cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Translation of Gambles and Aspiration Level Effects in Risky Choice Behavior

Two recent models of risky decision making developed by Fishburn Fishbijrn, P. C. 1977. Mean-risk analysis with risk associated with below-target returns. Amer. Econ. Rev.67 116-126. and by Kahneman and Tversky Kahneman, D., A. Tversky. 1979. Prospect theory: an analysis of decisions under risk. Econometrica47 262-291. have emphasized the importance of a target return or a reference point in determining preferences and choices among gambles. Target returns and reference points represent variations on the concept of an aspiration level, an old idea in theories of decision making. Additional evidence on the need to incorporate such a concept in the analysis of risky choice behavior is presented in this paper. In three experiments, the relationship of pairs of gambles to an assumed reference point was varied by adding or subtracting a constant amount from all outcomes. The results demonstrate that such translations of outcomes can result in the reversal of choice within pairs of gambles. The effect of such translations on choice depended on whether the size of the translation was sufficient to insure that one gamble in a pair had outcome values either all above or all below the reference point, while the other gamble had outcome values both above and below the reference point. A model of the effects of a reference point on risky choice behavior is presented and the results are also discussed in terms of the Fishburn and Kahneman-Tversky models, as well as other theories of risky decision making.
Cognitive Modules Utilized for Narrative Comprehension in Children: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study

The ability to comprehend narratives constitutes an important component of human development and experience. The neural correlates of auditory narrative comprehension in children were investigated in a large-scale functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study involving 313 subjects ages 5–18. Using group Independent Component Analysis (ICA), bilateral task-related components were found comprising the primary auditory cortex, the mid-superior temporal gyrus, the hippocampus, the angular gyrus and medial aspect of the parietal lobule (precuneus/posterior cingulate). In addition, a right-lateralized component was found involving the most posterior aspect of the superior temporal gyrus, and a left-lateralized component was found comprising the inferior frontal gyrus (including Broca’s area), the inferior parietal lobule, and the medial temporal gyrus. Using a novel data-driven analysis technique, increased task-related activity related to age was found in the components comprising the mid-superior temporal gyrus (Wernicke’s area) and the posterior aspect of the superior temporal gyrus, while decreased activity related to age was found in the component comprising the angular gyrus. The results are discussed in light of recent hypotheses involving the functional segregation of Wernicke’s area and the specific role of the mid-superior temporal gyrus in speech comprehension.
A model-driven partitioning and auto-tuning integrated framework for sparse matrix-vector multiplication on GPUs

Sparse Matrix-Vector Multiplication (SpMV) is very common to scientific computing. The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) has recently emerged as a high-performance computing platform due to its massive processing capability. This paper presents an innovative performance-model driven approach for partitioning sparse matrix into appropriate formats, and auto-tuning configurations of CUDA kernels to improve the performance of SpMV on GPUs. This paper makes the following contributions: (1) Propose an empirical CUDA performance model to predict the execution time of SpMV CUDA kernels. (2) Design and implement a model-driven partitioning framework to predict how to partition the target sparse matrix into one or more partitions and transform each partition into appropriate storage format, which is based on the fact that the different storage formats of sparse matrix can significantly affect the performance of SpMV. (3) Integrate the model-driven partitioning with our previous auto-tuning framework to automatically adjust CUDA-specific parameters to optimize performance on specific GPUs. Compared to the NVIDIA's existing implementations, our approach shows a substantial performance improvement. It has 222%, 197%, and 33% performance improvement on the average for CSR vector kernel, ELL kernel and HYB kernel, respectively.
One dimensional classical spin models with long range anisotropic interaction. An extreme nematogenic lattice model

Abstract We consider a classical system, consisting of n-component unit vectors (classical spins, n = 2, 3), asssociated with a one dimensional lattice {u k /k∊Z}, and interacting via a translationally invariant pair potential of the long range, ferromagnetic, and anisotropic form where ∊>0 is a positive quantity setting energy and temperature scales (i.e. T∗ = kT/∊), a 0. b 0, p>1 and uk,λ A denotes the cartesian components of the unit vector u k . Available rigorous results entail the existence of an ordering transition at a finite temperature for 1 2, and for the borderline cases p = 2, b = 0 (thus a = 1), studied here by Monte Carlo simulation. Moreover, the case n = 2 can be interpreted both as a ferromagnet and as an extreme case of a nematogenic lattice model, and was investigated accordingly, also by calculating the singlet orientational distribution function at one temperature in the ordered region. Simulation results showed a broad, qualitative similarity between the two models. The esti...
An inverse problem for dielectrics that depend on two spatial variables

The inversion method developed by Reese T. Prosser for waves in three dimensions is modified to solve inverse problems of back scattered data for TM plane waves incident on cylindrical structures with dielectric properties that are function of two spatial variables. Not only the bounds needed for convergence proof of the modified method are found but also the method is numerically implemented and its numerical performance examined. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:561–566, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27383
Varieties of Knowledge and Skill-Based Pay Design

