cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Shape coexistence and level structure of 100Zr from decay of the low-spin isomer of 100Y.

The level structure of the N=60 isotone $^{100}\mathrm{Zr}$ has been studied via the decay of the low-spin isomer of $^{100}\mathrm{Y}$. A half-life of 735\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}7 ms was determined from \ensuremath{\gamma}-ray multiscaling measurements. \ensuremath{\gamma} singles and \ensuremath{\gamma}-\ensuremath{\gamma} coincidence measurements have resulted in the placement of 64 \ensuremath{\gamma} transitions in a decay scheme with 20 levels up to 4288 keV. Angular correlation measurements were used to deduce a ${J}^{\ensuremath{\pi}}$ of ${0}^{+}$ for the 829-keV level. A simple band-mixing calculation is presented which supports a picture of the structure of the low-lying levels in $^{100}\mathrm{Zr}$ as that of coexistence between an axially symmetric deformed yrast band and a nearly spherical excited band.
A Collaborative-Affirmative Approach to Supervisory Practice

As gatekeepers of the profession, supervisors must work to ensure that supervisees do no harm to their clients. At times this requires a more hierarchical approach to supervision, which may pose difficulties for supervisors working from a collaborative stance. These matters may become intensified when supervisees work with lesbian, gay, or bisexual clients and affirmative supervision becomes necessary, which tends to come from a “knowing” stance. By highlighting the aspects of collaborative and affirmative supervision and the necessity of affirmative supervision, this article provides an affirmative approach to supervision that is congruent with collaborative supervisory practices. A way of including the presence of the lesbian, gay, or bisexual client in supervision in an effort to merge collaborative and affirmative supervision is addressed. An overview of the collaborative-affirmative approach, as well as supervisees who may be suitable candidates for receiving collaborative-affirmative supervision are...
Continuous intrapulmonary distension with perfluorocarbon accelerates neonatal (but not adult) lung growth.

Abstract Background/Purpose: We have previously demonstrated that experimental fetal tracheal ligation reverses the structural and physiological effects of pulmonary hypoplasia associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The purpose of this study was to determine if lung growth could be similarly accelerated postnatally by continuous liquid-based intrapulmonary distension. Methods: Ten neonatal lambs were divided into two experimental groups. Five neonatal animals underwent a right thoracotomy with isolation of the anterior superior segment of the right upper lobe. A pressure monitoring catheter was introduced and perfluorocarbon (PFC) was instilled into the segment. Animals were subjected to a 21-day distention period with continuous maintenance of 7 to 10 mm Hg intrabronchial pressure. Five other neonatal animals used as age- and weight-matched controls were killed immediately after distension with PFC to 7 to 10 mm Hg. To evaluate the effect of age on postnatal growth, identical procedures were performed on seven mature sheep. Four adult animals underwent a 21-day distension with PFC, and three animals were killed immediately after PFC distension. Results: Neonatal animals who underwent distension showed a significant acceleration of lung growth based on right upper lobe volume to body weight ratio ( P = .0019), total alveolar number ( P = .003), and total alveolar surface area ( P = .006), when compared with controls. Alveolar growth was attributed to an increased alveolar number rather than increased alveolar size based on a normal histological appearance, normal airspace fraction ( P = NS), and normal alveolar numerical density ( P = NS). In contrast, no significant differences in lung growth or maturation indices were present in adult animals. Conclusions: From this preliminary data we conclude: (1) Liquid-based airway distension does accelerate postnatal lung growth, (2) lung architecture remains normal during this period of accelerated growth, (3) adult sheep do not respond to liquid-based airway distension with lung growth, and (4) prolonged exposure to intrapulmonary PFC appears to be safe. We speculate that stretch is the stimulus for lung growth because there are no known growth factors present in PFC.
Anharmonic phonons and the isotope effect in superconductivity

Anharmonic interionic potentials are examined in an Einstein model to study the unusual isotope-effect exponents for the high-${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$ oxides. The mass dependences of the electron-phonon coupling constant \ensuremath{\lambda} and the average phonon frequency \ensuremath{\surd}〈${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}^{2}$〉 are computed from weighted sums over the oscillator levels. The isotope-effect exponent is depressed below 1/2 by either a double-well potential or a potential with positive quadratic and quartic parts. Numerical solutions of Schr\"odinger's equation for double-well potentials produce \ensuremath{\lambda}'s in the range 1.5--4 for a material with a vanishing isotope-effect parameter \ensuremath{\alpha}. However, low phonon frequencies limit ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$ to roughly 15 K. A negative quartic perturbation to a harmonic well can increase \ensuremath{\alpha} above 1/2. In the extreme-strong-coupling limit, \ensuremath{\alpha} is 1/2, regardless of anharmonicity.
On the horizon for fertility preservation in domestic and wild carnivores.

