cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multimodal Continuation-style Architectures for Human-Robot Interaction.

We present an architecture for integrating real-time, multimodal input into a computational agent's contextual model. Using a human-avatar interaction in a virtual world, we treat aligned gesture and speech as an ensemble where content may be communicated by either modality. With a modified nondeterministic pushdown automaton architecture, the computer system: (1) consumes input incrementally using continuation-passing style until it achieves sufficient understanding the user's aim; (2) constructs and asks questions where necessary using established contextual information; and (3) maintains track of prior discourse items using multimodal cues. This type of architecture supports special cases of pushdown and finite state automata as well as integrating outputs from machine learning models. We present examples of this architecture's use in multimodal one-shot learning interactions of novel gestures and live action composition.
Coagulation of dust particles in a plasma

The electrostatic charge of small dust grains in a plasma in which the temperature varies in time is discussed, pointing out that secondary electron emission might introduce charge separation. If the sign of the charge on small grains is opposite to that on big ones, enhanced coagulation can occur which will affect the size distribution of grains in a plasma. Two scenarios where this process might be relevant are considered: a hot plasma environment with temperature fluctuations and a cold plasma environment with transient heating events. The importance of the enhanced coagulation is uncertain, because the plasma parameters in grain-producing environments such as a molecular cloud or a protoplanetary disk are not known. It is possible, however, that this process is the most efficient mechanism for the growth of grains in the size range of 0.1-500 microns.
Towards a more representative politics in the ethics of computer science

Ethics curricula in computer science departments should include a focus on the political action of students. While 'ethics' holds significant sway over current discourse in computer science, recent work, particularly in data science, has shown that this discourse elides the underlying political nature of the problems that it aims to solve. In order to avoid these pitfalls---such as co-option, whitewashing, and assumed universal values---we should recognize and teach the political nature of computing technologies, largely through science and technology studies. Education is an essential focus not just intrinsically, but also because computing students end up joining the companies which have outsize impacts on our lives. At those companies, students both have a responsibility to society and agency beyond just engineering decisions, albeit not uniformly. I propose that we move away from strict ethics curricula and include examples of and calls for political action of students and future engineers. Through such examples---calls to action, practitioner reflections, legislative engagement, direct action---we might allow engineers to better recognize both their diverse agencies and responsibilities.
Prophylactic Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction in Patients at High Risk for Breast Cancer

This paper summarizes key issues pertinent to oncologic and surgical outcomes of risk-reducing mastectomy and reconstruction. Among BRCA 1/2 mutation carriers who present with initial breast cancer, risk-reducing mastectomy in patients who are young at time of initial breast cancer diagnosis have the greatest absolute reduction in contralateral breast cancer risk associated with contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy. Although retrospective studies are suggestive of a survival advantage conferred by risk-reducing mastectomy in BRCA ½ carriers, additional research in the contemporary era of magnetic resonance screening is necessary. A wide variety of reconstructive options are available after risk-reducing mastectomy. Long-term patient-reported outcomes favor autologous tissue reconstruction techniques. The decision for risk-reducing surgery and mastectomy reconstruction in patients with increased genetic propensity for breast cancer is multifaceted, with multiple factors pertinent to consideration including type of mastectomy, timing, and method of reconstruction. Shared informed decision making is critical to optimize outcomes. Appropriate patient counseling based on growing evidence regarding patient-reported outcomes should be provided in order to tailor therapeutic recommendations.
337 Treatment of ovarian cancer via induction of cellular stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR)

Introduction Ovarian cancer (OVCA) is a lethal gynecologic malignancy. Patients with high-grade and low-grade disease carry a poor prognosis from chemoresistance and decreased induction of apoptosis. We hypothesized persistent activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) with upregulation of CHOP and XAF-1 arms, would overcome apoptotic arrest, leading to death in chemo-sensitive and resistant OVCA. Methods Patient-derived and commercially available HG and LG OVCA cells were cultured and treated with celastrol, a potent UPR activator. Cell viability was assessed using Incucyte. Protein lysates of cells treated with celastrol were analyzed using Western blot and Caspase-Glo. RNA was analyzed using real-time PCR. Transient knock down (KD) of XAF-1 and CHOP was performed using siRNA. Results Celastrol induced cell death in chemo-sensitive and resistant OVCA lines in the nanomolar range. Celastrol induced the UPR. CHOP was preferentially upregulated upstream of mitochondrial depolarization and induction of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. There was a reciprocal rise in XAF-1 RNA/protein levels and fall in XIAP with UPR activation. KD of XAF-1 decreased the cytotoxic effect of celastrol. KD of CHOP resulted in a lack of rise in XAF-1 with UPR activation. Conclusions Activating UPR with agents that upregulate the CHOP/XAF-1 axis induce death in chemo-sensitive/resistant OVCA lines. XAF-1 is presumptively regulated by CHOP and a major effector of UPR, required for full cytotoxic activity. The CHOP/XAF-1 arm of UPR is a promising targetable pathway for treating HG/LG OVCA.
How Women and Six Sigma Have Contributed to Pfizer’s Robustness Program