This article describes the design of knowledge and skill-based pay systems for K-12 teachers in six U.S. school districts and one charter school. Based on a theory of action that relates knowledge and skill- based pay systems to improvements in instruction, and the expectancy theory of motivation, seven dimensions for comparison are identified and the systems are compared based on these dimensions. While there were a variety of reasons for designing new pay systems, similarities included that teachers were involved in the design processes, and that the knowledge and skills rewarded are more closely related to instruction than in the traditional salary schedule (though none of the systems placed heavy emphasis on content-specific pedagogy). Most systems made use of existing standards or definitions of good teaching, such as the Framework for Teaching (Danielson, 1996). While most of the systems involved performance-based assessments of teacher skills, in no case were seniority and graduate degrees eliminated as a basis for pay progression. Few of the programs had developed a coordinated professional development program specifically linked to the knowledge and skills rewarded by the new pay system. Implications for policy makers and system designers are drawn.
Investigation of Modeling Approaches for Scalar Transport and Mixing in LES

LES models for subgrid scalar transport are assessed through large eddy simulation of passive scalar mixing in a turbulent round jet. The simulation is performed on a spherical coordinate grid using semi-implicit time advancement. The models used to close the subgrid scalar flux term are varied while the same modeling approach is used for the momentum model in order to isolate the effects of the scalar modeling. The subgrid scalar flux models tested include an eddy diffusivity model and a one-parameter mixed model. Model performance is analyzed by examining mean resolved-scale quantities and PDFs of the scalar concentration field.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Controlling deadlock in Ada

Ada's concurrency constructs provide synchronization and mutual exclusion mechanisms to control resource allocation. These constructs, if improperly used, can cause indefinite or infinite postponement of completion of service.Hembold and Luckham [3] and Cheng, Araki, and Ushijima [2] identify classes of these anomalies in order to aid in their detection. In this article we continue their discussion of the classification and control of these unbounded delays.
Uncoupling of the molecular 'fence' and paracellular 'gate' functions in epithelial tight junctions

During epithelial morphogenesis, the establishment of tight junctions precedes the development of both the asymmetry in protein and lipid composition between apical and basolateral cell surfaces (the 'fence' function) and the restriction in the transport of ions and nonelectrolytes through the extracellular clefts between cells (the 'gate' function). Molecular models that explain both functions envision strands of particles extending as rings in the cell's perimeter that interact with similar strands located at the apposing cell. This model accounts for the 'fence' function, because the strands prevent diffusion of protein and lipids, and also for the 'gate' function, because the interaction between strands minimizes the width of the extracellular clefts, increasing transepithelial resistance to ions and decreasing non-electrolyte permeability. Here we describe the results of energy depletion, which for the first time separates both functions: it abolishes the gate function, as determined by the dramatic decrease in transepithelial resistance, but it leaves the fence function intact, as determined by the maintenance of lipid polarity.
The perception of object versus objectless motion

Wertheimer, M. (Zeitschrift fur Psychologie und Physiologie der Sinnesorgane, 61:161-265, 1912) classical distinction between beta (object) and phi (objectless) motion is elaborated here in a series of experiments concerning competition between two qualitatively different motion percepts, induced by sequential changes in luminance for two-dimensional geometric objects composed of rectangular surfaces. One of these percepts is of spreading-luminance motion that continuously sweeps across the entire object; it exhibits shape invariance and is perceived most strongly for fast speeds. Significantly for the characterization of phi as objectless motion, the spreading luminance does not involve surface boundaries or any other feature; the percept is driven solely by spatiotemporal changes in luminance. Alternatively, and for relatively slow speeds, a discrete series of edge motions can be perceived in the direction opposite to spreading-luminance motion. Akin to beta motion, the edges appear to move through intermediate positions within the object's changing surfaces. Significantly for the characterization of beta as object motion, edge motion exhibits shape dependence and is based on the detection of oppositely signed changes in contrast (i.e., counterchange) for features essential to the determination of an object's shape, the boundaries separating its surfaces. These results are consistent with area MT neurons that differ with respect to speed preference Newsome et al (Journal of Neurophysiology, 55:1340-1351, 1986) and shape dependence Zeki (Journal of Physiology, 236:549-573, 1974).
Using social marketing to address barriers and motivators to agricultural safety and health best practices.

