cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
3-D Elastodynamic Green’s Functions for BEM Applications to Anisotropic Solids

Elastodynamic boundary/initial-value problems for bodies of anisotropic linearly elastic solids are generally solvable only by numerical techniques. Among these techniques the reduction of the problem formulation to a boundary integral equation for field variables on the boundary of the body, and the subsequent calculation of these variables by the boundary element method (BEM) has proven to be efficient and accurate. Once the fields on the boundary of the body have been obtained, the fields elsewhere in the solid can be determined by the use of an appropriate elastodynamic representation integral. The method is particularly attractive for scattering analysis in unbounded bodies because only the internal boundaries need to be discretized, and the radiation conditions are satisfied automatically.
Evidence-Based Diagnosis: Understanding P-values and confidence intervals

Introduction In the previous two chapters, we discussed using the results of randomized trials and observational studies to estimate treatment effects. We were primarily interested in measures of effect size and in problems with design (in randomized trials) and confounding (in observational studies) that could bias effect estimates. We did not spend much time considering the precision of our effect estimates or whether the apparent treatment effects could be a result of chance. The statistics used to help us with these questions − P-values and confidence intervals – are the subject of this chapter. No area in epidemiology and statistics is so widely misunderstood and mistaught. We cover a more sophisticated understanding of P-values and confidence intervals in this text because 1) it is right, 2) it is important, and 3) we think you can handle it. After all, you have survived three chapters (3, 4, and 8) on using the results of diagnostic tests and Bayes's Theorem to update a patient's probability of disease. So now you are poised to gain a Bayesian understanding of P-values and confidence intervals as well. We will give you a taste in this chapter; those wishing to explore these ideas in greater depth are encouraged to read an excellent series of articles on this topic by Steven Goodman. (Goodman 1999a; Goodman 1999b; Goodman 2001)
What Drives Societal Collapse

The archaeological and historical record shows many instances of societal collapse. These events have traditionally been explained by a combination of social, political, and economic factors. In their Perspective, Weiss and Bradley argue that there is increasing evidence for climate as the primary agent in the collapse of prehistoric and early historic societies. They also consider the possible effects of future anthropogenic climate change.
DOMESTIC RELATIONS Uncontested Divorces: Provide for Waiver of Evidentiary Hearings

The Act amends the current statutory provisions mandating evidentiary hearings in divorce actions. While evidentiary hearings are still authorized, now uncontested divorces can also be granted by the court based either on the verified pleadings, affidavits or &"such other basis or procedure as the court may deem proper in its discretion.&" The waiver of a required evidentiary hearing applies also to issues of alimony, child support, and child custody when those issues are uncontested. The new statutory provisions apply to all proceedings either pending on or commenced after July 1, 1987. July 1, 1987
Contraction graphs for representation and analysis of RNA secondary structure

We introduce the contraction graph as a novel graphical representation of RNA secondary structure. A contraction operation - defined along base pairs, single stranded regions, and tertiary interactions - allows for representing RNA secondary structure at different levels of detail. Directionality of the graph and flow conservation of the contraction operation allow for explicit representation of the 5' and 3' ends of the molecule. Furthermore, existing representations such as tree and dual graphs are specific instances in this framework. We anticipate that this unified representation will facilitate automated motif finding and functional classification based on direct searches and comparisons of RNA secondary structure topology.
Effects of colchicine on periodontal ligament fibroblasts of the mouse. I. Ultrastructural study of the disruption of microtubule-dependent cellular functions.

The effects of colchicine administration on the ultrastructure aad function of periodontal ligament fibroblasts was studied in young mice as a further attempt to document the microtubule-dependent nature of collagen secretory granule translocation. Disruption of the normal appearance of the Golgi complex was an early response to colchicine administration. This change was visible at the light microscopic level. At the electron microscopic level it was observed that Golgi saccules were dispersed and that Golgi cisternae were shorter and reduced in number. Microtubules were absent. Dense granules accumulated in a juxtanuclear region of cytoplasm previously occupied by the normal Golgi complex. Lipid droplets and autophagosomes were increased in number. Intermediate filaments (10 nm diameter) formed perinuclear fascicles several hours after colchicine treatment. These results as well as the recently published report (Cho & Garant 1981d) support the concept that microtubules play an important role in the normal organization of the Golgi complex and in the translocation of secretory granules to the fibroblast cell surface.
Carbon Capture and Storage Program's NEPA Compliance

This article focuses on NEPA compliance by the U.S. Department of Energy and its National Energy Technology Laboratory concerning the funding of carbon capture and storage projects. The article concludes that NEPA documents that are produced comply with the statute’s requirements, but the discussion of alternatives could be improved.
From Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes and Back to Adam Smith: The Circle Closes. The Old Economic Thinking of Smith and Keynes Combined is Still Superior to Any 'New Economic Thinking'

