cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Orders of Gas-Phase Basicities and Ammonium Ion Affinities of Polyethers by the Kinetic Method and Ligand Exchange Technique

The orders of relative gas-phase basicities and ammonium ion affinities of a series of polyethers obtained by application of the kinetic method and ligand exchange technique are compared to evaluate the discrepancies of results between the two techniques. The order of gas-phase basicities determined by the ligand exchange technique in a quadrupole ion trap agrees with the order established previously by Kebarle using equilibrium methods in a high-pressure mass spectrometer. The order obtained by the kinetic method in a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer varies for the ranking of one polyether (12-crown-4), and this discrepancy is attributed to a difference in the rates of the competing dissociation pathways from the triethylene glycol dimethyl ether/12-crown4 proton-bound adduct, owing to a substantial variation in the flexibilities of these two ethers. For the order of gas-phase ammonium ion affinities, the kinetic method results agree overall with the ligand exchange results; however, the order of ammonium ion affinities for tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether and 15-crown-5 could not be differentiated by the ligand exchange method because of the rapidity of ammonium ion transfer between the two polyethers in both directions.
Comparison of heart and coronary artery doses associated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy versus three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for distal esophageal cancer.

Purpose To compare heart and coronary artery radiation exposure using intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) vs. four-field three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) treatment plans for patients with distal esophageal cancer undergoing chemoradiation. Methods and Materials Nineteen patients with distal esophageal cancers treated with IMRT from March 2007 to May 2008 were identified. All patients were treated to 50.4 Gy with five-field IMRT plans. Theoretical 3D-CRT plans with four-field beam arrangements were generated. Dose–volume histograms of the planning target volume, heart, right coronary artery, left coronary artery, and other critical normal tissues were compared between the IMRT and 3D-CRT plans, and selected parameters were statistically evaluated using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Results Intensity-modulated radiotherapy treatment planning showed significant reduction ( p p = 0.11. There was no significant difference in percentage of total lung volume receiving at least 10, 15, or 20 Gy or in the mean lung dose between the planning methods. There were also no significant differences observed for the kidneys, liver, stomach, or spinal cord. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy achieved a significant improvement in target conformity as measured by the conformality index (ratio of total volume receiving 95% of prescription dose to planning target volume receiving 95% of prescription dose), with the mean conformality index reduced from 1.56 to 1.30 using IMRT. Conclusions Treatment of patients with distal esophageal cancer using IMRT significantly decreases the exposure of the heart and right coronary artery when compared with 3D-CRT. Long-term studies are necessary to determine how this will impact on development of coronary artery disease and other cardiac complications.
Identification of a protein that binds to the SH3 region of Abl and is similar to Bcr and GAP-rho

A Src homology 3 (SH3) region is a sequence of approximately 50 amino acids found in many nonreceptor tyrosine kinases and other proteins. Deletion of the SH3 region from the protein encoded by the c-abl proto-oncogene activates the protein's transforming capacity, thereby suggesting the participation of the SH3 region in the negative regulation of transformation. A complementary DNA was isolated that encoded a protein, 3BP-1, to which the SH3 region of Abl bound with high specificity and to which SH3 regions from other proteins bound differentially. The sequence of the 3BP-1 protein is similar to that of a COOH-terminal segment of Bcr and to guanosine triphosphatase-activating protein (GAP)-rho, which suggests that it might have GAP activity for Ras-related proteins. The 3BP-1 protein may therefore be a mediator of SH3 function in transformation inhibition and may link tyrosine kinases to Ras-related proteins.
DNase Footprint Signatures Are Dictated by Factor Dynamics and DNA Sequence

SUMMARY Genomic footprinting has emerged as an unbiased discovery method for transcription factor (TF) occupancy at cognate DNA in vivo. A basic premise of footprinting is that sequence-specific TF-DNA interactions are associated with localized resistance to nucleases, leaving observable signatures of cleavage within accessible chromatin. This phenomenon is interpreted to imply protection of the critical nucleotides by the stably bound protein factor. However, this model conflicts with previous reports of many TFs exchanging with specific binding sites in living cells on a timescale of seconds. We show that TFs with short DNA residence times have no footprints at bound motif elements. Moreover, the nuclease cleavage profile within a footprint originates from the DNA sequence in the factor-binding site, rather than from the protein occupying specific nucleotides. These findings suggest a revised understanding of TF footprinting and reveal limitations in comprehensive reconstruction of the TF regulatory network using this approach.
Medical Students Educate Teens About Skin Cancer: What Have We Learned?

