cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the Ordovician through Middle Pennsylvanian carbonate shelf in east-central California

Carbonate shelf rocks marked by various sedimentary features suggesting intertidal to supratidal deposition or bearing rich, benthic faunas and their corresponding slope and basin rock sequences containing planktic fossils and sediment-gravity-flow deposits have been identified in the Inyo Mountains–Argus Range region of east-central California for all of the Paleozoic from Ordovician through Middle Pennsylvanian. Four major depositional sequences, each beginning with a marine transgression and all but the third ending with a progradation, were developed representing (1) Early Ordovician into Early Silurian time, (2) Early Silurian into earliest Middle Devonian time, (3) Middle to Late Devonian time and (4) Early to middle Late Mississippian time. A period of basinal infilling in the Late Mississippian was followed by a fifth major marine transgression in the Early Pennsylvanian. The carbonate shelf itself evolved from a homoclinal ramp in the Ordovician to an accretionary rimmed margin by the Early Devonian. This margin was drowned, probably in the Middle Devonian; by the Early Mississippian, a new homoclinal ramp had been developed. Before the end of the Mississippian, this ramp became distally steepened and then was transformed into an accretionary rimmed margin. The Early to Middle Pennsylvanian marine transgression gave rise to still another homoclinal carbonate ramp. Subsidence of ∼2,300 m occurred between Early Ordovician and Middle Pennsylvanian time in the area immediately east of the Inyo Mountains. It increased westward to probably >3,500 m at the edge of the Owens Valley as the continental margin subsided and bent downward ∼1° between Early Ordovician and middle Late Mississippian time. As a result of subsidence and relatively low rates of sedimentation, the water depth in the western part of the study area increased from close to sea level at the beginning of the Ordovician to as much as 3,000 m in the Late Mississippian. Because of higher rates of sediment accumulation and lower rates of subsidence in the eastern part of the region, shallow-water environments were maintained throughout most of this time interval; even so, the shelf-slope break retreated at least 45 km southeastward from Middle Ordovician to middle Late Mississippian time and at least 35 km farther southeastward by Middle Pennsylvanian time.
The tortuosity of occupied crossings of a box in critical percolation

We consider the length of an occupied crossing of a box of size [0,n]×[0, 3n] D−1 (in the short direction) in standard (Bernoulli) bond percolation on ℤ D at criticality. Let ¦s n¦ be the length of the shortest such crossing. It is believed that ¦s n¦ ≈1+c in some sense for somec>0. Here we show that if the correlation lengthξ(p) satisfies ξ(p)</(p c}−p) −ν for some ν<1, then with a probability tending to 1, ¦s n¦>/C 1 n 1/ν(logn)−(1−ν)/ν. The assumption ξ(p)⩽C 3(p c−p)−ν with ν<1 has been rigorously established(1,2) for largeD, but cannot hold(3) forD=2. In the latter case, let ¦l n¦ be the length of the lowest occupied crossing of the square [0,n]2. We outline a proof ofP pc(¦ln¦ ⩽n 1+c)⩽n −α for somec, α>0. We also obtain a result about the length of optimal paths in first-passage percolation.
A semi-infinite crack perpendicular to the surface of an elastic half-plane

Abstract A solution is obtained for an elastic half-plane containing a semi-infinite crack perpendicular to its free surface. The crack is opened symmetrically either by a pressure distribution applied to its faces or by means of remote loading. Expressions are given for the stress intensity factor. A comparison is made between the exact solution for a particular remote loading and the result obtained from Neuber's approximate method. The solution is based on an application of the Wiener-Hopf technique.
Public understanding of and support for wind power in the United States

Abstract Wind power has been identified as the most cost-efficient form of alternative energy. Americans regularly read news stories about wind power and see newspaper advertisements urging the public to support wind power. Yet because large-scale wind power is relatively new, we do not know how much Americans understand about it or what they think about it. U.S. public opinion about wind power has been studied, but only superficially. The survey questions used to gauge public opinion about wind power are broad, and often combine wind power with solar power. Moreover, few surveys ask more than one or two questions about wind power. We analyze the results of a U.S. national internet survey, conducted in 2008, that was designed to study public opinion about wind power. We present evidence that the public's understanding of wind power is relatively poor. We show what positive and negative characteristics of wind power the public regards as important. We develop a model to explain public support for expanding wind power, and we discuss the implications for the future of the wind power industry.
First-order definability on finite structures

Abstract If k is a fixed positive integer, G is a graph with n vertices,υ1, υ2∈G then the property dG(υ1, υ2)⩽k can be easily defined by a first-order formula with at most 2+2log2k quantifiers. Let M be a finite structure with n elements. We may consider G as a binary relation on the universe M. Using the relations of M may help to define the given property of G. (E.g. the number k may be coded by one of the relations.) However, we prove that if n is sufficiently large compared to k, then the given property cannot be defined by a first-order formula whose length does not depend on k even if we are allowed to use in this formula the arbitrary relations given on M. This result implies that the existential first-order formulas form a nontrivial hierarchy on finite structures in a strong sense.
Effect of chlorsulfuron on phenylpropanoid metabolism in sunflower seedlings