ABSTRACT Social marketing is an intervention development strategy that pays considerable attention to barriers to and motivators for behavioral change or adoption of recommended behaviors. Barriers are obstacles that prevent individuals from changing or adopting behaviors and are often referred to as the “cons” or “costs” of doing something. Motivators, on the other hand, are factors that encourage individuals to change or adopt behaviors and are often referred to as the “pros,” “benefits,” or “influencing factors” of doing something. Importantly, social marketing does not target education or knowledge change as an end point; rather, it targets behavior change. Studies across several types of desired behaviors (e.g., smoking cessation, weight control, more exercise, sunscreen use, radon testing) using the Stages of Change model have found systematic relationships between stages of change and pros and cons of changing behavior. A review of literature identifies numerous research and intervention studies th...
Replacement of Integration Host Factor Protein-induced DNA Bending by Flexible Regions of DNA

The Escherichia coliintegration host factor (IHF) protein is required for site-specific recombination of bacteriophage λ DNA. Previously, we had shown that alternative modules of static DNA curvature could partially replace IHF in recombination. Now we use regions of single-stranded DNA as a flexible tether to address whether the function of IHF in recombination is simply to reduce persistence length. Although we find that these modules clearly enhance recombination in the absence of IHF, they are not perfect replacements. In addition, evidence is presented that the efficacy of a flexibility swap is specific to a particular IHF site. This may indicate that additional functions beyond simple deformation of DNA are required of IHF. During the course of these experiments we discovered that these flexible sequences are still specific sites for IHF binding and function.
Efficient computation of unsteady flow in complex river systems with uncertain inputs

This paper examines the modelling and computational issues of a framework for representing uncertain inflows in river systems using the polynomial chaos approach. Ensemble forecasts are used to construct a Karhunen–Loeve expansion of random inflows. The statistics of the stochastic outflow of the system are computed using stochastic collocation. The dynamics of the river system are efficiently simulated using the performance graphs approach.
Early Intervention of Inotropic Support in Facilitating Weaning From Cardiopulmonary Bypass: The New England Deaconess Hospital Experience

Abstract The current article reviews the therapeutic advantages and disadvantages of early inotropic intervention prior to separation from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Background information is provided on predictors of failure to wean as well as the multiple etiologies and consequences of the “failed wean” from CPB. Advantages of early inotropic intervention include (1) increased contractility, (2) resolution/prevention of ischemia, (3) attainment of therapeutic levels of drug, (4) minimization of inotropic side effects while on CPB, (5) avoidance of mechanical intervention (intra-aortic balloon pump), (6) dilation of the internal mammary artery, and (7) prevention of the “failed wean.’ Disadvantages of early inotropic intervention include (1) unnecessary drug usage, (2) tachycardia/arrhythmias, (3) hyper/hypotension, (4) metabolic disturbances (hyperglycemia), (5) coagulation disorders, (6) need for additional drugs to treat side effects, (7) possible myocardial damage, and (S) additional costs. A brief review of this institution's preference for amrinone follows, including its pharmacology, side effects, and dosing prior to separation from CPB. Due to the large percentage of patients with diabetes mellitus undergoing cardiac surgery at our institution (approximately 30% to 40%) a synopsis of special inotropic considerations for this patient population is included.
MUSCLE PAIN, FATIGUE, AND FASICULATIONS

This article discusses muscle pain, fatigue, and fasiculations. Muscle pain and fatigue are common problems in general medicine and in neurology, while fasiculations raise concern about a potentially ominous disease. The author reviews the conditions that cause pain and similar conditions arising from nonmuscular soft tissues. The article includes a general evaluation to be used for each of these clinical problems.
LIQUID PHASE OXIDATION OF THIOPHENOL AND INDENE BY t-BUTYL HYDROPEROXIDE AND OXYGEN

ABSTRACT The tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP) or oxygen initiated oxidation of thiophenol in the presence of the active olefin indene was examined in benzene at 120C. The reaction is kinetically complex, but it was possible to relate the product distribution to a few competing reactions. The product mix was determined for several reaction time periods. The product slate was similar for all time periods, but yields of the individual components varied significantly with increasing reaction time. Gaseous products included isobutylene and a trace of methane. The major product from tBHP was t-butanol. The major product observed from thiophenol was phenyl disulfide. Addition products included the major product 2-phenylthiyl indan. Oxidation products included: indanols, indanones, and the sulfoxide and sulfone of the major product 2-phenylthiyl indan. Solvent participtation was noted by trace amounts of toluene.
Monitoring Therapeutic Interventions in Critically Ill Septic Patients

Sepsis is the leading cause of admission to intensive care units in the United States. Although the treatment of sepsis is complex and multimodal, nutrition support plays an important role in the management of these patients. The diagnosis of sepsis, disease category, and severity of illness and the change in sepsis severity and organ function over time affect the delivery of nutrition support. This paper reviews the diagnostic criteria of sepsis, the use of “sepsis biomarkers,” and regional and global markers of organ function in sepsis and quantitative measures of illness severity and organ dysfunction.
Management of the Difficult Airway