Skin cancer is a serious societal problem, and public awareness outreach, including to youth, is crucial. Medical students have joined forces to educate adolescents about skin cancer with significant impacts; even one 50-min interactive outreach session led to sustained changes in knowledge and behavior in a cohort of 1,200 adolescents surveyed. Medical students can act as a tremendous asset to health awareness public outreach efforts: enthusiastic volunteerism keeps education cost-effective, results in exponential spread of information, reinforces knowledge and communication skills of future physicians, and can result in tangible, life-saving benefits such as early detection of melanoma.
The Contemporary Presidency: Communications Operations in the White House of President George W. Bush: Making News on His Terms

White House operations reflect the president whom the staff serve. His strengths are theirs and his weaknesses are mirrored in the organization. To understand the communications operation in the George W. Bush administration, one has to begin with the president's management approach because his style is reflected throughout all White House operations. In the system the president and senior advisers set in place, there are several core elements: a presidential management system with three central features–set the goals, establish how to get from point A to point B, and assign specific tasks and responsibilities to staff members; a compartmentalized White Home operation where each communications unit and staff member has specific responsibilities; a three-tier communications operation focused on strategy, operations, and implementation; four and later two additional units carrying out tasks associated with publicity operations; White House control over the appointment of departmental public affairs officers; and regular coordination with those officers.
Contextual factors in substance use: a study of suburban and inner-city adolescents.

Objectives in this research were to examine contextual differences in correlates of substance use among high school students. The focus was on two broad categories of adjustment indices: personal psychopathology (internalizing and externalizing problems) and behaviors reflecting social competence (academic achievement, teacher-rated classroom behaviors, and peer acceptance or rejection). Associations between drug use and each of these constructs were examined in two sociodemographically disparate groups: teens from affluent, suburban families (n = 264), and low socioeconomic status adolescents from inner-city settings (n = 224). Results indicated that suburban youth reported significantly higher levels of substance use than inner-city youth. In addition, their substance use was more strongly linked with subjectively perceived maladjustment indices. Comparable negative associations involving grades and teacher-rated behaviors were found in both groups, and among suburban males only, substance use showed robust positive associations with acceptance by peers. Results are discussed in terms of developmental perspectives on adolescent deviance, contextual socializing forces, and implications for preventive interventions and treatment.
Optimal inventory policy for specialty chemical products in multiple packages

Many products are inventoried and sold in multiple outer packages, which causes the manufacturer or distributor to maintain a segmented inventory. Oftentimes, this scenario leads to shortages in some packages and over-stock in other package types. The shortages are usually linked to specific shortage costs, and the over-stock is always associated with some sort of unnecessary holding cost that either erodes profit margins or results in increased costs for the consumer. In this paper, the inventory policy for a specialty chemical manufacturer's cleaner, which is inventoried in four unique packages, is studied. A mathematical model is developed to account for the costs associated with initial procurement, holding and repackaging (shortage), which are the primary costs associated with the inventory system. Based upon this model, an optimal inventory policy is generated that reduces the need for repackaging, without requiring a prohibitive amount of safety stock. A specific historical case is summarized, and the results of this example are compared with the results that the new inventory policy would have produced, given the same circumstances.
Iterated linear programming strategies for nonsmooth simulation: Continuous and mixed-integer approaches

Abstract With recent advances in computer hardware and software, more process simulation strategies are now being considered in an equation-oriented mode. This simulation mode relies on an equation solving engine which must deal effectively with nonsmooth and constrained relations which are often enforced as procedures in the sequential modular mode. Also, with complex flowsheet topologies and output specifications due to design or optimization calculations conditional and nonsmooth relations introduce derivative discontinuities into the problem which frequently cause these solvers to fail. In an earlier paper (Bullard and Biegler, Computers chem Engng 15 , 4, 1991) we introduced an iterated linear programming (LP) based approach for solving the constrained simulation problem. The present article proposes two related approaches to handle a general class of nonsmooth problems. The first uses continuous variables while the second also includes binary variables. These approaches are demonstrated on a number of examples, includi pipeline network flow problems containing check valves which may either be on or off, flow transitions from laminar to turbulent and equidistribution problems which minimize the absolute value of the approximation error.
Mixed Finite Elements for Variational Surface Modeling

Many problems in geometric modeling can be described using variational formulations that define the smoothness of the shape and its behavior w.r.t. the posed modeling constraints. For example, high-quality C2 surfaces that obey boundary conditions on positions, tangents and curvatures can be conveniently defined as solutions of high-order geometric PDEs; the advantage of such a formulation is its conceptual representation-independence. In practice, solving high-order problems efficiently and accurately for surfaces approximated by meshes is notoriously difficult. For modeling applications, the preferred approach is to use discrete geometric schemes which are efficient and robust, but their convergence properties are less well understood compared to higher-order FEM. In this paper, we explore discretizations of common geometric PDEs on meshes using mixed finite elements, where additional variables for the derivatives in the problem are introduced. Such formulations use first-order derivatives only, allowing a discretization with simple linear elements. Various boundary conditions can be naturally discretized in this setting. We formalize continuous region constraints commonly used in modeling applications, and show that these seamlessly fit into the mixed framework. We demonstrate that some of the commonly used discrete geometric discretizations can be regarded as a particular case of mixed finite elements. We study the convergence behavior of our discretizations, and how they can be applied to implement common modeling tasks.
Review: Insufficient evidence exists to determine the benefits and risks of statins for acute ischemic stroke or TIA

