cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reexamining the Moving to Opportunity Study and Its Contribution to Changing the Distribution of Poverty and Ethnic Concentration

For the past decade and a half, a concerted effort has been undertaken to determine whether policy interventions in residential location can solve the problems of inner-city poverty and racial concentration. Studies based on data from the Gautreaux litigation and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)—sponsored Moving to Opportunity (MTO) program have provided an overall optimistic interpretation of the possibilities of improving inner-city lives via mobility vouchers and counseling. A reanalysis of the data from the MTO program, focusing specifically on African American households, suggests greater caution in the interpretation of the findings from either Gautreaux or the MTO program. No statistically significant difference exists between the percentage of poor or the percentage of African Americans in the current neighborhoods between MTO and Section 8 experimental groups. In some cases, there is no statistically significant difference between those who move with a voucher and those who move without any assistance at all. Although there is some evidence that MTO programs have brought specific gains for individual families, claims for the MTO program as a whole need to be treated with a great deal more caution than they have been to date.
Release of egg development neurosecretory hormone in Aedes aegypti and Aedes taeniorhynchus induced by an ovarian factor

Ovariectomized Aedes aegypti do not synthesize vitellogenin after a blood meal, unless an ovary from a blood-fed donor is implanted. Decapitation, however, prior to implantation inhibits vitellogenin synthesis. A female ovariectomized and decapitated 6 hr after a blood meal, synthesizes vitellogenin if an ovary from a blood-fed donor is implanted. On the other hand, females that are fed on blood and immediately decapitated can not be stimulated to synthesize vitellogenin with implanted ovaries removed from blood-fed donors. These experiments led to the hypothesis that the blood meal stimulates the ovary to secrete a corpus cardiacum stimulating factor, that in turn promotes release of egg development neurosecretory hormone stored in the corpus cardiacum. Injection of 20-hydroxy-ecdysone or ovarian extract prepared from ovaries removed from unfed females does not release egg development neurosecretory hormone. Thus corpus cardiacum stimulating factor is not 20-hydroxy-ecdysone, and ovaries removed from unfed females do not store it. The rate of inactivation of egg development neurosecretory hormone released from the corpus cardiacum after a blood meal was investigated by implanting an ovary into females that were blood fed for various intervals than decapitated and ovariectomized. Seventy per cent of implants grow when the operation is done 18 hr after feeding, and 30% when the operation is done between 18 and 24 hr after feeding, indicating that egg development neurosecretory hormone is stable for the first 18 hr after a blood meal. Aedes taeniorhynchus females ovariectomized 24 hr after adult emergence do not synthesize vitellogenin. When such a female is implanted with an ovary removed from a sugar-fed or blood-fed Aedes aegypti donor vitellogenin synthesis is initiated, and the implant grows. Decapitation prior to implantation inhibit vitellogenin synthesis and implants do not grow. These results indicate that corpus cardiacum stimulating factor is not species specific.
Convenient syntheses of dihydropyrrolo[2′,1′:3,4]pyrazino- and dihydropyrrolo[2′,1′:3,4][1,4]diazepino-[2,1-a]isoindolones

Abstract Dihydropyrrolo[2′,1′:3,4]pyrazino[2,1-a]isoindolones 10a–10c were obtained in 76–81% yields by the reaction of 2-(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)ethylamine 8 with 2-formylbenzoic acids 9a , 9b or 2-acetylbenzoic acid 9c via N-acyliminium cation aromatic cyclizations. Similarly, dihydropyrrolo[2′,1′:3,4][1,4]diazepino[2,1-a]isoindolones 12a , 12b were prepared in one-pot reactions from 3-(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)propylamine 11 and 2-formylbenzoic acids 9a , 9b .
Identification of Functional Bradykinin B2 Receptors Endogenously Expressed in HEK293 Cells

The human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cell line is widely used in cell biology research. Although HEK293 cells have been meticulously studied, our knowledge about endogenous G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) in these cells is incomplete. While studying the effects of bradykinin (BK), a potent growth factor for renal cells, we unexpectedly discovered that BK activates extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1 and 2 (ERK) in HEK293 cells. Thus, we hypothesized that HEK293 cells possess endogenous BK receptors. RT-PCR demonstrated the presence of mRNAs for BK B(1) and BK B(2) receptors in HEK293 cells. Western blotting with BK B(1) and BK B(2) receptor antibodies confirmed this result at the protein level. To establish that BK receptors are functional, we employed fluorescent measurements of intracellular Ca(2+), measured changes in extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) as a reflection of the Na(+)/H(+) exchange (NHE) with a Cytosensortrade microphysiometer, and assessed ERK activation by Western blotting with a phospho-specific ERK antibody. Exposure of HEK293 cells to BK produced a concentration-dependent rise in intracellular Ca(2+) (EC(50)=36.5+/-8.0 x 10(-9)M), a rapid increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of ERK (EC(50)=9.8+/-0.4 x 10(-9)M), and elevation in ECAR by approximately 20%. All of these signals were blocked by HOE-140 (B(2) receptor antagonist) but not by des-Arg(10)-HOE-140 (B(1) receptor antagonist). We conclude that HEK293 cells express endogenous functional BK B(2) receptors, which couple to the mobilization of intracellular Ca(2+), increases in ECAR and increases in ERK phosphorylation.
Modern ceramic-on-ceramic total hip systems in the United States: early results.