Contents Innovations are emerging from the growing field of fertility preservation for humans and laboratory animals that are relevant to protecting and propagating valuable domestic and wild carnivores. These extend beyond the ‘classical’ approaches associated with sperm, oocyte and embryo freezing to include gonadal tissue preservation combined with in vitro culture or xenografting, all of which have potential for rescuing vast amounts of unused and wasted germplasm. Here, we review approaches under development and predicted to have applied value within the next decade, including the following: (i) direct use of early-stage gametes for in vitro fertilization; (ii) generation of more mature gametes from gonadal tissue or stem cells; (iii) simplification, enhanced safety and efficacy of cryopreservation methods; and (iv) biostabilization of living cells and tissues at ambient temperatures. We believe that all of these fertility preservation strategies will offer knowledge and tools to better manage carnivores that serve as human companions, valuable biomedical models or require assistance to reverse endangerment.
Cognitive Influences on the Perception of Somatic Change During a Feigned Chemical Release1

The role of psychological processes in the perception of bodily symptoms was investigated during a feigned chemical release. Somatic change was manipulated through exercise, while chemical pollutant cues were used to provide explanatory frameworks for illness perceptions. Experimental participants were informed that they would be exposed to a common urban chemical pollutant while they exercised or rested in an atmosphere-controlled chamber. In actuality, no pollutant was released. Control participants were informed correctly that they would be exposed only to room air in the chamber. Results showed that the presence of a chemical cue resulted in more attributions of symptoms to a chemical cause, in addition to the report of a greater number of symptoms. However, only during states of arousal induced by the exercise did the chemical cue have an effect on symptom intensity reporting. Participants who exercised in the context of salient chemical pollutant cues reported heightened levels of chemical-exposure-type symptoms (e.g., dizziness, dry throat) as compared to control participants and participants whose exercise arousal had diminished. Findings show that individuals will use a chemical explanatory framework for symptoms when conditions suggest toxic exposure, and that adoption of these explanatory frameworks modifies the experience of somatic change.
Persistent protective effect of heat-killed Escherichia coli producing “engineered,” recombinant peanut proteins in a murine model of peanut allergy

Abstract Background: Peanut allergy (PNA) is a life-threatening food allergy for which there is no definitive treatment. Objective: We investigated the long-term immunomodulatory effect of heat-killed Escherichia coli producing engineered (mutated) Ara h1, 2, and 3 (HKE-MP123) administered rectally (pr) in a murine model of PNA. Methods: Peanut-allergic C3H/HeJ mice received 0.9 (low dose), 9 (medium dose), or 90 (high dose) μg HKE-MP123 pr, HKE-containing vector (HKE-V) alone, or vehicle alone (sham) weekly for 3 weeks. Mice were challenged 2 weeks later. A second and third challenge were performed at 4-week intervals. Results: After the first challenge, all 3 HKE-MP123 and HKE-V-treated groups exhibited reduced symptom scores ( P P P P P H 2 and increased T H 1 and T regulatory cytokine production. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2003;112:159-67.)
Heat transfer to liquid metals flowing turbulently and longitudinally through closely spaced rod bundles: Part I☆

This paper presents results of a theoretical study of heat transfer to liquid metals in fully developed turbulent, in-line flow through unbaffled, spacer-free rod bundles. The bundles have equilateral triangular arrangement; and the rod spacings, rod design, and ranges of independent variables covered were chosen with reference to liquid-metal-cooled nuclear reactor applications. Three different sets of thermal boundary conditions are considered: (A) uniform heat flux in the axial direction with uniform temperature in the circumferential direction, on the outer surface of the cladding; (B) uniform heat flux in both directions, on the outer surface of the cladding; and (C) uniform heat flux in both directions on the inner surface of the cladding. The results of the third set are presented in Part II. In the present paper, rod-average heat-transfer coefficients and circumferential variations of temperature and heat flux on the rod surface are presented as functions of PD and ψPe. Five different methods of estimating the eddy diffusivity of momentum in the circumferential direction are employed, and the results compared. The reference method, which appears to be quite satisfactory, assumes the equality of the eddy diffusivities of momentum in both the circumferential and radial directions. The results, presented in both tabular and graphical forms, are reported in terms of convenient dimensionless groups, correlated by semi-empirical equations, and compared with previous results.
Stochastic Decision Theory

The manipulations and basic results of stochastic decision theory are introduced. The manipulations of idempotence, transposition, and repetition, introduced for deterministic decision trees, can be used to manipulate stochastic trees. However, there are two major differences. First, in order to obtain a complete set of manipulations it is necessary to introduce an additional rule called indifference. Second, these identities must be treated as rules of inference. Not all the rules can be soundly applied in both directions; in particular, idempotence is a one-way rule.A manipulation of a stochastic decision tree not only alters the structure of the tree, but also the probability distributions associated with the tree. This allows probability calculation to be viewed as structural manipulation. In particular, a retrieval corresponds to a conditional probability calculation. The algorithm for doing this calculation has, therefore, many applications. For example, the solution to the classical state-estimation problem and the retrieval of information from probabilistic or uncertain knowledge bases may both be viewed as an application of this algorithm.The main result of this paper is that these manipulations are complete and sound. In order to prove this result, it is necessary to have a semantic setting for these theories. The setting chosen is the category of description spaces which is a generalization of the category of bounded measure spaces with maps which do not increase measure. The proof of this result exploits the retrieval properties of stochastic terms and its relationship to conditional probability calculations in the models.
Life and death decisions by the E2F transcription factors