Both J M Keynes and Adam Smith used very similar ethical, epistemological, philosophical, and economic approaches in their analysis of the conditions that are necessary to maintain a stable, full employment economic system over time. They also agreed upon the nature of the fundamental problem that can cause the economic system to fail over time-financial speculation in the stock, real estate and money markets.The money, banking, and monetary policies of Smith and Keynes are practically identical because both agree that the fundamental problem confronting capitalist economies through time is financial speculation that, in Smith's terms, would "waste and destroy" the bank deposits of the "sober" people, who would best use bank loans to create new businesses and jobs, by diverting the loans into leveraging debt and away from the production of assets. This economic destruction, wrought by speculators who were aided and supported by the banking industry, is what leads to the involuntary unemployment of Keynes’s General Theory. Setting the Speculative Demand for Money category, M2 (L2), equal to 0 or minimizing the amount of speculative balances, will reduce the amount of involuntary unemployment to minimal levels.Smith and Keynes are thus primarily concerned with who receives the bank loans and what the bank loans are used for and only secondarily with how the money is created.Both Smith and Keynes are practitioners of Virtue Ethics. Each of them came to this position by different routes. Smith was the last in a line of practitioners of virtue ethics of one kind or another starting from the ancient Israelite Hebrew prophets through Plato, Socrates, Aristotle, Jesus Christ, Augustine, Aquinas and the Schoolmen. J M Keynes's version of Virtue Ethics came from G E Moore's version of Virtue ethics. Both are interested in maintaining economic systems which are fair and just. Both recognize that the pursuit of goodness, truth, and justice are the ultimate goals that need to be pursued in any society at any time.Smith and Keynes share very similar approaches concerning the role and application of probability and decision making. Their concepts of uncertainty, ignorance, and risk are also very similar.Keynes differs from Smith only in his theoretical approach to the special case of the occurrence of a depression, which involves massive government spending on public infrastructure, utilities, and public goods. This is a re-active approach.
Effects of Range-Doppler Coupling on Chirp Radar Tracking Accuracy

Attention is called to the phenomenon of ?range-Doppler coupling,? characteristic of linear FM (chirp) waveforms, and the strong effect this coupling may have on tracking accuracy. Numerical results are presented for simple three-state filters and for a realistic reentry vehicle tracking problem.
Evidence for pelvic organ prolapse predisposition genes on chromosomes 10 and 17

Objective We conducted a genomewide linkage analysis to identify pelvic organ prolapse (POP) predisposition genes using a resource of high-risk POP pedigrees. Study Design Cases are defined as women who reported bothersome symptoms of POP based on standardized symptom questions (Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory, moderately or quite bothered), and/or received treatment for POP documented in medical records. Our complete pedigree resource contains 299 familial POP cases in 83 high-risk pedigrees. Genotype data were obtained from Illumina HumanHap550, 610Q, the Human1M-Duo, Human Omni1-Quad, or the Human Omni 2.5 platforms. A set of single nucleotide polymorphism markers common to all platforms was identified and markers in high linkage disequilibrium were removed. We performed a genomewide linkage analysis under general dominant and recessive models using a Markov chain, Monte Carlo linkage analysis method implemented in MCLINK (University of Utah) software. Because 70 individuals in 32 pedigrees were used in a previously published linkage analysis for a phenotype of POP requiring treatment/surgery, we also performed linkage only including the 225 newly recruited and genotyped cases in 61 pedigrees. Results Linkage analysis using our complete pedigree resource for the loosened criteria of bothersome POP showed evidence for significant genomewide linkage on chromosome 10q24-26 (recessive model, maximum heterogeneity logarithm of odds 3.4); suggestive evidence was identified on chromosomes 6 and 17, and an additional region on chromosome 10. In the subset of only the newly recruited familial POP cases, significant evidence for genomewide linkage was observed on chromosome 17q25 (recessive model, maximum heterogeneity logarithm of odds 3.3), and suggestive evidence for linkage was observed on chromosomes 10 and 11. Neither analysis duplicated the previously published linkage evidence for the POP requiring treatment/surgery phenotype observed on chromosome 9. Conclusion While the etiology of this common condition is unknown, this study provides evidence that loci on chromosomes 10q and 17q may contribute to POP etiology.
Applying reader-response critical theory to a re-reading of Heart of Darkness

(1986). Applying reader-response critical theory to a re-reading of Heart of Darkness. English in Education: Vol. 20, No. 2, pp. 1-12.
Radioimmunoassay of epidermal growth factor in human lenses at various stages of development of cataract.

By using a highly specific and sensitive homologous radioimmunoassay, we found that the content of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the lateral one-third of whole cataractous human lenses (age range 45-85 yr) extracted at elective intracapsular lens surgery, varied from undetectable to 106.25 pg mg-1 water soluble protein (WSP) (mean +/- S.D. = 39.70 +/- 38.90). When the lenses were grouped according to the stage of the cataract, i.e. immature (n = 3), mature (n = 4), and hypermature (n = 3), the means +/- S.D. were 92.56 +/- 26.23, 23.89 +/- 7.71, and 7.92 +/- 2.00 pg mg-1 WSP, respectively. In ten age-matched whole 'normal' lenses that we removed within 2-12 hr after death, the values in EGF of the lateral one-third of the lenses ranged from 2.91 to 36.40 pg mg-1 WSP (19.39 +/- 13.65). No correlation between the age of the lenses and the content of EGF could be demonstrated at the 95% confidence interval for the cataractous and 'normal' lenses. The quantity of endogenous EGF correlated significantly (P less than 0.01) with the clinical stage of the cataract and is probably related to the mitotic activity of the equatorial proliferative zone. We discuss the importance of EGF in normal and cataractous lenses and postulate that EGF in the lens is endogenous in origin.
Valence-band and core-level photoemission study of single-crystal Bi2CaSr2Cu2O8 superconductors.

