq to characterize the transcriptomes of two different tissues--kidney and spleen--in each of these three species. Our data revealed a diversity of retrotransposons that were actively transcribed in these rodents (including LINEs, retroviruses/ERVs, and SINEs). We also identified tissue-specific differences in retrotransposon-activity in about half of the retrotransposons detected. We interpret these differences in TE activity in light of overall gene expression, with the transcribed SINEs enriched in differentially expressed sequences in all three species. These transcribed TEs may simply represent transpositionally active TEs. Alternatively, they may be TEs that have been co-opted to represent functionally important components of the host transcriptome (i.e., exaptations). Overall, our results contribute to a growing appreciation for the evolutionary interplay between TEs and their hosts.
Parental selection of vocal behavior : Crying, cooing, babbling, and the evolution of language.

Although all natural languages are spoken, there is no accepted account of the evolution of a skill prerequisite to language—control of the movements of speech. If selection applied at sexual maturity, individuals achieving some command of articulate vocal behavior in previous stages would have enjoyed unusual advantages in adulthood. I offer a parental selection hypothesis, according to which hominin parents apportioned care, in part, on the basis of their infants’ vocal behavior. Specifically, it is suggested that persistent or noxious crying reduced care to individuals who would have had difficulty learning complex behaviors, and that cooing and babbling increased social interaction and care as well as control over complex oralmotor activity of the sort required by spoken language. Several different tests of the hypothesis are suggested.
Higher derivatives of velocity and quantum theory

Abstract This paper conjectures that the amount of uncertainty in quantum mechanical descriptions of particle motion can be reduced by using information on a particle's initial acceleration, rate of acceleration etc. in predicting the particle's motion. We support this conjecture by discussing generalized mechanics and Bohm's (1952) theory of quantum behavior. We then work through the details of an example with a free particle.
Interactions among capsid proteins orchestrate rotavirus particle functions

Rotaviruses are members of the Reoviridae family of non-enveloped viruses and important etiologic agents of acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children. In recent years, high-resolution structures of triple-layered rotavirus virions and the constituent proteins have provided valuable insights into functions. Of note, structural studies have revealed the position of the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, VP1, within the inner capsid, which in turn provides clues about the location of the viral capping machinery and the route of viral transcript egress. Mechanisms by which the viral spike protein, VP4, mediates receptor binding and membrane penetration have also been aided by high-resolution structural studies. Future work may serve to fill the remaining gaps in understanding of rotavirus particle structure and function.
Fluorescence of an excitonic gas of long segments

The photophysics of polysilanes and poly(p-phenylenevinylene) indicates rapid energy transfer to, and fluorescence from, long segments that form a fixed dilute array in films. We model exciton formation due to π-electron dispersion forces between long segments and show that delocalization leads to bimodal emission, as observed in PPV. Dispersion preferentially stabilizes cluster states with small transition moments to the ground state.
Chlamydial inclusions: Accumulation of fibers bearing an intermediate filament epitope

Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular bacterium that replicates in a phagosomal inclusion within a eukaryotic host. Light and transmission electron microscopy studies with monoclonal antibody TIB. 131 detected an intermediate filament (IF) epitope, demonstrating that it is present and co-accumulates in the inclusion along with chlamydia-specific antigens. Light microscope studies established that the material constituted a distinctive mass at the inclusion site and remained associated with elementary bodies when cells lysed to release the infectious particles. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated that material binding the IF-specific monoclonal antibody lies within the inclusion; it is filamentous and entwines maturing reticulate bodies. An enzyme immunoassay, with mature chlamydial elementary bodies isolated and purified from infected embryonated eggs, examined the reactivity of the anti-IF monoclonal antibody; its binding to elementary bodies was readily titrated, indicating that the intermediate filament-positive epitope, or one cross-reactive with it, was present. Thus, the epitope is retained during purification, and its presence is not a function of growth in McCoy cells.
An efficient Newton's method for optimization under equality constraints

An efficient procedure for optimizing a nonlinear objective functional @?(x) under linear and/or nonlinear equality constraints is given. The linearly constrained, quadratic @?(x) case is shown to have a solution given by the explicit formula x = x"p - N(N'AN)^-^1N'(Ax"p + b/2), where @?(x) = a+b'x+x'Ax(x@eR^n) is convex, and both x"p@eR"n and N [an nx(n-r) matrix]; can be obtained simultaneously from the constraint set, Kx=c (K of rank r
Williams-Comstock type model for sawtooth transitions in thin film media

