cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The IDF Definition Is Better Suited for Screening Metabolic Syndrome and Estimating Risks of Diabetes in Asian American Adults: Evidence from NHANES 2011–2016

Objective: extensive effort has been made to better define metabolic syndrome (MetS). Whether current definitions accurately diagnose MetS and predict risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or diabetes in diverse ethnic groups remains largely unknown. The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of MetS and risk of CVD and diabetes among Asian American adults using two MetS definitions, one proposed by the Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (ATP III) and one by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Methods: we obtained a nationally representative sample of 2121 Asian American adults in the noninstitutionalized civilian population of the United States from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011–2016). We computed age-adjusted, gender-specific MetS prevalence and each MetS component using ATP III and IDF definitions. Results: based on the IDF definition, MetS prevalence was 39.26% among Asian American men and 39.66% among Asian American women included in the study sample. Based on the ATP III definition, MetS prevalence in our sample was 39.38% among men and 36.11% among women. We found good concordance between the IDF and the ATP III definitions in identifying MetS in Asian American adults. Those with MetS defined only by the IDF definition had significantly higher body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference than those with MetS defined only by the ATP III definition. The IDF definition also better predicted elevated fasting insulin. Conclusions: the IDF definition is more pertinent than the ATP III definition for screening and estimating risk of CVD and diabetes in Asian American adults. Future studies should examine differences in MetS prevalence across Asian ethnic groups to facilitate the development of culturally tailored strategies improve MetS prevention and detection in Asian Americans.
Blockchain Networks as Constitutional and Competitive Polycentric Orders

Permissionless blockchains have been described as a novel institutional building block for voluntary economic exchange, with unique protocol features such as automated contract execution, high levels of network and process transparency, and uniquely distributed governance. We argue that conventional institutional economics analysis of blockchain networks is incomplete absent a more robust application of descriptive polycentric analysis. Though the distributed governance that permissionless blockchain protocols provide is novel, these networks nonetheless require ongoing coordination between stakeholders and are subject to competitive pressures much like other private organizations pursuing similar goals for a set of users who can choose among providers. We characterize change on blockchain networks as resulting from internal sources and external sources. These internal sources include constitutional (protocol) design and the related need for collective choice processes to update protocols. In addition to law and regulation, competitive pressure is itself a critical external source of governance. Predominantly through analysis of two leading cryptocurrency networks, Bitcoin and Ethereum, we illustrate how conceptualizing of blockchain as a polycentric enterprise enhances our predictive and descriptive understanding of these networks.
Urine- and Plasma-Based Detection of Minimal Residual Disease in Localized Bladder Cancer Patients.

Purpose/Objective(s) Standard-of-care for treating muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) typically involves radical cystectomy, which is a morbid procedure. Nonoperative treatment including chemoradiation is a standard-of-care alternative, but it requires frequent invasive monitoring to assess for response and recurrence. We sought to develop a noninvasive liquid biopsy solution by applying CAPP-Seq to urine and plasma samples from localized bladder cancer patients obtained pre-operatively, which we hypothesized would correlate with pathologic complete response (pCR) assessed by surgery. Materials/Methods We acquired urine and plasma samples from 40 localized bladder cancer patients with an indication for radical cystectomy. CAPP-Seq variant-calling was performed noninvasively without tumor mutational knowledge using a 145 kb panel consisting of 49 consensus driver genes. Urine tumor DNA (utDNA) and plasma circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) per patient were represented by the non-silent driver mutation with the highest variant allele fraction in each respective fluid compartment after removing germline variants. Minimal residual disease (MRD) detection for each biomarker was defined using the optimal threshold from a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for classifying pCR. utDNA MRD was compared with ctDNA MRD using a multivariate logistic regression, controlling for age, gender, and nodal disease. Leave-one-out cross validation was performed to compare the predictive accuracy of each model. Results The difference in median utDNA between patients with residual disease detected in their cystectomy specimen (n = 25) and those who achieved a pCR (n = 15) was 4.8% (4.8% vs. 0%; P = 0.002). In comparison, the difference in median ctDNA between these two groups was only 0.4% (0.8% vs. 0.4%; P = 0.03). Consistent with this result, utDNA was a superior classifier of pCR than ctDNA based on ROC analysis, with an area under the curve of 0.79 vs. 0.70, respectively. Using MRD detection as a categorical predictor in a multivariable logistic regression, negative utDNA MRD corresponded with 21.6x greater odds of pCR (P Conclusion Urine-based MRD detection for localized bladder cancer significantly predicted pCR in the cystectomy specimen with a greater effect size, degree of accuracy, and sensitivity and specificity than plasma ctDNA MRD. In the future, utDNA MRD could potentially help identify candidates for bladder-sparing chemoradiation in a personalized and precise way.
Polyaniline-coated freestanding porous carbon nanofibers as efficient hybrid electrodes for supercapacitors

