cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gender-Based Barriers for Male Students in Nursing Education Programs: Prevalence and Perceived Importance

To meet the recent call to increase the number of nurses by recruiting men, nursing education programs will need to reduce gender-based barriers. No study found has adequately quantified the prevalence and perceived importance of barriers to men in nursing education programs. These barriers create an academic environment that is unfriendly to men. As such, I defined a new construct, "male friendliness," as a function of the presence and importance of these barriers. The aims of this study were to describe the prevalence and perceived importance of barriers and to develop a tool to measure male friendliness in nursing programs. A pilot tool addressing 33 barriers, which were obtained from the literature, my experience, and a panel of nurse educators, was mailed to 200 male nurses. The findings revealed that seven barriers were importantly different in prevalence between different subsamples of male nurses, and no barrier was rated unimportant by more than 20% of respondents. The similarities in findings between groups of male nurses, diverse in geography, school attendance, and graduation dates, suggest that the barriers men face in nursing school are pervasive, consistent, and have changed little over time. From the findings, the Inventory of Male Friendliness in Nursing Programs (IMFNP) was developed.
An online anomalous time series detection algorithm for univariate data streams

We address the online anomalous time series detection problem among a set of series, combining three simple distance measures. This approach, akin to control charts, makes it easy to determine when a series begins to differ from other series. Empirical evidence shows that this novel online anomalous time series detection algorithm performs very well, while being efficient in terms of time complexity, when compared to approaches previously discussed in the literature.
Bolton Relay Thoracic Stent Graft System

The Relay Thoracic Stent Graft is a new endovascular device for the treatment of thoracic aortic pathologies. Clinical investigation is currently under way to assess its efficacy in the treatment of descending thoracic aneurysms. This device is composed of self-expanding nitinol stents that are sutured to a polyester fabric graft. The skeleton of the device is made up of a series of sinusoidal stents placed along the length of the graft fabric. To provide longitudinal support for this device, a curved nitinol wire is attached to the outer curve of the endograft fabric by a series of sutures. This design provides moderate column strength while maintaining desirable flexibility and torque response. A series of radiopaque markers, composed of platinum and iridium, are attached to the endograft in various locations to enhance fluoroscopic visualization. The Relay device is available in various sizes and configurations, both tapered and non-tapered. Graft lengths from 100 to 250 mm are available, with diameters from 22 to 46 mm (Fig. 17.1). The profile of the primary introducer sheath ranges from 22 to 26 Fr in size depending on graft diameter and length. The delivery system is a four-step controlled deployment for accuracy of positioning(Fig. 17.2).
Phonetics and Signal Processing

The purpose of this chapter is twofold, so it is divided into two large sections. The first section provides a very quick overview of phonetics, not only for the benefit of scientists who have limited knowledge of the subject, but also to fix some concepts and notation for the rest of the book. The second section provides a quick introduction to the fundamentals of digital signal processing that will be relied upon to discuss the spectrum analysis techniques presented in later chapters. While the most complicated mathematical derivations and digressions have been set within gray boxes, and can thus be skimmed over by less mathematically inclined readers, this section does include a fair amount of mathematics in the main text. I found this to be necessary to accomplish my main goal, which is to present the fundamentals of signal processing to the uninitiated in a simplified format that will facilitate learning of those concepts which are essential to understanding the methods presented in later chapters. Readers whose background is too deficient in mathematics to permit understanding the equations will, I hope, still be able to learn many important concepts by focusing on the discussions, examples, and figures.
LINEAR REGRESSION WITH OPTIMAL +1, 0, and −1 WEIGHTS: STATISTICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL THEORY

Alternatives to ordinary least-squares regression were investigated statistically via a model for regression on linear composites. Parameter estimation, the sampling distribution of the estimators, hypothesis testing, and ananalysis of variance for a fixed-regression version of the model were developed. Coefficients of predictive accuracy in the population were obtained, and unbiased estimators, biased estimators, and statistic allower-bounds to these coefficients were developed. Although the basic model involves only a modest reconceptualization of standard regression theory, its usefulness was illustrated in four areas of application: theory testing, regression on composites(such as principal components), direction-weighting, and dealing with multicollinearity. A new method was developed to obtain optimal binary and trinary weights that in many applications account for all robust statistical prediction. Both theory and example support the conclusion that are liance on least-squares estimators of parameters of the traditional model is often a less-than-optimal regression strategy. The proposed model provides a statistical rationale for determining when traditional least-squares coefficients are likely to cross-validate poorly.
Sublinear Algorithms for $(\Delta + 1)$ Vertex Coloring

