cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Unequal Altruism and the Voting Paradox

In the altruism model of voting, the social benefits of an electoral outcome is considered to offset the low probability of casting a decisive vote, thereby overcoming the voting paradox. One problem with this model is that it assumes both a clearly superior electoral outcome for society and some probability of a tied vote. These two propositions stand in tension with each other.This Article presents a modified model of altruistic voting. It assumes voter altruism toward selected groups instead of toward the general population. The unequally altruistic voter model not only overcomes the deficiencies of the Edlin, Gelman and Kaplan (2008) model, but also has implications for an integrated analysis of voter turnout, candidate selection, and interest group strategy.
Some Philosophies of Inference and Modelling

Abstract : During the Spring semester of 1981, the Mathematics Research Center held a weekly statistical discussion series as a precursor to its special year on Scientific Inference, Data Analysis, and Robustness. The many discussants included G. E. P. Box, D. V. Lindley, B. W. Silverman, A. Herzberg, C. F. Wu, B. Joiner and D. Rubin. Many aspects of statistics were discussed, including the Box philosophy of deductive and inductive reasoning, and Lindley's coherent Bayesian viewpoint. The present paper attempts to constructively review the discussion series, and to add a number of retrospective comments and suggestions. (Author)
Localized three-dimensional ionospheric tomography with GPS ground receiver measurements

[1] This paper describes a technique for 3-D tomographic imaging of the ionosphere with high spatial resolution (75 to 95 km in latitude/longitude and 30 km in altitude). The total electron content (TEC) values are derived from dual-frequency measurements obtained from GPS satellites by ground-based receivers. When available, ionosonde data are used to construct a priori vertical profiles modeled using Chapman functions. Two regularization algorithms are investigated for tomographic image reconstruction: Tikhonov and Total Variation (TV), corresponding to quadratic and l1 norm minimizations of the penalty constraint, respectively. The TV method is used because it generally preserves discontinuities in the image effectively and is more resistant to noise. By contrast, Tikhonov, or quadratic, regularization tends to oversmooth image structures and discontinuities. However, a closed-form solution of the TV method does not exist and so performance depends heavily on numerical optimization techniques, which are nontrivial to implement because the inverse problem is both ill-posed and ill-conditioned. We also apply regularization parameter-selection methods to demonstrate their applicability in our study. The algorithms are demonstrated using real GPS TEC measurements from an observation geometry centered in southern California. We demonstrate the performance of these techniques under quiet, midlatitude conditions. The resulting reconstructions reasonably determine the shape of the ionospheric profile. Artifacts can potentially appear near voxels with no raypath information, which is directly related to the sparseness and nonuniform distribution of the GPS raypaths. We discuss some methods to constrain the solution to realistic bounds.
Propensity Score Analysis with Matching Weights

The propensity score analysis is one of the most widely used methods for studying the causal treatment effect in observational studies. This paper studies treatment effect estimation with the method of matching weights. This method resembles propensity score matching but offers a number of new features including efficient estimation, rigorous variance calculation, simple asymptotics, statistical tests of balance, clearly identified target population with optimal sampling property, and no need for choosing matching algorithm and caliper size. In addition, we propose the mirror histogram as a useful tool for graphically displaying balance. The method also shares some features of the inverse probability weighting methods, but the computation remains stable when the propensity scores approach 0 or 1. An augmented version of the matching weight estimator is developed that has the double robust property, i.e., the estimator is consistent if either the outcome model or the propensity score model is correct. In the numerical studies, the proposed methods demonstrated better performance than many widely used propensity score analysis methods such as stratification by quintiles, matching with propensity scores, and inverse probability weighting.
SU‐E‐T‐684: Robustness Versus Plan Quality for IMPT

Purpose: Range and set-up uncertainties in intensity-modulated proton therapy cannot be addressed with margins. Instead, several robust optimization (RO) models have been developed that explicitly take uncertainty into account. RO optimizes the worst case at the cost of the treatment outcome in more likely scenarios. The goal is to provide insight in the trade-off between robustness and plan quality and the behavior of different trade-off methods. Methods: We present four methods to trade-off robustness with plan quality that can be applied to any of the worst case methods found in literature. Each trade-off is a mixture between worst case, expected value, and non-robust planning, which effectively corresponds to assigning different importance weights to error scenarios. Each method is tested on several worst case methods for a sarcoma case, a paraspinal case and a benchmark case from literature. Results: Each trade-off method yields a unique dose distribution in the border region between target volume and adjacent normal tissues, corresponding to a specific trade-off between robustness and nominal plan quality. The fully robust solutions perform badly when the realized errors are smaller than the maximum projected errors. Compared to fully robust solutions, significant improvements are possible for non-extreme scenarios while only slightly deteriorating plan quality at an extreme scenario. It is further observed that trade-off methods cannot be mimicked by putting different weights on objectives for the tumor and the normal tissue. Conclusion: The method to trade-off robustness with plan quality should be chosen carefully, as each method has a different impact on plan quality. Two of the methods can directly be implemented in any framework for multicriteria optimization, hopefully leading to their quick dissemination.
Implementation of intelligent controller using neural network state estimator