Abstract Three-dimensional, free-standing, hybrid supercapacitor electrodes combining polyaniline (PANI) and porous carbon nanofibers (P-CNFs) were fabricated with the aim to integrate the benefits of both electric double layer capacitors (high power, cyclability) and pseudocapacitors (high energy density). A systematic investigation of three different electropolymerization techniques, namely, potentiodynamic, potentiostatic, and galvanostatic, for electrodeposition of PANI on freestanding carbon nanofiber mats was conducted. It was found that the galvanostatic method, where the current density is kept constant and can be easily controlled facilitates conformal and uniform coating of PANI on three-dimensional carbon nanofiber substrates. The electrochemical tests indicated that the PANI-coated P-CNFs exhibit excellent specific capacitance of 366 F g−1 (vs. 140 F g−1 for uncoated porous carbon nanofibers), 140 F cm−3 volumetric capacitance, and up to 2.3 F cm−2 areal capacitance at 100 mV s−1 scan rate. Such excellent performance is attributed to a thin and conformal coating of PANI achieved using the galvanostatic electrodeposition technique, which not only provides pseudocapacitance with high rate capability, but also retains the double-layer capacitance of the underlying P-CNFs.
Dosimetric Characterization of a Compact Doorless High Energy Linear Accelerator Vault

We have carried out a series of dose measurements at various points in the maze of a new doorless vault, operating with a 15 MV linear accelerator. The vault occupies a footprint of 1,066 ft2 (∼99 m2) with a minimum 6 ft (∼1.8 m) width including at the opening and exit. Conservative measurements of annual equivalent doses at the opening of the room, using a workload of 59,000 Gy per year at 100% 15 MV usage, range from 200–2,000 mSv per year. The measured data was compared to theoretical calculated values using standard formulas for shielding calculations. For a field size of 40 cm x 40 cm, the maze accounts for a drop in neutron dose equivalent by a factor of 6,000 from the entrance to the exit. Similarly, the photon dose drop is by a factor of 7,090. Typical theoretical calculations predicted a drop of 299 and 5,538 for neutron and photons respectively over the same region. The photon calculated attenuation in the maze was within a factor of 1–2 from calculated for the full path of the maze. The neutron values were also within a factor of 1–2 from calculated up to the second maze turn where a significant overly conservative calculation results. Similar results were found for a field size of 0 cm x 0 cm. Part of this discrepancy may be due to the fact that the formalisms are optimized for calculation in a vault composed of standard concrete while these vaults are made of Ledite® material. In addition, this design contains a unique jog that may not be well modeled by conventional calculations. These results demonstrate the feasibility of constructing a doorless vault within a footprint typical for a shielded door design.
Analysis of Recurrent Events from Repairable Systems

This article provides a review of recently developed dynamic stochastic models for recurrent events, in particular, recurrent events arising from monitoring of repairable systems. Inference methods such as the estimation of model parameters and goodness-of-fit testing are also discussed. The procedures described are demonstrated using a reliability data from load–haul–dump machines. Keywords: counting processes; dynamic models; goodness-of-fit testing; hazard models; maximum-likelihood estimation; partial likelihood; repairable systems
An Algorithm for Computing DNA Walks

The process of reading a DNA molecule can be divided into three phases: sequencing,assembly and finishing. The draft sequence after assembly has gaps with no coverage and regions of poor coverage. Finishing by walks is a process by which the DNA in these regions is resequenced. Selective sequencing is expensive and time consuming. Therefore, the laboratory process of finishing is modeled as an optimization problem aimed at minimizing laboratory cost. We give an algorithm that solves this problem optimally and runs in worst case \(O(n^{1{3\over4}})\) time.
Overview of Extracellular Matrix

The extracellular matrix provides an environment for cells. It is produced, assembled and modified by cells and in turn, it modifies the functions and behavior of the cells it encounters. The molecules that make up the matrix are diverse in both structure and function. This well-illustrated unit provides an introduction to the structure and function of the major components of matrix and serves as a background for the other units in the chapter which include protocols for isolation and analysis of individual components.
Men’s Intentions to Engage in Behaviors to Protect Against Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Testing the Risk Perception Attitude Framework

Guided by the risk perception attitude framework (RPA), this study examined men's perceptions of risk and efficacy beliefs as predictors of their intentions to engage in self-protective behaviors. The results of multiple regression analyses did not provide support for the RPA prediction that efficacy beliefs moderate the relationship between risk perceptions and self-protective behavior. However, the results provide support for the main effects of risk and efficacy on all four behavioral intentions examined (i.e., Internet information seeking, communication with a health provider, HPV vaccination, and condom use). Risk and efficacy were positively related to (and significant individual predictors of) all four behavioral intentions. Scholarly and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Considerations for applying disk encryptors to environments subject to hostile overrun

The paper presents a list of considerations for applying a commercial off-the-shelf disk encryptor to an environment where hostile overrun is a significant threat. The considerations include: how the encryption device is configured and interfaced to the workstation, host, or server; encryption key management including key entry, changeover, and quick destruct; and long term off-line storage. >
Adaptive LMS processing architectures employing frequency domain sub-convolution