The E2F transcription factors are critical regulators of genes required for appropriate progression through the cell cycle, and in special circumstances they can also promote the expression of another class of genes that function in the apoptotic program. Since E2Fs can initiate both cell proliferation and cell death, it is not surprising that the pro-apoptotic capacity of these proteins is subject to complex regulation. Recent study has expanded our knowledge of the factors influencing E2F-induced apoptosis as well as downstream targets of E2F in this process.
The Effectiveness of Food Insecurity Screening in Pediatric Primary Care.

Background : Food insecure children are at increased risk for medical and developmental problems. Effective screening and intervention are needed. Methods : Our purpose was to (1) evaluate the validity and stability of a single item food insecurity (FI) screen. (2) Assess whether use may lead to decreased FI. Part of a larger cluster randomized controlled trial, pediatric residents were assigned to SEEK or control groups. A single FI question (part of a larger questionnaire) was used on SEEK days. SEEK residents learned to screen, assess, and address FI. A subset of SEEK and control clinic parents was recruited for the evaluation. Parents completed the USDA Food Security Scale (â€œgold standardâ€), upon recruitment and 6-months later. Validity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) was calculated. The proportion of screened families with initial and subsequent FI was measured. Screening effectiveness was evaluated by comparing SEEK and control screening rates and receipt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits between initial and 6-month assessments. Results : FI screen stability indicated substantial agreement (Cohen's kappa =0.69). Sensitivity and specificity was 59% and 87%, respectively. The PPV was 70%; NPV was 81%. SEEK families had a larger increase in screening rates than control families (24% vs. 4.1%, p<0.01). SEEK families were more likely to maintain SNAP enrollment (97% vs. 81%, p=0.05). FI rates remained stable at approximately 30% for both groups. Conclusions : A single question screen can identify many families with FI, and may help maintain food program enrollment. Screening may not be adequate to alleviate FI.
A Hybrid Method Using Response Surface and Pattern Search for Design Optimization

This paper presents a new method to construct response surface function and a new hybrid optimization method. For the response surface function, the radial basis function is used for a zeroth-order approximation, while new bases is proposed for the moving least squares method for a first-order approximation. For the new hybrid optimization method, the gradient-based algorithm and pattern search algorithm are integrated for robust and efficient optimization process. These methods are based on: (1) multi-point approximations of the objective and constraint functions; (2) a multi-quadric radial basis function for the zeroth-order function representation or radial basis function plus polynomial based moving least squares approximation for the first-order function approximation; and (3) a pattern search algorithm to impose a descent condition. Several numerical examples are presented to illustrate the accuracy and computational efficiency of the proposed method for both function approximation and design optimization. The examples for function approximation indicate that the multi-quadric radial basis function and the proposed radial basis function plus polynomial based moving least squares method can yield accurate estimates of arbitrary multivariate functions. Results also show that the hybrid method developed provides efficient and convergent solutions to both mathematical and structural optimization problems.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Structural elaboration and institutional isomorphism: the case of crime analysis units

Purpose – Studies of police organizations typically involve examining predictors consistent with structural contingency theory while comparatively fewer have examined the applicability of institutional theory. The purpose of the current study is to examine the influence of institutional factors on the elaboration of organizational structure, specifically the incorporation of a crime analysis unit into a police organization's structure.Design/methodology/approach – Data were obtained using a 2002 mail survey of law enforcement agencies focusing on the crime analysis function and environmental factors influencing the organization of that function. Additional information complementing the survey data was obtained through telephone interviews with representatives from 12 of the surveyed departments.Findings – Multivariate results show that, consistent with contingency theory, size is an important predictor of structural elaboration. Analyses and interview responses suggest that institutional factors, particul...
A method to simplify network representation in transportation planning

Abstract The problem of Network Aggregation is defined as the simplification of the number of nodes and links in a transportation network. The objective of a network aggregation technique is to reproduce the level-of-service attributes (such as travel time) between any two points using a spider network as a proxy for the detailed. The aggregation procedure categorizes links into functional groups such as access, egress, line-haul, bypass and intra zonal circulation—which is a convenient classification in terms of transportation analysis. The technique presented here has several distinguishing advantages. First, certain invariance properties are maintained—for example the total trip miles of travel is the same whether measured in the aggregate or detailed networks. Second, the method is systematic, rather than judgemental, which means the inaccuracies introduced as a result of network aggregation can be measured in a scientific way.
Steady-state heat transfer from partially insulated basements