It is shown that the neural network can be used as a state estimator in a model-reference intelligent control system. Its learning capability and noise rejection characteristic are illustrated by the results of a simulation study. The implementation of the state estimator by a neural network was possible due to the development of a proper structure of the neural network which is capable of simulating the dynamic behavior of a linear or nonlinear system. This capability is achieved by use of a time-dependent learning process. >
CONNJUR spectrum translator: an open source application for reformatting NMR spectral data

NMR spectroscopists are hindered by the lack of standardization for spectral data among the file formats for various NMR data processing tools. This lack of standardization is cumbersome as researchers must perform their own file conversion in order to switch between processing tools and also restricts the combination of tools employed if no conversion option is available. The CONNJUR Spectrum Translator introduces a new, extensible architecture for spectrum translation and introduces two key algorithmic improvements. This first is translation of NMR spectral data (time and frequency domain) to a single in-memory data model to allow addition of new file formats with two converter modules, a reader and a writer, instead of writing a separate converter to each existing format. Secondly, the use of layout descriptors allows a single fid data translation engine to be used for all formats. For the end user, sophisticated metadata readers allow conversion of the majority of files with minimum user configuration. The open source code is freely available at http://connjur.sourceforge.net for inspection and extension.
Sandpile transience on the grid is polynomially bounded

We study the process of adding one grain at a time in the Abelian Sandpile Model (ASM) based on the n X n grid (Bak et al., 1988, Dhar, 1990, Dhar et al., 1995). We prove that within a polynomial (in n) number of steps, we necessarily reach a recurrent configuration regardless of the choice of sites where the grains are dropped. This adds credence to the common notion that "recurrence" represents "longterm behavior" of the system.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Association Between Giardia lamblia and Endemic Pediatric Diarrhea in Developing Countries

We performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis examining the association between diarrhea in young children in nonindustrialized settings and Giardia lamblia infection. Eligible were case/control and longitudinal studies that defined the outcome as acute or persistent (>14 days) diarrhea, adjusted for confounders and lasting for at least 1 year. Data on G. lamblia detection (mainly in stools) from diarrhea patients and controls without diarrhea were abstracted. Random effects model meta-analysis obtained pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Twelve nonindustrialized-setting acute pediatric diarrhea studies met the meta-analysis inclusion criteria. Random-effects model meta-analysis of combined results (9774 acute diarrhea cases and 8766 controls) yielded a pooled OR of 0.60 (95% CI, .38–.94; P = .03), indicating that G. lamblia was not associated with acute diarrhea. However, limited data suggest that initial Giardia infections in early infancy may be positively associated with diarrhea. Meta-analysis of 5 persistent diarrhea studies showed a pooled OR of 3.18 (95% CI, 1.50–6.76; P < .001), positively linking Giardia with that syndrome. The well-powered Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) is prospectively addressing the association between G. lamblia infection and diarrhea in children in developing countries.
Polysialic acid regulates cell contact-dependent neuronal differentiation of progenitor cells from the subventricular zone

Expression of polysialic acid (PSA) promotes migration of progenitor cells from the subventricular zone (SVZ) to the olfactory bulb, where they differentiate into interneurons. This differentiation has been found to coincide with a loss of PSA. Moreover, specific removal of PSA from the mouse SVZ by endoneuraminidase-N was found to cause premature differentiation, as evidenced by neurite outgrowth and tyrosine hydroxylase synthesis in vivo and by expression of neurofilament-L and beta III-tubulin in SVZ explant cultures. This differentiation involved activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase through p59fyn and was blocked by its inhibition. The effects of PSA removal were found to be cell contact-dependent and to be reduced by anti-neural cell adhesion molecule antibodies. These findings indicate that PSA expression regulates the fate of SVZ precursors by two contact-dependent mechanisms, the previously reported reduction in cell-cell adhesion that allows cell translocation, and the postponement of cell differentiation that otherwise would be induced by signals generated through surface molecule-mediated cell-cell interactions.
Molecular modelling study of the mechanism of high-potency inhibition of human catechol-O-methyltransferase by (–)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate

The molecular mechanism of inhibition of human catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) by (-)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), which is a modest substrate of COMT but an ultra-potent inhibitor of this enzyme, was studied. EGCG has an IC(50) value of 70 nM for inhibiting human liver COMT-mediated O-methylation of 2-hydroxyestradiol, which was 210-760 times more potent than catechin, epigallocatechin and epicatechin. Kinetic analyses showed that EGCG had a strong component of non-competitive inhibition of the O-methylation of 2-hydroxyestradiol. Computational molecular modelling studies showed that the B- and D-rings of EGCG can bind tightly to the human COMT in four different modes (i.e. D-para-OH, D-meta-OH, B-para-OH, and B-meta-OH). The binding geometry of EGCG in these binding modes was found to be less than ideal to form perfect Mg(2+) coordination for the catalysis of its own methylation. It is concluded that the very tight binding interaction of EGCG with COMT makes it a potent non-competitive inhibitor, but its imperfect geometry makes it a poor substrate for methylation by this enzyme.
Apparent drag reduction phenomenon in the defluidized packed dense bed of the multisolid pneumatic transport bed