Pfizer Ireland Ringaskiddy is the new product launch site for the global Pfizer network, but as well as new products, the site manufactures an array of both on- and off-patent active pharmaceutical...
Exploratory Factor Analysis of Graphical Features for Link Prediction in Social Networks

Social networks attract much attention due to their ability to replicate social interactions at scale. Link prediction, or the assessment of which unconnected nodes are likely to connect in the future, is an interesting but non-trivial research area. Three approaches exist to deal with the link-prediction problem: feature-based models, Bayesian probabilistic models, and probabilistic relational models. In feature-based methods, graphical features are extracted and used for classification. Usually, these features are subdivided into three feature groups based on their formula. Some formulas are extracted based on neighborhood graph traverse. Accordingly, there exist three groups of features: neighborhood features, path-based features, and node-based features. In this paper, we attempt to validate the underlying structure of topological features used in feature-based link prediction. The results of our analysis indicate differing results from the prevailing grouping of these features, which indicates that current literatures’ classification of feature groups should be redefined. Thus, the contribution of this work is exploring the factor loading of graphical features in link prediction in social networks. To the best of our knowledge, no prior studies had addressed it.
Evaluation of Small-Footprint Full-Waveform Airborne Lidar Instrument Requirements Using DIRSIG Simulations of Forests

The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) Airborne Observation Platform (AOP) provides long-term, quantitative information on land use, vegetation structure and canopy chemistry over the NEON sites. AOP flies a suite of integrated remote sensing instruments consisting of a hyperspectral imager, a waveform lidar, and a color digital camera. Small-footprint full-waveform airborne lidar provides an enhanced capability beyond discrete return lidar for capturing and characterizing canopy structure. Due to high data rates/volumes, a common practice is to truncate waveforms. Very little research exists to determine how much data should be saved. In this study, simulations are run in Rochester Institute of Technology's DIRSIG software. The resulting output waveforms are analyzed to assess three lidar system requirements: the total number of bins with a detected signal, the number of segments, and the max number of bins in a single segment. Recommendations for the values of these requirements are provided.
Latino Representation in State Houses and Congress

1. Introduction 2. Latinos in legislatures: historical and theoretical setting 3. The effects of population, turnover, and term limits on Latino representation 4. District composition and the election of Latino candidates 5. Electing Latinos in non-Latino majority districts 6. Voices from within: how Latino legislators see themselves 7. Roll call voting behavior of Latino legislators 8. Conclusion.
Gaussian random band matrices and operator-valued free probability theory

1. Gaussian random band matrices. Let g ij , 1 ≤ i, j ≤ n, k = 1, . . . , r be independent centered complex Gaussian random variables of covariance 1 n (1 + δij) (i.e., the expectation E(g ijg k ij) = 1 n (1 + δij)), such that g k ij = g k ji. Let for each i, j, k, σn(i, j; k) be a positive real number, such that σn(i, j; k) = σn(j, i; k). Consider the r-tuple of n × n matrices Gn(k) = (σn(i, j; k)g k ij)ij , k = 1, . . . , r. The family {Gn(k)}k is called a family of independent Gaussian random band matrices. As an example, assume that σn(i, j; k) = 1 if |i − j| < cn, and is zero otherwise. In this case all entries of Gn(k) are zero outside a band around the diagonal; this is the reason such matrices are called band matrices. In the case that σn(i, j; k) is identically 1 one recovers the so-called Gaussian Unitary Ensemble, see e.g. [9].
Nontraumatic dissecting aneurysm of the vertebral artery: Case report

✓ A case is described of a nontraumatic dissecting aneurysm of the vertebral artery, which presented as a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Differentiation from vasospasm and from atherosclerosis is critical. Dissection between the adventitia and media should be noted in the differential diagnosis of SAH when an aneurysm or vascular malformation is not demonstrated angiographically.
Development of a detector for bunch by bunch measurement and optimization of luminosity in the LHC

The front IR quadrupole absorbers (TAS) and the IR neutral particle absorbers (TAN) in the high luminosity insertions of the LHC each absorb approximately 1.8TeV of forward collision products on average per pp interaction (~;;235W at design luminosity 1034cm-2s-1). This secondary particle flux can be exploited to provide a useful storage ring operations tool for optimization of luminosity. Novel segmented, multi-gap, pressurized gas ionization chambers are proposed for sampling the energy deposited near the maxima of the hadronic/ electromagnetic showers in these absorbers. The system design choices have been strongly influenced by optimization of signal to noise ratio and by the very high radiation environment. The ionization chambers are instrumented with state of the art low noise, fast, pulse shaping electronics capable of resolving individual bunch crossings at 40 MHz. Data on each bunch are separately accumulated over multiple bunch crossings until the desired statistical accuracy is obtained. At design luminosity approximately 2x103 bunch crossings suffice for a 1percent luminosity measurement.
Deactivation and attrition of iron catalysts in synthesis gas

