cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Feminists, labor unions, and teachers’ associations: a labored coalition

Soon after their formation in the 1960s, second-wave feminist interest groups adopted a broadly liberal agenda and sought like-minded allies among unions. Shared ideology was inadequate to explain the ultimately successful formation of their coalition. Two of the largest labor allies, the AFL-CIO and National Education Association, worked together with feminist interest groups because of their leadership’s perceived interests of their union members, changing in a shifting political environment. Though committed to feminist policy success, each group maintained its distinctive perspective, and only in hindsight does the coalition appear to be the culmination of ideological consistency.
A genome-wide RNAi screening method to discover novel genes involved in virus infection.

Systematic and comprehensive analysis of host cell proteins involved in virus infection has been difficult in large part due to the lack of robust unbiased methods for their identification. Recent technological breakthroughs allowing development of cell-based genetic screens have greatly facilitated our understanding of virus–host interactions. These include instrumentation for processing in microtiter plates (e.g., 384 well), coupled with sensitive readers and off-the-shelf analysis and informatics pipelines. Because viruses are a significant threat to human health, a better understanding of the cellular factors that impact infection would pave the way for the development of new therapeutics. Here we describe the development and implementation of a genome-wide siRNA screen against a virus using human cells.
Dynamic Literacy Practices of Appalachian Women

Katherine Kelleher Sohn's book Whistlin' and Crowin' Women of Appalachia: Literacy Practices Since College, based on a naturalistic qualitative study, presents a multivoiced cultural and historical...
Studying Quasigroup Identities by Rewriting Techniques: Problems and First Results

Finite quasigroups in the form of Latin squares have been extensively studied in design theory. Some quasigroups satisfy constraints in the form of equations, called quasigroup identities. In this note, we propose some questions concerning quasigroup identities that can sometimes be answered by the rewriting techniques.
Service Learning in Internet Telephony

Internet telephony can introduce many novel communication services, however, novelty puts learning burden on users. It will be a great help to users if their desired services can be created automatically. We developed an intelligent communication service creation environment which can handle automatic service creation by learning from users’ daily communication behaviors. The service creation environment models communication services as decision trees and uses the Incremental Tree Induction (ITI) algorithm for decision tree learning. We use Language for End System Services (LESS) scripts to represent learned results and implemented a simulation environment to verify the learning algorithm. We also noticed that when users get their desired services, they may not be aware of unexpected behaviors that the serivces could introduce, for example, mistakenly rejecting expected calls. In this paper, we also did a comprehensive analysis on communication service fail-safe handling and propose several approaches to create fail-safe services.
Administrative Issues for High School Distance Education

Distance education -when defined as an educational transaction between a teacher at one geographic location and a student at another -dates back to nineteenth century correspondence courses (Holmberg, 1986; Moore, 1989; Watkins, 1991). This distance education model used the mail to provide learners with educational opportunities that were otherwise unavailable. Most correspondence study was designed for adults, but a few experimental high school courses were offered in the 1920s (Holmberg, 1986).
Task acquisition with feedback of steady potential shifts from monkeys' prefrontal cortex.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses task acquisition with feedback of steady potential shifts from monkeys' prefrontal cortex. The most impressive findings are the effects of the pretrial surface-negative SP shifts from principalis cortex (FN) on DR learning. Every monkey is able to meet its pretrial requirement, although this is difficult, as indicated by the long intertrial intervals that had means of about 38 sec. The rapid DR acquisitions by the FN monkeys are expressed by their total errors which were only 17% of the yoked-control's errors. A facilitatory effect on behavior of this magnitude and consistency has, to knowledge, not been reported with either animal or human experimentation. This finding, as well as the FN monkeys' correct DR performance with short duration cues, supports the view that the surface-negative SP wave indicates the monkey's heightened attention to the relevant features of the cue. Biofeedback techniques with cortical SP shifts have also been used with human subjects.
The Induction of Phagocytic activation by Mixtures of the Water Chlorination By-Products, Dichloroacetate- and Trichloroacetate in Mice after Subchronic Exposure

In this study, groups of B6C3F1 male mice were treated with dichloroacetate (DCA), trichloroacetate (TCA), and mixtures of the compounds (Mix I, II, and III) daily by gavage, for 13 weeks. The tested doses were 7.5, 15, and 30 mg DCA/kg/day and 12.5, 25, and 50 mg TCA/kg/day. The DCA: TCA ratios in Mix I, II, and III were 7.5:12.5, 15:25, and 30:50 mg/kg/day, respectively. Peritoneal lavage cells were collected at the end of the treatment period and assayed for the biomarkers of phagocytic activation, including superoxide anion and tumor necrosis factor-alpha production, and myeloperoxidase activity. The mixtures produced nonlinear effects on the biomarkers of phagocytic activation, with Mix I and II effects were found to be additive, but Mix III effects were found to be less than additive.
A Fast Cross-Point Matrix for Adding Analogue Signals in a Calorimeter Trigger