Abstract Experiments were performed to study the pressure drop behavior in the packed bed of dense particles in the multisolid pneumatic transport bed (MPTB). The packed bed under extensive analysis is established by fluidizing and then defluidizing the dense particle bed by increasing and then decreasing the air flow rate at a constant fine particle flow rate. The pressure drop in a packed bed established in this manner initially decreases significantly and then increases as the fine particle flow rate increases at a given air flow rate. This behavior signifies the apparent drag reduction phenomenon in the defluidized packed bed. The classical pressure drop equation by Ergun[1] was modified to account for this phenomenon.
Superconvergence phenomena in nonlinear two‐point boundary‐value problems

Superconvergence estimates are derived for a class of strongly nonlinear two-point boundary-value problems. The analysis considers solution and gradient superconvergence points as well as flux postprocessing formulas. Finally, the extension to parabolic problems is considered. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Type II collagen distribution in the ear of the developing chick embryo

The localization of type II collagen was immunohistochemically studied in the developing chick ear using monoclonal antibodies. Type II collagen appeared under the basal lamina of the otocyst from developmental stages 14 to 16. In the otic capsule, endolymphatic duct, and semicircular canal membrane, type II collagen appeared in stage 23 or 24. From stages 28 to 29, type II collagen appeared in the primitive columella, endolymphatic sac, and fibrocartilaginous plate. Type II collagen was first observed in the crista ampullaris, basilar membrane, macula sacculi, and utriculi in stages 30 and 31. Type II collagen was not detected in the endolymphatic sac beyond developmental stage 37 and the amount of type II collagen in the otic capsule and columella decreased after stage 40. The wide distribution of type II collagen in the inner ear throughout the development of the chick embryo suggests that this collagen may act as a basic structural component of the ear.
Effects of method of preservation on functions of livers from fed and fasted rabbits.

Abstract Livers from fed, fasted (48 h) and glucose-fed rabbits were preserved for 24 and 48 h by either simple cold storage (CS) or continuous machine perfusion (MP) with the University of Wisconsin preservation solutions. After preservation liver functions were measured by isolated perfusion of the liver (at 37 °C) for 2 h. Fasting caused an 85% reduction in the concentration of glycogen in the liver but no change in ATP or glutathione. Glucose feeding suppressed the loss of glycogen (39% loss). After 24 h preservation by CS livers from fed or fasted animals were similar including bile production (6.2 ± 0.5 and 5.6 ± 0.4 ml/2 h, 100 g, respectively), hepatocellular injury (LDH release = 965 ± 100 and 1049 ± 284 U/liter), and concentrations of ATP (1.17 ± 0.15 and 1.18 ± 0.04 μmol/g, glutathione (1.94 ± 0.51 and 2.35 ± 0.26 μmol/g, respectively), and K:Na ratio (6.7 ± 1.0 and 7.7 ± 0.5, respectively). After 48 h CS livers from fed animals were superior to livers from fasted animals including significantly more bile production (5.0 ± 0.9 vs 2.0 ± 0.3 ml/2 h, 100 g), less LDH release (1123 ± 98 vs 3701 ± 562 U/liter), higher concentration of ATP (0.50 ± 0.16 vs 0.33 ± 0.07 (μmol/g) and glutathione (0.93 ± 0.14 vs 0.30 ± 0.13μmol/g), and a larger K:Na ratio (7.4 vs 1.5). Livers from fed animals were also better preserved than livers from fasted animals when the method was machine perfusion. The decrease in liver functions in livers from fasted animals preserved for 48 h by CS or MP was prevented by feeding glucose. Glucose feeding increased bile formation after 48 h CS preservation from 2.0 ± 0.3 (fasted) to 6.9 ± 1.2 ml/2 h, 100 g; LDH release was reduced from 3701 ± 562 (fasted) to 1450 ± 154 U/liter; ATP was increased from 0.33 ± 0.07 (fasted) to 1.63 ± 0.18 μmol/g; glutathione was increased from 0.30 ± 0.01 (fasted) to 2.17 ± 0.30 (μmol/g; and K:Na ratio was increased from 1.5 ± 0.9 to 5.3 ± 1.0. This study shows that the nutritional status of the donor can affect the quality of liver preservation. The improvement in preservation by feeding rabbits only glucose suggests that glycogen is an important metabolite for successful liver preservation. Glycogen may be a source for ATP synthesis during the early period of reperfusion of preserved livers.
Patient characteristics and treatment patterns in chronic myeloid leukemia: evidence from a multi-country retrospective medical record chart review study