Background: The purpose of this study was to identify the patterns of liability associated with malpractice claims arising from management of the difficult airway. Methods: Using the American Society of Anesthesiologists Closed Claims database, the authors examined 179 claims for difficult airway management between 1985 and 1999 where a supplemental data collection tool was used and focused on airway management, outcomes, and the role of the 1993 Difficult Airway Guidelines in litigation. Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression analysis compared risk factors for death or brain damage (death/BD) from two time periods: 1985‐1992 and 1993‐1999. Results: Difficult airway claims arose throughout the perioperative period: 67% upon induction, 15% during surgery, 12% at extubation, and 5% during recovery. Death/BD with induction of anesthesia decreased in 1993‐1999 (35%) compared with 1985‐1992 (62%; P < 0.05; odds ratio, 0.26; 95% confidence interval, 0.11‐0.63; P 0.003). In contrast, death/BD associated with other phases of anesthesia did not significantly change over the time periods. The odds of death/BD were increased by the development of an airway emergency (odds ratio, 14.98; 95% confidence interval, 6.37‐35.27; P < 0.001). During airway emergencies, persistent intubation attempts were associated with death/BD (P < 0.05). Since 1993, the Airway Guidelines were used to defend care (8%) and criticize care (3%). Conclusions: Death/BD in claims from difficult airway management associated with induction of anesthesia but not other phases of anesthesia decreased in 1993‐1999 compared with 1985‐1992. Development of additional management strategies for difficult airways encountered during maintenance, emergence, or recovery from anesthesia may improve patient safety. RESPIRATORY system adverse events represent the most common mechanism leading to anesthesia malpractice claims, accounting for a large proportion of claims for death and brain damage in the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Closed Claims database. 1 After the introduction of the ASA Guidelines for the Management of the Difficult Airway in 1993, 2 we collected supplemental information about the process of airway management in closed claims involving difficult airways. In this study, we reviewed the supplemental information to identify the patterns of liability associated with claims arising from management of the difficult airway.
SCIM, A THEORY-BASED COMPUTER CODE FOR THE PREDICTION OF THE IN-PILE BEHAVIOR OF TYPE 304 STAINLESS STEEL.

A model for the behavior of Type 304 stainless steel during fast-reactor irradiation has been developed into the computer program SCIM (Swelling and Creep of Irradiated Metals). The model incorpora...
Inlet-engine matching for SCAR including application of a bicone variable geometry inlet

Airflow characteristics of variable cycle engines (VCE) designed for Mach 2.32 can have transonic airflow requirements as high as 1.6 times the cruise airflow. This is a formidable requirement for conventional, high performance, axisymmetric, translating centerbody mixed compression inlets. An alternate inlet is defined, where the second cone of a two cone center body collapses to the initial cone angle to provide a large off-design airflow capability, and incorporates modest centerbody translation to minimize spillage drag. Estimates of transonic spillage drag are competitive with those of conventional translating centerbody inlets. The inlet's cruise performance exhibits very low bleed requirements with good recovery and high angle of attack capability.
Dyadic spatial relationships in pigtail and stumptail macaques: A multiple regression analysis

Within the field of behavioral primatology, various descriptive models of intragroup spatial structure have emerged, particularly for macaques and savannah baboons. Predictions are that monkeys avoid aggressors, are attracted to others of similar dominance rank and age, and of like sex, and prefer kin over nonkin in proximity relationships. These predictions are tested for captive groups of pigtail and stumptail macaques, using a quadratic multiple regression model, with approach as the dependent spatial variable. Results indicate a clear preference for approaching kin in both groups studied. The only other prediction confirmed is an attraction to same-sexed group members by pigtail males. Post hoc analyses of trends in the importance of the factors affecting approaches suggest that developmental trends can be more clearly understood by examining more proximal causes like dominance rank and activity level, in addition to age. The adaptive consequences of approach preferences are considered in the light of kin selection theory.
Unexpected downshifts in reward magnitude induce variation in human behavior

We investigated how changes in outcome magnitude affect behavioral variation in human volunteers. Our participants entered strings of characters using a computer keyboard, receiving feedback (gaining a number of points) for any string at least ten characters long. During a “surprise” phase in which the number of points awarded was changed, participants only increased their behavioral variability when the reward value was downshifted to a lower amount, and only when such a shift was novel. Upshifts in reward did not have a systematic effect on variability.
Design and development of the combustor inlet diffuser for the NASA/GE energy efficient engine

Results of an experimental investigation of the aerodynamic performance of a split duct annular combustor inlet diffuser system are presented. Several diffuser configurations were investigated in 3X-scale water table tests and the preferred design was evaluated in full-scale annular airflow model tests. Pressure recovery and flow losses were determined as a function of prediffuser inlet velocity profile, flow extraction at the prediffuser exit, and distribution of flow in the combustor. Inlet velocity profile and turbulence levels were found to have a pronounced effect on system performance. Flow extraction at the prediffuser exit was found to have little influence on system performance. Generally, the annular split duct diffuser system was found to satisfy the performance objectives for the engine.
The performance of a multi-sensor detection system based on phage-coated magnetoelastic biosensors