A number of different iron Fischer-Tropsch catalysts were characterized with an emphasis on the study of morphological changes of the iron and iron carbide, phases as well as the growth and morphology of carbon species during reaction. The effects of catalyst composition, reaction temperature, and pretreatment were investigated. Temperature programmed surface reaction of H 2 with a number of used catalysts revealed the formation of more than one carbide under certain circumstances. This paper considers deactivation and catalyst attrition for catalysts reacted in a slurry phase autoclave reactor. Several similar catalysts were tested for activity for long periods of time (1000–3000 h), and it was found that when operated properly, these iron Fischer-Tropsch catalysts can be run in slurry reactors with only modest deactivation, during the time periods tested.
Detection of Spatially Correlated Objects in 3D Images Using Appearance Models and Coupled Active Contours

We consider the problem of segmenting 3D images that contain a dense collection of spatially correlated objects, such as fluorescent labeled cells in tissue. Our approach involves an initial modeling phase followed by a data-fitting segmentation phase. In the first phase, cell shape (membrane bound) is modeled implicitly using a parametric distribution of correlation function estimates. The nucleus is modeled for its shape as well as image intensity distribution inspired from the physics of its image formation. In the second phase, we solve the segmentation problem using a variational level-set strategy with coupled active contours to minimize a novel energy functional. We demonstrate the utility of our approach on multispectral fluorescence microscopy images.
U.S. Organizations' Personnel Management in Mexico

Abstract U.S. organizations are experiencing dramatic growth from the North American Free Trade Agreement. Companies that operate across the Mexican border must decide to either relocate currently employed personnel or to hire foreign nationals to staff positions. Since many cultural differences exist between the United States and Mexico, the use of “culture-pins,” or bicultural people who bridge value differences, may facilitate success in these operations. Consequently, this paper proposes that U.S. firms located in Mexico should recruit and retain Mexican Americans. RESUMEN Las corporaciones mexicanas y estadounidenses estan creciendo dramaticamente como resultado directo del NAFTA. Las empresas que operan del otro lado de estas fronteras, debe decidir si desean trasladar a sus gerentes y trabajadores o contratar nacionales extranjeros para ocupar estos cargos. Este documento presupone que los iucomodines-culturalesl., o personas biculturales que pueden cruzar el puente de las diferencias culturales, s...
Analysis of patient and technical factors associated with midurethral sling mesh exposure and perforation.

Objectives To evaluate the technical and patient characteristics associated with the development of mesh perforation and exposure in patients after midurethral sling surgeries. Methods After a retrospective review of referred patients, the risk of mesh perforation of the urinary tract over exposure in the vagina was analyzed with multivariate logistic regression, adjusting for the possible predictors of age, body mass index, smoking status at the time of mesh placement, presence of diabetes, type of sling placed, type of surgeon and trocar injury at the time of mesh placement. Results A total of 77 women were identified, 27 with mesh perforation and 50 with mesh exposure. The patients' average body mass index was 29.2, and 13% were diabetic. Nine (33%) patients in the perforation group and two (4%) patients in the exposure group had evidence of trocar injury to the bladder or urethra at the time of mesh placement (P < 0.001). After multivariate logistic regression analysis, trocar injury (odds ratio 25.90, 95% confidence interval 2.84–236.58, P = 0.004) and diabetes (odds ratio 9.90, 95% confidence interval 1.1.25–78.64, P = 0.03) were associated with an increased risk of mesh perforation. Increased body mass index (odds ratio 0.88, 95% confidence interval 0.77–0.99, P = 0.05) was associated with a decreased risk of mesh perforation. Finally, postoperative hematomas and blood transfusions occurred more commonly in the mesh perforation group (15% vs 0%, P = 0.01). Conclusions Trocar injury, diabetes and bleeding complications at the time of surgery are associated with higher risk of mesh perforation in patients undergoing midurethral sling placement.
How many elephant kills are 14?: Clovis mammoth and mastodon kills in context

Abstract Recent evaluation of the use of Pleistocene megafauna by Clovis hunter-gatherers has suggested that a small number of reliable associations between Clovis artifacts and the remains of Proboscideans are documented, with perhaps as few as 14 occurrences currently known. Specifically, we ask whether 14 is a large or a small number of associations given the spatio-temporal dimensions of the Clovis period in North America. To place these 14 occurrences into context, we compare the time–space density and relative frequency of Clovis Proboscidean-bearing sites to those of Old World contexts. We develop models to identify the variables contributing to the archeological record of Proboscidean site creation, destruction, and sampling. While acknowledging potential biases in the record, comparative analysis suggests that the Clovis archeological record, with the possible exception of Lower Paleolithic of Iberia, indicates the highest frequency of subsistence exploitation of Proboscidea anywhere in the prehistoric world.
A T Cell‐ and Natural Killer Cell‐Specific, Trypsin‐like Serine Protease