We conducted a retrospective medical record review of 1,063 patients to examine patient characteristics and treatment patterns among adults with Philadelphia chromosome and/or BCR–ABL-positive chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia in the USA, UK, Germany, and Japan. Patients who were included received first-line treatment with imatinib between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2009 and were not enrolled in a randomized clinical trial between first-line treatment initiation and end of recorded follow-up. The average age was 55 years; 60% were male. On average, patients were initiated on imatinib 2.7 months post-diagnosis and received therapy for 22 months [19 months (USA) to 25 months (Japan)], at a median dose of 400 mg/day. Thirteen percent [8% (Japan) to 16% (UK)] had dose escalation to a median 800 mg/day. Twenty-nine percent discontinued imatinib, primarily due to resistance or disease progression. Among 148 patients receiving second-line dasatinib and 113 receiving nilotinib, a greater proportion in the USA and Germany received nilotinib (54% in each country), while fewer patients in Japan and the UK received nilotinib (47 and 17%, respectively). On average, patients had second-line therapy initiated 25 months post-diagnosis and received treatment for 11 months (dasatinib) or 8 months (nilotinib). Patients initiating dasatinib had more advanced disease than those initiating nilotinib.
Exposure Therapy for PTSD Delivered to Veterans via Telehealth: Predictors of Treatment Completion and Outcome and Comparison to Treatment Delivered in Person

Recent research has focused on the effectiveness of evidence-based psychotherapy delivered via telehealth services. Unfortunately to date, the majority of studies employ very small samples and limited predictor and moderator variables. To address these concerns and further replicate and extend the literature on telehealth, the present study investigated the effectiveness of 12-session exposure therapy delivered either via telehealth (n=62) or in person (n=27) in veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Findings demonstrated that although older veterans and Vietnam veterans were more likely to complete the telehealth treatment, telehealth findings were not influenced by patient age, sex, race, combat theater, or disability status. Exposure therapy delivered via telehealth was effective in reducing the symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, and general impairment with large effect sizes. Interestingly, exposure therapy via telehealth was less effective than exposure therapy delivered in person; however, lack of random assignment to condition limits conclusions of differential effectiveness. Overall, these findings support the utility of telehealth services to provide effective, evidence-based psychotherapies.
Increased Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Associated with Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) and Symptom Severity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).

Background: One in 88 children in the US is thought to have one of the autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). ASDs are characterized by social impairments and communication problems. Growth factors and their receptors may play a role in the etiology of ASDs. Research has shown that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation is associated with nerve cell development and repair. This study was designed to measure plasma levels of EGFR in autistic children and correlate these levels with its ligand, epidermal growth factor, other related putative biomarkers such as hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), the ligand for MET (MNNG HOS transforming gene) receptor, as well as the symptom severity of 19 different behavioral symptoms. Subjects and methods: Plasma EGFR concentration was measured in 33 autistic children and 34 age- and gender-similar neurotypical controls, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma EGFR levels were compared to putative biomarkers known to be associated with EGFR and MET and severity levels of 19 autism-related symptoms. Results: We found plasma EGFR levels significantly higher in autistic children, when compared to neurotypical controls. EGFR levels correlated with HGF and high-mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) levels, but not other tested putative biomarkers, and EGFR levels correlated significantly with severity of expressive language, conversational language, focus/attention, hyperactivity, eye contact, and sound sensitivity deficiencies. Conclusions: These results suggest a relationship between increased plasma EGFR levels and designated symptom severity in autistic children. A strong correlation between plasma EGFR and HGF and HMGB1 suggests that increased EGFR levels may be associated with the HGF/Met signaling pathway, as well as inflammation.
TSV: A novel energy efficient Memory Integrity Verification scheme for embedded systems

Embedded systems are ubiquitous in this era of portable computing. These systems are empowered to access, store and transmit abundance of critical information. Thus their security becomes a prime concern. Moreover, most of these embedded devices often have to operate under insecure environments where the adversary may acquire physical access. To provide security, cryptographic security mechanisms could be employed in embedded systems. However, these mechanisms consume excessive energy that cannot be tolerated by the embedded systems. Therefore with the focus on achieving energy efficiency in cryptographic Memory Integrity Verification (MIV) mechanism, we present a novel energy efficient approach called Timestamps Verification (TSV) to provide Memory Integrity Verification in embedded systems. This paper elaborates the proposed approach along with its theoretical evaluation, simulation results, and experimental evaluation. The results prove that the energy savings in the TSV approach are in the range of 36-81% when compared with traditional MIV mechanisms.
Precipitation response to land subsurface hydrologic processes in atmospheric general circulation model simulations