High-quality single crystals of ${\mathrm{Bi}}_{2}$Ca${\mathrm{Sr}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{2}$ ${\mathrm{O}}_{8}$ superconductors have been prepared and cleaved in ultrahigh vacuum. Low-energy electron diffraction measurements show that the surface structure is consistent with the bulk crystal structure. Ultraviolet photoemission and x-ray photoemission experiments were performed on these well-characterized sample surfaces. The valence-band and the core-level spectra obtained from the single-crystal surfaces are in agreement with spectra recorded from polycrystalline samples, justifying earlier results from polycrystalline samples. Cu satellites are observed both in the valence band and $\mathrm{Cu} 2p$ core level, signaling the strong correlation among the $\mathrm{Cu} 3d$ electrons. The $\mathrm{O} 1s$ core-level data exhibit a sharp, single peak at 529-eV binding energy without any clear satellite structures.
Effects of pure and dyed PCE on physical and interfacial properties of remedial solutions

Hydrophobic dyes have been used to visually distinguish dense non-aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) contaminants from background aqueous phases and soils. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a dyed DNAPL, 0.5 g Oil-Red-O/l of PCE, on the physical properties of remedial solutions: water, co-solvents (50, 70, and 90% (v/v) ethanol), and surfactants (4% (w) sodium dihexyl sulfosuccinate). This study compared the densities, viscosities, and interfacial tensions (IFTs) of the remedial solutions in contact with both dyed and undyed PCE. The presence of the dye in PCE substantially alters the IFTs of water and ethanol solutions, while there is no apparent difference in IFTs of surfactant solutions. The remedial solutions saturated with PCE showed higher viscosities and densities than pure remedial solutions. Solutions with high ethanol content exhibited the largest increases in liquid density. Because physical properties affect the flow of the remedial solutions in porous media, experiments using dyed DNAPLs should assess the influence of dyes on fluid and interfacial properties prior to remediation process analysis.
Shifting Comparative Advantage and Accession in the WTO

Motivated by the structure of WTO negotiations, we analyze a bargaining environment in which negotiations proceed bilaterally and sequentially under the most-favored-nation (MFN) principle. We identify backward-stealing and forward-manipulation problems that arise when governments bargain under the MFN principle in a sequential fashion. We show that these problems impede governments from achieving the multilateral efficiency frontier unless further rules of negotiation are imposed. We identify the WTO reciprocity norm and renegotiation provisions as rules that are capable of providing solutions to these problems. In this way, we suggest that WTO rules can facilitate the negotiation of efficient multilateral trade agreements in a world in which the addition of new and economically significant countries to the world trading system is an ongoing process.
The relationship between home smoking bans and exposure to state tobacco control efforts and smoking behaviors.

Abstract Purpose. To examine the relationship between home smoking bans and adult smokers' exposure to the statewide California Tobacco Control Program (TCP) and their cigarette smoking behavior Design. Cross-sectional survey that was part of the statewide Independent Evaluation of the California Tobacco Control, Prevention and Education Program. Setting. Random telephone interviews within 18 California counties. Subjects. A representative sample of 1315 adult smokers, aged 25 years and older Measures. The telephone survey included questions about smoking behavior, quitting smoking, exposure to tobacco control program components, home smoking rules, and attitudes related to tobacco use and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). Results. Smokers with a home smoking ban were twice as likely (OR = 2:29; 95 % CI 1.22, 4.29) to have heard of TCP community programs and three times more likely (OR = 3.18; 95% CI 1.34, 7.57) to have seen and talked about the ETS media spot than smokers with no home smoking policy. Mu...
Millimeter wave coherent synchrotron radiation in the SXLS phase I electron storage ring

Abstract Installation of a 2856 MHz RF system into the phase I SXLS electron storage ring would allow the generation of millimeter wave coherent synchrotron radiation. Operating at 150 MeV, one could produce bunches containing on the order of 2×10 7 electrons with a bunch length σ L 0 = 0.3 mm, resulting in coherent emission at wavelengths above 0.8 mm. The characteristics of the source and the emitted radiation are discussed. In the case of 100 mrad horizontal collection angle, the average power radiated in the wavelength band 1 mm ≤ γ ≤ 2 mm is 0.3 mW for single bunch operation and 24 mW for 80 bunch operation and the peak power in a single pulse of a few picosecond duration is on the order of 1 W.
Hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl-hydroxylase-2 mediates transforming growth factor beta 1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in renal tubular cells

Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in kidney epithelial cells plays a key role in renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis in chronic kidney diseases. As hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α is found to mediate TGF-β1-induced signaling pathway, we tested the hypothesis that HIF-1α and its upstream regulator prolyl hydroxylase domain-containing proteins (PHDs) are involved in TGF-β1-induced EMT using cultured renal tubular cells. Our results showed that TGF-β1 stimulated EMT in renal tubular cells as indicated by the significant decrease in epithelial marker P-cadherin, and the increase in mesenchymal markers α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP-1). Meanwhile, we found that TGF-β1 time-dependently increased HIF-1α and that HIF-1α siRNA significantly inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT, suggesting that HIF-1α mediated TGF-β1 induced-EMT. Real-time PCR showed that PHD1 and PHD2, rather than PHD3, could be detected, with PHD2 as the predominant form of PHDs (PHD1:PHD2=0.21:1.0). Importantly, PHD2 mRNA and protein, but not PHD1, were decreased by TGF-β1. Furthermore, over-expression of PHD2 transgene almost fully prevented TGF-β1-induced HIF-1α accumulation and EMT marker changes, indicating that PHD2 is involved in TGF-β1-induced EMT. Finally, Smad2/3 inhibitor SB431542 prevented TGF-β1-induced PHD2 decrease, suggesting that Smad2/3 may mediate TGF-β1-induced EMT through PHD2/HIF-1α pathway. It is concluded that TGF-β1 decreased PHD2 expression via an Smad-dependent signaling pathway, thereby leading to HIF-1α accumulation and then EMT in renal tubular cells. The present study suggests that PHD2/HIF-1α is a novel signaling pathway mediating the fibrogenic effect of TGF-β1, and may be a new therapeutic target in chronic kidney diseases.
A Prospective Study of Symptom Distress and Return to Baseline Function After Open Versus Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy

Purpose: We assessed and compared outcomes following open and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.Materials and Methods: Patients who were scheduled to undergo open or laparoscopic radical prostatectomy were enrolled in the study and followed prospectively. Before surgery the patients were administered a multi-item validated questionnaire, and were followed by telephone and with mail questionnaires periodically for 12 months. Complications were recorded from chart review and compared. Symptom distress and return to baseline for various parameters were compared between the 2 groups.Results: Of the patients 102 who underwent open prostatectomy and 104 treated with laparoscopic prostatectomy were enrolled in the study. At 1 year 90% in the open and 91% in the laparoscopic group returned the questionnaire. Symptom distress between the 2 groups did not differ at any time during followup. There was no significant difference in return to baseline at 1 year for continence, erectile function or physical function. O...
Manipulation of cellular redox parameters for improving therapeutic responses in B‐cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma

Developing novel combined-modality therapeutic approaches based on understanding of the involvement of redox biology in apoptosis of malignant cells is a promising approach for improving clinical responses in B-cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Therapeutic modalities that generate reactive oxygen species (i.e., radiation, photodynamic therapy, and specific chemotherapeutic drugs) have been shown to be selectively cytotoxic to malignant B-cells. In this review, we will discuss agents that induce apoptosis in B-cell tumors by oxidative stress. Subsequently, a novel biochemical rationale (based on fundamental differences in cancer vs. normal cell oxidative metabolism) for combining oxidative stressors with radiotherapy and chemotherapy, that may lead to designing of more effective treatment strategies for B-cell malignancies, will be discussed. Besides providing potential curative benefit, such novel therapies could also selectively target and inhibit the emergence of drug-resistance in tumor cells, which is a major determinant of treatment failure in many B-cell malignancies.
Revising the Cutthroat Flume Settlement Rating Adjustment Procedure

A study was conducted to revise the procedure for adjusting discharge measurements in a cutthroat flume subjected to settlement in free-flowing conditions. A series of 57 tests was performed on six different size cutthroat flumes. Each flume was systematically adjusted to simulate settlement in both the lateral and the longitudinal directions. Discharge inaccuracies were then recorded for each settlement condition. The test results were combined with the results of three cutthroat flumes previously reported. The coefficients describing the flume geometry, Cdlat and Cdlong, were determined to be significantly different than previously indicated. New expressions for Cdlat and Cdlong were formulated for inclusion into the previously reported discharge measurement adjustment procedure.
Strategies Used by Gay and Bisexual Young Men to Cope With Heterosexism

Although the pervasiveness of heterosexism in the lives of gay and bisexual youth is well established, little is known about the strategies these youth use to cope with stigma and discrimination based on their sexual minority status. In this qualitative study, the authors present findings and implications for clinical practice based on interviews with 43 gay and bisexual young men. Respondents’ coping strategies are discussed in relation to current theory and research on coping with stigma, as well as the emerging field of emotion regulation. The narratives from the current study suggest that the emotion regulation paradigm is well suited to understanding the functions of strategies for coping with heterosexism and similar types of stigma.
Initial study of multi-endpoint runtime for MPI+OpenMP hybrid programming model on multi-core systems

State-of-the-art MPI libraries rely on locks to guarantee thread-safety. This discourages application developers from using multiple threads to perform MPI operations. In this paper, we propose a high performance, lock-free multi-endpoint MPI runtime, which can achieve up to 40\% improvement for point-to-point operation and one representative collective operation with minimum or no modifications to the existing applications.
The housing, geography, and mobility of Latin American urban poor: the prevailing model and the case of Quito, Ecuador.