A new trypsin-like serine protease was cloned from both a murine cytotoxic T lymphocyte and a human PHA-stimulated peripheral blood lymphocyte cDNA library. In both the mouse and human system, this transcript had a T cell- and NK-specific distribution, being detected in cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), some T-helper clones, and NK, but not in a variety of normal tissues. T-cell activation with Con A plus IL-2 induced mouse spleen cells to express this gene with kinetics correlating with the acquisition of cytolytic capacity. Both the mouse and human nucleotide sequences of this gene encoded an amino acid sequence with 25-40% identity to members of the serine protease family. The active-site "charge-relay" residues (His-57, Asp-102, and Ser-195 of the chymotrypsin numbering system) are conserved, as well as the trypsin-specific Asp (position 189 in trypsin). We reviewed the evidence of this serine protease's role in lymphocyte lysis and proposed a "lytic cascade." We discussed the biological and clinical implications of a cascade, proposing these enzymes as markers for cytolytic cells and as targets for rational drug therapy. Genetic and acquired deficits in the lethal hit-delivery system are considered as a basis for approaching some immunodeficiency states, including severe EBV infections, T-gamma leukemias, and T8+ lymphocytosis syndromes.
Atmospheric Lidar Multiuser Instrument - A Spacelab Payload

With the advent of the Space Shuttle, it will be possible to place a sophisticated Lidar instrument onto a spacelab pallet and probe the atmosphere, at will, globally, remotely, at different wavelengths. NASA has been concerned with the implementation of such a concept. A study was conducted to define the type of Lidar system and the measurements needed for such an implementation. A description is presented of the definition study, which was subdivided in four major task areas. The Lidar instrument system obtained as a result of the study represents NASA-Langley's current design which has been proposed for continued development, implementation, and launch in the late 1980's.
Strategic Intercameral Behavior and the Sequence of Congressional Lawmaking

In the vein of some fledgling theoretical work on Congress, I look for evidence of strategic intercameral behavior in the chamber sequence of the passage of 950 bills from 1955 to 2002. Specifically, I construct and test a semiformal model in which communication is assumed to take place between congressional majority party leaders capable of choreographing bill passage using their agenda control powers. These leaders allow the chamber with the majority whose ideal point is furthest from the president's to pass its version of the bill first. The empirical analysis corroborates the model.
Physical Function and Physical Activity Assessment and Promotion in the Hemodialysis Clinic: A Qualitative Study

Background Despite practice guidelines (KDOQI [Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative]) recommending regular assessment of physical function and encouragement of physical activity, few clinics in the United States objectively assess physical function/physical activity or provide recommendations for physical activity in their patient care. Study Design Qualitative methods were used to develop an understanding of practice patterns related to physical function assessment and physical activity encouragement by dialysis staff. Setting & Participants Data were collected in one outpatient university-based hemodialysis clinic. 15 patient care staff were interviewed and 6 patients were observed. Methodology Semistructured interviews of patient care staff were conducted, along with nonparticipant observations of the clinic environment and operations and review of archival materials. Analytic Approach Coding of the interviews was descriptive, followed by interpretive coding by the research team. On-site field notes were transcribed for analysis. Results There was universal unawareness of the KDOQI guideline related to physical function/physical activity; however, all staff thought their patients would benefit from physical activity. There were no objective assessments of physical function and no resources or training to facilitate physical activity encouragement. Staff described deteriorating physical function in their patients, which was frustrating and disappointing. Barriers to physical activity included clinical/disease factors, staff "overaccommodation," and a system of dialysis care that facilitates sedentary behavior and does not require or incentivize clinics to promote physical activity. The patient care technicians were interested and thought that they had time to promote physical activity, but thought that they were unprepared to do so, indicating a need for education and training and a need to develop protocols to address the issue as routine practice. Limitations This was a single university-based center; however, because hemodialysis procedures are prescribed by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regulations, it is likely that practice in this clinic is representative of nationwide practice. Conclusions Development of strategies to implement practice change that addresses low physical function and physical activity is warranted.
Protein, nucleic acid and adenylate levels in Daphnia magna during chronic exposure to chlordecone

Abstract The relationships between levels of several biomolecules and survival and reproduction were investigated in Daphnia magna exposed for 21 days to chlordecone concentrations ranging from zero to 60 μg litre −1 . Biomolecules, which included total protein, ribonucleic acid, deoxyribonucleic acid, adenosine diphosphate and adenosine triphosphate, were monitored on days 7 and 21. The highest no observable effect concentration (NOEC) based on survival and reproduction was 11·2 μg litre −1 chlordecone. Although the level of each biomolecule per individual daphnid was decreased in a concentration-dependent manner by exposure to chlordecone, protein was most sensitive and had the same NOEC as survival and reproduction. The relative sensitivity of these three parameters when expressed as percent of control was survival > reproduction > protein. RNA/DNA and ADP/ATP ratios were not significantly affected by chlordecone exposure; however, ratios of protein/RNA/DNA and ATP/DNA were significantly increased in daphnia exposed to 48·4 μg litre −1 chlordecone.
On robustness of the stability of feedback systems