This paper provides an overview of a low-complexity, parameterized, and discrete-time processing architecture for realizing a frequency domain least-mean squares (LMS) complex equalizer by J. Proakis (1995). The realization results in lower complexity implementation in digital very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits. The architecture incorporates a lossless sub-convolution method, digital vector processing, specialized FFT-IFFT hardware architectures, and the discrete Fourier transform-inverse discrete Fourier transform (DFT-IDFT) overlap and save filter method by A.V. Oppenheim and R.W. Schafer (1989). A key property of the new architecture is that the equalizer tap length may be chosen completely independently of the FFT-IFFT lengths and input data block lengths. Theoretically unlimited tap lengths are possible with short FFT-IFFT pairs. It will be demonstrated that the new parallel architecture is very well suited for processing multi-Gbps digital communication data rates with relatively low speed CMOS hardware.
More on Indian Health

Dr. Turbeville has added some interesting thoughts, by comparing support for care in the Indian Health Service versus that in the military. I do disagree on one point. There are numbers of critically ill kids who need the attention of a pediatric cardiologist or, as occurred more recently, a neonatologist, but are either not sent in or are sent inappropriately to another unit which is cheaper. In regard to this recent occurrence relating to a newborn baby, our neonatologist accepted the baby for referral to his intensive care unit, but higher-ups in the Indian Health Service were forced to send the baby to another hospital that does not have a neonatologist and, indeed, has an average newborn census of about three.
Surrogate burns in deactivation furnace system.

The deactivation furnace system at the Deseret Chemical Depot in Utah is designed for processing explosive components from munitions containing nerve and mustard agents. The system was installed during the period of 1989 through 1993. The Utah Division of Solid and Hazardous Waste (UDSHW) required that trial burns be conducted using surrogate chemicals prior to introducing chemical agents into the system. The selected surrogate chemicals were monochlorobenzene and hexachloroethane based on the criteria established by the UDSHW. Three surrogate runs were conducted in October, 1995. The gaseous emissions and liquid and solid effluents were sampled and analyzed using approved EPA methods. The trial burns demonstrated the desirable destruction and removal efficiency for the selected surrogate chemicals. The pollution abatement system demonstrated the desired scrubbing efficiency for acid gases generated during incineration of chlorinated surrogate chemicals. The particulate removal efficiency during the trial burns was also considerably higher than required by regulations. After comprehensive review of the performance of the deactivation furnace system during the surrogate trial burns, UDSHW approved introduction of GB nerve agent into the system to prepare it for agent trial burns.
Successful pregnancies and vaginal deliveries after sacrospinous uterosacral fixation in five of nineteen patients

Objective: We sought to determine whether sacrospinous uterosacral ligament fixation restores the uterus to its normal anatomic position, preserving uterine function and allowing future childbearing. Study Design: This study was undertaken at two separate medical centers. Women with symptomatic uterovaginal prolapse who desired either uterine preservation or future childbearing were included. Results: We successfully performed sacrospinous fixation of the uterosacral ligaments in 19 patients. Five patients have since been delivered vaginally (for a total of six deliveries). Normal anatomic restoration was accomplished in all but one patient. Conclusions: Sacrospinous uterosacral ligament fixation is an acceptable surgical means to care for symptomatic uterovaginal prolapse in women desiring uterine preservation or future childbearing. To our knowledge, this is the first report of successful pregnancies and vaginal deliveries after sacrospinous uterosacral fixation.
Patient preferences regarding spine surgical decision making.

Study design Patient surveys to determine preferences in surgical decision making. Objective To evaluate spine patient preferences regarding physician and patient roles in surgical decision making and to discuss the ethical considerations that arise. Summary of background data Since the 1980s, there has been a push toward increasing patient autonomy and self-determination, and away from the paternalism of the past. Commensurate with this shift, patients have been encouraged to take the primary active role in surgical decision making. To date, there is little empirical evidence regarding how deeply patients want to be involved in this decision-making process. Methods A total of 200 consecutive patients seen at our academic spine center were administered 1 of 2 questionnaires (previously validated) aimed at determining patient preferences about how clinical decision making should take place. Results Patients felt strongly that complete risk information be provided. The majority of patients felt that the physician, rather than the patient, should make the basic treatment decision, and the great majority felt that the physician should make the technical decisions regarding treatment. Conclusions Spine surgical patients often prefer to defer surgical decision making to their surgeons. In clinical scenarios where there is little controversy and the evidence is clear, this results in little consequence, assuming that the surgeon aims to provide evidence-based care. In scenarios with greater controversy and less clear evidence, the choice of treatment offered by the surgeon may be based on factors outside of the available science, and, accordingly, efforts should be made to educate fully the patient and to help the patient make his/her own decision based on personal values regarding outcomes.
Wilson disease; analysis of 34 Turkish patients