Any graph with maximum degree $\Delta$ admits a proper vertex coloring with $\Delta + 1$ colors that can be found via a simple sequential greedy algorithm in linear time and space. But can one find such a coloring via a sublinear algorithm? We answer this fundamental question in the affirmative for several canonical classes of sublinear algorithms including graph streaming, sublinear time, and massively parallel computation (MPC) algorithms. In particular, we design: * A single-pass semi-streaming algorithm in dynamic streams using $\tilde{O}(n)$ space. The only known semi-streaming algorithm prior to our work was a folklore O(log n)-pass algorithm obtained by simulating classical distributed algorithms in the streaming model. * A sublinear-time algorithm in the standard query model that allows neighbor queries and pair queries using $\tilde{O}(n\sqrt{n})$ time. We further show that any algorithm that outputs a valid coloring with sufficiently large constant probability requires $\Omega(n\sqrt{n})$ time. No non-trivial sublinear time algorithms were known prior to our work. * A parallel algorithm in the massively parallel computation (MPC) model using $\tilde{O}(n)$ memory per machine and $O(1)$ MPC rounds. Our number of rounds significantly improves upon the recent $O(\log\log{\Delta}\cdot\log^*{(n)})$-round algorithm of Parter [ICALP 2018]. At the core of our results is a remarkably simple meta-algorithm for the $(\Delta+1)$ coloring problem: Sample $O(\log{n})$ colors for each vertex from the $\Delta+1$ colors; find a proper coloring of the graph using only the sampled colors. We prove that the sampled set of colors with high probability contains a proper coloring of the input graph. The sublinear algorithms are then obtained by designing efficient algorithms for finding a proper coloring of the graph from the sampled colors in the corresponding models.
Maintaining Subject Retention and Avoiding Study Fatigue

Subject retention is as important as subject recruitment. Losing subjects is actually worse for study results than not having randomized the subject at all. There are multiple methods to impute missing data, but none are as good as having retained the subject in follow-up. The site can use many methods to maintain subject retention, including providing a stipend for visits, providing transportation or travel assistance, and having great staff. Having regular visits, albeit not too frequent, has been shown to be helpful. Letters can be sent to the primary care physicians, to the subjects regarding study milestones, and to the subjects once the randomization unblinding occurs. There are multiple steps that can be used if a subject wishes to withdraw consent that allow the critical information, like vital status, to be maintained.
Verbal behavior and risky choice in humans: Exploring the boundaries of the description-experience gap

The description-experience (DE) gap is a tendency to prefer uncertain over certain rewards when experienced compared to described. DE gap research typically intermixes choice between two gains with choice between two losses. Because preference for uncertain gains have been found to increase following experienced loss, preference for uncertain gains (and the DE gap) may decrease when gains are presented in isolation. Experiment 1 examined the DE gap when participants were presented choices between gains (points) in isolation. Experiment 2 examined the DE gap when participants were presented with gains in isolation and intermixed with point losses. When gains were first contacted in isolation, participants chose the uncertain gain more when it was described compared to experienced (a reversed DE gap). But, when gains were intermixed with losses, participants chose the uncertain gain more when it was experienced compared to described (typical DE gap). Additional exposure to intermixed following isolated choices led to a typical DE gap, and exposure to isolated following intermixed choices decreased the size of the typical DE gap. These results show how choice with experienced or described outcomes is influenced by intermixing gains with losses and may reveal how the DE gap can be manipulated.
Explainable AI for Understanding Decisions and Data-Driven Optimization of the Choquet Integral

To date, numerous ways have been created to learn a fusion solution from data. However, a gap exists in terms of understanding the quality of what was learned and how trustworthy the fusion is for future—i.e., new—data. In part, the current paper is driven by the demand for so-called explainable AI (XAI). Herein, we discuss methods for XAI of the Choquet integral (ChI), a parametric nonlinear aggregation function. Specifically, we review existing indices, and we introduce new data-centric XAI tools. These various XAI-ChI methods are explored in the context of fusing a set of heterogeneous deep convolutional neural networks for remote sensing.
Effect of Operative Time on Short-Term Adverse Events After Isolated Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Background:A longer operative time has been previously recognized as a risk factor for short-term complications after various orthopaedic procedures; however, it has yet to be investigated as an in...
Formation of Nitrogen Oxides by Nanosecond Pulsed Plasma Discharges in Gas–Liquid Reactors