Describes a device that was used in a high energy experiment at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory to generate event triggers based on specific patterns of ''transverse'' energy deposited in a calorimeter. Since the events of interest were very rare it was necessary to have the ability to process many possible triggers in parallel. A single device is composed of 3 parts: 132 input buffers, two 40 x 66 crosspoint matrices and 40 analog adders. The calorimeter was composed of 132 towers, with each tower giving an output pulse height proportional to the energy deposited in it multiplied by the sine of the tower polar angle. Illustrates the front view of the towers and a typical trigger, and the layout of the components.
The George Fahr Lecture Certain Mechanical Peculiarities of the Human Cardiac Pump in Normal and Diseased States

This is a general theoretic consideration of certain mechanical peculiarities of the human heart. It includes a discussion of mechanical advantages of the average size and average pressures, the effects of various pressures and ventricular volumes on ventricular work and "load," mechanical advantages of the structural arrangement of muscular fibers and manner of contraction, as well as the time course of ventricular work and power produced during a cardiac cycle. The role of the trabeculae carneae and papillary muscles in the emptying of a normal sized ventricle is also discussed.
A two-sided interface model for dissipation in structural systems with frictional joints

Modeling mechanical joints in an accurate and computationally efficient manner is of great importance in the analysis of structural systems, which can be composed of a large number of connected components. This work presents an interface model that can be decomposed into a series-series Iwan model together with an elastic chain, subject to interfacial shear loads. A reduced-order formulation of the resulting model is developed that significantly reduces the computational requirements for the simulation of frictional damping. Results are presented as the interface is subject to harmonic loading of varying amplitude. The models presented are able to qualitatively reproduce experimentally observed dissipation scalings. Finally, the interface models are embedded within a larger structural system to illustrate there effectiveness in capturing the structural damping induced by mechanical joints.
Enhancement and compression techniques for hyperspectral data

The next generation of satellite-borne sensors will combine high spatial resolution with fine spectral resolution. A typical data set for a single frame of imagery may contain a few hundred images occupying many gigabytes of space. Clearly, traditional image processing algorithms cannot be directly applied to such a vast quantity of data. We investigate enhancement and compression algorithms that use the spectral correlation present in high-resolution imagery to reduce the computational complexity of processing the imagery. The algorithm employs a principal component transformation to reduce the size of the data set. Enhancing the reduced set of images provides equivalent results to processing each of the original images with far fewer computations. The compression algorithm utilizes a hybrid discrete cosine transform-differential pulse code modulation (DCT-DPCM) transform. The DCT is computed for each image, a bit map is generated for the DCT coefficients, and DPCM is used to encode the coefficients across the bands. Compression at less than 0.5 bits/pixel with negligible visual degradation is obtained.
System A-mediated amino acid transport: metabolic control at the plasma membrane

Abstract Transport across the plasma membrane can be the rate-limiting step for further catabolism of a nutrient molecule. Regulation of transport via transcriptional control is an important long term adaptational mechanism for the eukaryotic cell. System A-mediated amino acid transport is an example of such a regulatory process.
ORIENTATION DETERMINATION BY EBSP IN AN ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE

Remarkable progress has been made in the single orientation measurement of polycrystalline materials using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (1,2,3). The automation of this technique in the form of Orientation Imaging Microscopy (OIM) provides materials scientists with a reliable technique of texture and micro-texture characterization of materials at high vacuum conditions (4,5). The technique is based on the acquisition of Electron Backscattered Diffraction Patterns (EBSP) in the chamber of an SEM. These diffraction patterns are formed in the same manner as Kikuchi patterns in the TEM, but result from backscattering of electrons out of the top surface of the sample. Hence they can be obtained from bulk samples. In this paper we will discuss some of the unique capabilities provided by EBSP analysis at elevated pressures and temperatures in an Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM). It was possible to obtain patterns with good quality for water vapor pressures as high as 6 Torr for single crystals, and 3 Torr for polycrystalline materials (NiAl grains with diameter up to 64 microns were examined). With increasing pressure, polycrystalline diffraction patterns degrade at a much higher rate than single crystal patterns.
Applying Moving Average Filtering for Non-interactive Differential Privacy Settings

Abstract One of the challenges of implementing differential data privacy, is that the utility (usefulness) of the privatized data tends to diminish even as confidentiality is guaranteed. In such settings, due to excessive noise, original data suffers loss of statistical significance despite the strong levels of confidentiality assured by differential privacy . This in turn makes the privatized data practically valueless to the consumer of the published data. Additionally, researchers have noted that finding equilibrium between data privacy and utility requirements remains intractable, necessitating trade- offs. Therefore, as a contribution, we propose using the moving average filtering model for non-interactive differential privacy settings. In this model, various levels of differential privacy (DP) are applied to a data set, generating a variety of privatized data sets. The privatized data is passed through a moving average filter and the new filtered privatized data sets that meet a set utility threshold are finally published. Preliminary results from this study show that adjustment of ɛ epsilon parameter in the differential privacy process, and the application of the moving average filter might generate better data utility output while conserving privacy in non-interactive differential privacy settings.
Umbrella branding with imperfect observability and moral hazard