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine clinical and laboratory findings of 34 Turkish children with Wilson disease (WD) at diagnosis before treatment. Presenting symptom was chronic liver disease in 27 patients. Five patients also had neurological symptoms. Seven patients were detected by family screening (siblings) and two were asymptomatic. Evaluation included neurological and ophthalmic examination, routine laboratory tests and parameters of copper metabolism, including liver copper content in 20 liver biopsy specimens. In the whole group, serum ceruloplasmin level was 20 mg/dl in 76.5%, urinary copper excretion was increased in 81.4% and liver copper content was elevated in 45% at diagnosis. Kayser–Fleischer rings were detected in 47% of patients. We concluded that, in patients presenting with liver disease and/or neurologic abnormalities of unknown origin, even normal ceruloplasmin and hepatic copper concentration, WD should always be kept in mind. On the other hand, family screening must be done in order to find siblings who suffer from WD in the early stages.
An improvement on valiant's decision procedure for equivalence of deterministic finite turn pushdown machines

Abstract Valiant has shown that the equivalence problem for deterministic finite turn pushdown machines is decidable. In this paper we show that his partial procedure for equivalence can be made constructive. To test equivalence for two given machines it suffices to construct one pda and test for emptiness. It is also shown that the time complexity of the algorithm is bounded by a double exponential function of the size of the input. The algorithm can be applied to deterministic two-tape automata and in this case the time complexity is exponential.
Relation Between Reading Problems and Internalizing Behavior in School for Preadolescent Children From Economically Disadvantaged Families

This longitudinal study of 105 economically disadvantaged children examined the relation between reading problems and internalizing behavior in 3rd- and 5th-grade assessments (8- to 12-year olds). The variable-centered results showed that reading problems predicted change in internalizing behavior in the context of child and family predictors. The person-centered results showed that children with reading problems in both grades had higher internalizing scores in 5th grade but not in 3rd grade than children with reading problems in 3rd grade or no problems. Child-reported negative emotion experiences varied similarly across grade. The results tie reading problems to emotional distress in school and support conclusions about the direction of effects and the internalization of academic difficulty for disadvantaged children.
Effects of pH on the acute toxicity and uptake of [14C]pentachlorophenol in the midge, Chironomus riparius

The acute toxicity of pentachlorophenol (PCP) was determined at pH levels 4, 6, 9 to the midge, Chironomus riparius, with the findings that PCP is of greatest toxicity at pH 4 and of least toxicity at pH 9. This differential toxicity is attributable to variations in uptake levels at the respective pH levels. At pH 4, PCP is fully protonated and therefore highly lipophilic. The amount of [14C]PCP present in the midges at 24 hr is thus highest at pH 4. Conversely, at pH 9, the compound is completely ionized. The reduction in lipophilicity at pH 9 decreases the ability of the compound to penetrate into the midge, thereby decreasing the observed toxicity of the compound.
Dilatometric studies of physical aging of polyetherimide

Physical aging of polyetherimide (PEI) was studied using a bellows dilatometer based on Zoller's design. A linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) is used to measure the displacement of the bellows. The voltage output of the LVDT is interfaced to a computer for automated data collection. Isothermal aging experiments were carried out at temperatures near the glass temperature (206–209 ‡C) using a constant temperature oil bath maintained at the desired aging temperature. The time required to reach equilibrium and the reduced curve produced by aging time-temperature superposition are given. The results compare well with data obtained by capillary dilatometry for the same material.
PART 5: 101 WAYS TO EXTRACT MODAL PARAMETERS—WHICH ONE IS FOR ME?

A brief overview of some of the modal parameter estimation techniques that have evolved over the years was presented. This was done from a user perspective to illustrate some of the difficulties, pitfalls, and obstacles that have been endured over the years. Current modal parameter estimation processing has made significant strides over the past several decades. Numerous efforts and contributions and experiences were presented from an application perspective rather than a theoretical development approach. The hope is that users of current modal parameter estimation algorithms can gain an appreciation of the development and application of these techniques.
Influence of Chain Ordering on the Selectivity of Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine Bilayer Membranes for Permeant Size and Shape

The effects of lipid chain packing and permeant size and shape on permeability across lipid bilayers have been investigated in gel and liquid crystalline dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) bilayers by a combined NMR line-broadening/dynamic light scattering method using seven short-chain monocarboxylic acids (formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, isovaleric acid, and trimethylacetic acid) as permeants. The experimental permeability coefficients are compared with the predictions of a bulk solubility diffusion model in which the bilayer membrane is represented as a slab of bulk hexadecane. Deviations of the observed permeability coefficients (Pm) from the values predicted from solubility diffusion theory (Po) lead to the determination of a correction factor, the permeability decrement f (= Pm/Po), to account for the effects of chain ordering. The natural logarithm of f has been found to correlate linearly with the inverse of the bilayer free surface area with slopes of 25 +/- 2, 36 +/- 3, 45 +/- 8, 32 +/- 12, 33 +/- 4, 49 +/- 12, and 75 +/- 6 A2 for formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, isovaleric acid, and trimethylacetic acid, respectively. The slope, which measures the sensitivity of the permeability coefficient of a given permeant to bilayer chain packing, exhibits an excellent linear correlation (r = 0.94) with the minimum cross-sectional area of the permeant and a poor correlation (r = 0.59) with molecular volume, suggesting that in the bilayer interior the permeants prefer to move with their long principal axis along the bilayer normal. Based on these studies, a permeability model combining the effects of bilayer chain packing and permeant size and shape on permeability across lipid membranes is developed.
Über die Anwendung von Zirkonium im chemischen Apparatebau