The effect of the herbicide chlorsulfuron on phenylpropanoid titer and metabolism and the role of endogenous ethylene in this response was examined in light-grown sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seedlings. Application of chlorsulfuron to the apex resulted in large increases in both total phenolic and hydroxycinnamic acid content in hypocotyls isolated from the treated seedlings. Both of these parameters were increased within 24 h of herbicide treatment, and both reached a maximum level 3–4 days post-treatment. An increase in ethylene evolution was found to proceed in parallel with the alterations of phenolic content. The extractable activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase,trans-cinnamic-4-hydroxylase, and soluble peroxidase were increased by chlorsulfuron treatment. Chlorsulfuron had little effect on total phenolic content when administered directly to isolated hypocotyl segments. Exogenous ethylene had no effect on the endogenous titer of phenolic compounds. Root-fed cobalt chloride (5 × 10−4 M) inhibited chlorsulfuron-induced ethylene production by 92% and also inhibited the accumulation of phenolic materials by 56%. Exogenous ethylene was unable to reverse the inhibition caused by cobalt chloride. It was concluded that chlorsulfuron-induced increases in phenolic compounds were not mediated solely by endogenous ethylene.
A focus Group Study of Medical Students' Views of an Integrated Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Curriculum: Students Teaching Teachers.

Background: Student views of new curricula can shape training outcomes. This qualitative study elicited student opinions of CAM instruction to examine and distill best strategies. Methods: 49 second, third and fourth year students participated in focus groups using a predefined question route. Interviews were audio taped and transcribed. Results: Students successfully differentiated CAM curricula from other academic content and were supportive of a longitudinal integrated approach. They had positive disposition toward CAM use for themselves but this did not necessarily translate into patient recommendations. They agreed that goals of the CAM curriculum should center on awareness of patient use and evidence and information relevant to clinical practice. They advocated a case-based, hands-on, experiential strategy vs lectures. Students proposed greater institutional commitment to strengthen curricular effectiveness. The majority did not intend to practice CAM modalities but valued skills to assess them. Patient-centeredness was recognized. As training progressed, students exhibited a growing tendency to evaluate CAM efficacy, and therefore value, exclusively according to evidence. Conclusions: In-depth student input allowed examination of the effectiveness of a CAM curricu­lum, permitting improvement and assessment of program effectiveness. Keywords: Curriculum assessment, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), focus groups, medical students, qualitative.
Conceptualising barriers and supports for physical activity: A qualitative assessment

AbstractObjectives: Community indicators for physical activity were conceptualised by assessing citizens' perceived barriers and supports for physical activity within their community. Suggestions regarding community improvements by multiple sectors of the community (government, non-profit organisations, voluntary organisations, private organisations and leisure time organisations) were also elicited from the study participants.Design: An exploratory study using qualitative methods was designed using the socio-ecological framework to guide question development. A purposive sample to reflect the community's demographics was selected. Attention was given to within-group homogeneity. Data were collected during a three-month period.Setting: The research was conducted in a southeastern US city of approximately 45,000 residents within a county of over 100,000 residents.Methods: An experienced, Master's level moderator facilitated six focus groups (n=53). The discussions were tape recorded and supplemented with d...
A quantitative measure of user circulation requirements and its possible effect on stack thinning and multiple copy determination

The strategy outlined in this article describes a possible aid to the librarian for thinning a library's stacks according to the criterion of user needs. The method uses the last circulation date as a parameter of user circulation requirements. The resulting stack collection would, by design, satisfy over 99 percent of the user circulation requirements and yet be of minimum size. Preliminary, but not yet fully validated research, indicates that the number of volumes in a library's holdings may be reduced by 60 to 70 percent and yet satisfy well over 99 percent of the user requirements. It may also be possible to determine which books should have multiple copies in order that user disappointment can be minimized. The effective result of this approach is that there now may be a quantitative method of maintaining the library's holdings at a reasonable level and, in addition, a reduction in the disappointment of the user who is unable to find the book he wants because of use by another.
Adsorption of iodobenzene (C6H5I) on Au(1 1 1) surfaces and production of biphenyl (C6H5-C6H5)

Abstract Thermal decomposition of alkyl halides has been widely used for generating adlayers of hydrocarbon species or fragments on metal surfaces. We investigated the possibility of using the thermal dissociation of iodobenzene (C 6 H 5 I) as a method for generating chemisorbed phenyl groups bound to Au(1 1 1) surfaces. Iodobenzene desorbs molecularly in three peaks at 290–308, 212 and 188 K in temperature programmed description (TPD) and partially decomposes at 200–250 K to form coadsorbed biphenyl and iodine on the surface. Biphenyl species produced from C 6 H 5 I decomposition, or from gas-phase biphenyl dosing, are chemisorbed reversibly and molecularly, with the molecular plane parallel to the surface. These strongly chemisorbed species do not desorb until 400 K. Iodine desorption at 720 K leaves a clean Au(1 1 1) surface following TPD of C 6 H 5 I adlayers. Carbon–iodine (C–I) bond dissociation to produce phenyl groups (C 6 H 5 ) occurs at a higher temperature than that required for phenyl–phenyl coupling reactions. Thus, we do not detect the formation of adsorbed, isolated phenyl groups from iodobenzene thermal dissociation on the Au(1 1 1) surface.
Molecular and fluorescent sterol approaches to probing lysosomal membrane lipid dynamics.