Abstract The interzone temperature profile estimation (ITPE) technique is applied to determine the steady-state temperature distribution within earth in contact with a prrtially insulated rectangular basement. A water table at constant temperature is assumed to exist at a given depth below the soil surface. The derived solution addresses all the common insulation configurations for basements and crawl spaces. The effects of insulation configurations, geometric dimensions and water table temperature on the heat flow mechanism near basements are discussed. The developed solution is compared with the Mitalas method to predict yearly average basement heat losses. The two methods are found to be in good agreement.
TALAR BODY FRACTURES

Fractures to the body of the talus include a wide array of injuries, varying from relatively minor posterior tuberosity fractures to devastating comminuted body fractures. Fracture types include osteochondral fractures, sagittal transverse or coronal whole-body fractures, posterior tubercle fractures, lateral process fractures, and crush injuries. Treatment varies from excision of small fragments, such as arthroscopic treatment of osteochondral injuries, to open reduction and internal fixation of body fractures, usually by a medial malleolar osteotomy. Prognosis logically correlates with the magnitude of the injury with whole-body fractures, especially crush injuries, having the worst prognosis. Talar body fractures, similar to talar neck fractures, also can be complicated by subtalar arthritis, ankle arthritis, malunion, and avascular necrosis.
In vitro deposition of fluticasone aerosol from a metered-dose inhaler with and without two common valved holding chambers

Background Previous in vitro aerosol deposition experiments indicate that the corticosteroid respirable dose from a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) can vary by threefold depending on the specific valved holding chamber (VHC) MDI combination. Objective We compared in vitro aerosol deposition from a fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent, GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, NC) to that of the same MDI used in combination with two VHCs (EasiVent, Dey, Napa, Ca; and AeroChamber-Plus, Monaghan Medical Corp, Plattsburgh, NY) to evaluate how these VHCs affect the respirable dose of fluticasone. Methods The respirable dose (aerosol particles 1 to 5 μm in size) of fluticasone was determined by sampling 5 × 110-μg actuations from each configuration (MDI alone, MDI plus AeroChamber-Plus, and MDI plus EasiVent) in multiples of ten using a well established, in vitro cascade impactor method. Fluticasone aerosol was washed from individual impactor stages with 50% methanol and quantified via ultraviolet high-pressure liquid chromatography. Differences among outcomes were determined using analysis of variance. Results Mean respirable dose from AeroChamber-Plus (47.9 ± 6.9 μg/actuation) was not different ( P > 0.05) from that produced by the MDI alone (50.3 ± 2.2 μg/actuation). EasiVent respirable dose (27.0 ± 3.6 μg/actuation) was less than that produced by either the AeroChamber-Plus or the MDI alone ( P Conclusions VHCs do not display equivalent in vitro performance with a fluticasone MDI. If a patient needs a VHC, clinicians should use available in vitro performance information to aid in selecting the best device.
Effects of audibility and multichannel wide dynamic range compression on consonant recognition for listeners with severe hearing loss

Objective: This study examined the effects of multichannel wide-dynamic range compression (WDRC) amplification and stimulus audibility on consonant recognition and error patterns. Design: Listeners had either severe or mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. Each listener was monaurally fit with a wearable hearing aid using typical clinical procedures, frequency-gain parameters, and a hybrid of clinically prescribed compression ratios for desired sensation level (Scollie et al., 2005) and NAL-NL (Dillon, 1999). Consonant-vowel nonsense syllables were presented in soundfield at multiple input levels (50, 65, 80 dB SPL). Test conditions were four-channel fast-acting WDRC amplification and a control compression limiting (CL) amplification condition. Listeners identified the stimulus heard from choices presented on an on-screen display. A between-subject repeated measures design was used to evaluate consonant recognition and consonant confusion patterns. Results: Fast-acting WDRC provided a considerable audibility advantage at 50 dB SPL, especially for listeners with severe hearing loss. Listeners with mild to moderate hearing loss received less audibility improvement from the fast-acting WDRC amplification, for conversational and high level speech, when compared with listeners with severe hearing loss. Analysis of WDRC benefit scores revealed that listeners had slightly lower scores with fast-acting WDRC amplification (relative to CL) when WDRC provided minimal improvement in audibility. The negative effect was greater for listeners with mild to moderate hearing loss compared with their counterparts with severe hearing loss. Conclusions: All listeners, but particularly the severe loss group, benefited from fast-acting WDRC amplification for low-level speech. For conversational and higher speech levels (i.e., when WDRC does not confer a significant audibility advantage), fast-acting WDRC amplification seems to slightly degrade performance. Listeners' consonant confusion patterns suggest that this negative effect may be partly due to fast-acting WDRC-induced distortions, which alter specific consonant features. In support of this view, audibility accounted for a greater percentage of the variance in listeners' performance with CL amplification compared with fast-acting WDRC amplification.
AN EVALUATION OF ORDER PICKING POLICIES FOR MAIL ORDER COMPANIES