Zirkonium ist im Laufe von nur 10 Jahren zu einem fest eingefuhrten Sonderwerkstoff des Apparatebaues geworden. Es wird vor allem bei hohen Anspruchen an die Korrosionsbestandigkeit eingesetzt, z.B. bei Verfahren mit Schwefel-, Salz-, Salpeter- und Phosphorsaure, Chloriden (auser Eisen-III- und Kupfer-II-chlorid), Alkalien, Harnstoff, Wasserstoffsuperoxid, Milchsaure. Bevorzugte Apparaturen sind Reaktionsturme, Pumpengehause, Warmeaustauscher und Rohrleitungen, z.B. bei der Herstellung von Farbstoffen, Pigmenten (Erosionsbestandigkeit), Nahrungsmitteln, Wasserstoffsuperoxid und Harnstoff. Der noch immer hohere Preis des Zirkoniums im Verleich mit Legierungen auf Bickelbasis oder hochlegierten nichtrostenden Stahlen amortisiert sich bald aufgrund des geringen Wartungsbedarfs. Application of zirconium in chemical plant construction It ist in this decade only, that zirconium has become an established special material in chemical plant construction. Zirconium is used in particular where high corrosion resistance is required, e.g. with processes involving sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric and phosphoric acids, chlorides (except ferric and cupric chlorides), alkalies, urea, hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid. Preferred types of equipment are reaction columns, pump casing, heat exchangers and tubing, e.g. in connection with the production of dyes, pigments (erosion resistance), foods, hydrogen peroxide and urea. The price of zirconium, though still high if compared with that of nickel-base alloys or high-alloy stainless steels is soon amortized as a consequence of the low maintenance requirement.
Homologous neurons control movements of diverse gill types in nudibranch molluscs

A comparison of central neurons controlling circumanal gill movements in 5 species of dorid nudibranch molluscs with those known to control movements of the dorsal gill tufts in the dendronotid nudibranchTritonia, suggests that the neurons controlling these two gill types are homologous. Four symmetrical pairs of neurons, 2 in the pleural ganglia and 1 each in the cerebral and pedal ganglia, were found to control the circumanal gills in the dorids; three of these pair (pedal and pleural) correspond to similar neurons inTritonia. InTriopha carpenteri, a dorid nudibranch having dorsal tufts as well as circumanal gills, the same neurons control both types of gill. The common neural control of dorsal tufts and circumanal gills revealed here, coupled with the widely observed conservatism in neural evolution, supports the hypothesis that these two gill types have a common evolutionary origin.
Non-isothermal effects on SO2 absorption by water droplets—II. Results and discussion

Abstract Presented results indicate that non-isothermal effects on SO 2 absorption by water droplets can be important in gas-absorption calculations and interpretation of ground level rain samples. For example, small droplets can desorb SO 2 before reaching ground level and in some cases these droplets can evaporate completely. The desorption of SO 2 can lead to a modest increase in droplet pH and, in effect, redistribute ambient SO 2 from higher to lower elevations.
Robust, generic, modularly-verified map: a software verification challenge problem

Maps are a fundamental component in the development of modern software. The ability to associate keys with values in the manner of a partial mathematical function is important for a wide range of applications, and also accommodates a broad variety of implementations with diverse performance profiles. The foundational-yet-sophisticated nature of this problem makes it an ideal benchmark for software verification efforts. A tension between modular reasoning and the usefulness of the component can be observed particularly in systems where the keys may be reference types. Criteria for modular verification of a robust map component are elaborated, and existing attempts to verify a map component are surveyed.
Complete manufacturability of sub-wavelength lithography using optical enhancements

With the development of modern optical lithography techniques enabling dimensions less than the wavelength of the source being used to be printed, the use of simulation is becoming very widespread. It is primarily used to predict the requirements and effects of advanced techniques such as high numerical aperture (NA) steppers, attenuated phase shift masks (APSM's) and optical proximity correction (OPC). It can also yield information on the optical properties of the substrate to be patterned. This paper uses simulation and experiment to study the effects seen upon near resolution limit contacts and damascene trenches, printed using conventional i-line lithography. We will also evaluate the cost-of-process using these enhancements for an i-line process when compared to a standard 248nm DUV process.
How Far for a Buck? Tax Differences and the Location of Retail Gasoline Activity in Southeast Chicagoland