We describe a model of the write process of saw-tooth transitions on longitudinal thin film media. The width of the transitions is determined by the combined action of the head and dipolar fields against the coercivity of the film. We use the model to predict the dependence of transition width and location of the transition center on flying height, gap width, and write current for a Karlqvist head field. The transition width approaches the minimum permitted by the transition's dipolar field for low flying height. Unlike models of the write process on particulate media, it predicts that the transition does not relax after the film leaves the write head.
Remeasurement of the H I Gunn-Peterson Effect toward QSO PKS 1937–101 with Keck Observations

We present the first measurement of the H I Gunn-Peterson effect using the Keck 10 m telescope, observing the high-redshift QSO PKS 1937-101 (z = 3.787). The high-resolution echelle (HIRES) spectra, with FWHM ~15 km s-1 and a signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) ~50 per spectral resolution element, allows us to resolve many weak lines down to NH I = 1012 cm-2, thus reducing the line-blanketing problem compared with previous data. Based on intensity-distribution analysis, we find that a maximum likelihood best fit yields a Gunn-Peterson type of opacity τGP = 0.113 ± 0.020 in addition to a power-law Lyα absorption-line population with β of 1.7 down to NH I = 1012 cm-2. There remains systematic uncertainty in this result because of problems extrapolating the spectral continuum from the red side of the Lyα emission line. This is consistent with the previous study of the same QSO in low S/N data using weighted intensity function analysis (Fang & Crotts 1995). It indicates that this previous method succeeds in measuring the Lyα forest continuum level at low S/N, which is essential in extending the technique to possible fainter QSOs with minimum emission-line contamination for reliable continuum extrapolation. We further discuss problems of severe line blanketing, even in Keck spectra for QSOs at z ≥ 4.5, and show the effectiveness of the weighted intensity function method in measuring continuum levels in extremely crowded Lyα absorption spectra for redshifts as high as z > 5.
Effect of living-related donor bone marrow infusion on chimerism and in vitro immunoregulatory activity in kidney transplant recipients.

Background In a previously reported series of donor-specific bone marrow cell (DBMC) infusions in cadaver kidney transplant recipients, there appeared to be an improvement in long-term graft survival (6 years) and fewer chronic rejections, which correlated with increasing DBMC chimerism (approximately 1.4% in the iliac crest bone marrow compartment now at 6 years). Prompted by this, we embarked on a study of DBMC infusion in living-related donor (LRD) kidney transplant recipients. Methods Between November 1996 and May 2000, 47 LRD kidney transplant recipients received donor iliac crest marrow (1.8 x 10(8)+/-1.9 x 10(8) cells/kg body weight+/-SD) in a single infusion 4 days postoperatively. Either OKT3 (n=26) or daclizumab (n=21) were used for induction therapy, with maintenance tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and methylprednisolone immunosuppression. These recipients were prospectively compared with 39 noninfused LRD kidney transplants (control group), which received equivalent immunosuppression in the same time period. Clinical follow-up ranged from 19.0 months to 61.6 months (mean 33.2 months). Polymerase chain reaction-flow chimerism analysis and in vitro assays of immunoregulatory activity of chimeric cells were performed. Results The incidence of acute rejection over this period of time was 10.6% and 10.3%, respectively (i.e., did not differ between groups). Immunosuppressive dosages were somewhat (but not statistically) lower over time in the DBMC group. Four-year actuarial patient and graft survival for the DBMC-infused group was 98% and 98%, and 98% and 95% for the control group, respectively ( =NS). DBMC infusion was well tolerated, with no increase in infectious episodes. DBMC chimerism in recipient iliac crest marrow has increased more rapidly than might be predicted from results previously seen in the cadaver group, despite four times fewer DBMC infused. DBMCs and (donor) peripheral blood mononuclear cells purified by immunobeads from recipient blood or bone marrow (recipient-derived donor cells) inhibited mixed leukocyte responses of the recipient to the donor more strongly than freshly obtained peripheral blood cells drawn from the donors or even compared with bone marrow cells aspirated from the donors in a previously reported group of experiments. Additionally, similarly purified recipient-derived recipient cells from the same chimeric recipient more strongly inhibited the same mixed leukocyte response reactions autologously than a large group of nonchimeric (autologous) bone marrow modulating cells in similar reactions. Conclusions These observations confirm that an immunoregulatory process appears to have been generated by DBMC infusion, encouraging a further decrease in immunosuppressive dosing using such assays in the future.
Impact of duty hours restrictions on quality of care and clinical outcomes.