A gas–liquid-film flow reactor with a nanosecond pulsed power supply was utilized to produce nitrogen oxides from Ar/N2 mixtures (gas phase) and deionized water (liquid phase). Chemical analysis of the stable products found in both the gas and liquid phases was performed and chemical quenching was incorporated for the liquid phase samples in order to eliminate post plasma reactions. Significant amounts of NO and NO2 in the gas phase and $${\text{NO}}_{2}^{ - }$$ and $${\text{NO}}_{3}^{ - }$$ in the liquid phase were determined using FTIR spectroscopy and ion chromatography, respectively. The production rate of all nitrogen oxides produced increased significantly with N2 concentration while H2O2 formation decreased slightly. The gas temperature of the plasma was approximately 525 K and was unaffected by N2 concentration while the electron density ranged from 1 × 1017 cm−3 in pure Ar to 5.5 × 1017 cm−3 in 28% N2. The role of the $${\cdot {\text{OH}}}$$ in the reaction pathway was assessed by adding CO as a gas phase radical scavenger showing that $${\cdot {\text{OH}}}$$ is essential for conversion of the gas phase NO and NO2 into water soluble $${\text{NO}}_{2}^{ - }$$ and $${\text{NO}}_{3}^{ - }$$ . Conversely, atomic oxygen originating from water is likely responsible for NO and NO2 generation. Experiments with N2/O2/Ar mixtures and air showed a significant increase in NO2 production caused by the additional generation of reactive oxygen species. An overall energy yield for all nitrogen oxides produced in the most efficient case was 50 eV/molecule.
Cytomegalovirus Infection Drives Avidity Selection of Natural Killer Cells

Summary The process of affinity maturation, whereby T and B cells bearing antigen receptors with optimal affinity to the relevant antigen undergo preferential expansion, is a key feature of adaptive immunity. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes capable of “adaptive” responses after cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. However, whether NK cells are similarly selected on the basis of their avidity for cognate ligand is unknown. Here, we showed that NK cells with the highest avidity for the mouse CMV glycoprotein m157 were preferentially selected to expand and comprise the memory NK cell pool, whereas low-avidity NK cells possessed greater capacity for interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production. Moreover, we provide evidence for avidity selection occurring in human NK cells during human CMV infection. These results delineate how heterogeneity in NK cell avidity diversifies NK cell effector function during antiviral immunity, and how avidity selection might serve to produce the most potent memory NK cells.
Generation of Hydrogen Cyanide from the Reaction of Oxyma (Ethyl Cyano(hydroxyimino)acetate) and DIC (Diisopropylcarbodiimide)

Evolution of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) during amino acid activation using the reagent combination ethyl cyano(hydroxyimino)acetate (Oxyma)/diisopropylcarbodiimide (DIC) is observed under ambient condi...
Nalbuphine, a kappa opioid receptor agonist and mu opioid receptor antagonist attenuates pruritus, decreases IL-31, and increases IL-10 in mice with contact dermatitis.

Abstract Chronic itch is one of the disturbing symptoms of inflammatory skin diseases. Kappa opioid receptor agonists are effective in suppressing scratching in mice against different pruritogens. Nalbuphine, a nonscheduled kappa opioid receptor agonist and mu opioid receptor antagonist, has been in clinical use for post-operative pain management since the 1980s and recently has been in clinical trials for chronic itch of prurigo nodularis ( https://www.trevitherapeutics.com/nalbuphine ). We studied whether nalbuphine is effective against chronic scratching induced by rostral neck application of 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNFB), an accepted mouse model of contact dermatitis to study pruritoceptive itch. Mice were treated once a week with either saline or nalbuphine 20 min before the third, fifth, seventh, and ninth sensitizations with DNFB and the number of scratching bouts was counted for 30 min. Skin samples from the neck of mice at week 4 were used to measure protein levels and mRNA expressions of chemokines and cytokines. Different sets of mice were used to study sedation and anhedonic-like behavior of nalbuphine. We found that: nalbuphine (a) antagonized scratching in a dose- and time-dependent manner without affecting locomotion, b) decreased IL-31, and increased anti-inflammatory IL-10, and c) induced more elevations in the levels of CCL2, CCL3, CCL12, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL9, CXCL10, IL-1β, IL-16, TIMP-1, M-CSF, TREM-1 and M1-type macrophages compared to saline. Increases in chemokines and cytokines and M1 macrophages by nalbuphine suggest an inflammatory phase of healing in damaged skin due to scratching. Our data indicate that nalbuphine is an effective antipruritic in murine model of pruritoceptive itch.
The Production of 38Ar and 39Ar by 14-MeV Neutrons on 39K