Abstract We exploit variation in gasoline and cigarettes taxes in adjacent political jurisdictions for northern Illinois and Indiana to examine consumers' trade-off between prices and travel. We develop a model that relates activity in the retail gasoline industry around the tax borders to consumer locations. Our results indicate that the willingness of a typical Chicagoland consumer to travel an additional mile to buy gasoline corresponds to about $0.065 to $0.084 per gallon. According to our estimates, the observed area of Chicago, the jurisdiction with the highest taxes, is missing approximately 40% of the capacity that would exist were taxes equalized.
Prematurity and neonatal comorbidities as risk factors for nonaccidental trauma

Background Parental, familial, and demographic risk factors for nonaccidental trauma (NAT) have been well-studied, but neonatal factors, such as comorbidities and prematurity have not. We assess the correlation of these factors with NAT. Methods A total of 234 cases of NAT and 287 cases of accidental trauma (AT) among children Results Children treated for NAT were younger than those treated for AT and were more likely to have younger parents with substance abuse issues. Prematurity, major comorbidities, and minor comorbidities were more common in those treated after NAT than after AT (24.8% vs 12.7%, p=0.0004; 25.6% vs 7.2%, p Conclusions Among other risk factors, neonatal factors predict a child's risk for abuse. We have an opportunity for targeted preventive interventions among this at-risk population.
Is an Ultra-Cold Strongly Interacting Fermi Gas a Perfect Fluid?

Fermi gases with magnetically tunable interactions provide a clean and controllable laboratory system for modeling interparticle interactions between fermions in nature. The s-wave scattering length, which is dominant a low temperature, is made to diverge by tuning near a collisional (Feshbach) resonance. In this regime, two-component Fermi gases are stable and strongly interacting, enabling tests of nonperturbative many-body theories in a variety of disciplines, from high temperature superconductors to neutron matter and quark-gluon plasmas. We have developed model-independent methods for measuring the entropy and energy of this model system, providing a benchmark for calculations of the thermodynamics. Our experiments on the expansion of rotating strongly interacting Fermi gases in the normal fluid regime reveal extremely low viscosity hydrodynamics. Combining the thermodynamic and hydrodynamic measurements enables an estimate of the ratio of the shear viscosity to the entropy density. A strongly interacting Fermi gas in the normal fluid regime is found to be a nearly perfect fluid, where the ratio of the viscosity to the entropy density is close to a universal minimum that has been conjectured by string theory methods.
Concordance and discordance: a tale of two hybrid zones in the pacific coast irises (Iridaceae)

Chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) markers were developed that provided markers unique to a species or that delimited a large area within a species. These markers were then followed across two hybrid zones: Iris douglasiana/lIris innominata, and Iris chrysophylla/lIris tenax. In each case the cline in haplotype frequency was compared to the cline for a morphologically based hybrid index. In all three transects across the I. douglasianall. innominata hybrid zone, the cpDNA cline was displaced 1-2 km relative to the morphologically defined hybrid zone; the displacement was not found in the other hybrid zone. The observed displacement represents introgression of cpDNA from I. douglasiana into I. innominata. It may be that the I. douglasianall. innominata hybrid zone has shifted in recent time, leaving the slowly dispersing chloroplast DNA behind. The populations known as Iris thompsonii do not form a phylogenetic species and are best viewed as products of hybridization between I. douglasiana and I. innominata.
Chemical evolution, recent syntheses of bioorganic molecules

Review of the important developments that have occurred in abiological biomonomer and biopolymer synthesis since about 1967, and discussion of their significance for the field of chemical evolution and the origin of life. The major portion of the review is devoted to important developments in the abiotic formation of bioorganic monomers and their condensation to biopolymers under conditions presumed to have prevailed on the primeval earth. Special attention is given to contributions shedding light on the mechanism of synthesis and selection of amino acids and on interactions of amino acids and polypeptides with nucleotides and oligonucleotides.
On the exact distribution of Wilks's criterion

SUMMARY In this paper, the exact distribution of Wilks's likelihood ratio criterion, A, is obtained, and explicit expressions for A are given for p = 3, 4, 5 and 6, where p is the number of variables. The distribution is expressed as a finite series except where p and f2, the degrees of freedom, are both odd, in which case it is given in infinite series form. Lower percentage points are tabulated for selected values off2> 10, extending the tabulations of Schatzoff (1966) for the above values of p.
Pharmacology, distribution, cellular localization, and development of GABAB binding in rodent cerebellum