Abstract Although the most exogenous lipids enter the cell via the LDL-receptor pathway, the mechanism(s) whereby lipids leave the lysosome for transport to intracellular sites are not clearly resolved. As shown herein, expression of sterol carrier protein-2 (SCP-2) in transfected L-cells altered lysosomal membrane lipid distribution, dynamics, and response to lipid transfer proteins. SCP-2 expression decreased the mass of cholesterol and lyso-bis-phosphatidic acid [LBPA], as well as the ratios of cholesterol/phospholipid and polyunsaturated/monounsaturated fatty acids esterified to lysosomal membrane phospholipids. Concomitantly, a fluorescent sterol transfer assay showed that SCP-2 expression decreased the initial rates of spontaneous and SCP-2-mediated sterol transfer 5.5- and 3.8-fold, respectively, from lysosomal membranes isolated from SCP-2 expressing cells as compared to controls. SCP-2, sphingomyelinase, low density lipoprotein, and high density lipoprotein directly enhanced the initial rates of sterol transfer from isolated lysosomal membranes by 50-, 12-, 4-, and 5-fold, respectively. In contrast, albumin and cholesterol esterase had no effect on lysosomal sterol transfer. Spontaneous sterol was very slow, t1/2>4 days, regardless of the source of the lysosomal membrane, while SCP-2 added in vitro induced formation of rapid and slowly transferable sterol pools in lysosomal membranes of control cells. In contrast, SCP-2 did not induce formation of a rapidly transferable sterol domain in lysosomal membranes isolated from SCP-2 expressing cells. These data suggest that SCP-2 expression selectively shifted the distribution of lipids (cholesterol, LBPA, esterified polyunsaturated fatty acids) away from lysosomal membranes. Furthermore, the cholesterol depleted lysosomal membrane isolated from SCP-2 expressing cells was resistant to additional direct action of SCP-2 to further enhance sterol transfer and induce rapidly transferable sterol pools in the lysosomal membrane.
What You Should Know about Behavioral Assessment.

The article provides the reader with an introduction to behavioral assessment. The assumptions and methods of behavioral assessment are described and are then compared and contrasted with those of traditional assessment. Recent developments in behavioral assessments are reviewed. Two case examples illustrate many of the principles and methods of behavioral assessment that are discussed.
Electronic Coherence and Structure of Biological Aggregates Probed By Coherent Multidimensional Spectroscopy

Using multidimensional spectroscopy, we explored the energy-transfer and charge-separation pathways in photo-systems, quantum entanglement effects in nature, and aggregation mechanism of amyloid fibrils related to neurodegenerative diseases.
Hydraulic And Mechanical Characteristics Of A Compacted Municipal Solid Waste Compost

Abstract Results of a laboratory study are presented that describe hydraulic and mechanical properties of a compacted compost derived from a mixture or municipal solid waste and treatment plant sludge. The objective of the study was to determine if compacted compost has properties desirable of a hydraulic barrier used in liners and final covers of landfills. Ordinarily, the hydraulic barrier is constructed with compacted clay and/or a geomembrane. Laboratory tests were performed to determine the particle size distribution, compaction characteristics, hydraulic conductivity and shear strength of the compacted compost. Tests have also been conducted to evaluate: (1) the resistance of compost to changes caused by desiccation and freeze-thaw, (2) the effects of extended permeation and (3) the concentration of contaminants leached during permeation. The results of the study show that compost can be compacted into a dense mass with low hydraulic conductivity (2 × 10-10m s-1). It is also more resistant to increases in hydraulic conductivity caused by desiccation and freeze-thaw than compacted clay. Compacted compost also has greater shear strength than compacted clay and therefore is likely to remain stable on typical landfill slopes. However, contaminants considered hazardous, such as heavy metals, were leached from the compost at levels exceeding United States drinking water standards. The results suggest that the compost used in this study has hydraulic and mechanical properties desirable of a hydraulic barrier and further detailed study of its use is warranted.
Novel, Simple, Versatile and General Synthesis of Nanoparticles Made from Proteins, Nucleic Acids and other Materials