In 1997, two manufacturers began Food and Drug Administration approved investigations of a ceramic-on-ceramic (alumina) articulation total hip replacement in the United States. Osteonics (Allendale, NJ) and Wright Medical Technology (Arlington, TN) enrolled more than 500 and 300 patients, respectively, when their studies ended in the middle part of 1998. The author presents detailed early results of the series by Wright Medical Technology. Three hundred thirty-three patients were enrolled in 11 centers around the country in a prospective series. All patients received the Transcend ceramic-on-ceramic articulation and have a minimum of 18 months followup with a range of 18 to 36 months. Harris hip scores increased on average from 44 to 97 points. Four patients underwent revision surgery; one for deep infection, one for early migration of the cup, one for dislocation, and one for liner malplacement. Overall, there were 42 complications. Seven were systemic and 35 were related to the total hip replacement. Four of the 35 complications were ceramic related and included three chipped liners and one eccentric seating of the cup liner. To date, no patient underwent revision surgery for aseptic loosening. Seven technical guidelines are suggested to enhance the quality of the intraoperative and postoperative results: a conservative femoral neck cut; horizontal cup placement ( 20 degrees); use of trial liners; impaction of ceramic pieces; hand placement of the liner; and removal of osteophytes and/or part of the anterior wall of the acetabulum to avoid impingement. Alternate bearing articulations, particularly ceramics, have important technical aspects to be considered at the time of implantation to minimize intraoperative and postoperative complications. To date, there have been no postoperative fractures of the ceramic pieces in any of the completed or ongoing ceramic-on-ceramic investigations by all involved manufacturers. These preliminary results are satisfactory at this time. One can look to the future with cautious optimism.
Testing of Railroad Signal Equipment for Power Line Interference Susceptibility, Part II: Test Results

A basic need to permit planhing of new ac power lines near railroad-systems is accurate data for the levels of ac interference that upset the operation of railroad signal compenents or systems. Such data would help the power system and railroad system design engineer understand the magnitude of the interference problem, investigate alternative mitigation approaches, and select one that is cost-effective and mutually agreeable. Under EPRI research program RP 1902-1, IITRI developed a body of key railroad signal equipment susceptibility data in cooperation with the major U.S. manufacturers of this equipment. This paper describes the innovative test jig developed under RP 1902-1 which has been applied to obtain susceptibility data for track and line relays, electronic track circuits, and grade-crossing. warning devices. A companion paper (Part II) describes the results of the tests.
A self-stabilizing distributed algorithm to construct an arbitrary spanning tree of a connected graph

Abstract We propose a simple self-stabilizing distributed algorithm that maintains an arbitrary spanning tree in a connected graph. In proving the correctness of the algorithm, we develop a new technique without using a bounded function (which is customary for proving correctness of self-stabilizing algorithms); the new approach is simple and can be potentially applied to proving correctness of other self-stabilizing algorithms.
N-Nitroso compounds produced in deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) GI tracts following hexahydro-1,3,5- trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) exposure

Given the potent carcinogenic effects of most N-nitroso compounds, the reductive transformation of the common explosive hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) to a group of N-nitroso derivatives, hexahydro-1-nitroso-3,5-dinitro-1,3,5-triazine (MNX), hexahydro-1,3-dinitroso-5-nitro-1,3,5-triazine (DNX), and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitroso-1,3,5-triazine (TNX) in the environment have caused concerns among the general public. Questions are arising about whether the same transformations also occur in mammals, and if true, to what extent. This study investigated the N-nitroso derivatives production in the deer mouse GI tract following RDX administration. Findings verified that such transformations do occur in the mammalian GI tract at notable levels: the average MNX concentrations in deer mice stomach were 85 μg/kg and 1318 μg/kg for exposure to 10 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg diet, respectively. DNX in stomach were 217 μg/kg for the 10 mg/kg dose group and 498 μg/kg for the 100 mg/kg dose group. Changes in other toxic endpoints including body weight gain, food consumption, organ weight, and behavior were also reported.
Warm isostatic pressing (WIP'ing) of GS44 Si3N4 FDC parts for defect removal