Quantitative receptor autoradiography using [3H]GABA under selective conditions was used to characterize the pharmacology, distribution, cellular localization, and development of GABAB binding sites in rodent cerebellum. Pharmacologic analysis of [3H]GABA binding showed that drugs active at GABAB receptors displaced [3H]GABA with the following order of potency: 3-aminopropylphosphonous acid > CGP 35348 = 2-hydroxysaclofen > phaclofen. GTP-gamma-S and GDP-beta-S also diminished potently [3H]GABA binding in a dose-dependent manner. The pattern of [3H]GABA binding to GABAB binding sites was systematically mapped throughout the rat cerebellum. GABAB binding was greatest in the molecular layer and a pattern of parasagittal zonation was observed in the molecular layer of lobules VII-X in adult rats. The cellular localization of GABAB binding was investigated using lesion techniques. Neither methyl azoxymethanol lesions of cerebellar granule cells nor 3-acetylpyridine lesions of climbing fibers resulted in a decrease in [3H]GABA binding. Homozygote stumbler mutant mice, deficient in Purkinje cell dendrites, had a significant decrease in [3H]GABA binding in the molecular layer. These results suggest that the majority of cerebellar molecular layer GABAB binding sites detected by [3H]GABA autoradiography are located on Purkinje cell dendrites. Examination of [3H]GABA binding to GABAB binding sites during development revealed that binding in the molecular layer peaks between postnatal day 14 and postnatal day 28 and then decreases to adult levels. Transient expression of high levels of GABAB binding was observed in the deep cerebellar nuclei, peaking at postnatal day 3 and decreasing to adult levels by postnatal day 21. Our investigation of GABAB pharmacology yielded data in agreement with previously reported results. We have described a parasagittal pattern of GABAB binding in the cerebellar molecular layer and assigned the majority of cerebellar GABAB binding sites to Purkinje cell dendrites. Finally, development studies reveal transient peaks in GABAB binding in the cerebellar molecular layer and deep cerebellar nuclei.
Collaborative, synchronous robots serving machines and cells

Multi‐arm, collaborative, synchronous robots are gaining acceptance in industry, because of the cycle time reduction, productivity increase, flexibility and quality gain, distributed control, layout design/simulation, and programming support robot manufacturers and system integrators can offer. On the negative side, when things go wrong such systems are more complex to recover, and maintain, than non‐networked and non‐distributed controlled individual robots. In this paper, we introduce some of the most important engineering, and technology management principles that collaborate robots and their users and should be kept in mind while developing such systems, and/or planning for such applications.
Adapting Human Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study Methods to Detect and Characterize Dysphagia in Murine Disease Models

This study adapted human videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) methods for use with murine disease models for the purpose of facilitating translational dysphagia research. Successful outcomes are dependent upon three critical components: test chambers that permit self-feeding while standing unrestrained in a confined space, recipes that mask the aversive taste/odor of commercially-available oral contrast agents, and a step-by-step test protocol that permits quantification of swallow physiology. Elimination of one or more of these components will have a detrimental impact on the study results. Moreover, the energy level capability of the fluoroscopy system will determine which swallow parameters can be investigated. Most research centers have high energy fluoroscopes designed for use with people and larger animals, which results in exceptionally poor image quality when testing mice and other small rodents. Despite this limitation, we have identified seven VFSS parameters that are consistently quantifiable in mice when using a high energy fluoroscope in combination with the new murine VFSS protocol. We recently obtained a low energy fluoroscopy system with exceptionally high imaging resolution and magnification capabilities that was designed for use with mice and other small rodents. Preliminary work using this new system, in combination with the new murine VFSS protocol, has identified 13 swallow parameters that are consistently quantifiable in mice, which is nearly double the number obtained using conventional (i.e., high energy) fluoroscopes. Identification of additional swallow parameters is expected as we optimize the capabilities of this new system. Results thus far demonstrate the utility of using a low energy fluoroscopy system to detect and quantify subtle changes in swallow physiology that may otherwise be overlooked when using high energy fluoroscopes to investigate murine disease models.
Desired Characteristics of Management and Leadership for Public Library Directors as Expressed in Job Advertisements

ABSTRACTAdvertisements for public library directors can reflect the evolution of the public library environment as libraries adapt to changes related to funding and technology. No study has examined whether the skills and attributes desired of public library directors have changed over time and whether they are associated with the characteristics of management or leadership. Content analysis of public library director job advertisements from 2000–2011 revealed a closer association with management than leadership traits and an omission of characteristics like advocating, fundraising, being politically savvy, and having a vision needed to position the public library as an essential resource to stakeholders.
The kinetics of carrier-mediated transport: stationary-state approximations

SUMMARY The fluxes predicted by various models of carrier-mediated active transport of amino acids have been worked out with use of the assumption of stationarity. The models considered include the various types of models in which there is a I : i carrier-amino acid binding ratio and the limiting cases of this model. The limiting cases are: (I) equilibrium-reaction model: transfers of carrier and carrier-substrat e complex across the cell membrane are rate limiting in comparison to the reaction between carrier and amino acid; (2) adsorption transport model: the reaction between carrier and amino acid is rate limiting. The stationary-state fluxes for an equilibrium carrier model in which carrier-amino acid stoichiometry was I : 2 were also derived. The results of experiments on competition between amino acids could not be predicted by models of a I: I carrier-amino acid stoichiometry unless the assumption was also made that exchange reactions between free and carrier-bound amino acids could occur at the surfaces of the cell membrane. These exchange reactions proceed without prior dissociation of carrier-substrat e complex. A model of 1:2 carrier-amino acid stoichiometry predicts the results of competition experiments without the necessity of assuming the existance of exchange reactions.
Pilot-scale high solids thermophilic anaerobic digestion of municipal solid waste with an emphasis on nutrient requirements