A new, simple, and versatile method was developed to prepare protein nanoparticles, for the first time, and the approach was extended to prepare organic, inorganic, and biological nanomaterials. For example, nanoparticles of met-hemoglobin and glucose oxidase are readily prepared by contacting a fine spray of aqueous solutions of the proteins to an organic solvent such as methanol or acetonitrile. The protein nanoparticles suspended in organic solvents retained their secondary structure and biological activities to a significant extent. Using this approach, we also successfully prepared nanoparticles of transition metal complexes, organic molecules, nucleic acids, inorganic polymers, and organic polymers. Particle size depended on reagent concentrations, pH and the solvent used, and particle sizes have been controlled from 20 to 200 nm by adjusting these parameters. In each case, particle sizes and size distributions were determined by dynamic light scattering and the data have been confirmed by electron microscopy. Addition of appropriate electrolytes to the nanoparticle supensions stabilized them against aggregation or crystallization, and particles were stable over months of storage at 4°C. Nanoparticles of met-hemoglobin, glucose oxidase, and calf thymus DNA indicated retention of their native-like structures, as evidenced from their respective circular dichroism spectra. Enzyme nanoparticles retained their catalytic activities to a significant extent. For example, peroxidase-like activity of met-hemoglobin nanoparticles suspended in methanol was 0.3 M-1 s-1, which is comparable to the activity of met-hmoglobin in aqueous buffer (1.0 M-1 s-1) even though the former has been measured in methanol. This activity is far greater than the activity of free heme in methanol. Thus, the nanobiocatalysts retained substantial activity in organic solvents. Nanoparticles of anthracene indicated extensive excitonic coupling due to inter-chromophore interactions. The current method of nanoparticle synthesis is rapid, simple, versatile, reproducible and resulted in the formation of nanoparticles from a variety of materials, many of them for the first time.
On the goals, principles, and procedures for prescriptive grammar: Singular they

This paper examines the goals of prescriptive grammar and the causes and consequences of the rift between prescriptive and theoretical linguistics. It also proposes a principle for guiding prescriptive recommendations in the future as well as a theoretical framework and procedure for predicting the consequences of prescriptive recommendations. The procedure illustrates a hypothetical prescription: the substitution of singular they for prescriptive he. Projected benefits the prescription include neutral connotation, naturalness, simplicity, and lexical availability. Projected costs include covert and overt referential ambiguity; partial ambiguity; conceptual inaccuracy; loss of precision, imageability, impact, and memorability; bizarreness involving certain referents and case forms; distancing and dehumanizing connotations; unavailability of the ‘he or she’ denotation; potentially disruptive and long-lasting side effects on other areas of the language. Procedures are also illustrated for determining the relative frequency of such costs and benefits and for estimating the relative disruptiveness of the costs normal language use. Implications of the data for several issues general interest to linguistics and psychology are explored. (Ambiguity, language change, prescriptive grammar, theoretical linguistics, language planning, pronouns, neologisms.)
The critical extent of polar ice-caps

This is a brief review of our present knowledge concerning one aspect of climatic control. The subject is of importance in connection with certain phases of geology such as glaciation and the Wegener hypothesis. According to this hypothesis the continents at various times have drifted apart in an east-west direction and have also experienced large movements from south to north and from north to south again. This latter feature of Wegener's theory is supported by climatological evidence, and loses its only support if other means of securing large variations in climate are found.
Do people resist social-psychological perspectives on wrongdoing? Reactions to dispositional, situational, and interactionist explanations

Social psychologists could play major roles in public debates on social problems, but social‐psychological accounts of behavior are often resisted. Replicating past research, when psychologists described research illustrating situational control of wrongdoing, participants believed that the psychologists would attribute less blame and responsibility to wrongdoers than other psychologists arguing for dispositional influences. But psychologists presenting interactionist accounts were not perceived to be similarly exonerating. Participants also preferred interactionist accounts to situational or dispositional ones. Finally, after exposure to interactionist accounts, participants included just as many (if not more) contextual factors in open‐ended explanations of wrongdoing than after exposure to situational accounts. If social psychologists want to influence thinking about human behavior, insisting on strong situationism might be counterproductive.
FcγRIIB1 Inhibition of BCR-Mediated Phosphoinositide Hydrolysis and Ca2+ Mobilization Is Integrated by CD19 Dephosphorylation

Abstract The B cell receptor for immunoglobulin G, FcγRIIB1, is a potent transducer of signals that block antigen-induced B cell activation. Coligation of FcγRIIB1 with B lymphocyte antigen receptors (BCR) causes premature termination of phosphoinositide hydrolysis and Ca 2+ mobilization and inhibits proliferation. This inhibitory signal is mediated in part by phosphorylation of FcγRIIB1 and recruitment of phosphatases; however, the molecular target(s) of effectors is unknown. Here we report that FcγRIIB1 inhibition of BCR signaling is mediated in part by selective dephosphorylation of CD19, a BCR accessory molecule and coreceptor. CD19 dephosphorylation leads to failed CD19 association with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and this in turn leads to termination of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate production, intracellular Ca 2+ release, and Ca 2+ influx. The results define a molecular circuit by which FcγRIIB signals block phosphoinositide hydrolysis.
Fractionation by cycling zone adsorption

Abstract A new technique for fractionation of solutes by cycling zone adsorption is presented. The technique uses the different solute velocities to “aim” the solutes so that they peak in different parts of the cycle. To achieve this separation in a single zone the cycles are made longer than they would be for single solute removal. In multiple zone systems the cycles are timed so that solutes exit during different portions of the cycle. The local equilibrium model is used to study the separation achieved for solutes with linear and nonlinear isotherms operating in either the traveling wave or direct modes.
Cathodoluminescence of defects in diamond films and particles grown by hot-filament chemical-vapor deposition.