In this study of the constraints of low-income migrants in securing decent housing in Quito Ecuador (a rapidly growing city) there is a literature review of Latin American intraurban mobility and housing the development of a theoretical model and a bivariate analysis. John Turners model of the three stages in the life cycle of migrants and the three concentric zones of urbanization provides the initial framework for examining Quito migration. Quito differs from other Third World and Latin American cities in that its origins are pre-Colombian and physical barriers surround the city. Data were obtained from housing data collected independently in 1990 and 1991 and survey data on households living in 1000 inadequate housing units in 1989. 35.5% of Quitos population live in inadequate housing (poor building materials poor construction deterioration or lack of basic services). Three concentric and elongated zones are constructed based on distance from the center city and periphery and are representative of shelter types (rented rooms shanty house and apartment). Shelter improves with type of ownership status. The attitudes of local officials influences the proportion of the poor living in rental or self-help housing. 36% of Quitos low-income residents live in rented rooms and 38% live in shanties and houses. Bridgeheaders (new migrants who are usually young single males) tend to live in rented rooms for under five years and to move over time to shanties and then houses. Colonial preservation in central Quito and landlords incentives for encouraging migrants to stay in rental housing interferes with the third phase of the model. Mixed housing throughout the city fits the third phase. Local laws prevent squatters and self-help housing. Rented rooms are primarily in the central city. Occupant income increases with shifts from rented rooms to shanties to houses. Shelter geographic and mobility patterns that do not fit the model are identified. Urban circumstance may not be linear and evolutionary as predicted but the pattern is not diverse enough to warrant abandoning the model. The recommendation is for a flexible model for adapting a universal model to local and global conditions.
Pressure Swing Adsorption−Solvent Vapor Recovery: Process Dynamics and Parametric Study

A comprehensive study of the periodic state process dynamics and performance of a pressure swing adsorption (PSA)−solvent vapor recovery (SVR) process was carried out by computer simulation. An investigation of the process dynamics showed that temperature swings, velocity changes, and their effects were significant in these kinds of systems and must be accounted for in simulation studies. Also, the rigorous model showed that the frozen solid and gas phase assumption was valid during the pressurization step but not the blowdown step and that the temperature and concentration waves propagated together during the adsorption step. Nine parameters were investigated to ascertain their effects on the process performance. The trends from the parametric study showed that the process performance was affected significantly by all of these parameters and that the nonidealities included in the rigorous model, in most cases, had a marked effect on the process performance, beyond that which could be explained by an idea...
Conformations of cyclic 3′,5′-nucleotides. Effect of the base on the syn-anti conformer distribution

Abstract The furanose and the phosphate rings of cyclic 3′,5′-nucleotides are locked in the 4T3 and chair conformations respectively. The only variable which shows major conformational flexibility in these molecules is the rotation about the glycosyl bond which describes the orientation of the base relative to the sugar-phosphate bicyclic system. The glycosyl torsion angle has been analyzed for cyclic nucleotides with different purine and pyrimidine bases by use of conformational energy calculations. The results indicate that all the pyrimidine bases, U, T and C show a very strong energetic preference for the anti range of conformations. The calculations predict that among cyclic 3′,5′-purine nucleotides cyclic GMP and cyclic IMP favor the syn conformation to the anti by 95:5 and 70:30 respectively, while cyclic AMP shows a preference for the anti conformation to syn by 70:30. Thus the purines show a greater probability for the syn conformation than the pyrimidines in cyclic 3′,5′-nucleotides.
Closed-form solutions for vehicle traction problems

Conventional approaches to vehicle traction and propulsion analysis have used spread-sheets or numerical integrations owing to the difficulty in deriving closed-form solutions. This is inconvenient if a parameter is to be varied, and it is even more difficult when multiple parameters of a complex model are evaluated at the design phase. In this paper, it is intended to formulate two non-linear differential equations representing road load and power consumption. By expanding inertia force, air drag, rolling resistance, gravitational force and tyre tractive force, the equations can be simplified as functions of velocity v, i.e. s 1v = s 2-s 3v2 and mv = (-r 1v3 - r 2 v + r 3)/v respectively. With these two equations, engineers can use either numerical or analytical methods to study key parameters at the design phase. To demonstrate the effectiveness of these equations, Wright State's electric car model is used. The results for front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive cases are presented. Language: en
Growth and performance of Ge:Sb blocked impurity band (BIB) detectors