Source Citation Squizzato A, Romualdi E, Dentali F, Ageno W. Statins for acute ischemic stroke. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011;(8):CD007551. 21833959
Computer quantitation of Q-T and terminal T wave (aT-eT) intervals during exercise: Methodology and results in normal men

Abstract Computer-quantitaied measurements of the Q-T interval, the Q-T/Q-T c ratio (Q-T/corrected Q-T) and the terminal T wave (apex to end of T [aT-eT] interval) were evaluated in resting and exercise electrocardiograms of 130 normal men with a mean age of 40 years. Pseudo-orthogonal, bipolar X, Y and Z axis leads were recorded during treadmill exercise testing, and 25 consecutive QRS-T complexes from standing rest and three exercise stages were computer-averaged. The Q-T interval, Q-T/Q-T c ratio and aT-eT interval measurements were then computed from the composite QRS-T complexes. Measurements were compared in the X and Z axis leads only, because the Y lead proved to be too noisy for accurate interpretation. A correlation coefficient of 0.9830 resulted between measurements made manually from the plotted, composite QRS-T complexes and those made by computer. No significant differences, in the paired sense, were found between any of the measurements. Measurements made on the Z axis lead were consistently longer than those made on the X axis lead; however, the differences in the measurements remained constant across all stages of exercise. A Q-T/Q-T c ratio of greater than 1.08, previously reported to be a reliable indicator of coronary disease, was observed in the majority of our normal subjects during exercise. Although the Q-T interval is substantially influenced by many factors, the aT-eT interval proved not to be age- or heart rate-dependent, lt appears that the aT-eT interval can be measured with a high degree of reliability during exercise and it may prove to be a relatively specific indicator of repolarization alterations that occur with myocardial ischemia.
Are Private Markets and Filtering a Viable Source of Low-Income Housing? Estimates from a "Repeat Income" Model †

While filtering has long been considered the primary mechanism by which markets supply low-income housing, direct estimates of that process have been absent. This has contributed to doubts about the viability of markets and to misplaced policy. I fill this gap by estimating a “repeat income” model using 1985–2011 panel data. Real annual filtering rates are faster for rental housing (2.5 percent) than owner-occupied (0.5 percent), vary inversely with the income elasticity of demand and house price inflation, and are sensitive to tenure transitions as homes age. For most locations, filtering is robust which lends support for housing voucher programs. (JEL R21, R31, R38)
Application of the principles of linear fracture mechanics to the composite materials

Application of the principles of linear fracture mechanics to the orthotropic composite materials is examined. It is shown that fracture toughness of unidirectional composites is independent of crack length but dependent on crack-fiber orientation. For experimental verification of the above principles, uni-directional glass epoxy material (Scotchply 1002) was used. The fracture toughness of Scotchply 1002 for different crack-fiber orientations is obtained by utilizing Solid Sap finite element program and compact tension specimens. An empirical formula relating the fracture toughness of the material for different crack-fiber orientation is found.
Effects of implementing a rapid admission policy in the ED

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of a new rapid admission policy (RAP) on emergency department (ED) length of stay (EDLOS) and time spent on ambulance diversion (AD). Methods The RAP, instituted in January 2005, allows attending emergency physicians to send stable patients, requiring admission to the general medicine service, directly to available inpatient beds. The RAP thereby eliminates 2 conventional preadmission practices: having admitting physicians evaluate the patient in the ED and requiring all diagnostic testing to be complete before admission. We compared patient characteristics, percentage of patients leaving without being seen, EDLOS for admitted patients, time on AD, and total adjusted facility charge for a 3-month period after the RAP implementation to the same period of the prior year. Results There was a 1.1% increase in census with no difference in patient demographics, acuity, or disposition categories for the 2 periods. The EDLOS decreased on average by 10.1 minutes (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.3-17.0 minutes), resulting in an average of 4.2 hours of extra bed availability per day. Weekly minutes of AD decreased 169 minutes (95% CI, 29-310 minutes). There was also a 3.2% increase (95% CI, 3.1%-3.3%) in adjusted facility charge between these periods in 2005 compared with 2004. Conclusions The RAP resulted in a small decrease in the EDLOS, which likely decreased AD time. The resulting small increase in ED volume and higher acuity ambulance patients significantly improved ED revenue. Wider implementation of the policy and more uniform use among emergency physicians may further improve these measures.
A recursive approach to multivariate automatic differentiation