The problem is posed of when a stable feedback system remains stable under small perturbation of the plant. Several different notions of small perturbation are proposed, all for operator-type plant models, and the robustness question is settled for these notions.
SU‐GG‐T‐26: Explorations Of Optimal Dwell Positions In Intracavitary Brachytherapy For Cervical Cancer

Purpose: The purpose of this work is to explore other possible location of these vaginal intracavitary dwell positions for the treatment of cervical cancer with brachytherapy.Method and Materials:CTimages and the contours for the clinical target volume (CTV), bladder, rectum, vagina, and bowel, from eleven women previously treated for cervical cancer with the tandem and ring applicator were included in the study. Two plans were constructed for each patient: A reference plan using the tandem and ring applicator, and a plan using the tandem with an hypothetical “matrix” applicator formed by placing between 132 to 466 (depending on the volume of vagina) source positions inside the vagina. All plans were optimized IPSA. After the plan using the tandem and matrix was constructed, the dwell positions with dwell times less than 1% of the maximum relative dwell time were removed. The remaining optimized dwell positions were analyzed visually to see if there was a recurring geometric pattern to the dwell positions. The optimized dwell positions were also evaluated to determine their proximity to the cervix. Results: The optimized dwell positions of the eleven patients were evaluated. In 9 of the 11 patients, the optimization preferred the dwell positions to be closer to the vaginal wall (as opposed to in the middle of the vagina). In 5 patients the optimization selected positions that formed a circular pattern with diameters ranging from 3.1–4.2 cm. In addition, the optimization favored dwell positions superior and closer to the cervix in 10 of the 11 patients. Conclusion: This study identified two general characteristics regarding the optimal dwell positions for intracavitary applicator for cervical cancer: 1) the optimization favors dwell positions superior/closer to the cervix; 2) the optimization favors dwell positions that lie closer to the perimeter of the vagina. Research sponsored by Nucletron corporation.
Oxidized LDL differentially regulates MMP-1 and TIMP-1 expression in vascular endothelial cells

We have reported recently that oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression in human vascular endothelial cells. The present study was conducted to examine the effect of oxLDL on expression of Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), an endogenous inhibitor of MMPs, in human vascular endothelial cells. Our enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Northern blot analysis showed that oxLDL inhibited TIMP-1 secretion and expression by human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In contrast, PMA stimulated TIMP-1 expression and secretion. Both oxLDL and PMA increased MMP-1 expression and secretion significantly as previously reported. Inhibition by oxLDL of TIMP-1 expression was also observed in human aortic endothelial cells. Collagenase activity as detected by an enzymatic activity assay demonstrated, as expected, an increase in collagenase activity in the culture medium from oxLDL-treated cells as compared with that from untreated cells. The presented data indicates that oxLDL differentially regulates TIMP-1 and MMP-1 expression, whereas PMA coordinately regulates TIMP-1 and MMP-1 in vascular endothelial cells. The lack of coordination in the secretion of MMP-1 and TIMP-1 induced by oxLDL leads to an increased collagen-degrading activity that may contribute to destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques.
Monte Carlo Simulation of Free-Standing Polymer Films near the Glass Transition Temperature

Monte Carlo simulations have been applied to investigate the behavior of thin polymeric films near the glass transition. Free-standing films of both linear and cyclic polymeric chains have been considered in this work. In agreement with experiments, we find that the apparent glass transition temperature of free-standing films decreases with decreasing film thickness. We find that in free-standing films linear chains are no longer Gaussian but are considerably more compact. Near the glass transition temperature, the ring polymers show a slower bond relaxation than the linear chains; for a given film thickness, ring polymers exhibit a higher glass transition temperature than linear polymers of the same molecular weight. It is found that both linear and ring polymer thin films exhibit a fluidlike interfacial region where mobility is considerably higher than in the bulk of the film.
Abundance Ratio Trends and Nucleosynthesis in Elliptical Galaxies and Spheroids