Abstract Fused deposition of ceramics (FDC) is one of the developing solid freeform fabrication (SFF) techniques. The successful production of high performance ceramics by the FDC process requires that no defects exist in the green parts. However, build defects, such as missing roads, poorly bonded layers or sub-perimeter voids can be encountered in improperly built FDC parts. In this study, a method known as WIP'ing (warm isostatic pressing) was evaluated for its ability to eliminate existing defects in GS44 Si 3 N 4 green FDC parts. Analogous to CIP'ing (cold isostatic pressing), the green FDC parts were rubber bagged and loaded into a pressure chamber filled with water soluble oil at different temperatures, ranging from 30 to 90°C, at pressures of up to 35 MPa. X-Ray radiography results indicated that at temperatures above 70°C, WIP'ing was effective in closing the gaps of the intentionally placed void defects in FDC parts. However, WIP'ing above 70°C was not effective in healing the defects completely. The fracture strengths of FDC parts with intentional added defects, WIP'ed above 70°C were substantially lower than control samples.
Gene trapping with GFP: the isolation of developmental mutants in the slime mold Polysphondylium

Abstract In order to study how a cell mass undergoes a transition from one symmetry to another in the slime mold Polysphondylium , we developed a genetic screen in which mutant phenotype and gene expression can easily be visualized in the living organism. The screen combines restriction enzyme-mediated integration (REMI) [1,2] and green fluorescent protein (GFP) [3] expression. In REMI, a restriction enzyme is electroporated along with linearized vector into cells, thus determining the site of plasmid insertion and often increasing the integration frequency. A set of transforming plasmids carrying the GFP coding sequence in three reading frames was used for transformation. The plasmids were constructed so that GFP could be expressed only under control of a host promoter. Living transformants expressing GFP spatially and temporally could be rapidly identified in a very large background of non-expressing cells and fruiting bodies. The phenotypes of representative mutants range from cells that cannot aggregate and initiate cell–cell interactions, through mutant fruiting bodies, to apparently wild-type fruiting bodies expressing GFP in all or a subpopulation of cells. The ability to screen mutant living cells and tissues for GFP expression is rapid and effective and likely to have application in many transformable systems where screening by gene and promoter trapping is essential for understanding temporal and spatial gene regulation.
Future trends in managing hepatitis C.

Despite recent improvements in the treatment of patients who have chronic hepatitis C, a large proportion of patients do not achieve viral clearance. Treatment regimens are also costly, associated with significant morbidity, require substantial patient commitment, and are not appropriate for all patients. Therefore, it is important to maximize and enhance current therapeutic approaches and to investigate new approaches and therapies. Because the ability to maintain adherence to current treatment is associated with higher sustained virologic response rates (particularly in patients infected with genotype 1), strategies directed at patients and support staff to promote treatment adherence are important. Other strategies to enhance current therapy include alternative interferons (IFNs)/ cytokines and new IFN delivery systems. Current therapy may also be enhanced by new ribavirin (RBV) analogs with an improved safety profile or by the addition of other immunomodulatory agents such as inosine 5'-monophosphate dehydrogenase inhibitors, histamine dihydrochloride, thymosin alfa 1, and amantadine. Some of these agents have demonstrated promising results, although further evaluation is required. Greater knowledge of the molecular biology of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) holds promise for the development of targeted therapies such as specific inhibitors of HCV polymerase, protease, or helicase, as well as therapeutic vaccines. Other potential molecular-based therapies include antisense oligonucleotides, ribozymes, and short interfering ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules. Therapies aimed at reducing or preventing the development of fibrosis are also under investigation. Multiple-drug regimens will likely be required to enhance viral clearance and reduce viral resistance, while providing greater tolerability.
Neuropeptide Y induced modulation of dopamine synthesis in the striatum.

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the activation of NPY receptors alters catecholamines (CA) synthesis in the central nervous system and, if so, to identify the NPY receptor subtype(s) mediating this effect. Tyrosine hydroxylation, the rate-limiting step in CA synthesis, was assessed by measuring the accumulation of 3,4-dihydroxyphenyalanine (DOPA) by high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to electrochemical detection (HPLC-EC) in rat striatal dices following incubation of the tissue with the aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor m-hydroxybenzyl hydrazine (NSD 1015). Treatment with NSD 1015 resulted in an increase in DOPA accumulation that was increased even further following depolarization with a high potassium (KCl) buffer. PYY13-36 and NPY13-36 both produced a significant enhancement of the KCl-induced increase in DOPA accumulation. The effect of PYY13-36 was completely attenuated by the selective Y 2 antagonist BIIE0246 suggesting that activation of Y 2 receptors enhanced the synthesis of dopamine. In contrast to the effects of NPY13-36 and PYY13-36; NPY, PYY and PYY3-36 all produced a significant attenuation of the KCl-induced increase in DOPA accumulation. The Y 1 antagonist BIBO3304 and the Y 5 -antagonist CGP71683A, both prevented the inhibitory effect of NPY converting it to a stimulatory effect. The enhancement of the NPY induced increase in DOPA accumulation observed by BIBO3304 was attenuated when examined in the presence of the Y 2 antagonist BIIE0246. These results suggest that activation of NPY receptors can modulate the synthesis of CA in the rat striatum. The Y 1 and Y 5 receptor appear to be involved in attenuation, while Y 2 receptors are involved in the stimulation of synthesis.
Listening to Students: A Different Kind of Student Activism