In one approach to automatic differentiation, the range of a function is generalized from a single real value to an aggregate representing the values of the function and one or more derivatives. The operations and functions of elementary analysis are extended to these aggregates so as to preserve the validity of the derivatives. In this paper we develop a recursive approach to defining the necessary operations in the context of functions of several variables. Formally, the definitions are essentially the same as those needed in the single variable case. The resulting system provides automatic propagation of values of all partial derivatives up to a prespecified order for a function of several variables
Taxometric analysis: introduction and overview.

ABSTRACTObjective: The purpose of this article isto provide an introduction to taxometricprocedures, and a set of mathematicaltools utilized to examine the latent struc-ture of constructs as they occur in nature(i.e., categorical versus dimensional).Method: Taxometric procedures havethe potential to inform the Diagnosticand Statistical Manual of Mental Disor-ders (DSM) conceptualization of eatingdisorders, and provide unique informa-tion about the construct validity of thecurrent diagnostic scheme. Existing em-pirical studies which utilize taxometricprocedures are reviewed, and the currentDSM diagnostic categories are evaluatedin terms of how well they square withempirical ﬁndings.Conclusion: Finally, the implications ofthe taxometrics literature for future DSMclassiﬁcation of eating disorders, as wellas guidelines for future areas of research,are discussed. VV C 2007 by Wiley Periodi-cals, Inc.Keywords: taxometrics; eating disordersclassiﬁcation(Int J Eat Disord 2007; 40:S35–S39) Introduction
Automatic target recognition via classical detection theory

Classical Bayesian detection and decision theory applies to arbitrary problems with underlying probabilistic models. When the models describe uncertainties in target type, pose, geometry, surround, scattering phenomena, sensor behavior, and feature extraction, then classical theory directly yields detailed model-based automatic target recognition (ATR) techniques. This paper reviews options and considerations arising under a general Bayesian framework for model- based ATR, including approaches to the major problems of acquiring probabilistic models and of carrying out the indicated Bayesian computations.
Shapes of axisymmetric fluid interfaces of unbounded extent

Abstract The shape of an equilibrium fluid interface that extends far outward from a circular line of contact is calculated and tabulated as a function of radius of the contact circle, interface inclination or contact angle there, interfacial tension, density difference across the interface, and force of gravity. A novel and efficient method of calculation is described. The accuracy of the results is shown to exceed that generally needed in practice. Sample applications are made to problems of meniscus location, contact angle, flotation position, and dry patch radius.
Contribution of low-energy (≪ 10 MeV) neutrons to upset rate in a 65 nm SRAM

Predictions of single and multiple cell upsets in a 65 nm bulk CMOS SRAM are presented for the low-energy (≪ 10 MeV) portion of the NYC neutron spectrum. Scattering is identified as a significant nuclear mechanism for this regime and the consequence for multiple bit upset is discussed. The contribution is compared to the full spectrum.
Diagnostic specificity of a brief measure of expressed emotion: a community study of children.

The association between expressed emotion (EE) and psychiatric disorders was investigated in a community survey of 108 preadolescent children. Results indicated that the two components of EE, critical comments and emotional overinvolvement, identified non-overlapping subsets of families and displayed diagnostic specificity. Significantly higher rates of disruptive behavior diagnoses were observed in children of parents who expressed high levels of criticism, while children of parents who expressed high levels of emotional overinvolvement were significantly more likely to have an anxiety disorder when compared in the remaining sample. Findings support the utility of this brief measure of EE in epidemiologic samples.
Toxicogenomics and cancer risk assessment: a framework for key event analysis and dose-response assessment for nongenotoxic carcinogens.

In order to determine a threshold for nongenotoxic carcinogens, the traditional risk assessment approach has been to identify a mode of action (MOA) with a nonlinear dose–response. The dose–response for one or more key event(s) linked to the MOA for carcinogenicity allows a point of departure (POD) to be selected from the most sensitive effect dose or no-effect dose. However, this can be challenging because multiple MOAs and key events may exist for carcinogenicity and oftentimes extensive research is required to elucidate the MOA. In the present study, a microarray analysis was conducted to determine if a POD could be identified following short-term oral rat exposure with two nongenotoxic rodent carcinogens, fenofibrate and methapyrilene, using a benchmark dose analysis of genes aggregated in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways and Gene Ontology (GO) biological processes, which likely encompass key event(s) for carcinogenicity. The gene expression response for fenofibrate given to rats for 2 days was consistent with its MOA and known key events linked to PPARα activation. The temporal response from daily dosing with methapyrilene demonstrated biological complexity with waves of pathways/biological processes occurring over 1, 3, and 7 days; nonetheless, the benchmark dose values were consistent over time. When comparing the dose–response of toxicogenomic data to tumorigenesis or precursor events, the toxicogenomics POD was slightly below any effect level. Our results suggest that toxicogenomic analysis using short-term studies can be used to identify a threshold for nongenotoxic carcinogens based on evaluation of potential key event(s) which then can be used within a risk assessment framework.
Asymmetries in visual search: an introduction.