Abstract In a framework of repeated-purchase experience goods with seller's moral hazard and imperfect monitoring, umbrella branding may improve the terms of the implicit contract between seller and buyers, whereby the seller invests in quality and buyers pay a high price. In some cases, umbrella branding leads to a softer punishment of product failure, which increases the seller's value. In other cases, umbrella branding leads to a harsher punishment of product failure, which allows for a reputational equilibrium that would otherwise be impossible. On the negative side, under umbrella branding one bad signal may kill two revenue streams, not one. Combining costs and benefits, I determine the set of parameter values such that umbrella branding is an optimal strategy.
A Case Example of Insect Gymnastics: How Is Non-Euclidean Geometry Learned?.

The focus of the article is on the complex cognitive process involved in learning the concept of 'straightness' in Non-Euclidean geometry. Learning new material is viewed through a conflict resolution framework, as a student questions familiar assumptions understood in Euclidean geometry. A case study reveals how mathematization of the straight line concept in Euclidean and Non-Euclidean geometry emerges through the use of analogy, imagination and motion, moving the student from an extrinsic view to an intrinsic view, thus providing a psychological account of how students learn a new geometry. Practical implications for mathematics education are provided.
Clinical Trials in Motor Neuron Diseases

Although there is no truly effective disease-specific therapy for any of the motor neuron diseases, rapid progress in our understanding of the pathophysiology of some of these disorders is being made. In addition to progress in neuroscience, clinical trials of agents that appear to slow the progress of at least one of these diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are beginning to show promising results. The first clinical trials in spinal muscular atrophy are currently underway. A number of other developments have raised the quality of clinical trials, which should improve their productivity and efficiency in the future. (J Child Neurol 1999;14:173-179).
Active Output State of the Synechococcus Kai Circadian Oscillator

In cyanobacteria, the timekeeping aspect of the circadian oscillator involves a cyclic progression of phosphorylation states at Ser431 and Thr432 of KaiC (1). To identify oscillator signaling states with our current limited description of the output machinery, we defined Kai-complex output activity (KOA), that represents the difference in expression of reporter genes between WT strains and strains that lack KaiC (2). Although circadian controlled genes fall predominantly into one of two classes that differ in a 12-h phase difference in their peaks of expression, peak KOA for the two classes coincides late in the circadian cycle near subjective dawn, when KaiC-pST becomes most prevalent (Ser431 is phosphorylated and Thr432 is not). A mathematical expression involving a direct output from KaiC-pST and feedback inhibition by the output component RpaA using published data for the time-dependence of those states (3,4) successfully simulated two key features of the oscillator_the time of peak KOA and peak-to-trough amplitude (Figure).(1) Mackey et al (2011) Adv Genet. 74, 13; (2) Paddock et al (2013) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci USA, doi:10.1073/pnas.1315170110; (3) Gutu & O'Shea (2013) Mol Cell 50, 288; (4) Rust et al (2011) Science 318, 809.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
The attrition of volunteers

Abstract We apply a flexible hazard-rate model to analyze the attrition rate of volunteers with the Belgian Red Cross. Our modeling framework handles right-censored and left-filtered observations, incorporates covariates, makes an adjustment for unobserved heterogeneity and estimates the baseline hazard non-parametrically. Two of our findings are of serious concern to the Red Cross administrators. First, the expected length of stay becomes smaller for the more recent entrants. Second, the conditional quitting probability does not decrease, but rather increases, with the volunteer's length of service.
Factors in the inactivation of postjunctional membrane receptors of frog skeletal muscle.

Several factors which influence the rate of inactivation of muscle postjunctional membrane (PJM) receptors during the sustained application of carbamylcholine (CARB) have been studied by two methods. The rate of inactivation was increased by elevating the tonicity of the bathing medium, by increasing the CARB concentration, by raising the calcium ion concentration, and by substituting SO4= for Cl- ions in the extracellular fluid. The relative effectiveness of calcium and other divalent cations in receptor inactivation was compared. In the absence of calcium, other divalent cations such as magnesium, strontium, or manganese were not efficient substitutes for calcium. In the presence of calcium, the addition of strontium or manganese ions accelerated the rate of receptor inactivation, but the addition of magnesium (up to 12 mM) inhibited this process. The inactivation of the membrane receptors in denervated muscle fibers was found to be similar to that in innervated muscle fibers. Various factors in PJM receptor inactivation are discussed. It is suggested that PJM receptor inactivation is influenced by the binding of calcium ions to sites on the internal surface of the PJM.
DEVELOPMENTAL CHANGES IN THE PROPERTIES OF LIVER GLUCURCNYLTRANSFERASE IN RATS