Point defects, impurities, and defect-impurity complexes in diamond particles and polycrystalline films were investigated by cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging and spectroscopy in a scanning electron microscope. The diamond films and particles were grown by hot-filament methane-hydrogen chemical-vapor deposition at several different temperatures; the nominal deposition temperature (${T}_{d}$) ranged from 600 to 850 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. Electron-beam energies used to excite the CL were 10--30 keV. By comparing the CL spectra to spectra of known defects in natural and synthetic diamond, the following luminescence centers were identified: (a) 2.156-eV center (zero-phonon line observed at 2.15\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.01 eV) attributed to a nitrogen-vacancy complex; (b) 2.326-eV center (observed peak position at 2.32\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.01 eV), also thought to be a nitrogen-vacancy complex; (c) violet-emitting center (observed peak position at 2.82\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.01 eV), associated with dislocation line defects, whose atomic structure is uncertain; (d) 3.188-eV center (observed peak position at 3.189\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001 eV), attributed to interstitial nitrogen or a nitrogen--(carbon-interstitial) complex; (e) isolated neutral vacancy (denoted the general radiation center) with principal zero-phonon line at 1.673 eV (observed peak position at 1.675\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002 eV).The luminescence from each center displayed a different dependence on ${T}_{d}$ and film morphology, as follows: (a) 2.156-eV center, maximum at ${T}_{d}$=600 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, corresponding to a cubic crystal-growth habit; (b) 2.326-eV center, similar to (a); (c) 2.82-eV center, maximum at ${T}_{d}$=750 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, octahedral crystal-growth habit; (d) 3.188-eV center, maximum at 650 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, transition between cubic and octahedral crystal growth; (e) 1.673-eV center (neutral vacancy), observed only at 850 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, relatively indistinct crystal-growth habit. CL from center (d) was induced by extended exposure to the electron beam. CL imaging of large (\ensuremath{\sim}10-\ensuremath{\mu}m) crystalline particles suggests that centers (a) and (c) are located primarily near {100} faces; the dislocation-related center (c) appears to be slightly more confined to near-surface regions than center (a).
Shock-initiated ignition of natural gas-air mixtures

Ignition delay times in air for hydrocarbon mixtures that simulate natural gas were measured following the shock heating of such mixtures in reflected shock waves. The onset of ignition was determined by time-resolved absorption of the 3.39 μm He−Ne laser line. Measured induction times ranged from 15–1200 μs over the temperature interval 1200–1850 K at total densities near 3×10 −5 mol/cm 3 , corresponding to a pressure of about 4 atm at 1600 K. It was found that the induction time of a mixture of 1% CH 4 in air is shortened by factors of 3, 9 and 13 for the addition of 0.2% C 3 H 8 , 0.2% C 2 H 6 +0.1% C 3 H 8 and 0.2% C 2 H 6 +0.1% C 3 H 8 +0.1% n -C 4 H 10 , respectively. The temperature variation of the induction times for these fuel mixtures is essentially constant and given by: exp (26000±600 K/T), in agreement with ignition delay studies of CH 4 in O 2 /Ar mixtures. The activation energies for ignition of mixed fuels are thus controlled by the oxidation mechanism of CH 4 . A qualitative interpretation based on changes of initiation and branching rates introduced by the additives is provided to account for the shorter induction times.
On the infrared spectrum of malonaldehyde, a tunneling hydrogen-bonded molecule

Abstract Measurements of the medium-resolution infrared spectrum of malonaldehyde and a doubly deuterated derivative are presented. Experimental evidence for a tunneling planar asymmetric hydrogen-bonded structure is presented and interpretations are made within a molecular symmetry group description of the molecule.
Transient effects of subcutaneously administered prostaglandin E2 on cancellous and cortical bone in young adult dogs.