Next to Carleton College's Gould Library, there is a tall statue that, while ostensibly intended to honor the founders of the college, looks remarkably like an upright phallus. In my time at Carlet...
Interstitial and substitutional oxide superconductors

Oxide superconductors are classified as “interstitial” or “substitutional” depending on the site of the dopant oxygen which causes superconductivity. Only substitutional oxide superconductors normally exhibit photo-induced superconductivity. High-temperature superconductivity originates with dopant oxygen, as has been demonstrated in BSCCO, where the cuprate planes are insulating, but the Bi-O layers superconduct.
Structural characterization of three new AAL toxins produced by Alternaria alternata f. sp. lycopersici

Three new pairs of biologically active regioisomeric toxins (AAL toxins TC, TD, and TE) were isolated from liquid cultures of Alternaria alternata f. sp. lycopersici, purified using standard chromatographic procedures, and their structures elucidated following interpretation of spectra obtained from NMR and mass spectrometry experiments. Each of the toxin congeners is structurally similar to the AAL toxin TA, which was characterized earlier from culture filtrates of this fungus. AAL toxin TC resembles TA but differs in its lack of hydroxyl groups at C 4 and C 5 . AAL toxin TE is the N-acetylated form of TC [...]
Evolution of ibrutinib resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

The Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTKi) ibrutinib is a new targeted therapy for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Ibrutinib is given orally on a continuous schedule and induces durable remissions in the majority of CLL patients. However, a small proportion of patients initially responds to the BTKi and then develops resistance. Estimating the frequency, timing, and individual risk of developing resistance to ibrutinib, therefore, would be valuable for long-term management of patients. Computational evolutionary models, based on measured kinetic parameters of patients, allow us to approach these questions and to develop a roadmap for personalized prognosis and treatment management. Our kinetic models predict that BTKi-resistant mutants exist before initiation of ibrutinib therapy, although they only comprise a minority of the overall tumor burden. Furthermore, we can estimate the time required for resistant cells to grow to detectable levels. We predict that this can be highly variable, depending mostly on growth and death rates of the individual CLL cell clone. For a specific patient, this time can be predicted with a high degree of certainty. Our model can thus be used to predict for how long ibrutinib can suppress the disease in individual patients. Furthermore, the model can suggest whether prior debulking of the tumor with chemo-immunotherapy can prolong progression-free survival under ibrutinib. Finally, by applying the models to data that document progression during ibrutinib therapy, we estimated that resistant mutants might have a small (<2%) mean fitness advantage in the absence of treatment, compared with sensitive cells.
Reconstruction for DRUJ Instability

The skeletal architecture of the DRUJ provides minimal inherent stability, as the sigmoid notch is shallow and its radius of curvature is 50% greater than that of the ulnar head [Af Ekenstam F, Hagert CG. Anatomical studies on the geometry and stability of the distal radio ulnar joint. Scand J Plast Reconstr Surg 1985;19(1):17–25]. Due to its incongruent articulation, the DRUJ relies strongly on the surrounding soft tissues for stability. The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is generally accepted as the major soft tissue stabilizer of the DRUJ of which the volar and dorsal radioulnar ligaments are the primary components. Restoration of the radioulnar ligaments offers the best possibility to restore the normal DRUJ primary constraints and kinematics. This article presents an update of the procedure developed by the senior author that anatomically reconstructs the palmar and dorsal radioulnar ligaments at their anatomic origins and insertions.
Vacancy defect mobilities and binding energies obtained from annealing studies

Abstract A review is given of our current knowledge of the mobilities and binding energies of vacancy defects in a number of selected fee and bee metals as derived from annealing experiments after quenching and/or irradiation. It is concluded that vacancy defects are retained by quenching in these metals, and that Stage III annealing after irradiation occurs by the migration of vacancy-type defects. The monovacancy migration energies derived from annealing experiments after both quenching and irradiation are in fair agreement. Also, the sum of the monovacancy migration energy and the formation energy is in reasonable agreement with the activation energy for self-diffusion due to monovacancies. The temperature of Stage III annealing after irradiation is generally lower then the annealing temperature after quenching because of a smaller number of defect jumps to annihilation after irradiation. Information about divacancies and trivacancies is considerably more limited and is critically reviewed.
Hot-wire/film anemometry measurements in flows with heat transfer and signal correction

Abstract Proper interpretation of a constant-temperature anemometer (CTA) signal in a nonisothermal flow requires some temperature correction of the signal. The object of this paper is to describe the use of a systematic procedure which compensates for ambient temperature drift in constant-temperature anemometer operation. The procedure will be demonstrated for a normal (90°) sensor probe.
Flexibility and feedback: a new approach to ongoing training for reference student assistants

Scheduling conflicts and budget deficits forced the termination of a classroom‐format training program for student assistants serving at a university library general reference desk. In its place has arisen a year‐round alternative approach to training that combines individualized instruction, hands‐on learning, scavenger hunts, and regular review of reference desk policies, practices, and procedures. This reincarnated undergraduate student assistant training program now allows for ongoing practice and increased feedback. Additional benefits of this new training program include greater student‐student and student‐staff interactions, the flexibility to quickly address perceived problems, and the ability to rapidly focus on new reference tools and reference policies.
Regulation of the number of α-bungarotoxin binding sites in cultured chick myotubes by a 1,4 dihydropyridine calcium channel antagonist