The molecular basis for postnatal changes in glucuronyltransferase (GT) activity is not understood. The mechanisms underlying these changes were studied in fetal (F), newborn (N), and adult (A) rats using p-nitrophenol (PNP) as acceptor substrate. When assayed at 2 to 4 mM UDPGA, GT activity in F and N was greater than in A. Kinetic analysis revealed that the apparent Km for UDPGA at 0.4 mM PNP was 4 to 6 mM for F and N, and 13 to 16 mM for A. When assayed at saturating concentrations of UDPGA, GT activities in F, N and A were equivalent. Hence, the differences in activity of F, N and A at 2 to 4 mM UDPGA are due to differences in affinity of GT for UDPGA. UDP-N-acetylglucosamine (UDPNAG) is known to increase the affinity of GT for UDPGA in mature liver. UDPNAG increased GT activity 3 to 4-fold in A in the presence of 1 mM UDPGA, but had no effect in F or N. However, an activating effect of UDPNAG on GT was observed in N when the concentration of UDPGA was reduced to 0.1 mM, i.e., far below the apparent Km. These data indicate that developmental changes in synthesis of PNP-glucuranide reflect the activities of different functional forms of GT. Small amounts of the A form of GT are present at 5 days post partum, and complete development of the A form is achieved by 20 days after birth.
Compact 4 cm aperture transmissive liquid crystal optical phased array for free-space optical communications

There is a critical need for high bandwidth, high availability free-space optical communication links between the battlefield and the global information grid. Compact large aperture transceivers with low size, weight and power (SWaP) are needed to initiate and maintain communication links involving airborne platforms. The transceiver optical beam director typically contains fine and coarse steering stages. Existing beam director technology is based on electro-mechanical gimbaled mirrors with large SWaP that hinders deployment on many airborne platforms. To address the need for compact beam directors, we designed, fabricated, and tested an optical phased array (OPA) based on electro-optic dual frequency liquid crystal technology. This OPA has a transmissive architecture that enables a lower system SWaP, as compared to conventional reflective OPA. It has an 8 μm pixel pitch and steers over a 2.5° field of regard in one dimension at 1.55 μm. Two such OPAs can be stacked to steer in two dimensions. It has four independently addressable 1 cm x 4 cm regions arranged in a linear array to produce a continuous 4 cm x 4 cm aperture. The device incorporates novel addressing schemes to reduce the number of control channels by over an order of magnitude compared to conventional OPA addressing methods. It also utilizes proprietary low-loss transparent conductive Transcon TM film for low optical absorption in the infrared. The OPA uses a custom multi-channel controller circuit operating at a 500 Hz frame rate. We present results on OPA design, fabrication, and optical performance on steering.
The Function of “Oubliette” in Kurt Vonnegut's CAT’S CRADLE

Near the conclusion of Cat's Cradle, after “Papa” Monzano's ice-nine-laden body precipitates the frozen apocalypse, the narrator and Mona take refuge in a secret, subterranean room deep beneath Mon...
Expression of class II, but not class I, major histocompatibility complex molecules is required for granuloma formation in infection with Schistosoma mansoni

Previous studies have suggested that granulomatous inflammation in schistosomiasis is mediated by CD4+ T helper lymphocytes sensitized to parasite egg antigens. However, CD8+ T cells have also frequently been associated with the immune response to schistosome eggs. To examine more precisely the role of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the pathology of the schistosomal infection, we used mice with targeted mutations in major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II or class I molecules. These mutations lead, respectively, to the virtual absence of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The results clearly show that schistosome-infected MHC class II mutant mice failed to form granulomas around parasite eggs. In contrast, infected MHC class I mutant mice displayed characteristic granulomatous lesions that were comparable to those in wild-type control mice. Moreover, lymphoid cells from MHC class II mutant mice were unable to react to egg antigens with either proliferative or cytokine [interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10] responses; nor were they able to present egg antigens to specifically sensitized CD4+ T helper cells from infected syngeneic control mice. By comparison, cells from MHC class I mutant mice exercised all these functions in a manner comparable with those from wild-type controls. These observations clearly demonstrate that schistosomal egg granulomas are mediated by MHC class II-restricted CD4+ T helper cells. They also suggest that CD8+ T cells do not become sensitized to egg antigens and play little role, if any, in the pathogenesis of schistosomiasis.
Inadequate adherence to radiotherapy in Latina immigrants with carcinoma of the cervix. Potential impact on disease free survival.