This paper is concerned with the problem of order picking in mail order companies. Order picking is the retrieval of items from their warehouse storage locations to satisfy customer orders. Five order picking policies, strict order, batch, sequential zone, batch zone, and wave, are evaluated using labor requirements, processing time, and customer service as performance measures. A simulation model was developed to investigate these picking policies in a mail order environment. Prior research has focused on the study of individual picking policies. This study extends the prior research by evaluating multiple picking policies under varying operating conditions. The results of the study seem to indicate that (1) wave picking and batch picking perform well across the range of operating conditions considered in this study, and (2) sequential zone and batch zone picking do not perform well, especially as the order volume increases. However, the benefits and drawbacks to each picking policy must be taken into account. The key to effective implementation of an order picking system is to match the firm's business strategy, capabilities, technology, and space requirements with an order picking policy that maximizes the benefits of order picking to the firm and its customers.
Placebo and Deception: A Commentary

In a recent article in this Journal, Shlomo Cohen and Haim Shapiro (2013) introduce the concept of “comparable placebo treatments” (CPTs)—placebo treatments with biological effects similar to the drugs they replace—and argue that doctors are not being deceptive when they prescribe or administer CPTs without revealing that they are placebos. We critique two of Cohen and Shapiro’s primary arguments. First, Cohen and Shapiro argue that offering undisclosed placebos is not lying to the patient, but rather is making a self-fulfilling prophecy—telling a “lie” that, ideally, will become true. We argue that offering undisclosed placebos is not a “lie” but is a straightforward case of deceptively misleading the patient. Second, Cohen and Shapiro argue that offering undisclosed CPTs is not equivocation. We argue that it typically is equivocation or deception of another sort. If justifiable, undisclosed placebo use will have to be justified as a practice that is deceptive in most instances.
Enzyme resistant carbohydrate based micro-scale materials from sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) pulp for food and pharmaceutical applications

Abstract Bio-based micro-scale materials are increasingly used in functional food and pharmaceutical applications. The present study produced carbohydrate-based micro-scale tubular materials from sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) pulp (SBP), a by-product of sugar beet processing. The isolated carbohydrates were composed of 84% non-sucrose carbohydrates and small amount of fat (13%), protein (1.22%), and ash (0.9%). These highly pure carbohydrates were used to prepare micro-scale materials. Micro-scale tubular structures had lengths of 22.5±0.9 µm and cavities of 3.9±1.2 µm. The stability of these micro-scale tubular materials was studied by dissolution and digestion studies. The degrees of dissolution under simulated stomach and intestine conditions were 45–56% and 45–58%, respectively. The pancreatic enzymatic digestion with α-amylase and amyloglucosidase was 34.1%. In addition the X-ray diffraction showed the presence of A-type structures with 11.07% crystallinity. Furthermore, the material was thermally stable.
The measurement and recognition of intangible assets: then and now

“In the Fortune 500 there are thousands upon thousands of statistics that reveal very little that’s meaningful about the corporations they purportedly describe. At least that’s the verdict of a gro...
Relative free radical stabilities from α‐cleavage of β‐substituted N‐ethylanilines

This paper describes a direct appearance potential difference method, which is employed to determine, qualitatively, relative free radical stabilities. The method appears to be of general value since the starting materials (β-substituted N-ethylanilines) are relatively simple to prepare and because the dominant electron-impact reaction is the one which releases the free radical under investigation.
The NASA Broad-Specification Fuels Combustion Technology Program: An Assessment of Phase I Test Results

An assessment is made of the results of Phase 1 screening testing of current and advanced combustion system concepts using several broadened-properties fuels. The severity of each of several fuels-properties effects on combustor performance or liner life is discussed, as well as design techniques with the potential to offset these adverse effects. The selection of concepts to be pursued in Phase 2 refinement testing is described. This selection takes into account the relative costs and complexities of the concepts, the current outlook on pollutant emissions control, and practical operational problems.
Identification of vapor-phase chemical warfare agent simulants and rocket fuels using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

Application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to the identification of security threats is a growing area of research. This work presents LIBS spectra of vapor-phase chemical warfare agent simulants and typical rocket fuels. A large dataset of spectra was acquired using a variety of gas mixtures and background pressures and processed using partial least squares analysis. The five compounds studied were identified with a 99% success rate by the best method. The temporal behavior of the emission lines as a function of chamber pressure and gas mixture was also investigated, revealing some interesting trends that merit further study.
Locking out hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C virus puts about 130 million people worldwide at risk for severe liver disease, but no vaccine or broadly effective therapy yet exists. A new study identifies receptor tyrosine kinases as host factors required for hepatitis C virus entry—potentially opening the door for new antiviral strategies (pages 589–595 ).
Gamma knife surgery for low-grade gliomas.