Calcium has been suggested as the second messenger link between skeletal muscle activity and AchR gene expression and synthesis. We have compared the concentrations of the Ca2+ channel antagonists D600 and nisoldipine needed both to block Ca2+ uptake into cultured myotubes and to increase AchR expression. The good correspondence between these two measurements and the use of the highly specific Ca2+ channel antagonist nisoldipine strengthens the hypothesis that antagonist nisoldipine strengthens the hypothesis that AchR expression is regulated by levels of intracellular Ca2+.
Debris transport analysis at the intermediate focus of an extreme ultraviolet light source

As extreme ultraviolet light lithography matures, critical deficits in the technology are being resolved. Research has largely focused on solving the debris issue caused by using warm (Te ∼ 30 eV) and dense (ne ∼ 1020 cm−3) plasma to create 13.5-nm light. This research has been largely focused on the mitigation of the debris between the plasma and the collector optics. The next step of debris mitigation is investigated, namely the effect of debris mitigation on the transport of undesired contaminants to the intermediate focus (IF). In order to investigate emissions from the IF, the Center for Plasma-Material Interactions at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has developed the Sn intermediate focus flux emission detector. The effects of a secondary RF-plasma, buffer gas flow rate, chamber pressure, and charged plate deflection are investigated. By increasing the chamber pressure to 10 mTorr, flowing 1000 sccm Ar buffer gas, and utilizing charged particle deflection, it is possible to reduce the measured number of post-IF species by greater than 99%. Furthermore, it is shown that typical debris mitigation techniques lead to the development of a plasma near the IF that can be detrimental to post-IF optics.
Optical novelty filter with phase carrier

Abstract The use of a phase carrier to perform novelty filtering is proposed and experimentally demonstrated.
INTENTION, COGNITIVE COMMITMENT, AND PLANNING

This paper defends a cognitive-motivational account of intending against recent criticism by J. Garcia, connects intending with a number of other concepts important in the theory of action — including decison, volition, and planning — and explores some principles of intention transfer construed as counterparts of epistemic principles governing closure for belief and justification. Several routes to intention formation are described; the role of intentions in planning is examined; and a holistic conception of intention formation and change is stressed. The proposed conception of intending as embodying at once a cognitive and a motivational commitment to action is thus shown to help in understanding both the explanation of action and the rationality of agents.
Miocene dolphins of West Ukraine

Microphocaena podolica, gen. et sp. nov., is described from lower Sarmatian deposits (upper Miocene) in Ternopol' Province. The deposits are dated by an associated mollusc fauna, which indicates low salinity. The skull of the porpoise preserves a number of features in common with the modern Azov porpoise, leading the authors to agree with Abel that the modern porpoises derive from mid-Miocene phocaenids. --F.C. Whitmore, Jr.
Ultra-High Finesse Polarization-Maintaining Fiber Resonator

In development of the fiber optics resonant ring gyro it is important to measure the fiber ring linewidth to high accuracy. This short paper introduces a fast and accurate method for measuring of the resonator linewidth and its free spectral range. Using this technique polarization preserving fiber resonator with finesse of 1045 was measured.
Characterization of polysiloxanes with different functional groups by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry.

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polyhydromethylsiloxane (PHMS), and polymethylphenylsiloxane (PMPhS) have been studied by TOF-SIMS to investigate effects of functional group changes on polymer fragmentation mechanisms. Cyclic fragments are observed in the low mass range spectra of PDMS and PHMS, but not in the spectrum of PMPhS. Effects of functional group substitution on the fragmentation mechanisms of polysiloxanes are evident in the high mass range spectra (>1000 Da). Peaks of oligomers cationized by silver dominate the high mass range of the spectra of all low molecular weight polysiloxanes. However, fragmentation patterns of these samples are different. Neutral cyclic fragments cationized by silver are identified in the high mass range of the spectra of PDMS and PHMS, but not in the spectrum of PMPhS. The major fragments of PHMS and PMPhS are [oligomer-14+Ag]+. The PHMS spectrum also shows peaks [oligomer-28+Ag]+. These distinctive fragmentation patterns can be used to identify the polysiloxanes.
A patient navigation intervention for drug-involved former prison inmates.