Background. Radiation therapy plays an important role in the loco-regional control of carcinoma of the cervix. Strict adherence to the radiation protocol, without the introduction of time breaks, has been shown to favorably affect loco-regional control and survival, making adherence a crucial variable for optimal outcome. Because carcinoma of the cervix is a common disease among Latinas, with survival rates worse than those of other ethnic groups in this country, the pattern of adherence to the prescribed radiation treatment among Latina patients seen at Los Angeles County Hospital were studied. Methods. The records of 69 consecutive Latina patients with cervical cancer who received radiation therapy at Los Angeles County Hospital were reviewed. Semi-structured interviews in a successive group of 30 similar patients were conducted to acquire preliminary information about their psychosocial characteristics. Results. The results demonstrate inferior rates of optimal adherence to radiation treatment among Latina immigrant patients when compared with the rates reported in the literature for the general population of cervical cancer patients in United States (16 vs. 63%). Furthermore, a large subset of patients (20%) in the series elected to discontinue treatment without a medical reason. When a comparable group of Latina patients was interviewed, potential practical, psychologic, and cultural barriers to optimal care were identified. Conclusions. The results from this exploratory study support the need for further studies to document the pattern of adherence to radiotherapy in the rest of the country among this minority population. The results suggest that an intervention to improve information and adherence to radiation therapy may be necessary to assure Latinas a chance for rates of cure comparable with the national standards
NGC 6212 - An X-ray-selected active elliptical galaxy

Optical and X-ray data on the elliptical galaxy NGC 6212 are reported. The X-ray flux varies by a factor of four on a time scale of months. The optical spectrum shows broad Balmer emission lines and narrow forbidden lines which are typical of low-luminosity X-ray selected Seyfert galaxies. The continuum is predominantly stellar, with no evidence for a nonthermal contribution. Narrow emission lines extend at least 11 kpc from the nucleus and are used to derive a rotation curve. The X-ray variability and relatively weak radio emission of NGC 6212 are not unusual for Seyfert galaxies.
THE EQUILIBRIUM BETWEEN ACTIVE NATIVE TRYPSIN AND INACTIVE DENATURED TRYPSIN.

There is a mobile equilibrium between the native and denatured forms of trypsin which depends on the concentrations of acid, alkali, and alcohol and on the temperature. The heat of denaturation in 0.01 N hydrochloric acid calculated from the effect of temperature on the equilibrium constant is –67,600 calories per mole.
A new method to evaluate clinical performance and critical incidents in anaesthesia: quantification of daily comments by teachers

We have found that the Clinical Anesthesia System of Evaluation (CASE) method provides information regarding clinical performance of residents and critical incidents that is not available from other sources. As a result, it expands the dimensions of the evaluation process and improves validity. In addition, the technique has helped address the concerns of many investigators. (1) It provides specific, real-time evaluations that permit early intervention, improve feedback and guide remediation; (2) it improves sampling techniques by increasing the breadth and volume of evaluators and settings; (3) it enhances the discriminatory power of the evaluation process; and (4) it improves documentation.
Irritable pouch syndrome is characterized by visceral hypersensitivity

Background: Irritable pouch syndrome (IPS) is a functional disorder in patients with ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA), which presents with symptoms in the absence of structural abnormalities of the pouch. Thus, it resembles other functional disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome characterized by visceral hypersensitivity in the presence of normal rectal biomechanics. The aim was to assess pouch biomechanics and perception of balloon distension in different groups of subjects with IPAA and to correlate the findings with clinical features. Methods: Pouch tone, compliance, and sensation to balloon distension were measured in 18 patients with IPS, 11 patients with active pouch inflammation (pouchitis or Crohn's disease of the pouch), and 12 asymptomatic subjects with normal pouches. All patients were recruited from a subspecialty Pouchitis Clinic. Results: Scores of sensation of gas, urge to defecate, and pain measured by visual analog scales at various distension pressures were significantly higher in IPS than pouchitis and normal pouch patients. Pouch tone was comparable among the groups and compliance was reduced in the pouchitis group. The visual analog scale showed a trend of correlation with the Pouchitis Disease Activity Index symptom scores in IPS. Conclusions: IPS, like other gut functional disorders, is characterized by visceral hypersensitivity, with normal pouch biomechanics. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2011)
Hydrogen production from nuclear fission product waste heat and use in gas turbines

Abstract An analysis has been made on the feasibility of producing hydrogen using fission product waste heat and its subsequent combustion in gas turbines. The work has been performed in three distinct phases. In the first phase, a system using heat generated from radioactive wastes has been designed which produces saturated steam. This steam is sent through a turbogenerator to produce electricity. The electrical power output of this system has been calculated as a function of fission product decay time, solidified form of fission products, as well as numerous other parameters. In the second phase, the electrical energy produced is used to electrolyze water, which in turn produces hydrogen. The amount of hydrogen produced (lb/h) has been calculated for varying electrical inputs, electrolyzer efficiencies, and feedwater temperatures. This hydrogen is then assumed to be liquified and stored. Finally, the third phase considers the burning of this hydrogen in a standard marine gas turbine.
The plasticity of the hippocampus is the reason for its vulnerability