The transient effects of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on cancellous and cortical bone in iliac crests and mid-tibial shafts of nine intact young adult dogs were evaluated following 31 days of treatment. Histomorphometric bone changes were characterized from in vivo fluorescent double-labeled undecalcified bone specimens. PGE2 caused an increase in cancellous bone remodeling evidenced by increased in activation frequency; increased percent eroded and formation surfaces; increased mineral apposition and bone formation rates; and shortened resorption, formation, and total bone remodeling periods. Activated cancellous bone remodeling did not lead to decreased cancellous bone mass, indicating an imbalance between bone resorption and formation in favor of formation (activation → resorption → stimulated formation; A → R → F ↑) at remodeling sites. The PGE2 treatment activated bone modeling in the formation mode (activation → formation; A → F) at the periosteal and endocortical surfaces and increased activation frequency of intracortical bone remodeling in the tibial shaft. Increased modeling activation converted quiescent bone surfaces to formation surfaces with stimulated osteoblastic activity (i.e., increased percent labeled periosteal and endocortical surfaces, mineral apposition rates, and woven and lamellar trabecular bone formation) leading to 9- to 26-fold increases in newly formed bone mass in subperiosteal, subendosteal, and marrow regions, compared to controls. However, increased intracortical bone remodeling elevated remodeling space (i.e., increased cortical porosity), producing a bone loss that partially offsets the bone gain. The combined events lead to a positive bone balance in PGE2-treated cortical bone, compared to a negative bone balance in control bones. Collectively our data suggest that in vivo PGE2 is a powerful activator of cancellous and cortical bone formation, which may be able to build a peak bone mass to prevent and/or correct the skeletal defects to cure osteoporosis.
Human immunodeficiency virus and the emergency setting: Legal considerations

The emergence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has changed the atmosphere surrounding the provision of emergency medical treatment. HIV-positive patients fear denial of needed health services based on their seropositivity, whereas medical providers worry about occupational exposure. Both patients and providers have concerns regarding HIV testing and the confidentiality of test results. This article summarizes some of the many legal implications created by HIV in the emergency setting.
Second-language spoken word identification: Effects of perceptual training, visual cues, and phonetic environment

Experiments using the gating paradigm investigated the effects of auditory–visual (AV) and auditory-only perceptual training on second-language spoken-word identification by Japanese and Korean learners of English. Stimuli were familiar bisyllabic words beginning with /p/, /f/, //, /l/, and /s, t, k/ combined with high, low, and rounded vowels. Results support the priming role of visual cues in AV speech processing. Identification was earlier with visual cues and following training, especially for words beginning with // and /l/, which also showed significant effects of adjacent vowel. For the Japanese, the AV advantage in identifying //- and /l/-initial words was accentuated following training. Findings are discussed within a multimodal episodic model of learning.
A Probability Function to FIT Radial Distributions in PARMILA Simulation Beams

Proton or deuteron beams in linear accelerators have halos much too large to be described by the normal distribution. When the beam core is fitted to a normal distribution, the actual amount of beam past a given number of standard deviations is orders of magnitude above the normal distribution prediction. Knowing the distribution obeyed by beams would be helpful in evaluating beam spill using computer codes. Toward this end, a probability distribution has been found that fits PARMILA-generated radial beam distributions. The fitting distribution is a mixture of two generalized gamma (gg) distributions and fits both the beam core and the tail reasonably well. Its predictions in the halo region are substantially larger than normal distribution predictions. The distribution is described, examples of fits are given, and the ability to fit the tail is discussed.
Health monitoring of structures under ambient vibrations using semiactive devices

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is the process of monitoring structural health and identifying damage existence, severity and location. Clear needs for SHM exist for various types of civil structures; for example, approximately 25% of U.S. bridges are rated as deficient and require significant expenditures to rebuild or replace them (FHWA, 2002). However, the dominant method for monitoring the health of civil structures is manual visual inspection - a time- and labor-intensive procedure. Global vibration-based SHM techniques have been studied, but no approach has been well established and accepted due to limitations of ambient excitation sources for most civil structures. One approach that may help alleviate some of the SHM difficulties for civil structures would be to use variable stiffness and damping devices (VSDDs) - controllable passive devices that have received significant study for vibration mitigation - to improve damage estimates. In addition to providing near optimal structural control strategies for vibration mitigation, these low-power and fail-safe devices can also provide parametric changes to increase global vibration measurement sensitivity for SHM. This paper proposes using VSDDs in structures to improve SHM, and demonstrates the benefits in contrast with conventional passive structures. It is shown that using VSDDs in identification gives parameter estimates that have better means and smaller variations than the conventional structure approach. The improvements in the identification process are even more effective when adding higher effective levels of stiffness or damping to a structural system, even though the resulting VSDD forces due to ambient excitation are small.
APPLICATION AND MACHINE ACCURACY OF A NEW FRAMELESS COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY‐GUIDED STEREOTACTIC BRAIN BIOPSY SYSTEM IN DOGS

The purpose of this study was to describe application and machine accuracy for a new computed tomography (CT) guided, frameless, stereotactic brain biopsy system in dogs. Heads from ten canine cadavers were secured to a bite-plate with six attached fiducial markers and imaged using CT. Fiducialized CT images were imported into stereotactic software and spherical phantom lesions between 3.9 and 5.5 mm in diameter were created in six locations. Infrared cameras and reflective markers were used to register fiducials to the reconstructed image set. Coordinates in the X, Y, and Z planes were identified for each lesion center. Iohexol (1.5 μl of 240 mgI/ml) was injected into the center of each lesion and CT scans were repeated. Pre- and postinjection CT images for each cadaver were fused using the system software. Application accuracy was calculated using the center of each phantom lesion and the center of each injected contrast material location. Machine accuracy was calculated using a phantom with known distances between four fixed points in the X, Y, and Z planes. Mean application accuracy in the first 5 cadavers was 4.3 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.9-4.3 mm) and in the second 5 cadavers was 2.9 mm (95% CI 2-3.9 mm). The more superficial lesions were targeted significantly less accurately than the deeper lesions (P = 0.0183). Median machine accuracy was 0.1 mm and the range was 0.1-0.2 mm. Findings supported use of the new biopsy system for canine brain lesions >3.9 mm in diameter.
Cancellation of stimulated-Raman-scattering cross talk in wavelength-division-multiplexed optical communication systems by series or parallel techniques