Several studies have established that soil moisture increases after adding a groundwater component in land surface models, owing to the additional supply of subsurface water. However, the impact of groundwater on the spatial-temporal variability of precipitation has received little attention. This study explores how a groundwater representation in land surface models alters precipitation distributions through coupled groundwater-land-atmosphere simulations. Results indicate that the addition of groundwater yields a global increase in soil water content and evapotranspiration, a decrease in surface air temperature, and an increase in cloud cover fraction. These result in globally inhomogeneous changes in precipitation. In the boreal summer, tropical land regions show a positive anomaly in the Northern Hemisphere and a negative anomaly in the Southern Hemisphere. As a result, an asymmetric dipole is found over tropical land regions along the equator. Furthermore, in the transition climatic zone where the land and atmosphere are strongly coupled, precipitation also increases. Two main mechanisms are suggested for the two different regions with increased precipitation. The “rich-get-richer” mechanism is responsible for the positive precipitation anomalies over the tropical land regions, while a positive feedback of land-atmosphere interaction is the major contributor to increased precipitation over central North America. This study highlights the importance of land subsurface hydrologic processes in the climate system and has further implications for global water cycle dynamics.
Forward Coarticulation of Velar Movement at Marked Junctural Boundaries

Using high‐speed cinefluorographic techniques, the effects of marked junctural boundaries on the onset of forward velar coarticulation were studied. Three speakers were filmed while producing a constant CVVN sequence with a variety of prosodically marked boundaries falling between the two vowels. Frame‐by‐frame tracings made of the velum and associated reference structures yielded plots of velar movement over the CVVN sequence. It was found that the onset of forward coarticulation to the nasal consonant was consistently delayed in those cases where marked junctural boundaries were present. Also, two distinct patterns of velar movement were observed, and previous data on velar coarticulation at unmarked boundaries were corroborated. The above findings are discussed in relation to a general model of speech production.
The room temperature oxidation of titanium thin films

Abstract Thin films of titanium were prepared under ultra high vacuum conditions so that the low temperature, low pressure oxidation kinetics of titanium could be characterized. The kinetics were followed gravimetrically and the oxide and metal films were examined using electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The nucleation of the oxide depended critically upon the titanium film preparations. Analysis of the earliest stages of oxidation indicate that this is limited by surface diffusion of oxygen. The later stages of oxidation are explained by consideration of the effects of metal vacancies generated at the oxide-metal interface.
Uncertainty Analysis of Runoff Simulations and Parameter Identifiability in the Community Land Model: Evidence from MOPEX Basins

AbstractIn this study, the authors applied version 4 of the Community Land Model (CLM4) integrated with an uncertainty quantification (UQ) framework to 20 selected watersheds from the Model Parameter Estimation Experiment (MOPEX) spanning a wide range of climate and site conditions to investigate the sensitivity of runoff simulations to major hydrologic parameters and to assess the fidelity of CLM4, as the land component of the Community Earth System Model (CESM), in capturing realistic hydrological responses. They found that for runoff simulations, the most significant parameters are those related to the subsurface runoff parameterizations. Soil texture–related parameters and surface runoff parameters are of secondary significance. Moreover, climate and soil conditions play important roles in the parameter sensitivity. In general, water-limited hydrologic regime and finer soil texture result in stronger sensitivity of output variables, such as runoff and its surface and subsurface components, to the inpu...
Scattering of 5–15 MeV protons from Be9

Abstract In this study of proton scattering from Be 9 , solid state detectors were used to measure angular distributions of the cross sections for elastic scattering and inelastic scattering to the 2.43 MeV excited state. These distributions were measured at eleven bombarding energies between 5 and 15.1 MeV and cover the range from 15° to 170° in the c.m. system. The total cross section for scattering to the excited state shows a small maximum at 8 and 9 MeV bombarding energy.
Ultrastructural visualization of sulphated complex carbohydrates in blood and epithelial cells with the high iron diamine procedure

The high iron diamine (HID) method has been found to impart density at the ultrastructural level selectively to sites known to contain sulphated complex carbohydrates. Thus, immature primary granules in rabbit heterophils, immature precrystalloid granules in rabbit eosinophils, all granules of rabbit basophils, mouse and rat mast cells and the nucleoids of α-granules of rabbit platelets were stained by HID. Granules of mast cells in rat cervical lymph node varied in the distribution pattern of the HID-reactive component. Mucous droplets within goblets of mouse colonic epithelial cells varied in HID reactivity. Sites known to contain sialomucin but no sulphates, such as mucous cells and apical plasmalemmae in mouse rectosigmoid colon, failed to stain with HID in contrast to their reactivity for dialysed iron at the ultrastructural level. The surface of mast cells and blood cells lacked affinity for HID, indicating that the dialysed iron binding at the surfaces can be attributed to neuraminic acid. HID proved more effective than dialysed iron in visualizing acid mucosubstance in precursor forms of the crystalloid granules in the eosinophil and in mast cell granules. Inclusion of 0.5% glycerol in the HID solution enhanced staining in mouse colon.
An experimentally determined set of V-T and V-V rate constants involving the OH radical. Implications for atmospheric chemistry