In this paper the performance of a magnetoelastic biosensor detection system for the simultaneous identification of B. anthracis spores and S. typhimurium was investigated. This system was also designed for selective in-situ detection of B. anthracis spores in the presence a mixed microbial population. The system was composed of a reference sensor (devoid of phage), an E2 phage sensor (coated with phage specific to S. typhimurium) and a JRB7 phage sensor (coated with phage specific to B. anthracis spores). When cells/spores are bound to the specific phage-based ME biosensor surface, only the resonance frequency of the specific sensor changed. The instantaneous response of the multiple sensor system was studied by exposing the system to B. anthracis spores and S. typhimurium suspensions sequentially. A detection limit of 1.6×103 cfu/mL and 1.1×103 cfu/m was observed for JRB7 phage sensor and E2 phage sensor, respectively. Additionally, the performance of the system was also evaluated by exposure to a flowing mixture of B. anthracis spores (5×101-5×108 cfu/ml) in the presence of B. cereus spores (5×107 cfu/ml). Only the JRB7 phage biosensor responded to the B. anthracis spores. Moreover, there was no appreciable frequency change due to non-specific binding when other microorganisms (spores) were in the mixture. A detection limit of 3×102 cfu/mL was observed for JRB7 phage sensor. The results show that the multi-sensor detection system offers good performance, including good sensitivity, selectivity and rapid detection.
Nutrient requirements of suspension cultures of soybean root cells.

Abstract The nutrient requirements of suspension cultures from soybean root have been investigated, and a simple medium consisting of mineral salts, sucrose, vitamins and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4- d ) has been designed. The cells required thiamine, 2,4- d and ammonium in addition to the usual mineral salts and sucrose. Optimum concentrations of nitrate and ammonium were 25 and 2 m M respectively. The highest yield of cells was achieved at an initial pH of 4.5–5.5. During the growth cycle the pH gradually increased to 6.0–6.2.
How muscle fiber lengths and velocities affect muscle force generation as humans walk and run at different speeds

The lengths and velocities of muscle fibers have a dramatic effect on muscle force generation. It is unknown, however, whether the lengths and velocities of lower limb muscle fibers substantially affect the ability of muscles to generate force during walking and running. We examined this issue by developing simulations of muscle-tendon dynamics to calculate the lengths and velocities of muscle fibers from electromyographic recordings of 11 lower limb muscles and kinematic measurements of the hip, knee and ankle made as five subjects walked at speeds of 1.0-1.75 m s(-1) and ran at speeds of 2.0-5.0 m s(-1). We analyzed the simulated fiber lengths, fiber velocities and forces to evaluate the influence of force-length and force-velocity properties on force generation at different walking and running speeds. The simulations revealed that force generation ability (i.e. the force generated per unit of activation) of eight of the 11 muscles was significantly affected by walking or running speed. Soleus force generation ability decreased with increasing walking speed, but the transition from walking to running increased the force generation ability by reducing fiber velocities. Our results demonstrate the influence of soleus muscle architecture on the walk-to-run transition and the effects of muscle-tendon compliance on the plantarflexors' ability to generate ankle moment and power. The study presents data that permit lower limb muscles to be studied in unprecedented detail by relating muscle fiber dynamics and force generation to the mechanical demands of walking and running.
INTERSUBUNIT CONTACTS GOVERNING ASSEMBLY OF THE MAMMALIAN NICOTINIC ACETYLCHOLINE RECEPTOR

Through specific intersubunit contacts, the four subunits of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor assemble into an alpha 2 beta gamma delta pentamer. The specificity of subunit association leads to formation of proper ligand binding sites and to transport of assembled pentamers to the cell surface. To identify determinants of subunit association, we constructed chimeric subunits, transfected them into HEK 293 cells, and studied their association with wild-type subunits. We used beta gamma chimeras to determine sequences that associate with the alpha subunit to form a ligand binding site and found residues 21-131 of the gamma subunit sufficient to form the site. Residues 51-131 of the beta subunit do not form a binding site, but do promote surface expression of pentamers; of these residues, R117 is key for surface expression. We studied formation of tetramers by alpha and gamma subunits and dimers by alpha and delta subunits, and used gamma delta chimeras to identify sequences that result in either dimers or tetramers. The conserved residues I145 and T150 of the gamma subunit promote alpha gamma alpha gamma tetramer formation, whereas the corresponding residues in the delta subunit, K145 and K150, allow only alpha delta dimer formation.
Relapsing viral hepatitis type A