In visual search tasks, observers look for a target stimulus among distractor stimuli. A visual search asymmetry is said to occur when a search for stimulus A among stimulus B produces different results from a search for B among A. Anne Treisman made search asymmetries into an important tool in the study of visual attention. She argued that it was easier to find a target that was defined by the presence of a preattentive basic feature than to find a target defined by the absence of that feature. Four of the eight papers in this symposium inPerception & Psychophysics deal with the use of search asymmetries to identify stimulus attributes that behave as basic features in this context. Another two papers deal with the long-standing question of whether a novelty can be considered to be a basic feature. Asymmetries can also arise when one type of stimulus is easier to identify or classify than another. Levin and Angelone’s paper on visual search for faces of different races is an examination of an asymmetry of this variety. Finally, Previc and Naegele investigate an asymmetry based on the spatial location of the target. Taken as a whole, these papers illustrate the continuing value of the search asymmetry paradigm.
Preservice teachers’ perceived constraints of teaching science in the elementary classroom

This study presents five perceived constraints of elementary preservice teaching candidates teaching science as a subject. The students were enrolled in science methods courses that included a reflective midterm exam question on teaching constraints. The interpretation of perceived constraints are from the instructor’s perspective, as well as those of the preservice teachers. Data sources included informal student interviews, reflective writing, and the instructor’s journal. Five specific constraints emerging from the data analysis are discussed as well as their locus of control. Ways to overcome the problematical constraints are examined so that preservice teachers can resolve their personal feelings of powerlessness prior to service.
Shared execution strategy for neighbor-based pattern mining requests over streaming windows

In diverse applications ranging from stock trading to traffic monitoring, data streams are continuously monitored by multiple analysts for extracting patterns of interest in real time. These analysts often submit similar pattern mining requests yet customized with different parameter settings. In this work, we present shared execution strategies for processing a large number of neighbor-based pattern mining requests of the same type yet with arbitrary parameter settings. Such neighbor-based pattern mining requests cover a broad range of popular mining query types, including detection of clusters, outliers, and nearest neighbors. Given the high algorithmic complexity of the mining process, serving multiple such queries in a single system is extremely resource intensive. The naive method of detecting and maintaining patterns for different queries independently is often infeasible in practice, as its demands on system resources increase dramatically with the cardinality of the query workload. In order to maximize the efficiency of the system resource utilization for executing multiple queries simultaneously, we analyze the commonalities of the neighbor-based pattern mining queries, and identify several general optimization principles which lead to significant system resource sharing among multiple queries. In particular, as a preliminary sharing effort, we observe that the computation needed for the range query searches (the process of searching the neighbors for each object) can be shared among multiple queries and thus saves the CPU consumption. Then we analyze the interrelations between the patterns identified by queries with different parameters settings, including both pattern-specific and window-specific parameters. For that, we first introduce an incremental pattern representation, which represents the patterns identified by queries with different pattern-specific parameters within a single compact structure. This enables integrated pattern maintenance for multiple queries. Second, by leveraging the potential overlaps among sliding windows, we propose a metaquery strategy which utilizes a single query to answer multiple queries with different window-specific parameters. By combining these three techniques, namely the range query search sharing, integrated pattern maintenance, and metaquery strategy, our framework realizes fully shared execution of multiple queries with arbitrary parameter settings. It achieves significant savings of computational and memory resources due to shared execution. Our comprehensive experimental study, using real data streams from domains of stock trades and moving object monitoring, demonstrates that our solution is significantly faster than the independent execution strategy, while using only a small portion of memory space compared to the independent execution. We also show that our solution scales in handling large numbers of queries in the order of hundreds or even thousands under high input data rates.
Application of one-dimensional adaptive extrapolation to improve resolution in range-Doppler imaging