Model and observed spectral feature indices indicate that, in galaxies of all types with velocity dispersions larger than about 225 km s–1, [Mg/Fe] progressively drifts greater than zero, until it reaches about 0.3 in the largest ellipticals. For elliptical galaxies that have absorption-line data for more elements, the abundances of Na and N elevate in a similar fashion, relative to both Ca and Fe ([Ca/Fe] ≈ 0; [Na, N/Fe] progressively > 0). Titanium may also share this apparently generic light-element behavior. The abundance pattern in elliptical galaxies matches neither the disk, the halo, nor the bulge of our own Galaxy, although the bulge appears to come the closest. N is depleted in the Galactic bulge but elevated in M31, M31's metal-rich globular clusters, and large elliptical galaxies. If all measured elements are considered, the abundance patterns in our own Galaxy and in external galaxies requires the presence of at least three sources of chemical enrichment whose relative contributions can vary from environment to environment. These three sources of enrichment may correspond to Type Ia supernovae (SNe), Type II SNe, and N-rich mass loss from intermediate-mass stars, but the behavior of O, Ca, Si, Sc, V, and Ti in the Galactic bulge, disk, and halo seems to require at least one additional supernova flavor.Abundance ratio effects represent a barrier to the estimation of mean ages from integrated light, a barrier that is greater than that of isochrone error. Isochrone grids allowing for the variation of individual elements are needed, but relative changes in isochrone temperatures computed as a function of abundance pattern need to be accurate to roughly 7 K if 5% age estimates are desired.
Dynamics of vortices in quasi-two-dimensional planar magnets

Abstract The dynamics of the vortex gas associated with the Kosterlitz-Thouless transition in quasi-two-dimensional planar magnets is discussed. It is pointed out that there is a central peak in the Fourier transform of the longitudinal spin autocorrelation function whose width is determined by the vortex velocity autocorrelation function and whose intensity is proportional to the density of mobile vortices.
Crossover from O(3) to O(4) behavior in weakly frustrated antiferromagnets

We consider an anisotropic version of the $CP^{1}$ model which describes frustrated quantum antiferromagnets with incommensurate spin correlations. We extend the two-component spinon field, describing lattice spins, to the $M$-component complex vector, and show, in the $1/M$ expansion, that for arbitrary small incommensurability longitudinal and transverse stiffnesses tend to the same value as the system approaches the quantum critical point. For physical spins ($M=2$), this yields $O(4)$ critical behavior. However, if the spin structure is commensurate, the longitudinal stiffness is identically zero. In this case, the critical behavior is the same as in $O(3)$ sigma model. We show how the critical exponents interpolate between $O(3)$ and $O(4)$ values near the transition. We also show that the competition between these two fixed points leads to a confinement-deconfinement transition at a finite temperature.
Prediction of adult-onset smoking initiation among U.S. Air force recruits using the pierce susceptibility questionnaire.

Background At one time, it was expected that if an individual reached young adulthood without smoking, his/her risk for initiation was minimal. However, recent data suggest that smoking initiation among young adults may be increasing. One particularly vulnerable population of young adults for smoking initiation is military recruits. This study examined whether a modified version of the Pierce Susceptibility Questionnaire (PSQ) might be useful for identifying military recruits who are vulnerable for the initiation of tobacco use. Methods Active duty recruits entering the U.S. Air Force over a 1-year period ( n =31,107) were assessed upon entry into basic military training (BMT), and a subsample was also assessed at 12 months following training. Results The modified PSQ predicted initiation of cigarette use for all categories of baseline smokers (never, experimenters, former smokers, and regular users). The likelihood of initiating smoking after BMT was substantially higher among those identified as susceptible than among those identified as not susceptible. Conclusions It is likely that the PSQ would prove to be a valuable tool in attempts to reduce tobacco use in the military. The predictive abilities of the measure could be used to target intervention and prevention efforts towards those most at risk.
Effect of inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis on muscle differentiation.

Abstract Aggregation, the first step in the fusion of cultured chick myoblasts to form myotubes, is inhibited by 90% after only 2 h exposure to 25-hydroxycholesterol, an inhibitor of cholesterol synthesis. In this study, the effect of this agent on the concentration of an integral membrane protein in the plasma membrane, the synthesis of two differention-controlled proteins and total protein synthesis were examined. While it is possible that any of these mechanisms could be responsible for the inhibition of fusion, none of them appear to account for the attenuation of fusion induced by the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis.
Spatially resolved chemical imaging of individual atmospheric particles using nanoscale imaging mass spectrometry: insight into particle origin and chemistry

Knowledge of the spatially resolved composition of atmospheric particles is essential for differentiating between their surface versus bulk chemistry and understanding particle reactivity and the potential environmental impact. We demonstrate the application of nanometer-scale secondary ion mass spectrometry (CAMECA NanoSIMS 50 ion probe) for 3D chemical imaging of individual atmospheric particles without any sample pre-treatment, such as sectioning of particles. Use of NanoSIMS depth profile analysis enables elemental mapping of particles with nanometer spatial resolution over a broad range of particle sizes. We have used this technique to probe the spatially resolved composition of ambient particles collected during a field campaign in Mexico City. Particles collected during this campaign have been extensively characterized in the past using other particle analysis techniques and hence offer a unique opportunity for exploring the utility of depth-resolved chemical imaging in ambient particle research. Particles examined in this study include those collected during a pollution episode related to urban waste incineration as well as background particles from the same location before the episode. Particles from the pollution episode show substantial intra-particle compositional variability typical of particles resulting from multiple emission sources. In contrast, the background particles have relatively homogeneous compositions with enhanced presence of nitrogen, oxygen, and chlorine at the particle surface. The observed surface enhancement of nitrogen and oxygen species is consistent with the presence of surface nitrates resulting from gas–particle heterogeneous interactions and is indicative of atmospheric ageing of the particles. The results presented here illustrate 3D characterization of ambient particles for insight into their chemical history.
Treatment of Imipramine‐Induced Dyspigmentation with Q‐Switched Alexandrite Laser Therapy