Abstract The hippocampal formation is at the same time a very plastic brain region and a very vulnerable one to insults such as head trauma, ischemia, seizures and severe stress. Circulating glucocorticoids and endogenous excitatory amino acids acting as neurotransmitters play important roles in both aspects. Adrenal steroids acting through Type I receptors that are concentrated in the hippocampus produce rapid effects to enhance long-term potentiation (LTP) and slower effects to contain the turnover of dentate gyrus granule neurons, which die and are replaced during adult life in the rat. Type II adrenal steroid receptors mediate acute suppression of LTP and they also participate in glucocorticoid 'endangerment' of pyramidal neurons, which may die as a result of excitatory amino acid stimulation in the presence of high levels of adrenal steroids. Repeated stress, acting through excitatory amino acids released from mossy fiber terminals and elevated adrenal steroid blood levels causes atrophy of dendrites of hippocampal CA3 pyramidal neurons. These changes precede the permanent loss of pyramidal neurons and may be indicative either of the beginning of damage or, alternatively, represent a short-term protective mechanism to avoid greater damage. Imaging studies of the human hippocampus have suggested a negative relationship between cortisol levels and hippocampal volume.
AXILLARY AND DICHOTOMOUS BRANCHING IN THE PALM CHAMAEDOREA

A B S T R A C T In both Chamaedorea seif7-izii Burret and C. cataractarum Martius each adult foliage leaf subtends one axillary bud. The proximal buds in C. seif7izii are always vegetative, producing branches (= new shoots or suckers); and the distal buds on a shoot are always reproductive, producing inflorescences. The prophyll and first few scale leaves of a vegetative branch lack buds. Transitional leaves subtend vegetative buds and adult leaves subtend reproductive buds. Both types of buds are first initiated in the axil of the second or third leaf primordia from the apex, P2 or P3. Later development of both types of bud tends to be more on the adaxial surface of the subtending leaf base than on the shoot axis. Axillary buds of C. cataracta7umn are similarly initiated in the axil of P2 or P3 and also have an insertion that is more foliar than cauline. However, all buds develop as inflorescences. Vegetative branches arise irregularly by a division of the apex within an enclosing leaf (= P1). A typical inflorescence bud is initiated in the axil of the enclosing leaf when it is in the position of P2 and when each new branch has initiated its own P1. No scale leaves are produced by either branch and the morphological relationship among branches and the enclosing leaf varies. Often the branches are unequal and the enclosing leaf is fasciated. The vegetative branching in C. cataractarum is considered
Conceptual, collaborative building design through shared graphics

The Interdisciplinary Communication Medium computer environment integrates a shared graphic modeling environment with network-based services to accommodate many perspectives in an architecture/engineering/construction team.
Reaction of hydrogen with adsorbed oxygen on Ni(110)

Abstract We have titrated preadsorbed oxygen on Ni(110) with hydrogen, observing oxygen coverage as a function of time via Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES). The experiments were performed for hydrogen pressures from 1 × 10 −6 to 4 × 10 −4 Torr, temperatures from 410 to 610 K, and initial oxygen coverages from 0.25 to 0.85 of a monolayer (ML). The titration curves display an induction period followed by a period of rapid reaction, with the reaction rate dependent on initial oxygen coverage as well as instantaneous coverage. A simple Monte Carlo simulation based on the formation of oxygen islands with reaction along the perimeters gives a qualitative explanation of the data. The reaction has an overall activation energy of 0.5 eV. Half order dependence of the rate upon H 2 pressure eliminates as possible mechanisms H 2 (g) + O(a) → H 2 O, H 2 (a) + O(a) → H 2 O, and 2H(a) + O(a) → H 2 O. Other mechanisms, involving dissociative adsorption of hydrogen and OH(a) intermediates, remain possibilities.
Magnetic and electronic properties of LaxSr1-xVO3

The composition induced metal (x<0.7) to antiferromagnetic insulator transition in La x Sr 1-x VO 3 is reminiscent of the phase diagrams of the high T c cuprates such as La 2-x Sr x CuO 4 . Herein, we present an analysis of our susceptibility and 51 V NMR data in La x Sr 1-x VO 3 for the metallic compositions. The data are indicative of a strongly exchange enhanced narrow d-band metal
Variables in predicting survival based on treating “PSA-Only” relapse

Prostate cancer recurrence (after prior local treatment) that is detectable only by a rise in serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) level is a very common problem facing clinicians. Given that the majority of contemporary era men with PSA-only or biochemical recurrence are relatively young and otherwise healthy, treatment requires approaches that both improve clinical outcomes and preserve quality of life. Treatment is in one of two broad categories, additional local therapies, termed "salvage" local therapy and systemic therapies. For radical prostatectomy patients, salvage external beam radiotherapy to the prostate bed is commonly employed, being reserved for early biochemical recurrence in men with low risk at distant metastases. For primary radiation patients, salvage radical prostatectomy or cryotherapy can similarly be used for those men felt not to harbor distant metastases. Systemic therapy generally involves hormonal therapy. Traditional hormonal therapy (orchiectomy, luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists, or maximum androgen blockade) is the current mainstay of systemic treatment for biochemical recurrence, although nontraditional approaches, such as antiandrogen monotherapy, are increasingly being used. Variables in predicting survival based on treating PSA relapse is problematic. The condition of biochemical failure has only been recognized in the last decade and few "PSA-era" patients with biochemical recurrence have actually died of disease. Hence, the validation of prediction variables in this setting is just emerging. Early work would suggest that timing of recurrence, Gleason grade, and PSA velocity or doubling time during relapse are important prognostic factors. New data on PSA doubling time will be presented.
Population intensity outliers or a new model for brain WM abnormalities