A recent 1D, nonparametric procedure to extrapolate a signal is evaluated for resolution enhancement in inverse SAR imaging. This algorithm, denoted adaptive weighted norm extrapolation (AWNE), is based on iterative use of minimum weighted norm extrapolation to provide a stationary extension of the given data. Computing the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) spectrum of this signal completes the last step of this procedure when used as a spectrum estimator. In this paper the AWNE procedure is used in two directions to obtain range-Doppler images with improved resolution. We evaluate the results and compare them with those obtained with the conventional method based on the DFT. Using rectangularly sampled target data of noise corrupted point scatterers, we show that the AWNE approach produces accurate component locations and amplitudes as well as the expected higher resolution. Our examples show results for arrays of 63 by 63 samples extrapolated to 128 by 128 and 256 by 256. Next, we illustrate the application of AWNE to point scatterer data taken on a polar raster after it has undergone polar reformatting. The procedure is insensitive to the finite accuracy of the reformatting procedure needed to fit the samples into a rectangular raster. Finally, we illustrate the use of AWNE on an array of 64 by 64 data points to form the image of a Boeing 727 aircraft and compare results with those obtained via the conventional DFT processing.
The origins of legal behavior

Abstract Law is seen as a living system which transcends narrow traditional definition and is expressed through individual and group behavior, called ‘legal behavior’. The moral ideas or ethics which support the legal structure are flexible and change in relation to the environment. These moral concepts shape the individual's sense of justice within the groups, replacing the rigid genetic commands governing social organization in other species. Precursors of legal behavior in non-human primates suggest that some elements of a sense of justice are transmitted genetically, i.e. legal behavior may be an innate biological mechanism, vital for survival. Ethological studies may provide models for flexible adaptations of law to environment. Findings suggest that in some important areas, legal structure must be based on the function of the relevant behavior if a species is to adapt and survive. Work with apes who can communicate by sign language or other means can elucidate the precursors of legal behavior and the development of the sense of justice. Long-term observations of free-living groups and experiments with semi-captive control groups of apes can enlighten us on the effects of environmental enrichment and deprivation on the social behavior of institutionalized individuals that can lead to medical and legal applications to the institutional care of humans. Research on brain reward relevant to legal behavior may lead to more accurate predictions concerning the effectiveness of specific laws.
Flexor Plantar Responses in Children With Upper Motor Neuron Lesions

• The usual plantar response in upper motor neuron lesions is extensor. As flexor responses were seen in a number of children with these lesions, a formal study was undertaken to assess the plantar reflex in affected children. Fifty-seven children with spastic cerebral palsy were examined. Ten had hemiplegias, so a total of 104 limbs were tested. Eighty-four (80.8%) of these had flexor and 12 (11%) had extensor responses. Half (3.9%) of the remaining eight responses were mute and half were variable. While exceptions to the extensor rule are known, this marked predominance of flexor responses is unusual. This may be the result of damage inflicted on the immature nervous system before full connections and myelination have been completed. Further studies, involving children who have sustained brain damage at different ages, will be needed to elucidate the various mechanisms involved.
Design of quasi-grain-boundary-free (QGBF) polycrystalline solar cells

A new solar cell structure is proposed which will increase the efficiency of polycrystalline solar cells by suppressing or completely eliminating the recombination losses due to the presence of grain boundaries. This is achieved by avoiding the formation of the p-n junction (or other types of junctions) in the grain boundaries and by eliminating the grain boundaries from the active area of the cell. This basic concept can be applied to any polycrystalline material; however, it will be most beneficial for cost-effective materials of the future, i.e., materials having small grains, including thin film materials. The concept is demonstrated to be technologically achievable.
Analysis on design and optimization of dispersion-managed communication systems

The variational method is a useful tool that can be used for design and optimization of dispersion-managed communication systems. Using this powerful tool, we evaluate the characteristics of a carrier signal for certain system parameters and describe several features of a dispersion-managed soliton.
Use of clinical simulation centers in health professions schools for patient-centered research.

INTRODUCTION Professional practice assessment research performed in clinical simulation centers is a research method that also creates opportunity for multidisciplinary investigator collaboration. METHODS Nursing and pharmacy school clinical simulation laboratories at the University of Utah were used to conduct time-and-motion (TM) studies of medication dispensing and administration. Time data were then used to determine personnel and supply costs associated with different medication dosage forms and delivery methods. A case study from a completed research project describes the use of TM and activity-based costing analyses to assess medication preparation and administration time and cost differences related to three proton pump inhibitor dosage forms. Standardized doses were prepared by pharmacists or technicians and subsequently administered by nurses to a mannequin in the simulation center by seven different administration scenarios. Simulation scenarios were developed in a manner that held the independent variables constant, so that time and cost differences between dosage forms and administrations methods could be quantified. RESULTS A detailed example of one approach to use of simulation centers for TM studies and activity-based costing analyses is provided. The advantages of isolating processes of interest from the day-to-day complexity of patient care are shown. Results illustrate how simulations based on professional school simulation centers may be used to assess health care processes at the microlevel with potential for projection to the macrolevel. CONCLUSIONS Studies based on health professional schools simulation centers may offer a novel method of evaluating health care processes at the microlevel.
Stable distributions and the term structure of interest rates