We report on growth, fabrication, and performance of Sb- doped Ge Blocked Impurity Band (BIB) detectors. Sb-doped Ge epilayers that exhibit impurity banding were grown on pure Ge wafers by Liquid Phase Epitaxy (LPE) from a Pb solution. A heavily doped surface region was observed using spreading resistance measurements. For proper BIB operation this layer must be removed by polishing. The diffusion of Sb into the blocking layer during growth has been studied as it affects the electric field distribution in a BIB detector. Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy analysis of an LPE layer grown at a starting temperature of 650 degrees C had a sharp interface. The growth of pure blocking layer material by LPE has been limited by the lack of availability of sufficiently pure commercial Pb, which we have found to contain phosphorus. Unintentionally doped layers grown from Pb solution were n- type approximately 1015 cm-3 with compensating acceptors approximately 1012 cm-3. This is too high for the blocking layer, but sufficient for the doped layer of an n-type BIB. We have studied Pb purification by distillation and evaporation and have reached a lower limit of 1014 cm-3. Ge:Sb BIB detectors have been fabricated by growing a doped IR active layer, typically 45 micrometers thick, and thinning the pure wafer to 10 micrometers to form the blocking layer. We demonstrate a working BIB device showing blocking behavior and a spectral response extending to 50 cm-1.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Specific heat in high magnetic field of kappa -di

We have measured the specific heat down to 1.5 K of a collection of high-quality single crystals of \ensuremath{\kappa}-(ET${)}_{2}$Cu(NCS${)}_{2}$ in fields parallel to the crystalline ${a}^{\mathrm{*}}$ direction to 12.5 T. In this first determination of \ensuremath{\gamma}, we find \ensuremath{\gamma} to be 25\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3 mJ/${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ mole. The anomaly in C at ${T}_{c}$ is quite distinct when compared to normal-state data obtained by suppressing ${T}_{c}$ with field. The value of \ensuremath{\Delta}C/\ensuremath{\gamma}Tg2 obtained implies that this organic superconductor has strong coupling.
Multimodality Noninvasive Imaging Demonstrates In Vivo Cardiac Regeneration After Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy

Objectives The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis, with noninvasive multimodality imaging, that allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) produce and/or stimulate active cardiac regeneration in vivo after myocardial infarction (MI). Background Although intramyocardial injection of allogeneic MSCs improves global cardiac function after MI, the mechanism(s) underlying this phenomenon are incompletely understood. Methods We employed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) imaging in MSC-treated pigs (n = 10) and control subjects (n = 12) serially for a 2-month period after anterior MI. A sub-endocardial rim of tissue, demonstrated with MDCT, was assessed for regional contraction with MRI tagging. Rim thickness was also measured on gross pathological specimens, to confirm the findings of the MDCT imaging, and the size of cardiomyocytes was measured in the sub-endocardial rim and the non-infarct zone. Results Multi-detector computed tomography demonstrated increasing thickness of sub-endocardial viable myocardium in the infarct zone in MSC-treated animals (1.0 ± 0.2 mm to 2.0 ± 0.3 mm, 1 and 8 weeks after MI, respectively, p = 0.028, n = 4) and a corresponding reduction in infarct scar (5.1 ± 0.5 mm to 3.6 ± 0.2 mm, p = 0.044). No changes occurred in control subjects (n = 4). Tagging MRI demonstrated time-dependent recovery of active contractility paralleling new tissue appearance. This rim was composed of morphologically normal cardiomyocytes, which were smaller in MSC-treated versus control subjects (11.6 ± 0.2 μm vs. 12.6 ± 0.2 μm, p Conclusions With serially obtained MRI and MDCT, we demonstrate in vivo reappearance of myocardial tissue in the MI zone accompanied by time-dependent restoration of contractile function. These data are consistent with a regenerative process, highlight the value of noninvasive multimodality imaging to assess the structural and functional basis for myocardial regenerative strategies, and have potential clinical applications.
Evaluation of optimal density weighting for regridding

Density weighting is a necessary component of the regridding algorithm for interpolating nonuniformly sampled data points onto a regular grid. Differing concepts of optimality for the density weighting have been proposed previously. The present study reviews some of these concepts and evaluates the accuracy of different techniques by comparison with the image obtained by a computationally intensive least squares minimization. A variant on one of the techniques is proposed that yields the highest accuracy of those studied.
Computer applications in occupational therapy.

Computer applications in occupational therapy have increased in frequency and variety in the past fifteen years. This paper briefly reviews articles from selected United States and international occupational therapy journals on this topic.hone=&
On the optimal order of M machines in tandem

We consider M machines in tandem with an infinite supply of jobs and no intermediate storage, and look for the order of the machines which will maximize the throughput. We show that if processing times on the machines are comparable in the sense of likelihood ratio, then it is optimal to use slower machines in the first and last position than in the second and penultimate positions. For 3 and 4 machines this implies bowl shape order of the machines.
RURAL HIGH SCHOOL DROPOUT: A DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS

-This study explored some of the characteristics of a group of 37 students (10 females, 29 males) identified as having left school before graduation in a rural public school district over the last 5 yr. These students were matched with a control group for sex and number of years in school. Cumulative record files were used and 11 different variables examined. Variables distinguishing the two groups were identified and discussed, and suggestions were made as to how these variables could be used to identify potential dropouts. Some comparisons were made of present results and current conceptualizations abour school dropouts. Finally, some implications for preventing dropouts were discussed.
Hypothermic action of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and 11-hydroxy-Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol in mice