We have determined the cross sections for the production of 38Ar and 39Ar from the (n, n’p) and (n,p) reactions by neutrons of ∼14 MeV incident on 39K. Three potassium-bearing specimens were irradi...
Variation in State Laws on Access to Civil Protection Orders for Adolescents Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence.

Abstract Purpose Intimate partner violence (IPV) is prevalent among adolescents. Civil protection orders (CPOs) are the most common legal remedy used by individuals experiencing IPV to prevent recurrence. However, laws on whether adolescents can access CPOs vary by state. We assessed the landscape of state legislation regarding adolescents' access to CPOs for IPV. Methods We systematically assessed statutes across all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia for 5 indicators: whether minors can be granted CPOs, whether minors can file on their own behalf, whether dating relationships are eligible, definitions of abuse qualifying for CPOs, and whether a CPO prohibits firearm possession and requires surrender of firearms. Results A total of 48 states (94%) explicitly allow minors to obtain CPOs. Fourteen states (27%) explicitly allow minors to file for a CPO on their own behalf. Forty-four states (86%) recognize dating relationships as qualifying relationships for a CPO. A CPO may be issued for physical violence in all 51 states (100%), sexual violence in 46 states (90%), threats of physical or sexual violence in 47 states (92%), stalking in 44 states (86%), and psychological/emotional violence in 28 states (55%). In 22 states (43%), an individual subject to a CPO is prohibited from possessing firearms and is required to surrender firearms they already have. Conclusions There is a significant variation in states' CPO statutes related to adolescent IPV. Improvements in legislation that reduce the barriers to legal relief for those experiencing violence can be an important part of a comprehensive solution to reducing IPV among adolescents.
Madison, Machiavelli and the Problem of Faction

Much recent literature in political science has lamented the increase in political polarization. However, in his Discourses on Livy, Machiavelli famously breaks with the tradition - and, it seems, contemporary scholarship - and praises the “tumults” of ancient Rome as the guarantors of liberty. He thus argues for a regime constituted on the basis of tension between the patricians and the plebians - a tension that cannot, in his mind, be overcome because of the fundamentally different “humors” that make up the city. At the same time, however, Machiavelli acknowledges that such dissension can be dangerous for a republic, as other nations may be able to take advantage of the dissension and conquer the territory. In this paper, I develop an account of faction in Machiavelli to parallel that of James Madison in Federalist 10: I show that, like Madison, Machiavelli believed the causes of faction are sown in the nature of man and, again like Madison, he attempts not to remove the causes but to control its effects. However, while Madison’s primary concern about factions is their tendency to infringe the rights of others, Machiavelli’s primary concern is the tendency of factions to undermine the necessary unity of the state. Moreover, while Madison praises the United States Constitution for creating an “unmixed republic,” Machiavelli insists that a “mixed republic” is the only way to avoid faction.
Neuroanatomical Differences Among Sexual Offenders: A Targeted Review with Limitations and Implications for Future Directions