ABSTRACTBackground: Former prison inmates experience high rates of hospitalizations and death during the transition from prison to the community, particularly from drug-related causes and early after release. The authors designed a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of patient navigation to reduce barriers to health care and hospitalizations for former prison inmates. Methods: Forty former prison inmates with a history of drug involvement were recruited and randomized within 15 days after prison release. Participants were randomized to receive 3 months of patient navigation (PN) with facilitated enrollment into an indigent care discount program (intervention) or facilitated enrollment into an indigent care discount program alone (control). Structured interviews were conducted at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Outcomes were measured as a change in self-reported barriers to care and as the rate of health service use per 100 person-days. Results: The mean number of reported barriers to care was reduced at ...
Investigation of the absorption properties of sputtered tin sulfide thin films for photovoltaic applications

Tin sulfide (SnS) is an absorber with promising optoelectronic properties and low environmental constraints of interest for high efficiency solar cells. Sputtered SnS thin films were deposited at target powers 105–155 W and total pressures of 5 to 60 mTorr in argon. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed a dominant tin monosulfide phase. The absorption coefficient was determined by spectroscopic ellipsometry and unpolarized spectrophotometry measurements. Both methods show that the films have absorption coefficients above the band gap in the range of 105–106 cm−1.
Deposition and properties of spin on Pb5Ge3O11 ferroelectric thin film

Abstract This paper will discuss the spin on deposition of Pb5Ge3O11(PGO) on Ir and ZrO2 substrates for MFMIS and MFIS FeRAM applications. The precursors used are lead acetate trihydrate and germanium isopropoxide in di (ethylene glycol) ethyl ether. After optimizing the deposition conditions of spin speed, baking condition and annealing condition, single phase c-axis PGO has been obtained on both Ir and ZrO2 substrates. The film deposited on Ir substrate shows extremely smooth surface and very well saturated square shape hysteresis loop. The 2Pr is about 6∼8 μC/cm2, dielectric constant is about 50∼100, and the leakage current is about 3×10−6 A/cm2 at 100 kV/cm for 100–120nm thickness PGO thin film. The PGO thin film deposited on ZrO2 is also very uniform. About 0.7V memory window observed for 180nm PGO thin film with 13nm ZrO2 high-k gate dielectric at 2V sweep voltage. The leakage current is about 2.5×10−7 A/cm2 at 100 kV/cm
A DSS for diagnosis and therapy

This paper reviews an approach to the design and construction of a decision support system intended to function as a consultant on the question of diagnosis and therapy selection. It describes the system in terms of the nature of the decision problem involved, discusses factors which make the problem difficult and considers the design goals that have led to the construction of a system with several novel capabilities. Many of those capabilities result from representing domain-specific knowledge in the system in terms of numerous judgmental decision rules, and we examine a number of such rules. Examples of the system in operation are given to illustrate many of these issues, and performance is compared with previous approaches to automated medical decision making. Finally, we consider the domain independence and generality of the methodology and consider the potential impact the system may have as a tool for decision support.
Aquifex aeolicus FlgM protein exhibits a temperature-dependent disordered nature.

Abstract Studies on the nature and function of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDP) over the past 10 years have demonstrated the importance of IDPs in normal cellular function. Although many proteins predicted to be IDPs have been experimentally characterized on an individual basis, the conservation of disorder between homologous proteins from different organisms has not been fully studied. We now demonstrate that the FlgM protein from the thermophile Aquifex aeolicus exhibits a more ordered conformation at 20 °C than the previously characterized FlgM protein from Salmonella typhimurium . FlgM is an inhibitor of the RNA transcription factor σ 28 , which is involved in regulation of the late-stage genes involved in flagella synthesis. Previous work has shown that the S. typhimurium FlgM protein is an intrinsically disordered protein, though the C-terminus becomes ordered when bound to σ 28 or under crowded solution conditions. In this work, we demonstrate that at 20 °C the A. aeolicus FlgM protein exhibits alpha-helical character in circular dichroism (CD) experiments, though the percentage of alpha-helical content decreases with increased temperature, consistent with the FlgM assuming a less folded conformation. We also show that the A. aeolicus FlgM exhibits cooperativity in chemical denaturation experiments, consistent with a globular nature. Furthermore, we use the fluorescent probe FlAsH to show that the H2 helix is ordered, even in the unbound state and that the H1 and H2 helices appear to be associated with each other in the absence of the σ 28 protein. Finally, we demonstrate that the H2 helix assumes an extended conformation at 85 °C. Based on our results, we propose that at 20 °C the A. aeolicus FlgM assumes a four-helix bundle-like conformation that becomes a more extended conformation at the A. aeolicus ' physiological temperature of 85 °C.
THALAMOCORTICAL AND INTRACORTICAL PROJECTIONS TO THE FORELIMB-STUMP SI REPRESENTATION OF RATS THAT SUSTAINED NEONATAL FORELIMB REMOVAL