The hypothermic activity of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), a metabolite, 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-Δ9-THC) and 11-hydroxy-Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-Δ8-THC) has been determined in male mice maintained at an ambient temperature of 20 ± 1°C. The mean body temperature of mice that received 2, 4, 16 or 32 mg/kg, i. v., of a tetrahydrocannabinol was significantly lower than that of vehicle treated mice (p <0.05) within 2 minutes after drug administration. Dose-response relationships show the intrinsic activity of Δ9-THC to be significantly greater than that of 11-OH-Δ9-THC or 11-OH-Δ8-THC in this system (p <0.05). The data indicate that the hypothermic activity of Δ9-THC cannot be explained entirely by metabolism to 11-OH-Δ9-THC.
Subject data in the metadata record

The ALCTS Subject Access Committee (SAC) Subcommittee on Metadata and Subject Analysis held a discussion forum at the ALA Midwinter Conference in San Antonio, Texas, in conformance with its charge,...
A Mentoring Model for Management in Sport and Physical Education

Several authors (Dreher & Ash, 1990; Fagenson, 1989, 1992; Hunt & Michael, 1983; Kram, 1985; Newby & Heide, 1992; Scandura, 1992) have emphasized the importance of mentoring in facilitating onc's progress through a career in management. This paper presents a mentoring model that combines the various factors impinging on mentoring and the associated outcomes in a compre hensive framework. In the model, a set of antecedent mentor and protege characteristics, including demogaphics and traits. lead to certain mentoring functions, which subsequently result in specified outcomes. The stages of a mentoring relationship—initiation, cultivation, and redefinition—are explained. Mentoring functions. relate both lo career mobility and personal achievement and growth. Mentoring benefits al1 parties—protege, mentor, and organization. The model also includes intervening variables that modify the relationships among antecedents. mentoring stages and functions, and outcome variable. The paper outlines implications of and ...
Musculoskeletal Disorders and Orthopedic Conditions

Ongoing advances in orthopedics include discoveries of functions of matrix proteins, development of new implant materials that are more durable and more compatible with magnetic resonance imaging, and identification of genes causing musculoskeletal disorders and disease. The Human Genome Project will further clarify the genetic basis of specific musculoskeletal disorders, enhancing risk factor identification, diagnosis, and therapy. Engineered, cell-based materials will replace metals and plastics in implants, and new composite materials will promote bone in-growth.
Preparation and characterization of supported bimetallic Pt-Au particle catalysts from molecular cluster and chloride salt precursors

New silica-supported bimetallic Pt-Au catalysts were prepared using an organometallic Pt-Au cluster precursor and compared with Pt and Pt-Au catalysts prepared by the incipient wetness impregnation of chloride salts. The supported catalyst precursors were calcined and reduced under identical conditions and the resulting catalysts were characterized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), CO chemisorption, and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier Transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS), Temperature-programmed reduction experiments were also performed on the freshly supported precursors and after calcination. The bimetallic cluster precursor yielded catalysts with small (d approximate to 2.5 nm), uniform particles that have high Pt dispersion. EDS, CO chemisorption, and DRIFTS of adsorbed CO experiments gave strong evidence that these particles are bimetallic. Using the organometallic cluster precursor also caused a significant red shift (12 cm(-1)) in the stretching frequency of adsorbed carbon monoxide relative to the traditional Pt catalyst. Catalytic performance was evaluated with the hexane conversion reaction. Results showed that the cluster-derived catalysts enhance the production of light hydrocarbons and decrease the rate of skeletal reforming reactions. Despite the enhancement of C-C bond fission reactions, catalysts prepared from the organometallic precursor had greatly enhancing resistance to deactivation. In contrast, the coimpregnation of Au with Pt from chloride salts yielded catalysts with little or no interaction between the two metals. For these catalysts, light hydrocarbon production decreased yet skeletal rearrangements were not measurably affected. (C) 1999 Academic Press.
Bayesian meta-analysis of percutaneous coronary intervention compared to optimal medical therapy in stable ischemic heart disease patients

Background: While the benefit of PCI in acute coronary syndromes is well established, the role of PCI in stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD) is less well clear. Our purpose is to investigate about the combined risk ratio of death or Myocardial Infarction (MI) and all cause mortality among the trials that compare PCI and optimal medical therapy (OMT). Methods: A literature search on OVID/Medline, from 1946 until now, was used to identify all published paper that compared OMT vs PCI. Two clinician-researchers have independently reviewed, abstracted and recorded into common data base. Data were then scrutinized by a third investigator. Meta-analysis, using the DerSimonian and Laird model, was conducted on the abstracted data. Bayesian analysis was performed. Results: 16 main randomized clinical trials were identified. Meta-analyses showed no difference between PCI and OMT for the combined outcome of MI/death across all trials (RR: 0.975; 95%, CI: 0.754-1.261, W: 100%, I2=89.9%) and when we analyzed the stable angina and post MI trials separately (RR: 1.024 95% CI: 0.905-1.160, W: 100%, I2: 23.5%). Relative risk of all cause mortality was not reduced with PCI (pooled RR: 0.986; CI: 0.841-1.156; W: 100%; I2: 0%). Bayesian analysis results are showed in table 1. View this table: Bayesian analysis results Conclusion: Our study confirms that PCI does not yield any additional benefit above OMT in patients with SIHD for the combined end points of MI/Death or all cause mortality alone.
Rational Design of Pyrrolo[1,2-a]benzimidazole-Based Antitumor Agents Targeting the DNA Major Groove☆