OBJECT Data regarding the long-term efficacy of Gamma knife surgery on a large series of patients with low-grade gliomas is lacking. We aimed to review the outcome of patients with low-grade gliomas undergoing Gamma knife surgery at the Lars Leksell Gamma Knife Center at the University of Virginia to clarify its role in the management of these lesions. METHODS A retrospective review of 49 patients treated between 1989 and 2003 was conducted. The median follow up was 63 months. Gamma knife surgery was generally performed for tumors in eloquent brain, residual tumor post-surgery or for late progression after surgery. RESULTS Median clinical progression free survival was 44 months and median radiological progression free survival was 37 months. Five-year radiological progression free survival was 37% while clinical progression free survival was 41%. Mortality due to tumor progression occurred in 7 patients (14%). Complete radiological remission was seen in 14 patients (29%). Complications due to Gamma surgery were seen in 4 patients (8%). Of these, two resolved without sequelae, one required surgery for neurological decline and associated radiation induced changes, and one patient suffered a permanent neurological deficit from treatment. CONCLUSION Gamma knife radiosurgery is a safe treatment for low-grade gliomas and may be considered in patients with residual or recurrent disease.
Boreal carbon loss due to poleward shift in low-carbon ecosystems

Climate change can be thought of in terms of geographical shifts in climate properties. Tracking the geographical movement of analogous climate conditions between historical and future climate model simulations, and calculating the impact of such shifts on vegetation carbon storage, suggests that boreal forests will lose carbon as low-carbon ecosystems shift in. Climate change can be thought of in terms of geographical shifts in climate properties. Examples include assessments of shifts in habitat distributions1, of the movement needed to maintain constant temperature or precipitation2, and of the emergence and disappearance of climate zones3. Here I track the movement of analogue climates within climate models. From the model simulations, I define a set of vectors that link a historical reference climate for each location to the location in a changed climate whose seasonal temperature and precipitation cycles best match the reference climate. I use these vectors to calculate the change in vegetation carbon storage with climate change due to ecosystems following climate analogues. Comparing the derived carbon content change to direct carbon projections by coupled carbon–climate models reveals two regions of divergence. In the tropical forests, vector projections are fundamentally uncertain because of a lack of close climatic analogues. In the southern boreal forest, carbon losses are projected in the vector perspective because low-carbon ecosystems shift polewards. However, the majority of carbon–climate models—typically without explicit simulation of the disturbance and mortality processes behind such shifts—instead project vegetation carbon gains throughout the boreal region. Southern boreal carbon loss as a result of ecosystem shift is likely to offset carbon gains from northern boreal forest expansion.
Separate Induction of Amitotic and Mitotic Division in Acanthamoeba rhysodes

WE wish to describe methods for inducing cell division without mitotic nuclear division (amitosis) and nuclear division without cell division in the soil amoeba Acanthamoeba (= Hartmannella) rhysodes. We do this to demonstrate that A. rhysodes is a useful organism for the study of eukaryotic cell division.
Science and scholarship on the World Wide Web : A North American perspective

The potential significance of the World Wide Web for science and scholarship is analysed from informational, communication, and behavioural perspectives. Key factors to be taken into account are (i) scale, (ii) cost, (iii) conviviality, (iv) community, and (v) legitimacy. It is argued that the Web will have a transformative effect on the way scientists and scholars access information and present the results of their research to globally distributed peer communities
The Effect of Solute Concentration on Equilibrium Partitioning in Polymeric Gels.

Abstract The effect of solute concentration on the equilibrium partitioning of sphere-like, colloidal solutes in stiff polymer hydrogels is examined theoretically and experimentally. The theoretical development is a statistical mechanics approach, and allows quantitative calculations to be performed to determine the concentration-dependent partition coefficient correct to first order in solute concentration at specific surface charge densities. The theory predicts that repulsive steric and/or electrostatic solute–fiber interactions exclude solute from the gel phase, but that repulsive solute–solute interactions cause partitioning into the gel to increase with increasing solute concentration. These trends are enhanced for larger solutes, increased fiber volume fractions, or stronger electrostatic repulsion. Partition coefficients have also been measured for two proteins, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and α-lactalbumin (ALA), in a system consisting of a salt solution and cubes of agarose hydrogel. To investigate the effect of electrostatic interactions, the experiments were performed at 0.15 M KCl and 0.01 M KCl. The theory underpredicts the strong electrostatic repulsion between BSA macromolecules at the lower ionic strength. The experimental results for ALA show the influence of an attractive interaction between the protein macromolecules, in addition to hard-sphere repulsive and electrostatic interactions.
A two-thirds reduction in the space heat requirement of a Twin Rivers townhouse