Abstract A pilot study was conducted to assess the biodegradable organic fraction of municipal solid waste (BOF/MSW) as a substrate in a high-solids anaerobic digestion process. Results obtained indicate that a typical BOF/MSW in the United States is deficient in most macro and micro-nutrients required for robust and stable digestion. The BOF/MSW was supplemented with nutrient-rich organic wastes such as wastewater treatment plant sludges, dairy manure, and synthetic chemical solutions to correct nutritional deficiencies. The combined addition of wastewater treatment plant sludge and dairy manure to a typical BOF/MSW significantly elevated the gas production rate and enhanced the process stability. Microbial nutrient requirements are identified and nutrient concentrations for stable operation are quantified.
Infrared-active spin-orbit transitions of halogen atom dopants in solid parahydrogen: The role of trapping site geometry

We present theoretical calculations of the 2P1/2 ← 2P3/2 spin-orbit transition of Cl dopants embedded as substitutional impurities in solid parahydrogen (pH2) matrices. In the lower-energy 2P3/2 spin-orbit level, the Cl atom's electron density distribution is anisotropic, and slightly distorts the geometry of the atom's trapping site. This distortion leads to a blue shift in the spin-orbit transition energy; the blue shift is enhanced when we account for the large-amplitude zero point motions of the pH2 molecules surrounding the Cl dopant. We also show that the intensity of the transition depends on the geometry of the trapping site. In the gas phase, the 2P1/2 ← 2P3/2 atomic transition is electric dipole forbidden. However, when the Cl atom resides in trapping sites that mimic the hexagonal close packed morphology of pure solid pH2, the transition becomes electric dipole allowed through interaction-induced transition dipole moments. These transition dipole moments originate in the anisotropic electron de...
Degradation of thymopentin by human lymphocytes: evidence for aminopeptidase activity

Thymopentin (Arg-Lys-Asp-Val-Tyr) was shown to be degraded in vitro by human lymphocytes into two main fragments; the tetrapeptide Lys-Asp-Val-Tyr and the tripeptide Asp-Val-Tyr. Degradation products were identified by HPLC and amino-acid analysis. Analysis of the time-course of degradation revealed a 'stepwise' degradative event beginning at the N-terminal. The degradation of thymopentin after the first 10 min, as well as the formation of the tetrapeptide (5-30 min) were essentially curvilinear. Degradation of the tripeptide, was linear. Upon screening a panel of compounds that inhibit enzymatic activity, bestatin, amastatin and 1,10-phenanthroline were shown to be the most effective. Bestatin and amastatin caused an 85-90% inhibition of thymopentin degrading activity with IC50 values of 7.1 x 10(-6) M and 4.5 x 10(-9) M, respectively. 1,10-Phenanthroline completely inhibited the degradative process with an IC50 of 2 x 10(-4) M. When the tetrapeptide Lys-Asp-Val-Tyr was used as the starting substrate, similar IC50 values were seen for amastatin, bestatin and 1,10-phenanthroline. The importance of divalent metal ions in the degradative event was demonstrated not only by the effect of 1,10-phenanthroline, but also by the ability of Zn2+ and Co2+ to reverse the inhibition of 1,10-phenanthroline (at its IC50) to activities near control values (no inhibitor). These data strongly suggest that an aminopeptidase(s) is responsible for the degradative activity.
A Role for Calcium in Stabilizing Transport Vesicle Coats

Abstract Calcium has been implicated in regulating vesicle fusion reactions, but its potential role in regulating other aspects of protein transport, such as vesicle assembly, is largely unexplored. We find that treating cells with the membrane-permeable calcium chelator, 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid tetrakis(acetoxymethyl ester) (BAPTA-AM), leads to a dramatic redistribution of the vesicle coat protein, coatomer, in the cell. We have used the cell-free reconstitution of coat-protomer I (COPI) vesicle assembly to characterize the mechanisms of this redistribution. We find that the recovery of COPI-coated Golgi vesicles is inhibited by the addition of BAPTA to the cell-free vesicle budding assay. When coatomer-coated membranes are incubated in the presence of calcium chelators, the membranes “uncoat,” indicating that calcium is necessary for maintaining the integrity of the coat. This uncoating is reversed by the addition of calcium. Interestingly, BAPTA, a calcium chelator with fast binding kinetics, is more potent at uncoating the coatomer-coated membrane than EGTA, suggesting that a calcium transient or a calcium gradient is important for stabilizing COPI vesicle coat. The primary target for the effects of calcium on coatomer recruitment is a step that occurs after ADP-ribosylation factor binding to the membrane. We suggest that a calcium gradient may serve to regulate the timing of vesicle uncoating.