Three patients with a relapsing course of serologically confirmed viral hepatitis type A are presented. In addition, one patient had aminotransferase elevations for over 6 mo. In all three, hepatitis ultimately resolved. A relapsing or protracted course does not appear to alter the benign prognosis of hepatitis A.
Sorption behavior and competition of bromacil, napropamide, and prometryn

Groundwater contamination by pesticides is a problem of major and increasing concern. Detailed field measurements reveal that leaching of pesticides from soils is often faster than predicted using simple models. This discrepancy is likely due to a combination of physical effects (e.g., preferential pathways) and complexities in the chemical sorption process. To address the issue of sorption complexity, a series of laboratory batch sorption studies have been conducted to determine the detailed sorption behavior of three herbicides, bromacil [5-bromo-6-methyl-3-(1-methylpropyl)-2,4(1R,1H)pyrimidinedione], napropamide [N,N-diethyl-2-(1-naphthalenyloxy)propanamide], and prometryn [N,N'-bis(1-methylethyl)-6-(methylthio)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine], onto a sandy loam soil. The studies were designed to determine the extent of nonideal sorption behavior; specifically non-equilibrium, nonlinearity, sorption hysteresis, and solute-solute interactions. Results showed all three herbicides reached sorption equilibrium quickly, within 2 h. Both napropamide and prometryn were linearly sorbed, while bromacil sorption followed a Freundlich isotherm, with n = 0.92. All three herbicides displayed apparent sorption hysteresis. Bromacil and napropamide sorption decreased in the presence of the other herbicides, while prometryn sorption was unaffected. Contrary to most literature data, napropamide was more strongly sorbed than prometryn in these studies, due to the high pH of the soil. Results suggest that sorption nonlinearity and competition may increase field-scale transport velocities by 10% or more.
Improving The Coordination Of Care For Medicaid Beneficiaries In Pennsylvania

hospitals, community and home care services, and affiliated physician practices. The system is also part owner of Keystone Mercy Health Plan, a Medicaid managed care organization serving more than 300,000 Medicaid recipients in the greater Philadelphia region. KEY INNOVATION The two organizations improved care coordination by placing Keystone Mercy care managers in provider settings affiliated with Mercy Health System, resulting in fewer hospitalizations, shorter stays, and fewer readmissions. But patients receiving care coordination were more likely to choose the Mercy Health System hospital that participated in the pilot program, increasing its admissions volume among this population. COST SAVINGS Unpublished data show that in the pilot, per member per month savings were $37.70 for the patient population that received improved care coordination. QUALITY IMPROVEMENT RESULTS Among the group receiving improved care coordination, the rate of hospital admissions per 1,000 members per year was reduced 17 percent, and length-of-stay dropped 37 percent. CHALLENGES These include misalignment between the two organizations’ respective performance and financial incentives; providing local “champions” with the support they need to sustain their own focus and enthusiasm during the hard work of change, as well as their colleagues’; and identifying appropriate metrics to evaluate care coordination outcomes.
Proteasomal regulation of βc signaling reveals a novel mechanism for cytokine receptor heterotypic desensitization

IL-5, IL-3, and GM-CSF are hematopoietic cytokines that are key mediators of the allergic inflammatory response. The receptors for these three cytokines consist of a cytokine-specific alpha (Ralpha) chain and a shared common beta (betac) chain. Herein, we demonstrate that agonistic ligation of these receptor subunits rapidly induces proteasomal degradation of the betac, but not the Ralpha, cytoplasmic domain, resulting in termination of signal transduction and yielding a truncated betac isoform ligated to the Ralpha subunit. Proteasomal degradation of the betac cytoplasmic domain was also a prerequisite for endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of the ligated receptor subunits. Moreover, proteasome-dependent termination of signaling induced by one betac-engaging cytokine resulted in cellular desensitization to signal transduction by subsequent stimulation with another betac-engaging cytokine. These data provide the first evidence for ligand-dependent proteasomal degradation of the betac cytoplasmic domain, and they establish a novel mechanism for heterotypic desensitization of shared cytokine receptor signaling.
An investigation of the effects of layered tissue on NIR imaging of deep heterogeneous structure

Near-infrared spectroscopy/imaging has been used for non-invasive monitoring of changes in hemoglobin oxygenation and volume in the human brain caused by a variety of physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
SOURCING Penaeus setiferus: A SUMMARY OF LARVAL PRODUCTION, INCIDENCE OF CAPTURE OF MATED FEMALES, AND MATING INCIDENCE BY TIME OF DAY ON RESEARCH CRUISES 1981–1983