Abstract A Twin Rivers townhouse received a series of retrofits more extensive than those deployed in previous experiments at Twin Rivers, and a 67% reduction in annual energy use for space heating resulted. The retrofits included interior window insulators of various designs, basement and attic insulation and systematic attention to routes of air infiltration. The 67% reduction was approximately the savings anticipated by a simple model, in which the “second role” of insulation in improving the retention of the non-furnace heat from sun, appliances, and people appears explicitly. (In the absence of non-furnace heat, the savings of gas achieved would have been only 50%.) The retrofits appear to be a financially attractive investment at the present price of natural gas and a 10% return on investment. Further retrofits are discussed.
Considering Accreditation in Gerontology: The Importance of Interprofessional Collaborative Competencies to Ensure Quality Health Care for Older Adults

The health care needs of older adults can be complex and multifaceted. Safe, effective, equitable, and person-centered service provision relies on skilled interprofessional, team-based practice. Too often, students seeking a career specializing in gerontology are not exposed to such interprofessional, team-based learning and practice during their coursework. This article details the core interprofessional collaborative competencies that need to be an integral component of any program providing quality education on issues in aging.
Incorporating Informational Texts in the Primary Grades: A Research-Based Rationale, Practical Strategies, and Two Teachers’ Experiences

This article highlights the literacy practices of two second grade teachers—one in an affluent suburb of a major metropolitan area and the other in a large urban school district. The article describes how these teachers use informational texts to engage their students, to provide children with opportunities to learn about the world around them, and to immerse them in literacy learning. The article also shares the teachers′ insights into the value of informational texts in primary classrooms.
A Joint Network-Channel Coding Technique for Single-Hop Wireless Networks

Reliable transmission over an error-prone channel is typically accomplished via channel coding or retransmission of the lost information. In this paper, we investigate a joint network-channel coding technique to increase the bandwidth efficiency of wireless networks. In particular, we show that the proposed joint network-channel coding approach which combines the recent network coding (NC) concept with the traditional forward error correction (FEC) technique, can increase the bandwidth efficiency in single-hop wireless networks such as WLAN or WiMAX networks. We present some analytical results on the bandwidth efficiency for both broadcast and unicast scenarios. Based on these theoretical results, we provide a heuristic algorithm that dynamically selects the optimal level of FEC to be used with network coding technique for given channel conditions. For typical channel characteristics, both simulations and theoretical results confirm that the proposed joint network channel coding approach can reduce the bandwidth usage up to five times over the automatic repeat request (ARQ) technique and up to two times over the HARQ technique.
In situ detection of biological particles in cloud ice-crystals

The impact of aerosol particles on the formation and properties of clouds is one of the largest remaining sources of uncertainty in climate change projections. Now, aircraft-aerosol time-of-flight spectroscopy measurements of ice residues indicate that biological particles trigger ice formation in high-altitude clouds.
Control system design using random search and geometric programming algorithms

Preliminary results in the design of control systems via a well-known adapative step-size random search algorithm and a new geometric programming algorithm are presented. Three examples are included to illustrate the methods. Where relevant, some comparisons of the two algorithms are noted.
Comparison Between Experimental Measurements and Numerical Simulations of Spheromak Formation in SSPX

Data from a recently installed insertable magnetic probe array in the Sustained Spheromak Physics Experiment (SSPX) [E. B. Hooper et al., Nucl. Fusion 39, 863 (1999)] is compared against NIMROD [C. R. Sovinec et al., J. Comp. Phys. 195, 355 (2004)], a full 3D resistive magnetohydrodynamic code that is used to simulate SSPX plasmas. The experiment probe consists of a linear array of chip inductors arranged in clusters that are spaced every 2 cm, and spans the entire machine radius at the flux conserver midplane. Both the experiment and the numerical simulations show the appearance, shortly after breakdown, of a column with a hollow current profile that precedes magnetic reconnection, a process essential to the formation of closed magnetic flux surfaces. However, there are differences between the experiment and the simulation in how the column evolves after it is formed. These differences are studied to help identify the mechanisms that eventually lead to closed-flux surfaces (azimuthally averaged) and flux amplification, which occur in both the experiment and the simulation.
Direct observation of stopped light in a whispering-gallery-mode microresonator

We introduce the definition of group velocity for a system with a discrete spectrum and apply it to a linear resonator. We show that a positive, negative, or zero group velocity can be obtained for light propagating in the whispering-gallery modes of a microspherical resonator. The associated group delay is practically independent of the ring-down time of the resonator. We demonstrate ``stopped light'' in an experiment with a fused silica microsphere.
Small business economics

The paper presents an overview of small-business economics. Small businesses are shown to comprise a substantial and expanding segment of the U.S. economy. The role of small businesses in the economy is considered from the standpoint of various economic theories of the size distribution of firms. Firm-size related empirical regularities are reviewed and their implications for economic theory is discussed. Several small-business policy issues are discussed, including the role of small businesses in labor, macroeconomic, and regulatory policies, along with a review of research on small-business economics that might help guide these policies.
Nanotechnologies for the Life Sciences, Vol. 4: Nanodevices for the Life Sciences (Kumar, C.S.S.R.; 2006) [Book review]