We compare techniques using two fibers connected either in series or in parallel for cancelling cross talk that is due to stimulated Raman scattering in wavelength-division-multiplexed systems. Theory shows that such cross talk can be completely eliminated by a series arrangement in lossy dispersionless fibers by means of midway amplification and spectral inversion. In dispersive fibers, cross-talk reduction of the order of the Raman gain G can be obtained by adding dispersion compensation and alternating dispersion. Alternatively, a similar cross-talk reduction can be obtained by use of parallel transmission of signals on different sets of wavelengths and differential detection; in the presence of dispersion, the dispersion for the different sets of wavelengths must be opposite. The parallel approach appears to be more practical.
Arts Incubators: A Typology

Recent policy initiatives evidence a vigorous interest in arts-based community development. Arts incubators are one means for such development, as well as a means for supporting artists and arts organizations. Literature suggests wide variance across arts incubator objectives: some aim “to produce successful firms that will leave the program financially viable and freestanding,” while others pursue such diverse goals as supporting individual professional development, providing gallery space, or advocating for social change. There is also a diversity of organizational forms, governance structures, and funding models. This article offers a typology of arts incubators based on organizational objectives through the lens of stakeholder theory.
Therapeutic Groups for Parents of High Risk Infants

(1980). Therapeutic Groups for Parents of High Risk Infants. Issues in Comprehensive Pediatric Nursing: Vol. 4, No. 4, pp. 31-35.
Single antenna target detection using broadband frequency selection time reversal method

In this paper, we present a broadband single antenna target detection scheme using frequency selection time reversal method to further improve the target detection in a cluttered environment. By re-transmitting time-reversed difference signal between reflections from the environment with and without the target, constructive interferences between the target and the background scatterers are utilized to enhance the return signal from target. Meanwhile, frequency selection time reversal emphasizes on the section of wavelengths with more constructive interferences and filters out the broadband white noise at the other spectrum. Thus, signal to noise ratio (SNR) is substantially increased. The effectiveness of the proposed detection scheme has been demonstrated by numerical simulation. The simulation results show that using frequency selection time reversal method, the detection probability is significantly enhanced and SNR can be improved 2-5 dB.
Watershed-Based Modeling with AGNPS for Storm Water Management

A strategy for developing sediment transport information for storm water planning and management is described. The strategy links location-based and intensity-based development scenarios with potential water quality impacts to a stream system and at a watershed outlet and (1) is based on sediment transport calculations; (2) develops information that supports community decision making; and (3) is consistent with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Phase II storm water requirements and other guidance on watershed management. The strategy is an effort to incorporate the impact of site-specific watershed characteristics into storm water ordinances. This effort was undertaken to provide a rational means for a community to differentiate the sediment contributions from alternative scenarios at alternative locations. One of the options available with differentiation information is the ability to negotiate and approve pollutant “trades” between different development practices in different locations such that...
Application and assessment of a nutrient pollution indicator using eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) in Barnegat Bay–Little Egg Harbor estuary, New Jersey

a b s t r a c t Eutrophication degrades numerous estuaries worldwide and a myriad of assessment metrics have been developed. Here, we apply an example of a previously developed metric (Lee et al., 2004) designed to indicate incipient estuarine eutrophication to validate this technique in an already eutrophic estuary end-member, Barnegat Bay–Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey. The metric, termed ‘Nutrient Pollution Indicator’ (NPI) uses eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) as a bioindicator and is calculated as the ratio of leaf nitrogen content (%N) to area normalized leaf mass (mg dry wt cm −2 ). Eelgrass samples were collected along the entire length of the Barnegat Bay–Little Egg Harbor from June to October 2008 to determine if leaf chemistry and morphology reflect eutrophication status and a north–south gradient of nitrogen loading from the Barnegat Bay watershed. Nitrogen content, area normalized leaf mass, and NPI values all significantly (p < 0.05) varied temporally but not spatially. NPI values did not significantly correspond to the north–south gradient of nitrogen loading from the Barnegat Bay watershed. The NPI metric is therefore not deemed to reliably indicate estuarine eutrophic status. Differences between sampling effort (number
Induction Therapy for Resectable Esophageal Cancer

Despite advances in treatment regimens, overall 5-year survival rates for esophageal cancer remain low, averaging less than 30%. Although surgery remains the standard treatment and the only hope for cure, there is growing support for multimodality therapy.
Conductivity estimation by neural network