Results of 32 collection cruises for Penaeus setiferus adults over a 3-year period in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico are reviewed to document incidence of capture of mature females, mating incidence by time of day of capture, and larval production from natural and artificial inseminations. Mean number of eggs per spawn by year for natural inseminations ranged from 197,000–309,000 (n=160) and for artificial inseminations, 136,000–300,000 (n=174) for females averaging 38–45 g. Mean percent hatch for natural inseminations ranged from 35.3–72.8, and for artificial inseminations, 14.7–77.8. The percentage of females captured from 0900–1600 hours which were mated ranged from 0–13%, while 9–42% of those captured from 1600–2200 hours were mated. The strongest diurnal increase in mating activity occurred from 1600–1800 hours. Three mated conditions, characterized by 1) a complete compound spermatophore; 2) the “wings” or anterior portion of the spermatophore only; and 3) a sperm mass only, represented 28.4%, 38.3%, and 33.3%, respectively, at time of capture. A significant relationship was found between spermatophore stage and hour of capture (P < 0.149), suggesting there may be a sequential breakdown of the spermatophore prior to spawning.
Prospective associations between brain activation to cocaine and no-go cues and cocaine relapse☆

Background The ability to predict potential for relapse to substance use following treatment could be very useful in targeting aftercare strategies. Recently, a number of investigators have focused on using neural activity measured by fMRI to predict relapse propensity. The purpose of the present study was to use fMRI to investigate prospective associations between brain reactivity to cocaine and response inhibition cues and relapse to cocaine use.
Effect of the mobile phase composition on the isotherm parameters and the high concentration band profiles in reversed-phase liquid chromatography.

Abstract Single-component adsorption isotherm data were acquired by frontal analysis for phenol on a C18-Kromasil packed column, under reversed-phase liquid chromatography conditions, using various methanol–water solutions (30–60%, v/v, methanol). The isotherm model accounting best for these data was the biLangmuir model. With increasing methanol content, the two saturation capacities decrease, particularly that of the high-energy sites, the adsorption constant of the low-energy sites decreases significantly and that of the high-energy sites decreases strongly. These results allow a quantitative investigation of the properties of the high-energy sites (which are not necessarily the so-called active sites), a feature rarely discussed yet. The band profiles calculated with the numerical values of the isotherm model parameters derived by fitting the frontal analysis data to the model and using the equilibrium–dispersive model agree very well with the experimental band profiles in the whole concentration range.
Rhetorical detailing in Cicero's Verrine orations

This article offers answers to three questions: Why, after his courtroom victory in the Verrine case, did Cicero publish his speech? What changes in his rhetorical theory are reflected in the speech? What principles of narrative suasion is Cicero using in the many stories he incorporates within the speech? The concept of rhetorical detailing is proposed as a key element in the probable answer to each question.
Physics and Mathematics Without Coordinates

The author presents his views on how physics should be phrased in a coordinate-free manner. Examples are given, which range from classical Continuum Mechanics to Special and General Relativity, in a narrative that hinges on the author’s original contributions to these fields.
Robust and stable drinking behavior following long-term oral alcohol intake in rhesus macaques

Abstract Face validity in animal models of alcohol abuse and dependence is often at odds with robust demonstrations of ethanol-seeking. This study determined the relative influence of ethanol and a flavorant in maintaining ethanol intake in a nonhuman primate model of “cocktail” drinking. Four-year-old male monkeys were maintained on a 6% ethanol/6% Tang® solution made available in daily (M–F) 1-h sessions. Experiments determined the effect of (1) a second daily access session, (2) concurrent presentation of the Tang® vehicle, (3) sequential presentation of the vehicle in the first daily session and the ethanol solution in the second session, (4) altering the Tang® concentration, (5) altering the ethanol concentration, and (6) removal of the flavorant. Mean daily intake (2.7 ± 0.2 g/kg/day) was stable over 7 months. Simultaneous availability of a large, but not a low–moderate, volume of the vehicle reduced ethanol intake by about 50%. Decreasing the concentration of Tang® in the first daily session reduced ethanol intake, whereas intake of the standard solution was increased in the second session. Ethanol consumption was decreased by only 27% when the flavorant was removed. In summary, alterations that reduced intake in the first daily session resulted in compensatory increases in ethanol intake in the second session, suggesting that animals sought a specific level of ethanol intake per day. It is concluded that models with excellent face validity (flavored beverages) can produce reliable ethanol intake in patterns that are highly consistent with ethanol-seeking behavior.
Health-Care Services for Children with Disabilities Emerging Standards and Implications

Conflicting interpretations of federal statutes and regulations have emanated from federal and state courts regarding the provision of health-care services as required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. As a result, educators and parents have been left in a quandary over the level and extent of health services that children with disabilities are entitled to receive. To help clarify related issues, this article provides an overview of relevant federal statutory, regulatory, and common law; examines the two primary standards applied by federal courts; and establishes a procedure that may be used to determine whether a specific form of requested health care qualifies as a health service to be provided by the local school district or a medical service to be provided by the parents or governmental agency.
Transforming orthopedic biomaterials into bone cancer inhibiting implants: The role of selenium nanoclusters