The development of blue or gray cutaneous hyperpigmentation is a rare complication of chronic imipramine therapy. Treatment options for imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation are limited but include topical retinoids, bleaching agents, and laser therapy, with varying degrees of success. We report a case in which Q-switched alexandrite laser therapy alone led to nearly complete resolution of imipramine-induced dyspigmentation in a patient who had been taking this medication for 4 decades. Paradoxical darkening of imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation after combined Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) and Q-switched ruby laser therapy has recently been demonstrated. Here, we further report a similar pattern of focal paradoxical hyperpigmentation after treatment of imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation with Q-switched alexandrite laser therapy that resolved with additional treatment sessions.
Simultaneous carrier transport enhancement and variability reduction in Si MOSFETs by insertion of partial monolayers of oxygen

We demonstrate simultaneous NMOS and PMOS high-field mobility enhancement and variability reduction by inserting partial monolayers of oxygen during silicon epitaxy of the channel layer.
An IUE Atlas of Pre-Main-Sequence Stars. II. Far-Ultraviolet Accretion Diagnostics in T Tauri Stars

We use our ultraviolet (UV) atlas of premain-sequence stars constructed from all useful, short- wavelength, low-resolution spectra in the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) satellite Final Archive to analyze the short-wavelength UV properties of 49 T Tauri stars (TTSs). We compare the line and continuum —uxes in these TTSs with each other and with previously published parameters of these systems, including rotation rate, infrared excess, and mass accretion rate. The short-wavelength contin- uum in the classical TTSs (CTTSs) appears to originate in a D10,000 K optically thick plasma, while in the naked TTSs (NTTSsstars without dusty disks) the continuum appears to originate in the stellar atmosphere. We show that all of the TTSs in our sample lie in the regime of ii saturated ˇˇ magnetic activity due to their small Rossby numbers. However, while some of the TTSs show emission line surface —uxes consistent with this saturation level, many CTTSs show signi—cantly stronger emission than pre- dicted by saturation. In these stars, the emission line luminosity in the high ionization lines present in the spectrum between 1200 and 2000 correlates well with the mass accretion rate. Therefore, we con- Ae clude that the bulk of the short-wavelength emission seen in CTTSs results from accretion related pro- cesses and not from dynamo-driven magnetic activity. Using CTTSs with known mass accretion rates, we calibrate the relationship between and to derive the mass accretion rate for some CTTSs M0 L CIV which for various reasons have never had their mass accretion rates measured. Finally, several of the CTTSs show strong emission from molecular hydrogen. While emission from cannot form in gas at a H 2 temperature of D105 K, the strength of the molecular hydrogen emission is nevertheless well correlated with all the other emissions displayed in the IUE short-wavelength bandpass. This suggests that the H 2 emission is in fact —uorescent emission pumped by the emission (likely Lya) from hotter gas. Subject headings: accretion, accretion diskscircumstellar matterstars: activity ¨ stars: premain-sequence
Community Care for People Who Are Homeless and Mentally Ill

This qualitative longitudinal study documents the experiences of 60 people who are homeless and mentally ill from their state mental hospital discharge through their first two years in community housing. The study explores the personal, cultural, and environmental contexts of life for adults who are homeless and mentally ill and examines the interaction between an individual's needs and community resources. The research identifies forces that perpetuate homelessness and traces the struggles that people who are homeless and mentally ill encounter during the transition from the streets to stable housing. The findings describe a culturally based pattern of mutual avoidance between homeless mentally ill clients and caregivers, which limits delivery of services to the population. Recommendations include development of alternative systems of care delivery, expansion of educational experiences with underserved populations, and increased funding for service or research with people who are homeless and mentally ill.
Gambling Trends in the State of New Mexico: 1996–1998