We previously reported the abnormal expression of hindlimb receptive fields in the stump representation of the primary somatosensory cortex (SI) in rats that sustained neonatal forelimb removal when cortical γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors were pharmacologically blocked (Lane et al. [1997] J. Neurophysiol. 77:2723–2735). In this study, we attempted to identify the substrate for this functional modification. Three potential substrates were examined: 1) changes in intracortical connections within SI; 2) alterations in the projection pattern of thalamocortical afferents from the ventroposterior lateral (VPL) nucleus to SI; and 3) changes in the receptive fields of thalamocortical neurons. We used biotinylated dextran amine and Phaseolus vulgaris leucoagglutinin to examine the intracortical projections associated with the stump and hindlimb representations of SI. True Blue and Diamidino Yellow were used to study the organization of the VPL projections to SI. Finally, single-unit recordings from VPL neurons were made to examine the functional organization of this nucleus in neonatally amputated adult rats. Tracer studies demonstrated no significant change in the intracortical connections or VPL projections associated with the stump and hindlimb SI in neonatally amputated rats. Recordings from VPL of neonatally manipulated rats revealed a small, but significant, population of cells (19.0%) within the stump representation that had dual stump and hindlimb receptive fields. Thus, the data suggest that the functional reorganization observed in SI of neonatally amputated rats may reflect functional alterations occurring in its thalamic inputs. J. Comp. Neurol. 401:187–204, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Demand for fresh beef products in supermarkets: A trial with scanner data

This article constitutes a trial of the use of scanner data to investigate the demand for fresh beef products (brisket, chuck, ground, loin, rib, round, and all other beef). Own-price elasticities are negative, statistically significant, and in the elastic range. Own-advertisement elasticities are positive and statistically significant but very inelastic. Cross-price effects and cross-advertisement effects are marginal. Seasonality is evident only for purchases of loin and all other beef. This article documents the utility of scanner data in food demand analysis.
CBN tool flank wear modelling using Hybrid Neural Network

Accurate tool wear modelling is indispensable for successful hard turning technology implementation. In this study, a Hybrid Neural Network-based modelling approach, which integrates an analytical tool wear model and an artificial neural network, is proposed to predict Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) tool flank wear in turning hardened 52100 bearing steel. Extended Kalman Filter algorithm is used to train the proposed neural network, and the network connectivity is further optimised to achieve an improved and robust modelling performance. Results show that the proposed Hybrid Neural Network excels the analytical tool wear model approach and the general neural network-based modelling approach.
Regulation by the Medial Amygdala of Copulation and Medial Preoptic Dopamine Release

The medial preoptic area (MPOA) is a critical integrative site for male copulatory behavior in most vertebrate species. Extracellular dopamine (DA) is increased in the MPOA of male rats immediately before and during copulation. DA agonists microinjected into the MPOA of male rats facilitate and DA antagonists inhibit sexual behavior. A major source of input to the MPOA is the medial amygdala (MeA), which processes and relays olfactory information to the MPOA. We now report that microinjections of a DA agonist into the MPOA of animals with excitotoxic lesions of the amygdala restored copulatory ability that was lost after the lesions. Moreover, radio-frequency lesions of the MeA impaired copulation and blocked the increases in extracellular DA seen in animals with sham lesions during exposure to a receptive female and during copulation. Thus, both copulatory ability and the MPOA DA response, during exposure to a receptive female and during copulation, are facilitated by input from the MeA to the MPOA.
Task Revision: A Neglected Form of Work Performance

This study addressed the problem of task revision, a virtually unresearched issue in the work performance literature. We defined task revision as action taken to correct a faulty procedure, an inaccurate job description, or a role expectation that is dysfunctional for an organization. Two experiments were constructed to measure task revision and test for its determinants. Results showed that goal setting inhibited task revision: instructions to "do your best" were superior to a specific goal. Facilitators of task revision were the salience of alternatives and being in a supervisory position with accountability pressures. We discuss the implications of these results in terms of the functions of counter-role behavior for organizations and the need to broaden the construct of work performance. Work performance has long occupied a central role in organizational research. It was the primary issue during the beginnings of industrial psychology (e.g., Munsterberg, 1913), of major concern during the human relations movement (e.g., Likert, 1961), and at center stage as empirical research blossomed in organizational behavior (e.g., Vroom, 1964). Now voluminous, the literature on work performance ranges from the extensive study of organizational and social factors that influence work behavior to the analysis of cognitive processes underlying task effort. In recent years, the most common form of performance research has translated the issue into a cognitive question. The aim has not only been to find conditions under which people will work harder, but to explain the mental processes underlying task activity. For example, early versions of need theory, which emphasized stages and growth in human desires, have gradually given way to expectancy models in which valued outcomes are a part of a cognitive calculus hypothesized to precede behavior. Likewise, reinforcement theory, with its emphasis on external incentives and behavioral learning, has been overtaken by goal-setting approaches in which salient outcomes serve as mental targets for behavior. Though we do not yet know exactly how individuals process information in performance contexts,
A family of multiuser decision-feedback detectors for asynchronous code-division multiple-access channels