Models have been developed for the interaction of the pyrrolo[1,2-a]benzimidazole (PBI) antitumor agents with the two-electron activating enzyme DT-diaphorase and the DNA major groove. The DT-diaphorase model and experimental results indicate that the S-enantiomer of 3-carbamido PBI can enantioselect ovarian cancers. The reduced PBI interacts with the DNA major groove at AT base pairs by forming Hoogsteen-like hydrogen bonds. The reduced 3-amino PBI forms three hydrogen bonds in the major groove with the amino group acting as an H-bond donor to the thymine carbonyl. The DNA-binding model will permit the design of major groove recognition agents.
The comprehensive childhood maltreatment inventory: early development and reliability analyses

Abstract Objective: Our goal was to develop a reliable measure of childhood maltreatment that could be used to evaluate retrospective memories among adults across a broad range of potentially abusive caregiver behaviors. Method: These behaviors were organized into 31 items that query age at onset, frequency across 4 developmental periods, relationship of the perpetrator(s), and respondents’ perception of the experience. Additional factors directly relevant to each of the individual 4 categories of childhood maltreatment were also queried. Results: Preliminary data collected from 95 college students, find the measure to have excellent test-retest reliability, and 2 of 4 subscales to possess adequate internal consistency. Conclusions: Reasons for low internal consistency for the Physical Maltreatment and Physical Neglect categories and the relative importance of test-retest reliability as compared to internal consistency in a questionnaire of this type are discussed.
A new activity in the Ftra operon which is required for F-pilin synthesis

Membrane preparations from a series of Hfr mutant strains of Escherichia coli K12 deleted in the promoter distal end of the F transfer operon were analyzed. Deletions which extended into traG, as expected, had no discernible effect on synthesis of membrane F-pilin. A more extensive deletion in strain KI777 which eliminated traH activity similarly had no effect on F-pilin synthesis. Membranes from three other TraF+ TraH- deletion strains, as well as membranes from all strains carrying deletions extending into traF or further, lacked F-pilin, however. Since traH amber mutations do not affect synthesis of membrane pilin (Moore et al. 1981 b) we conclude that a gene required for F-pilin biosynthesis is located between traF and traH. We have named this gene traQ.
Crosslinking and Carbohydrate Studies on the Hydroxylated Glycopeptides which Accumulate in Alveoli and Lamellar Bodies

These data suggest that the alveolar lining layer and lamellar body membranes contain the same saline-insoluble proteins, two of which are unusual in that they contain hydroxyproline and large amounts of glycine. Neither the function nor the origin of these glycopeptides has been established, and we are currently evaluating methods of stimulating their production in animals for further study.
DDT and HCH, two discontinued organochlorine insecticides in the Great Lakes region: Isomer trends and sources

The uses of the insecticides 1,1'-(2,2,2-trichloroethylidene)bis[4-chlorobenzene] (p,p'-DDT) and γ-hexachlorocyclohexane (γ-HCH) have been discontinued for several years, but they are still consistently detected in air samples collected on the shores of the Great Lakes. Although the agricultural uses of DDT have been restricted in the United States since 1972, DDT continued to be used to manufacture the miticide, dicofol, up until 2011. The use of the technical HCH mixture in North America was restricted in the 1970s, when it was replaced by one of its purified conformers, γ-HCH, also known as lindane. In this study, we have focused on isomer-specific data to gain insights on the temporal trends and possible sources of these compounds. In particular, we calculated ratios of the concentrations of p,p'-DDE+p,p'-DDD versus the sum of the concentrations of the three p,p' isomers. These ratios are about the same at all five of our sampling sites and are about the same as observed globally. We also calculated the ratio of the concentrations of o,p'-DDT versus the sum of concentrations of o,p'-DDT+p,p'-DDT. This ratio has increased significantly at all five sites over the last 15-20 years. We suggest that dicofol, which contained about 11% o,p'-DDT, may now be a significant, additional source of DDT to the Great Lakes. The average ratio of the concentration of γ-HCH (lindane) versus the sum of the concentrations of γ-HCH+α-HCH did not vary significantly with time, but it did show an urban signature, suggesting that cities may be more important sources of these compounds than previously suspected.
Necrotizing enterocolitis: Pathophysiology, platelet-activating factor, and probiotics

Although smaller and younger preterm neonates can now survive long term due to advances in neonatal medicine, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) continues to plague the clinicians caring for these tiny patients. Research studies have contributed to our understanding of this complex disease, including the role of platelet-activating factor (PAF), but preventative and treatment strategies remain limited. One promising preventative measure in recent years has been enteral supplementation of probiotics, but concerns remain regarding the optimal use of these organisms, and safe administration must be assured. This chapter reviews NEC pathophysiology, including the role of PAF, as well as literature on the use of probiotics in the preterm infant.