We present a new automatic method for segmentation of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) lesions in Magnetic Resonance Images. The algorithm performs tissue classification combining a within subject global tissue intensity model and a local tissue intensity model derived from an aligned set of healthy reference subjects. MS lesions are detected as outliers towards the proposed coupled global/local intensity model. Evaluation using BrainWeb synthetic, show our new coupled local/global intensity GMM model to be sensitive towards MS lesions, as well to be robust to noise and intensity inhomogeneity artifacts found MRI scans.
Employment of mid-level providers in primary care and control of diabetes

Abstract Aims Examine potential associations between inclusion of mid-level providers in United States Veterans Affairs (VA) primary care programs and diabetes control. Methods We established a cohort of diabetes patients (alive October 1, 1999) using the VA Diabetes Registry and VA corporate databases. 1999 VA Survey of Primary Care Practices data were combined with individual-patient information. We used a two-level hierarchical model to determine the relationship between staffing characteristics and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), among 88,682 patients from 198 clinics. Results Inclusion of nurse practitioners (NPs) at relatively limited levels (% of all providers who are NPs) in the primary care program was significantly associated with HbA1c lower by 0.31 percentage points (95% CI, −0.50% to −0.12%) compared to programs that did not include NPs. Having some level of NP staffing vs. no NP staffing was associated HbA1c lower by 0.25%. Inclusion of physician assistants (PAs) in primary care programs was generally not associated with a statistically significant difference in HbA1c. The exception is that moderate levels of PA staffing were associated with slightly higher HbA1c [0.18%, 95% CI, 0.02–0.34)]. Conclusions Diabetes control among primary care patients appeared to benefit from inclusion of NPs, while an analogous association was not found for PAs.
Teaching bacterial arrangements and morphologies with candy.

Determining bacterial morphology and arrangement is a first lesson in undergraduate microbiology or in an introductory lecture to the Prokaryotes in general biology. By identifying cell arrangement and morphology, students can successfully communicate descriptives in microscopy-based labs, can take the first steps in identifying unknown organisms, and are able to understand genus and/or species names of standard laboratory bacteria. This activity is intended to help students visualize and practice naming basic bacterial morphology and arrangements, and is appropriate in either the laboratory or lecture setting of a general microbiology or introductory biology course. Students with a weak background and non-science majors will benefit most from this activity.
Participatory research and service-learning among farmers, health professional students, and experts: an agromedicine approach to farm safety and health

Agromedicine developments in Alabama rest heavily on the interest and support of the farm community. Participatory approaches have been advocated in order to impact the safety and health of farms. The University of Alabama Agromedicine Research Team, working closely with and guided by farmers, places emphasis on identifying areas of farmer concern related to agricultural health and safety and on developing jointly with the farmers plans to address their concerns. Agricultural extension agents were key to developing the trust relationships among farmers, health professionals, and extension personnel required for these successful agricultural safety and health developments. In this article the authors describe how the research team engaged farmers in participatory research to develop service learning activities for graduate students studying Agricultural Safety and Health at The University of Alabama. Accepting farmers' active role in research processes creates an environment that is favorable to change, while providing farmers reassurance that their health and safety is of utmost importance to the researchers.
Rectus abdominis vaginoplasty after anterior exenteration for urologic malignancy.

Abstract Introduction Vaginal resection is occasionally required in female patients who undergo anterior exenteration for invasive lower urinary tract malignancy. We have used a rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap to reconstruct the vagina and perineum after extensive local resection of bladder and urethral carcinoma. Technical considerations Either a left or right rectus flap is used. Once anterior exenteration, partial vaginectomy, and urinary diversion are completed, the median infraumbilical incision is extended superiorly to form an elliptical skin paddle centered over the superior half of the muscle. The superior epigastric vessels are ligated, the cephalad end of the muscle is divided at the level of the costal margin, and the flap is progressively elevated out of the rectus sheath by sequentially dividing the lateral perforating nerves and vessels. As the muscle is elevated, the inferior epigastric pedicle is carefully preserved and followed inferiorly to its origin from the external iliac artery. Once a length of muscle sufficient for it to reach the perineum is mobilized, the flap is carried transpelvically. For complete vaginal reconstruction, the flap may be inverted into a tube, with the cephalic portion anchored to the perineum. Alternatively, the skin paddle may be used to fill tissue defects in the vagina and pelvic floor. The anterior abdominal wall fascia and skin edges at the donor site are closed primarily. We have successfully applied this technique in 4 patients who underwent anterior exenteration for invasive bladder and urethral carcinoma. Conclusions Rectus abdominis vaginoplasty is a viable surgical option for reconstruction after anterior exenteration with vaginal resection for invasive cancer of the bladder and urethra.
Transforming the state: Capitalist democracy, socialist politics, and the labor movement