This book is intended to describe natural and engineered nanodevices from the broad perspectives of mathematical modeling, fabrication, function, and application. This text is written by more than 40 authors with a wide range of expertise. The authors assume that the readers are familiar with basic concepts and terminologies of mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry, and biology. The book is organized across several disciplines, and the chapters are written at a level that this reviewer would suggest as a reference text for graduate students, researchers, and scientists who are interested in nanodevices and their applications in life science. The book is overly broad and too intense for most undergraduates.
6-Thioguanine levels versus white blood cell counts in guiding 6-mercaptopurine and azathioprine therapy

6-Thioguanine levels versus white blood cell counts in guiding 6-mercaptopurine and azathioprine therapy
Molecular connectivity III: Relationship to partition coefficients

The molecular connectivity index is shown to be linearly related to the octanol—water partition coefficients of a variety of monofunctional chemical classes including esters, alcohols, ketones, ethers, carboxylic acids, amines, and hydrocarbons. A modification of the connectivity index, taking into account the valency or degree of unsaturation of an atom, merges the data for all compounds except hydrocarbons. The connectivity index is also shown to be useful for correlating biological activity. These studies indicate that partition coefficients represent empirical quantities having intermediate significance between biological data and the more fundamental property of molecular connectivity.
Stretch-induced Calcium Release in Smooth Muscle

Smooth muscle cells undergo substantial increases in length, passively stretching during increases in intraluminal pressure in vessels and hollow organs. Active contractile responses to counteract increased transmural pressure were first described almost a century ago (Bayliss, 1902) and several mechanisms have been advanced to explain this phenomenon. We report here that elongation of smooth muscle cells results in ryanodine receptor-mediated Ca(2+) release in individual myocytes. Mechanical elongation of isolated, single urinary bladder myocytes to approximately 120% of slack length (DeltaL = 20) evoked Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores in the form of single Ca(2+) sparks and propagated Ca(2+) waves. Ca(2+) release was not due to calcium-induced calcium release, as release was observed in Ca(2+)-free extracellular solution and when free Ca(2+) ions in the cytosol were strongly buffered to prevent increases in [Ca(2+)](i). Stretch-induced calcium release (SICR) was not affected by inhibition of InsP(3)R-mediated Ca(2+) release, but was completely blocked by ryanodine. Release occurred in the absence of previously reported stretch-activated currents; however, SICR evoked calcium-activated chloride currents in the form of transient inward currents, suggesting a regulatory mechanism for the generation of spontaneous currents in smooth muscle. SICR was also observed in individual myocytes during stretch of intact urinary bladder smooth muscle segments. Thus, longitudinal stretch of smooth muscle cells induces Ca(2+) release through gating of RYR. SICR may be an important component of the physiological response to increases in luminal pressure in smooth muscle tissues.
Histamine inhibits prostaglandin E2-stimulated rabbit duodenal bicarbonate secretion via H2 receptors and enteric nerves.

Abstract Background/Aims: The gastroduodenal epithelium is protected from acid peptic damage by an adherent mucus-bicarbonate layer. Bicarbonate is secreted by the surface epithelial cells into this mucus layer. Patients with duodenal ulcer disease have impaired proximal duodenal bicarbonate secretion. Mast cells, present in large numbers in the duodenal mucosa, release a number of inflammatory mediators, including histamine. Release of such mast cell mediators has been implicated in ulcer disease. In this study, the ability of histamine to regulate bicarbonate secretion was examined. Methods: Bicarbonate secretion by rabbit proximal duodenal mucosa was examined in vitro, and the effects of histamine, its agonists, and its antagonists were studied. Results: Histamine essentially eliminated prostaglandin E 2 -stimulated duodenal mucosal bicarbonate secretion, an effect reversed both by the neurotoxin, tetrodotoxin, and the histamine H 2 -receptor antagonist, cimetidine, as well as reproduced by the H 2 -receptor agonist, dimaprit. Conclusions: In addition to the stimulatory action of histamine on gastric acid secretion, histamine expresses an additional antidefensive action by inhibiting prostaglandin E 2 -stimulated duodenal epithelial bicarbonate secretion. This effect of histamine is likely mediated via H 2 receptors located on enteric nerves.
Energy Band Structure of Copper by the Empirical Pseudopotential Method

The electronic band structure of copper is calculated using the empirical pseudopotential method. A nonlocal $d$-wave potential with a damping factor is used to provide the potential for the $d$ electron. The results agree well with the available experimental data and with theoretical band calculations using other methods. It is anticipated that the empirical pseudopotential method can be used for other noble metals and even extended to noble metal compounds, transition metals, and transition metal compounds.