Current orthopedic implants have numerous problems that include poor osseointegration, stress shielding and wear debris-associated bone cell death. In addition, numerous patients receive orthopedic implants as a result of bone cancer resection, yet none of the current orthopedic materials are designed to prevent either the occurrence or reoccurrence of cancer. The objective of this study was to transform a traditional orthopedic material into an implant that can both restore bone and prevent bone cancer growth at the implant-tissue interface. Elemental selenium was chosen as the biologically active agent in this material because of its known chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic properties. It was found that when selenite salts were reduced by glutathione in the presence of an immersed substrate (titanium (Ti), stainless steel (SS) or ultra high molecular weigh polyethylene (UHMWPE)), elemental selenium nucleated and grew into adherent, hemispherical nanoclusters. For each type of substrate (Ti, SS and UHMWPE), three types of surfaces with different selenium surface densities were fabricated. The zero oxidation state of selenium was confirmed on Ti substrates by XPS profiles. Compared to uncoated Ti and SS substrates, the high-density selenium-coated surfaces inhibited cancerous bone cell functions while promoting healthy bone cell functions. Very little selenium was also found to release (about 250ppb) into the cell culture media after 3 days of immersion. These findings showed for the first time the potential of using selenium nanoclusters as a coating to transform a traditional orthopedic material into a bone cancer inhibiting implant.
Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome.

Purpose of reviewWiskott-Aldrich syndrome is caused by mutations of the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein gene, which codes for a cytoplasmic protein with multiple functions. This review will focus on recent progress in understanding the molecular basis of Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome and its ramificatio
Computing optimal strategy against quantal response in security games

To step beyond the first-generation deployments of attacker-defender security games -- for LAX Police, US FAMS and others -- it is critical that we relax the assumption of perfect rationality of the human adversary. Indeed, this assumption is a well-accepted limitation of classical game theory and modeling human adversaries' bounded rationality is critical. To this end, quantal response (QR) has provided very promising results to model human bounded rationality. However, in computing optimal defender strategies in real-world security games against a QR model of attackers, we face difficulties including (1) solving a nonlinear non-convex optimization problem efficiently for massive real-world security games; and (2) addressing constraints on assigning security resources, which adds to the complexity of computing the optimal defender strategy.This paper presents two new algorithms to address these difficulties: Gosaq can compute the globally optimal defender strategy against a QR model of attackers when there are no resource constraints and gives an efficient heuristic otherwise; Pasaq in turn provides an efficient approximation of the optimal defender strategy with or without resource constraints. These two novel algorithms are based on three key ideas: (i) use of a binary search method to solve the fractional optimization problem efficiently, (ii) construction of a convex optimization problem through a non-linear transformation, (iii) building a piecewise linear approximation of the non-linear terms in the problem. Additional contributions of this paper include proofs of approximation bounds, detailed experimental results showing the advantages of Gosaq and Pasaq in solution quality over the benchmark algorithm (Brqr) and the efficiency of Pasaq. Given these results, Pasaq is at the heart of the PROTECT system, which is deployed for the US Coast Guard in the port of Boston, and is now headed to other ports.
Designing a Bloom filter for differential file access

The use of a differential file for a database update can yield integrity and performance benefits, but it can also present problems in providing current data to subsequent accessing transactions. A mechanism known as a Bloom filter can solve these problems by preventing most unnecessary searches of the differential file. Here, the design process for a Bloom filter for an on-line student database is described, and it is shown that a very effective filter can be constructed with a modest expenditure of system resources.
Accelerated cartesian harmonics for fast computation of time and frequency domain low-frequency kernels

Low frequency regime is defined as the domain wherein the spatial size is orders of magnitude smaller than the wavelength. Of course, in time domain, this translates to the smallest wavelength in the simulation. Capturing these geometric features necessitates dense discretization. Methods to overcome the bottlenecks posed by this problem have been an active research topic for a while, both in the time and frequency domain, see Refs. [J. Meng et al., 2006] and [J.S. Zhao and W.C. Chew, 2001] and references therein. The literature in frequency domain is considerably more extensive than time and the paper cited here is only representative of the work. In what follows, we present another scheme, that can be used for simulating low frequency problems in the frequency domain, and with very minor modifications, perform similar analysis in the time domain as well. The algorithms presented here rely on Accelerated Cartesian Expansions (ACE) [B. Shanker and H. He, 2006].
DC motor control using fuzzy proportional-derivative technique

A fuzzy proportional-derivative (PD) controller is used to control the speed of a permanent magnet DC motor with a load. The fuzzy PD controller has the same linear structure as a conventional digital PD controller yet improves its self-tuning control capability. The performance of the fuzzy PD controller is tested with an experimental setup of a motor-generator with a load and is then compared to the conventional digital PD controller. This comparison reveals that the fuzzy PD controller performs as well as a conventional digital PD controller, and it reduces steady state error, thus maintaining the speed at set-point. >