In an abundance of cases asset returns fit stable distributions better than normal distributions. We examine a model where the term structure of interest rates follows a subordinate process directed by a stable process and indicate how to fix the parameters of the model.
Landmines, language, and dismemberment: Mia Couto's imperial residues

Mia Couto's The Last Flight of the Flamingo, set during the UN-monitored peace settlement of Mozambique's decade-long civil war, directs our eyes towards the places and people ignored and unseen by the dominant narratives of globalization. The novel asks that we pay attention to the sundry residues of empire in Mozambique – the severed penis of a UN peacekeeper, bullet holes and landmines, the rural poor, living and dead – because revealing these residues forces recognition of the hidden, leftover injustices of colonialism, globalization, and modernity. Couto's oral narrative models what I call ‘residual epistemology’, a way of knowing that draws on the residues of previous stories and storytellers and so assumes an always-mediated engagement with others, rejecting ideas of independence and objectivity. Drawing primarily on Raymond Williams' notion of the residual, I consider the material and conceptual residues of empire as simultaneously symbols of the invisible and as alternative or oppositional models...
Gezielte Umladung einzelner Goldatome

Mit einem Rastertunnelmikroskop lassen sich nicht nur Oberflachen atomar abbilden, es kann auch dazu genutzt werden, Atome auf einer Oberflache zu manipulieren. Auf diese Weise ist es erstmals gelungen, den Ladungszustand einzelner Goldatome zu verandern, ohne diese dabei seitlich zu verschieben.
ROAM — THE RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY ASSESSMENT MODEL FOR TARGETED INNOVATION

Knowledge-driven companies are facing financial and competitive pressures that make them increasingly difficult to allocate the kinds of financial resources to research as they have in the past. For this reason, corporate scientists, research managers and business managers must understand both the financial and knowledge returns associated with the research they conduct so that they can best direct and allocate resources to research that provides both financial returns and establishes the knowledge basis for future discovery and innovation. We present a model for assessing research opportunities both from the standpoint of responding to market needs and pushing forward new knowledge development. We illustrate the use of this analytic model in both market pull and research push examples. We argue that both business and research managers in corporations can use this analytical discipline to better join the needs of business and the research divisions that support them.
Correlation of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging with histologic tumor grade: comparison of macromolecular and small-molecular contrast media.

Background. The endothelial integrity of microvessels is disrupted in malignant tumors. Quantitative assays of tumor microvascular characteristics based on dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were correlated with histopathologic grade in mammary soft tissue tumors. Materials and methods. A spectrum of tumors, benign through highly malignant, was induced in 33 female rats by administration of N -ethyl-N -nitrosourea (ENU), a potent carcinogen. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI was performed using a small-molecular contrast medium [gadopentetate, MW = 0.5 kDa] and a macromolecular contrast medium [albumin-(Gd-DTPA)30, MW = 92 kDa] at an interval of 1–2 days. Permeability surface area product (PS), as estimated by the corresponding endothelial transfer coefficient (KPS), and fractional plasma volume (fPV) were calculated for each tumor and each contrast agent using a two-compartment bi-directional kinetic model. MRI microvascular characteristics were correlated with histopathologic tumor grade. Results. Tumor permeability to macromolecular contrast medium, characterized by KPS, showed a highly positive correlation with tumor grade (r 2 = 0.76, P < 10− 10). KPS values were zero for all benign and some low-grade carcinomas, greater than zero in all other carcinomas, and increased in magnitude with higher tumor grade. A considerably smaller but significantly positive correlation was found between fPV and tumor grade using macromolecular contrast medium (r 2 = 0.25, P < 0.003). No correlation between KPS or fPV values and tumor grade was found using gadopentetate (r 2 = 0.01, P > 0.95 and r 2 = 0.03, P > 0.15, respectively). Conclusion. Quantitative tumor microvascular permeability assays generated with macromolecular MRI contrast medium correlate closely with histologic tumor grade. No significant correlation is found using small-molecular gadopentetate.
Static tester for characterization of phase-change, dye–polymer, and magneto-optical media for optical data storage