Presents a technique for detecting conductivity anomalies in sediments, e.g., a buried object in sedimentary layers under sea water, by using the neural network approach. The electric field values are used as the inputs to the neural network and the associated conductivities are treated as the targets. The neural network is then trained to associate these conductivities and field values. It is shown that a trained neural network can be used to estimate the conductivity of new objects that were not employed originally to train the network.
Inhibition of Fibrillin 1 Expression Using U1 snRNA as a Vehicle for the Presentation of Antisense Targeting Sequence

This study examines whether the mimicking of selected properties of naturally occurring antisense RNAs in prokaryotes allows efficient inhibition of gene expression by in situ-expressed recombinant molecules in mammalian cells. Prokaryotic regulatory transcripts are expressed at high levels and have hairpin structures at their termini, features reminiscent of small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) which are abundant and stable in the nucleus of all mammalian cells. A sequence complementary to fibrillin-1 (FBN1) mRNA, interrupted in its center by a hammerhead ribozyme, was substituted for the Sm protein binding site between the stem-loop structures of U1 snRNA. Expression of the chimeric antisense RNA resulted in dramatic inhibition of expression of fibrillin-1 message and protein in stably transfected cultured cells. The inhibitory effect was localized to the nucleus. The biological properties of U1 snRNA may provide a widely applicable vehicle for the in vivo delivery of antisense targeting sequences.
Quantitative X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) in Dementia of the Alzheimer Type (DAT)

Dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT) has proven to be difficult to diagnose using computerized X-ray tomography (CT). To improve the identification of DAT with CT, several different quantitative approaches have been tried. Brain parenchymal density measurements and a variety of linear indices of ventricular size have failed to reliably separate DAT patients from age matched controls. Measures of ventricular volume improve discrimination, but overlap with controls persists. The inadequacy of a single CT study to diagnose DAT is clearly related to the overlap of brain atrophy in DAT and healthy aging, a finding which has also been noted in post-mortem studies. Estimating the rate of ventricular enlargement from quantitative measurements of ventricular size on successive CT scans may allow the physician to take advantage of the progressive nature of DAT, improving separation of DAT patients from healthy controls.
Analysis of Turnaround Times in Pathology

This article introduces the use of failure time analysis methods for studying turnaround times in pathology. The key to understanding the approach is to view a laboratory specimen like a living patient. When the specimen enters the laboratory, the time is analogous to the time of diagnosis for a patient. When the specimen’s analysis is completed, the event is analogous to a patient who has died. To illustrate the approach, I use data previously published and data generated at the Durham, NC, Veterans Affairs Medical Center. I demonstrate that the Kaplan-Meier plotting method, the log-rank test, and the Cox model can all be applied to turnaround times and provide useful results.
HYBRID PROBABILISTIC SEARCH METHODS FOR SIMULATION OPTIMIZATION

Discrete-event simulation based optimization is the process of finding the optimum design of a stochastic system when the performance measure(s) could only be estimated via simulation. Randomness in simulation outputs often challenges the correct selection of the optimum. We propose an algorithm that merges Ranking and Selection procedures with a large class of random search methods for continuous simulation optimization problems. Under a mild assumption, we prove the convergence of the algorithm in probability to a global optimum. The new algorithm addresses the noise in simulation outputs while benefits the proven efficiency of random search methods.
Magnetohydrodynamic and Thermal Issues of the SiCf/SiC Flow Channel Insert

In the dual-coolant lead lithium (DCLL) blanket, the key element is the flow channel insert (FCI) made of a silicon carbide composite (SiCf/SiC), which serves as electric and thermal insulator. The...
Foundation Funding for Clinical Research

Clinical research begins with a question or concern in the mind of the researcher. Many times the answer comes from a review of patient records or some similar method requiring minimal research costs. Occasionally, finding the answer requires a more expensive method, with the institution absorbing the costs. Perhaps far too often, the researcher stalls or stops altogether because sufficient funds are unavailable. However, with proper problem identification and planning, it may be possible to secure funds to implement a relevant research study. This article describes the process of approaching one source of funding: private foundations. The researcher should not identify funds and try to fit the problem to the money, nor should he select a problem to fit a method. Identification of the problem always comes first. The researcher may then select from several possible methods the one most appropriate for solving the problem.…
SIMD parallel ray tracing of homogeneous polyhedral grids

Efficient visualization of unstructured data is vital for domain scientists, yet is often impeded by techniques which rely on intermediate representations that consume time and memory, require resampling data, or inefficient implementations of direct ray tracing methods. Previous work to accelerate rendering of unstructured grids have focused on the use of GPUs that are not available in many large-scale computing systems. In this paper, we present a new technique for directly visualizing unstructured grids using a software ray tracer built as a module for the OSPRay ray tracing framework from Intel. Our method is capable of implicit isosurface rendering and direct volume ray casting homogeneous grids of hexahedra, tetrahedra, and multi-level datasets at interactive frame rates on compute nodes without a GPU using an open-source, production-level ray tracing framework that scales with variable SIMD widths and thread counts.