It is important to identify simple and reliable interference rejection methods for code-division multiple-access (CDMA) channels, since the conventional matched filter receiver has high error rates, and the optimal detector is too complex. We introduce decision-feedback and partial feedback detectors for asynchronous CDMA channels. Two-stage detectors with decision-feedback in the second stage are also studied. The derivation of the decision-feedback detector is based on spectral factorization which leads to a white-noise channel model. We also describe two implementations of the maximum-likelihood detector for this model. Comparisons among the proposed detectors, the conventional detector, and the linear decorrelating detector are undertaken for several asynchronous CDMA channels. In these examples, high bandwidth efficiency systems are explored, and user energies are varied form being similar to being very different. We find that decision-feedback detectors compare favorably with more complex two-stage methods and maintain good performance under diverse channel conditions. >
A Finite Element Analysis of Second Order Effects on the Frequency Response of a SAW Device

Electrode perturbation of the surface may cause significant second order effects on the frequency response of surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices for high frequency applications. These effects in a...
Fingerprint Representation Using Localized Texture Features

Fingerprint representations can be broadly divided into three categories: image level, texture features and minu- tiae features. Both image based and texture based repre- sentations require accurate alignment before comparison. This presents a problem since accurate registration of fin- gerprints is challenging. On the other hand, minutiae based matchers are invariant to changes in orientation and posi- tion, but completely ignore the rich visual content in the image. In this paper, we present a localized texture based representation scheme that relies solely on visual content for identification and at the same time does not require ab- solute alignment. We outline techniques to efficiently com- pute these features and also propose an algorithm to per- form identification based on these features. Our experimen- tal evaluations over database of several sizes show that the proposed features are both accurate and scalable.
FPC: a floating-point processor controller chip for systolic signal processing

The FPC (floating-point process controller) chip design and the AMD Am29325 32-b floating-point processor mathematics chip form a two-chip cell designed for one- or two-dimensional systolic arrays which can be used to implement a wide variety of signal processing applications. The FPC controls the Am29325, routes data to and from it, and routes data and control to other cells in the array. Unique features include two interchangeable data memories, an input port which can be used as either a local or global port, and a 32-b instruction word that provides concurrent use of all cell resources. Additional features include a program memory, two data streams, and three control streams. The novel architectural features of the cell are described, and a matrix multiplication example is used to demonstrate their usefulness. >
Verification and comparison of a fast fourier transform-based full diffraction method for tilted and offset planes.

The recent introduction of a fast Fourier transform– (FFT–) based method for calculating the Rayleigh–Sommerfeld full diffraction integral for tilted and offset planes permits high-speed evaluation of integrated optical systems. An important part of introducing a new calculational tool is its validation and an assessment of its limitations. The validity of the new FFT-based method was determined by comparison of that method with direct integration (DI) of the Rayleigh–Sommerfeld integral, a well-established method. Points of comparison were accuracy, computational speed, memory requirements of the host computer, and applicability to various optical modeling situations. The new FFT-based method is 228 times faster, yet requires 14 times more memory, than the DI method for a 500 µm by 500 µm real computational window.
Arrest Avoidance: Law Enforcement and the Price of Cocaine

Abstract Contrary to one goal of drug law enforcement, cocaine prices decreased between the years 1986 and 2000. This paper discusses how arrest avoidance behavior may affect cocaine consumer and dealer response to law enforcement. Dealers avoid arrest by making quick and easy sales; thus, pure‐gram price is negatively related to dealer enforcement. Consumers avoid arrest by accepting high prices rather than searching for lower prices. Thus, pure‐gram price is positively related to consumer enforcement. Because the implications from arrest avoidance conflict with traditional models of how enforcement should affect prices, I also empirically examine the relationship. Using purchase‐level data from the Drug Enforcement Administration and legal penalty data, I find a negative, significant relationship between dealer enforcement and pure‐gram price and a positive, significant relationship between consumer enforcement and pure‐gram price. Both are consistent with the intuition of arrest avoidance.
Public Debt, Fiscal Solvency and Macroeconomic Uncertainty in Latin America: The Cases of Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Mexico

Ratios of public debt as a share of GDP in Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico were 10 percentage points higher on average during 1996-2002 than in the period 1990-1995. Costa Rica's debt ratio remained stable but at a high level near 50 percent. Is there reason to be concerned for the solvency of the public sector in these economies? We provide an answer to this question based on the quantitative predictions of a variant of the framework proposed by Mendoza and Oviedo (2004). This methodology yields forward-looking estimates of debt ratios consistent with fiscal solvency for a government that faces revenue uncertainty and can issue only non-state-contingent debt. In this environment, aversion to a collapse in outlays leads the government to respect a "natural debt limit" equal to the annuity value of the primary balance in a "fiscal crisis". A fiscl crisis occurs after a long sequence of adverse revenue shocks and public outlays adjust to a tolerable minimum. The debt limit also represents a credible commitment to be able to repay even in a fiscal crisis but is not, in general, the same as the sustainable debt, which is driven by the probabilistic dynamics of the primary balance. The results of a baseline scenario question the sustainability of current debt ratios in Brazil and Colombia, while those in Costa Rica and Mexico seem inside the limits consistent with fiscal solvency. In contrast, public debt ratios are found to be unsustainable in all four countries for plausible changes to lower average growth rates or higher real interest rates. Moreover, sustainable debt ratios fall sharply when default risk is taken into account.