Abstract This is the first application of an analytical technique verifying a generalized rate law for vibrational relaxation based on a complete solution of the master equation. Experimental V-T and V-V energy transfer rate constants for the collisional deactivation of OH( v = 1–4) at 300 K by O 3 and OH are reported. It is found that the rate constant for 2OH( v = 1) → OH( v = 0) + OH( v = 2) is 1.8 × 10 −10 cm 3 molecule −1 s −1 and that for OH( v = 1) + O 3 → OH( v = 0) + O 3 is 1.0 × 10 −12 cm 3 molecule −1 s −1 , both ±30%. Altogether 40 V-T and V-V rate constants involving vibrationally excited OH are extracted from the time evolution of the OH( v ) distribution produced by the chemical reaction O( 1 D) + H 2 → OH( v ) + H. The rate constants obey a combined Landau-Teller-exponential gap law, with the gap constants being very similar in magnitude to the Polanyi-Woodall or Lambert-Salter constants. It is also shown that measurements of OH quenching by O 3 as reported by others are correct in magnitude but might be falsely attributed to chemical reaction, throwing doubts on atmospheric models of OH chemistry. Furthermore, using the energy transfer rate constants just determined, the time-evolution of the population distribution is extrapolated backwards in time. The resulting initial distribution is found to be yet more sharply peaked than reported heretofore for the reaction O( 1 D) + H 2 → OH( v ) + H. Finally it is shown that commonly used rate laws for vibrational relaxation, such as the Bethe-Teller law and quasi-first-order decay laws of initially excited levels, should be abandoned.
Hydration Dynamics in a Partially Denatured Ensemble of the Globular Protein Human α-Lactalbumin Investigated with Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Atomistic molecular dynamics simulations are used to probe changes in the nature and subnanosecond dynamical behavior of solvation waters that accompany partial denaturation of the globular protein, human α-lactalbumin. A simulated ensemble of subcompact conformers, similar to the molten globule state of human α-lactalbumin, demonstrates a marginal increase in the amount of surface solvation relative to the native state. This increase is accompanied by subtle but distinct enhancement in surface water dynamics, less favorable protein-water interactions, and a marginal decrease in the anomalous behavior of solvation water dynamics. The extent of solvent influx is not proportional to the increased surface area, and the partially denatured conformers are less uniformly solvated compared to their native counterpart. The observed solvation in partially denatured conformers is lesser in extent compared to earlier experimental estimates in molten globule states, and is consistent with more recent descriptions based on nuclear magnetic relaxation dispersion studies.
Countermeasures for space radiation induced adverse biologic effects

Abstract Radiation exposure in space is expected to increase the risk of cancer and other adverse biological effects in astronauts. The types of space radiation of particular concern for astronaut health are protons and heavy ions known as high atomic number and high energy (HZE) particles. Recent studies have indicated that carcinogenesis induced by protons and HZE particles may be modifiable. We have been evaluating the effects of proton and HZE particle radiation in cultured human cells and animals for nearly a decade. Our results indicate that exposure to proton and HZE particle radiation increases oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, cataract development and malignant transformation in in vivo and/or in vitro experimental systems. We have also shown that these adverse biological effects can be prevented, at least partially, by treatment with antioxidants and some dietary supplements that are readily available and have favorable safety profiles. Some of the antioxidants and dietary supplements are effective in preventing radiation induced malignant transformation in vitro even when applied several days after the radiation exposure. Our recent progress is reviewed and discussed in the context of the relevant literature.
Robust joint congestion control and scheduling for time-varying multihop wireless networks with time delay

Joint congestion control and scheduling has been widely applied to resource allocation in multi-hop wireless networks. Existing algorithms usually rely on seamless cooperation between network components to seek the optimal solution. However, this is unrealistic considering the presence of time delay and channel capacity perturbation in real wireless environments. The stability and efficiency of these cross-layer control algorithms face significant challenges. In this paper we present ROCS: a robust joint congestion control and scheduling algorithm for time-varying multihop wireless networks with time delay, to bridge the gap between the existing results and the reality of wireless networks. The fundamental idea behind ROCS is Capacity Space Mapping, which combines the slow time scale part of the original channel capacity and a margin estimated from the fast time scale part, to form a new capacity space. The cross-layer resource allocation problem is formulated into a utility maximization framework over the newly generated capacity space. The problem is solved by a control algorithm which contains two closely coupled components: Link Scheduling and Congestion Control. Link Scheduling coordinates wireless link utilization on a maximum weight basis, and Congestion Control allocates flow rates according to congestion feedback information. We further derive the sufficient conditions for the Lyapunov stability of the control algorithm with time delay, following the Razumikhin theorem. We demonstrate via extensive experiments conducted over simulated and real world wireless traces that ROCS substantially achieves robustness and efficiency.
Aboveground biomass partitioning in loblolly pine silvopastoral stands: Spatial configuration and pruning effects