We have designed and built a static tester around a commercially available polarized light microscope. This device employs two semiconductor laser diodes (at 643- and 680-nm wavelengths) for the purpose of recording small marks on various media for optical data storage and for the simultaneous monitoring of the recording process. We use one of the lasers in the single-pulse mode to write a mark on the sample and operate the other laser in the cw mode to monitor the recording process. The two laser beams are brought to coincident focus on the sample through the objective lens of the microscope. The reflected beams are sent through a polarizing beam splitter and thus divided into two branches, depending on whether they are p or s polarized. In each branch the beam is further divided into two according to the wavelength. The four beams thus produced are sent to four high-speed photodetectors, and the resulting signals are used to monitor the reflectance as well as the polarization state of the beam on reflection from the sample. We provide a comprehensive description of the tester’s design and operating principles. We also report preliminary results of measurements of phase-change, dye–polymer, and magneto-optical samples, which are currently of interest in the areas of writable and rewritable optical data storage.
Mechanistic Study of the Reactions of 1,1-Dihalo-2-methyl-2-phenylpropanes with LDA. Evidence for Radical and Carbene Pathways

An attempt was made to determine the mechanisms involved in the reactions of the model systems 1,1-dichloro-2-methyl-2-phenylpropane (1) and 1,1-diiodo-2-methyl-2-phenylpropane (2) with LDA. These systems were chosen as ones capable of providing evidence for the formation of radical as well as carbene products. The techniques employed in investigating the mechanistic features of these reactions involved studying the effect of the leaving group, the effect of radical and carbene trapping agents on the product distribution, and isotopic tracer experiments using labeled solvent (THF-d8) and nucleophile (LDA-d2). The major product of the reaction of the geminal dichloride (1) is thought to be derived from a chlorocarbene, whereas the geminal diiodide (2) appears to form products derived from both carbene and radical intermediates. On the basis of the results of radical trapping experiments and those of deuterium-labeling experiments, evidence is presented to support the notion that products A, E, and H are de...
Clinical application of the coil-sack vascular occlusion device in infants and children

Abstract Transcatheter interventional procedures for the treatment of congenital heart defects have become increasingly important. A few devices are available for use in the United States. Each device is effective for a limited number of cardiovascular defects. Thus, there remains a need for additional safe and effective transcatheter occlusion devices. We developed a new transcatheter device, the Gianturco-Grifka Vascular Occlusion Device, which consists of a nylon sack attached to an end-hole catheter. A wire is advanced through the catheter into the sack. The wire coils, filling the sack, occluding the vessel, and providing transmural pressure to maintain the sack position. Prior to release, the device may be repositioned, removed, or exchanged for a different size device. The device is available in four sizes (3, 5, 7, and 9 mm). We evaluated' this device in a canine model, occluding subclavian and carotid arteries, and surgically created aorto-pulmonary shunts. All vessels were occluded completely without complication. The device received FDA approval, and we have used the device to occlude patent ductus arteriosus, aorto-pulmonary collateral vessels, intrapulmonary arteriovenous malformation, and other defects. In every patient, the vessel was occluded completely without complication. This device can occlude a tubular PDA, aorto-pulmonary collateral, arteriovenous fistula, aneurysm, synthetic graft, vessel supplying a tumor, or other vascular structure. There are only two limitations; an 8-French sheath is needed to deliver the device, and the vessel must be long enough for the sack to contact firmly against the vessel wall. When compared to other occlusion devices, this device has several advantages: the ability to reposition the device or remove it prior to release, several different sizes, and the device conforms to many vascular shapes. The GGVOD is another important tool in the transcatheter armamentarium.
Quantitative in Situ Measurement of Ion Transport in Polypyrrole/Poly(styrenesulfonate) Films Using Rotating Ring-Disk Voltammetry.

An approach based on rotating ring−disk electrode (RRDE) voltammetry is described for the quantitative, in situ measurement of ion transport between solution and conducting polymer films. The specific composite film studied in this report is polypyrrole/poly(styrenesulfonate) (pPy+/pSS-). Cation flux in and out of the polymer was obtained from the mass-transport-limited reduction current for the dopant cation(s) measured at the ring during redox cycling of the polymer. Crucial to this method is the use of a supporting electrolyte that is sterically inhibited from passing into the film and the use of dopant ions that adhere to specific electrochemical constraints. With this method it was possible to quantitatively account for all changes in charge compensation in the film by the specific cation(s) involved. Three different cations were explored alone and in paired combinations. Solutions containing mixtures of dopant cations were studied to determine whether the pPy+/pSS- films exhibit preferential doping....
New directions for non-fuel uses of anthracites

Anthracites contain over 90% carbon, most of which is in the form of large, polycyclic aromatic sheets. The high carbon content and the highly aromatic nature give anthracites great potential for conversion to high-value carbon materials. This paper reviews previous work and summarizes the present status of conversion of anthracites to four types of premium carbon materials: molded or extruded graphites, binder pitch, activated carbons, and exfoliated carbons. Significant opportunities exist for the non-fuel uses of anthracites in these applications.