Abstract Background In July 2003, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education instituted residency duty-hours requirements in response to growing concerns regarding clinician fatigue and the incidence of medical errors. These changes, which limited maximum continuous hours worked and total hours per week, often resulted in increased discontinuity of care. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of the duty-hours restrictions on quality of care and outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndrome. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of 1003 consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome admitted to the University of Michigan Hospital between July 2002 and June 2004. Patients were stratified by hospital admission during academic year 2002-2003 (pre-duty-hours changes, n=572) and academic year 2003-2004 (post-duty-hours changes, n=431). Main outcome measures included differences in adherence to quality indicators, length of stay, and in-hospital and 6-month adverse events. Results Post-duty-hours changes, there was an increase in the usage of beta-blockers (85.8% vs 93.8%, P P =.046), and statins (76.2% vs 84.0%, P =.002) at time of discharge. Length of stay decreased from 3.1 days to 2.8 days, P =.002. There was no difference in in-hospital mortality (4.2% vs 2.8%, P =.23). Six-month mortality (8.0% vs 3.8%, P =.007) and risk-adjusted 6-month mortality (odds ratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.99, P =.05) decreased after the duty-hours changes. Conclusions Implementation of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education residency duty-hours restrictions on an academic inpatient cardiology service was associated with improved quality of care and efficiency in patients admitted with acute coronary syndrome. In addition, improved efficiency did not adversely impact patient outcomes, including mortality.
Fuel properties and precipitate formation at low temperature in soy-, cottonseed-, and poultry fat-based biodiesel blends

The formation of precipitates in biodiesel blends may have serious implications for diesel engine fuel delivery systems. Precipitates were observed in Soybean oil (SBO-), cottonseed oil (CSO-), and poultry fat (PF-) based biodiesel blends after storage at 4 °C. CSO- and PF-based biodiesel had a lower mass of precipitates observed than the SBO-based. Moreover, different rates of precipitate formation were observed for the B20 versus the B100. These suggested that the formation of precipitate during cold temperature storage was dependent on the feedstock and blend concentration. The solvency effects of biodiesel blends were more pronounced at low temperature than at room temperature leading to a higher amount of precipitates formed. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, and gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID) chromatograms indicated that steryl glucosides are the major cause of precipitate formation in SBO-based biodiesel; while for PF-based biodiesel, the precipitates are due to mono-glycerides. However, the precipitates from CSO-based biodiesel are due to both steryl glucosides and mono-glycerides.
Educational Policy and Reform for Homeless Students: An Overview

This article provides an overview of educational reform efforts that have been targeted toward assisting homeless students. The authors first review some of the difficulties and barriers that confront homeless children in terms of school access and academic success. The authors then examine four different types of educational reforms for homeless students—mainstreamed schools, supplemental supports, transitional schools (separate schools), and modified comprehensive schools—in relation to the existing barriers for homeless students. Using a case study approach, the authors briefly describe the first modified comprehensive school in the nation and the programs that are being implemented at the school. This article concludes that school reforms for homeless children need to be tailored to the specific context of the community and not be based on national one-size-fits-all reform policy. Recommendations are provided to assist in the planning of educational programs to enhance the academic success of the home...
Selecting, adapting, and sustaining programs in health care systems

Practitioners and researchers often design behavioral programs that are effective for a specific population or problem. Despite their success in a controlled setting, relatively few programs are scaled up and implemented in health care systems. Planning for scale-up is a critical, yet often overlooked, element in the process of program design. Equally as important is understanding how to select a program that has already been developed, and adapt and implement the program to meet specific organizational goals. This adaptation and implementation requires attention to organizational goals, available resources, and program cost. We assert that translational behavioral medicine necessitates expanding successful programs beyond a stand-alone research study. This paper describes key factors to consider when selecting, adapting, and sustaining programs for scale-up in large health care systems and applies the Knowledge to Action (KTA) Framework to a case study, illustrating knowledge creation and an action cycle of implementation and evaluation activities.
1102 FURTHER STUDIES OF THE RESPONSES TO HAEMOPHILUS INFLUENZAE TYPE b VACCINE IN RELATION TO THE KM(1) AND GM(23) Ig ALLOTYPES