Abstract Patterns of biomass partitioning have been extensively studied in loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) plantations and natural stands, but not in silvopastoral practices, which are being promoted in southern United States. We conducted aboveground biomass harvests in 18-year-old loblolly pine growing in single-, double-, and quadruple-row configurations at 2.1 m between trees in the row, and initial densities of 308, 568, and 932 trees ha−1. In the double- and quadruple-row configurations, rows were 2.4 m apart while alleys were 14.6 m wide in all configurations. Trees were felled from single, double (east and west orientations) and, the exterior east and one of the interior (trees identified as QR2) quadruple rows, and separated into bole, branches, twigs (
Topological dependence of universal correlations in multiparameter Hamiltonians.

Universality of correlation functions obtained in parametric random matrix theory is explored in a multiparameter formalism, through the introduction of a diffusion matrix ${D}_{\mathrm{ij}}(\mathrm{R})$, and compared to results from a multiparameter chaotic model. We show that certain universal correlation functions in one dimension are no longer well defined by the metric distance between the points in parameter space, due to a global topological dependence on the path taken. By computing the density of diabolical points, which is found to increase quadratically with the dimension of the space, we find a universal measure of the density of diabolical points in chaotic systems.
Sol-gel coated glass cells for spin-exchange polarized 3 He

We have developed a high-purity sol-gel coating for the interior surface of glass cells used for polarizing 3He by spin-exchange optical pumping. The coating is designed to minimize spin relaxation due to wall collisions. A longitudinal spin-relaxation time T1 in a sol-gel coated Pyrex cell of 344±8 h was achieved, the longest T1 we have ever recorded for a gaseous sample. Repeated trials indicated that the coating was quite robust. Results using an uncoated Pyrex cell were also quite good, although inferior to the performance of the coated cell.
Observations of the Korea Strait bottom cold water

Abstract In this study, a set of 13 bottom mounted acoustic Doppler current profilers with temperature and pressure sensors were deployed in the Korea Strait for 11 months in 1999–2000. The overall purpose of the project was to understand the linkages between the East Asian marginal seas. Our focus in this paper is on an intrusion of bottom cold water from the East Sea which appears on the western side of the Korea Strait (Korea Strait Bottom Cold Water, KSBCW). In contrast to previous work, we did not find a yearly cycle in its appearance with maximum in summer and minimum in winter. Rather, sustained intrusions occurred in May/June and again in December/January. Bottom currents during the times of its appearance showed only limited advective intrusion with recycling back to the East Sea. Monthly scale bottom temperature records in the intrusion area were negatively correlated with the cross-strait bottom pressure anomaly, a measure of geostrophic transport through the Strait. Our hypothesis is that when geostrophic transport is low the bottom cold water intrudes, and when it is high the cold water is prevented from intruding. Prediction of the bottom cold water appearance, then, would depend on prediction of the geostrophic transport.
Hermes copper ( Lycaena [ Hermelycaena ] hermes : Lycaenidae): life history and population estimation of a rare butterfly

Hermes copper (Lycaena [Hermelycaena] hermes: Lycaenidae) is a rare species endemic to the coastal sage scrub in and around San Diego, CA, USA. This species has experienced substantial habitat loss due to urbanization and recent wildfires. We present data collected from field surveys conducted in 2003 and 2004. The flight season lasted 1–2 months with densities varying among sites and years. We observed adults most often near California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) plants and significantly more often on north and west sides of trails or roads. We compared the robustness and statistical power of three indices of population size from the modified Pollard Walk surveys. We recorded the largest single-day count (Max Count), the cumulative number observed throughout the flight season (Pollard) and an estimate based on a four-parameter model (INCA: Insect Count Analyzer). The Pollard estimate was the most robust to sampling error and the most powerful at detecting population changes in simulated data. Improved monitoring techniques, both field methods and statistical estimation, are critical to determine the conservation status of rare butterflies like Hermes copper.
Self-report of illicit benzodiazepine use on the Addiction Severity Index predicts treatment outcome

The relationship between pre-treatment illicit benzodiazepine use (days of use in the last 30) assessed on the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and treatment outcome was investigated by retrospective analysis of data from two controlled clinical trials in 361 methadone maintained cocaine/opiate users randomly assigned to 12-week voucher- or prize-based contingency management (CM) or control interventions. Based on screening ASI, participants were identified as non-users (BZD-N; 0 days of use) or users (BZD-U; >0 days of use). Outcome measures were: urine drug screens (thrice weekly); quality of life and self-reported HIV-risk behaviors (every 2 weeks); and current DSM-IV diagnosis of cocaine and heroin dependence (study exit). In the CM group, BZD-U had significantly worse outcomes on in-treatment cocaine use, quality-of-life scores, needle-sharing behaviors, and current heroin dependence diagnoses at study exit compared to BZD-N. In the control group, BZD-U had significantly higher in-treatment cocaine use but did not differ from BZD-N on psychosocial measures. Thus, in a sample of non-dependent BZD users, self-reported illicit BZD use on the ASI, even at low levels, predicted worse outcome on cocaine use and blunted response to CM.
Combined treatment with compression therapy and ablation of incompetent superficial and perforating veins reduces ulcer recurrence in patients with CEAP 5 venous disease