(1991). Transforming the state: Capitalist democracy, socialist politics, and the labor movement. New Political Science: Vol. 10, No. 1, pp. 17-40.
Performance measurement in humanitarian relief chains

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to compare performance measurement in the humanitarian relief chain with performance measurement in the commercial supply chain, develop performance metrics for the humanitarian relief chain, and present a framework that can be used as a basis for a performance measurement system in the relief sector.Design/methodology/approach – The performance measurement analysis is developed through extensions on an existing performance measurement framework. Details regarding relief chain system were obtained through off‐site and on‐site interviews with relief professionals from World Vision International.Findings – The paper finds that this work yielded: a comparison of performance measurement in the humanitarian relief chain with performance measurement in the commercial supply chain, new performance metrics for the humanitarian relief chain, and a performance measurement framework for the relief chain.Research limitations/implications – The paper shows that future work includ...
Input-output analysis of regional telecommunication flows

Abstract A large sample of Intra-LATA individual toll calls, wherein all callers and callees are identified by their SIC code, is used to create an intersectoral input-output table depicting the telecommunication flow interactions, measured in numbers of messages and conversation minutes, taking place among the various sectors of a regional economy. Major patterns and clusters of interactions are identified, and the extent of calling reciprocity is assessed. The intersectoral flows are then linked to regional sectoral employment data, and the resulting model is used to forecast regional telecommunication flows, based on employment forecasts. Areas for further research are outlined.
The effect of bilayer composition on calcium ion transport facilitated by fluid shear stress

Passive calcium ion permeability across liposome bilayers is increased during exposure to fluid shear forces attainable in the mammalian vasculature. In this study, liposomes prepared from three different lipid mixtures (phosphatidylcholine alone; phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol; a mixture of anionic and cationic phospholipids plus cholesterol) are exposed to uniform shear stress in a rotational viscometer. Liposome permeability to calcium ion is estimated from continuous measurement of free intraliposome calcium ion concentration using a fluorescence technique. Calcium ion permeability in the absence of fluid force and susceptibility to shear-induced permeability modulation are positively correlated with estimated bilayer compressibility. Fluid shear forces are presumed to influence bilayer packing and modulate defect formation in proportion to bilayer compressibility. Bilayer defects produced by fluid forces may increase liposome permeability.
Calculations of a magnetic field momentum-defining slit

The configuration of a sharply defined magnetic field that might serve as a momentum-defining slit for very high intensity and high-energy electron beams is calculated. An idealized iron magnet slit is shown and the parameters for such a slit to be operated in the 25-Bev beam of the electron linear accelerator are given. (A.G.W.)
A Novel Approach Based on Multi-View Content Analysis and Semi-Supervised Enrichment for Movie Recommendation

Although many existing movie recommender systems have investigated recommendation based on information such as clicks and tags, much less efforts have been made to explore the multimedia content of movies, which has potential information for the elicitation of the user’s visual and musical preferences. In this paper, we explore the content from three media types (image, text, audio) and propose a novel multi-view semi-supervised movie recommendation method, which represents each media type as a view space for movies. The three views of movies are integrated to predict the rating values under the multi-view framework. Furthermore, our method considers the casual users who rate limited movies. The algorithm enriches the user profile with a semi-supervised way when there are only few rating histories. Experiments indicate that the multimedia content analysis reveals the user’s profile in a more comprehensive way. Different media types can be a complement to each other for movie recommendation. And the experimental results validate that our semi-supervised method can effectively enrich the user profile for recommendation with limited rating history.
Single-beam, dark toroidal optical traps for cold atoms

We demonstrate the generation of single-beam dark toroidal optical intensity distributions, which are of interest for neutral atom storage and atom interferometry. We demonstrate experimentally and numerically optical potentials that contain a ring-shaped intensity minimum, bounded in all directions by higher intensity. We use a spatial light modulator to alter the phase of an incident laser beam, and analyze the resulting optical propagation characteristics. For small toroidal traps (< 50 mm diameter), we find an optimal superposition of Laguerre-Gaussian modes that allows the formation of single-beam toroidal traps. We generate larger toroidal bottle traps by focusing hollow beams with toroidal lenses imprinted onto the spatial light modulator.
The Dynamics of the Oceanic Subtropical Gyres

Recent theoretical advances in physical oceanography have produced plausible models for the structure of the circulation in the oceans' subtropical gyres. These theoretical ideas are reviewed and assessed in the light of present observational evidence. The dominant role of potential vorticity is emphasized in describing the strong interplay between three-dimensional distributions of density and velocity. In particular, the complementary processes of subduction and recirculation jointly act to shape the circulation pattern of the subtropical gyre.