In experimental animals, there are genes associated with Ig allotypes which regulate immune responses. We examined the responses of children immunized with Haemophilus influenzae type b polysaceharide vaccine (PRP). 97 children, ages 12 to 83 mos (M=36.8±19), were immunized. Sera were obtained prior to immunization and 2 mos later. Total antiPRP was measured by a radioantigen-binding assay. IgG antiPRP was measured by ELISA. AntiPRP responses were lower in blacks lacking the Km(l) Ig allotype. In whites, there were no significant differences in antibody response in relation to the Km(1) or Gm(23) allotypes. In conclusion, blacks with Km(l) but not whites have higher IgG responses to PRP vaccine. Our findings corroborate previous results with a different Hib vaccine (PRP complexed to pertussis vaccine) (J.clin.Invest. 74:1708, 1984). The present data support a genetic basis for immune response to the PS component of the vaccine. Further, the children found in our previous study to be genetically at greatest risk of Hib disease [Blacks lacking Km(l)] are the group least likely to benefit from immunization.
A Tandem Double Focusing Mass Spectrometer for Neutron Cross Section Measurements

A mass spectrometer has been designed and constructed which consists of two double-focusing systems arranged in tandem. The instrument includes two 20-inch radius of curvature - 90° electromagnets, and two 20-inch - 90° cylindrical electrostatic lenses. This combination of velocity and momentum focusing permits the measurement of isotopic abundance ratios that are very large. Such ratios must be measured when nuclear reactions lead to daughter nuclides which are stable isotopes, and therefore cannot be detected by radiation counters. Isotopic abundance ratios of 108 to 1, in principle, can be measured with this spectrometer, as demonstrated by initial tests. It has already been utilized to (1) measure neutron cross sections, (2) determine neutron temperatures, and (3) provide 1 part per million isotopic purity of several rare earth elements in activation experiments. Special instrumental features of the spectrometer will be described, and a brief summary will be presented of nuclear and reactor measurements which are anticipated using this new facility.
Detection of Vibrio cholerae in oyster (Crassostrea virginica) homogenate based on centrifugal removal of antimicrobial agents

Abstract Detection of Vibrio cholerae in oysters requires homogenization, enrichment in alkaline peptone water (APW) and isolation on selective medium. An antimicrobial substance(s) indigenous to oysters apparently inhibits V . cholerae recovery, thus, requiring extensive dilution of the oyster homogenate in APW (1:100, v/v) during enrichment. Centrifugation of oyster homogenates partitions antimicrobial agent(s) into the supernatant fraction. The antimicrobial agent(s) was not removed by filtration (0.2 μm) of the supernatant, thus eliminating bacterial competition as the source of inhibition. Growth curves conducted in filtered sterilized oyster supernatant–APW (1:10) at 42°C demonstrated logarithmic V . cholerae growth until cell density reached 10 8 ml −1 (6–12 h) followed by logarithmic death. Antimicrobial agents were inactivated by pretreatment of the supernatant at 80°C, or with pronase, but were stable at 75°C and with trypsin or lipase treatment. While a rapid pH drop was noted prior to cell death, low pH alone was not sufficient for V . cholerae lethality. Vibrio vulnificus was also susceptible to inhibitory agent(s) in oysters, but no inhibition was observed with other Vibrio and non-vibrio species tested. Removal of the supernatant followed by enrichment of the pellet formed the basis of a novel procedure, which was as sensitive as the dilution procedure for V . cholerae detection ( −1 ).
Rapid Specific and Label-Free Detection of Porcine Rotavirus Using Photonic Crystal Biosensors

A rapid, label-free assay using photonic crystal biosensors for the direct detection of intact viable rotaviruses is demonstrated. This paper describes the design and operation of the biosensor, surface functionalization with anti-rotavirus antibody, characterization of the detection sensitivity, and demonstration of specificity with respect to non-target virus particles. A 30-min assay of a partially processed water sample yielded a detection sensitivity of 36 virus focus forming units without the use of any external reagents. This sensitivity is comparable to commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. These results suggest photonic crystal biosensors may be useful for real-time monitoring of virus contamination of environmental water resources.
A Semester-Long Experiential Exercise to Develop Workplace Understanding: The Role Assignment Exercise

To understand diversity issues, students must have an experience with diversity that transcends the factual knowledge that is most often the focus of college classes. This article summarizes the use of a journal-writing project as a pedagogical tool for developing this understanding through the process of self-discovery. Multidimensional evidence, both qualitative and quantitative, is presented to support the efficacy of using this tool in the development of student learning about diversity issues. The article concludes with reflections based on the use of the journal in four introductory undergraduate organizational behavior classes and caveats for using the journal as a pedagogical tool.
Voicing Contrasts and Their Phonological Implications in the Speech of Articulation-Disordered Children.

Five-year-old articulation-disordered children, some classified as substituters and some as syllable reducers, were compared with normal child and adult controls in their production of voicing cont...