Objective Patients with healed venous ulcers often experience recurrence of ulceration, despite the use of long-term compression therapy. This study examines the effect of closing incompetent superficial and/or perforating veins on ulcer recurrence rates in patients with CEAP 5 who have progressive lipodermatosclerosis and impending ulceration. Methods Endovenous ablation was performed on patients with CEAP 5 disease and incompetent superficial and/or perforator veins and increasing lipodermatosclerosis and/or progressive malleolar pain. A minimum of 3 months of compressive therapy was attempted before endovenous ablation of incompetent veins. Demographic data, risk factors, CEAP classification, procedural details, and postoperative status were all recorded. Patients underwent duplex ultrasound scans before ablation to assess for deep, superficial, and perforator venous incompetence as well as postoperatively to confirm successful ablation. Results Twenty-eight endovenous ablation procedures (superficial = 19; perforator=9) were performed on 20 patients (limbs = 21). The mean patient age was 73 years old (range, 45-93 years) and the mean body mass index was 29.5 (18.9-58.4). Ninety-five percent of patients previously wore compression stockings (20-30 mm Hg=9; 30-40 mm Hg=10; none=1) for a mean time of 23.3 months (range, 3-52 months) since the prior ulcer healed. Indications for venous ablation were increasing malleolar pain (55%) and/or lipodermatosclerosis (70%). Technical success rates for the ablation procedures were 100% for superficial veins and 89% for perforators (96.4% overall). All patients underwent closure of at least one incompetent vein. Postoperatively, 95% of patients were compliant with wearing compression stockings (20-30 mm Hg=8; 30-40 mm Hg=11; none=1). Ulcer recurrence rates were 0% at 6 months and 4.8% at 12 and 18 months. These data compare with prior studies showing an ulcer recurrence rate up to 67% at 12 months with compression alone. Conclusion Patients with CEAP 5 healed venous ulcers that undergo endovenous ablation of incompetent superficial and perforating veins and maintain compression have reduced ulcer recurrence rates compared with historical controls that are treated with compression alone.
Canine human scent identifications with post-blast debris collected from improvised explosive devices

In this study it is demonstrated that human odor collected from items recovered at a post-blast scene can be evaluated using human scent specific canine teams to locate and identify individuals who have been in contact with the improvised explosive device (IED) components and/or the delivery vehicle. The purpose of the experiments presented here was to document human scent survivability in both peroxide-based explosions as well as simulated roadside IEDs utilizing double-blind field trials. Human odor was collected from post-blast device and vehicle components. Human scent specific canine teams were then deployed at the blast scene and in locations removed from the blast scene to validate that human odor remains in sufficient quantities for reliable canine detection and identification. Human scent specific canines have shown the ability to identify individuals who have been in contact with IEDs using post-blast debris with an average success from site response of 82.2% verifying that this technology has great potential in criminal, investigative, and military applications.
Covalent binding of 14c-1,1,2-trichloroethane to hepatic proteins following acetone pretreatment

ABSTRACTWe have recently reported that pretreatment of rats with acetone potentiates both the hepatic glutathione (GSH) depletion and subsequent hepatotoxicity caused by 1,1,2-trichloroethane (TCEA). To determine if acetone treatment enhances the bioactivation of TCEA, the covalent binding of 14C-TCEA to tissue proteins was assessed both in vivo and in vitro. Male, Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with acetone (0.5 ml/kg; po), fasted 16 hr prior to dosing with 14C-TCEA (1.2 mmole/kg; ip), and killed 4 hr later. Overnight fasting, alone resulted in a six fold increase in covalent binding of 14C-TCEA to hepatic proteins compared to non-fasted rats. Acetone pretreatment, however, did not cause an increase in binding of 14C-TCEA 4 hr after dosing compared to fasted controls, although it did produce a 30% further decrease in hepatic GSH. When microsomes from acetone treated rats were incubated with 14C-TCEA, covalent binding to protein was significantly increased (35%) over using, microsomes from fasted contro...
A Framework for Successful E‐Technology Implementation: Understand, Simplify, Automate

Too many computerized systems are still not designed to best meet the business needs of their end-users. Often, the reason is that non-technology managers do not take an active enough part in the design of those systems. But those who follow the three-step process of understanding, simplifying, and only then automating will work most effectively with their information systems colleagues to design the most appropriate systems. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.