New Mexico experienced a surge in the gaming industry during the mid-1990s with the initiation of a state lottery and other new gaming opportunities, as well as the development of many Indian gaming establishments. This paper explores patterns associated with gambling in two random samples of the adult population (N = 2674) in the entire State of New Mexico in 1996 and 1998. Specifically, the purpose of this paper is to describe the relationship between gambling and such variables as age, gender, and ethnicity. Overall, an increase occurred in the number of people who reported having ever gambled, from 86.4% in 1996 to 92.5% in 1998. From 1996 to 1998, respondents’ reports of their past month gambling showed that certain forms of gambling (e.g., playing cards and betting on animals for money) decreased, while other forms of gambling either remained unchanged or increased in frequency (e.g., sports and investment gambling). The relationship of gender and age to gambling was also examined. Survey results indicated that while males and females reported many similar gambling habits, there are gender differences, particularly with regard to investment gambling. Specifically, females show a greater increase in investment gambling from 1996 to 1998, than do males. Overall results indicate a small positive correlation between age and dollar amount spent on gambling in the past month. In addition, ethnicity and age-specific patterns for certain forms of gambling are described.
Self-Assembly Of Porphyrins On Nucleic-Acid Templates

Summary The cis and trans isomers of dicationic bis(4-N-methylpyridyl)diphenylporphine show a much greater tendency to aggregate than similar tetracationic porphyrins. Upon binding to nucleic acids these aggregating dicationic porphyrins form long-range structures on the polymer template giving intense circular dichroism signals whose profile reports the helical sense of the DNA.
Association of Maternal Medical Conditions and Unfavorable Birth Outcomes: Findings from the 1996–2003 Mississippi Linked Birth and Death Data

This study aimed to identify factors contributing to high rates of preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW) and infant mortality in Mississippi while considering both traditional risk factors and maternal medical conditions. The retrospective cohort study used 1996–2003 Mississippi linked birth and infant death files. Multiple logistic regression was used to investigate association between maternal medical conditions and unfavorable birth outcomes. Along with traditional risk factors, hypertension was significantly associated with PTB and LBW. Women with hypertension were about 2.2 and 3.2 times as likely to have PTB and LBW, respectively. Hydramnios/oligohydramnios increased 1.8–4.4 folds of risk for PTB, LBW and infant death and was significantly associated with the unfavorable birth outcomes. Non-Hispanic black women were about 1.5–2.0 times as likely to have an unfavorable birth outcome compared to non-Hispanic white women. Maternal education and prenatal care effect appeared to be modified by maternal race. Certain maternal medical conditions may be contributing to PTB, LBW and infant mortality rates identifying preconception and prenatal healthcare as possible strategies for reducing unfavorable outcomes. Results suggest that different risk profiles for unfavorable outcomes may exist according to maternal race highlighting the need to consider racial groups separately when further exploring the sociodemographic and/or health-related factors that contribute to unfavorable birth outcomes.
Review and Critique of Empirical Studies of Rape Avoidance

Published studies of rape avoidance are reviewed to evaluate the scientific basis for rape avoidance advice. The results are evaluated in light of conceptual and methodological limitations of this literature, and specific recommendations for future research are provided. Consistent evidence suggests the effectiveness of forceful resistance strategies for avoiding rape; however, few studies have analyzed resistance within the social and situational contexts of rape to provide situation-specific information about rape avoidance. Larger, representative community studies are needed in which a broader range of situational factors, resistance strategies, and assault outcomes are assessed. Interactions of contextual factors such as pre-assault alcohol use and the victim-offender relationship with offense behaviors should be tested, and data on the sequential ordering of offender attack and victim resistance should be analyzed to enhance prediction of the probability of completed rape and physical injury to victims.
Personal Opinion: A Framework for Higher Education in the Security Field

At the recent American Society of Industrial Security (ASIS) conference, a discussion took place concerning the role of security education within academia. The point was made that it is difficult for any group of individuals claiming to be a ‘profession’ to move forward without a set of standards, a body of knowledge and an academic foundation which define that profession. However, the field of security has been attempting to do just that. A critical role of higher education is, therefore, to define the profession and provide the academic base that allows the establishment of standards and credentials for the security field.
Long-term memory following serial discrimination reversal learning

Twelve rats were tested through a series of 33 daily reversals of a light/tone successive discrimination; training was halted for 1 month and then resumed for six sessions. For the test session, the first one when training resumed, six rats relearned the last discrimination (the same correct stimulus on Sessions 33 and 34), but the other six rats learned the reversed discrimination (different correct stimuli on Sessions 33 and 34). The rats in the nonreversed group learned the test discrimination faster than the discrimination on Session 33, so they must have remembered the correct stimulus from Session 33, demonstrating a well established memory for the last correct stimulus in a series of discrimination reversals.
Immunological control of gastrointestinal nematode infections

Control of nematode parasitism by an active manipulation of the host immune response has been a goal of veterinary and medical parasitologists for decades. The reality of achieving this goal has been questioned vigorously and demonstrations of the feasibility of using immunological control under field conditions are minimal. Nevertheless, with the rapid growth of modern biotechnology and the identification of novel parasite molecules as vaccine targets, the potential for success in this area has recently generated considerable excitement. The induction and regulation of the ruminant immune response against nematode parasites can be controlled either by management programs which include anthelmintic treatment or by vaccination. Both approaches will be discussed in this session.