As sexual assault and child sexual abuse continue to be worldwide public health concerns, research has continued to explore factors associated with sexual offending. Structural and functional neuroanatomical brain differences have been examined in an effort to differentiate sexual offenders and their behavior. This targeted review searched PubMed and Google Scholar for empirical studies using brain imaging techniques to examine possible structural or functional differences among control groups compared with at least one group of sexual offenders with contact offenses. This targeted review summarizes the structural and functional findings of 15 brain imaging studies (i.e., computed tomography, diffusion tensor imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and functional magnetic resonance imaging), which suggest possible differences in brain size and gray matter volume, cortical thickness, white matter connectivity, and specific structural and functional differences among brain regions (fronto-temporal region, amygdala, prefrontal cortex, etc.). The methodological limitations of brain imaging studies and the associated findings with regard to sexual offenders are highlighted, as research indicates that many of the proposed differences in brain structure and function are not unique to this population. We further highlight several limitations to using neuroimaging studies to examine this population of interest, including publication bias, small sample size, underpowered studies, and all-male samples. As these results are mixed and findings are not seemingly unique to sexual offenders, we suggest future sexual offender research may benefit from focusing on more financially feasible options, such as neuropsychological assessment approaches, to assess for and attend to offenders' criminogenic and rehabilitative/therapeutic needs in alignment with the risk-need-responsivity model.
Conscious and unconscious brain responses to food and cocaine cues.

Visual presentation of appetitive and negative cues triggers fast responses in the human brain. Here we assessed functional MRI (fMRI) responses to food, cocaine, and neutral cues presented at a subliminal (“unconscious”, 33 ms) and supraliminal (“conscious”, 750 and 3000 ms) level in healthy, cocaine naive volunteers. Because there is evidence of circadian variability in reward sensitivity, our second aim was to assess diurnal variability in the brain’s reactivity to cues. Sixteen participants completed two randomly ordered fMRI sessions (once 9-11 AM and another 5–7 PM). in which food, cocaine, and neutral cues were presented for 33, 750 and 3000 ms. Participants rated food cues as positive and “wanted” (more so in evenings than mornings), and cocaine cues as negative (no diurnal differences). fMRI showed occipital cortex activation for food>neutral, cocaine>neutral and cocaine>food; dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for cocaine>neutral and cocaine>food, and midbrain for cocaine>food (all pFWE conscious (750 and 3000 ms) presentations, we observed significant differences for cocaine>neutral and cocaine>food in occipital cortex, for cocaine>neutral in the insula/temporal lobe, and for food>neutral in the middle temporal gyrus (pFWE < 0.05). No diurnal differences for brain activations were observed. We interpret these findings to suggest that negative items (e.g., cocaine) might be perceived at a faster speed than positive ones (e.g., food), although we cannot rule out that the higher saliency of cocaine cues, which would be novel to non-drug using individuals, contributed to the faster speed of detection.
Interpersonal factors influencing risk for revictimization in two samples of young adults

This study examines the potential moderating role of interpersonal factors on revictimization risk in two demographically distinct samples. The two samples included undergraduates (N = 275) and wom...
MPLP: Learning a Message Passing Learning Protocol

We present a novel method for learning the weights of an artificial neural network - a Message Passing Learning Protocol (MPLP). In MPLP, we abstract every operations occurring in ANNs as independent agents. Each agent is responsible for ingesting incoming multidimensional messages from other agents, updating its internal state, and generating multidimensional messages to be passed on to neighbouring agents. We demonstrate the viability of MPLP as opposed to traditional gradient-based approaches on simple feed-forward neural networks, and present a framework capable of generalizing to non-traditional neural network architectures. MPLP is meta learned using end-to-end gradient-based meta-optimisation. We further discuss the observed properties of MPLP and hypothesize its applicability on various fields of deep learning.
Uncertainty and the Limits of Markets

The article considers the place of the neoclassical equilibrium model as the basis for current views of markets as fair, efficient, or both. It also points to three threats the model poses for democracy and justice: it ignores the problem of inequality, it suppresses the socio-economic significance of uncertainty, and it conceals its own tradeoff between certainty and equality. Instead, the article lays out Frank Knight’s critical assessment of real markets, which rely on the tacit agreement between a handful of “daring” entrepreneurs and the “risk-averse” masses to bear the uncertainties of business-life in return for a substantially larger share of its direction and rewards. Knight’s influential conclusion, that this agreement mandates a nonmeritocratic social inequality and substantively divides humanity into leaders and followers, should be critically examined.
Food Processing, Dysbiosis, Gastrointestinal Inflammatory Diseases, and Antiangiogenic Functional Foods or Beverages.

Foods and beverages provide nutrients and alter the gut microbiota, resulting in eubiosis or dysbiosis. Chronic consumption of a diet that is high in saturated or trans fats, meat proteins, reducin...
Outcomes of trimodality CROSS regimen in older adults with locally advanced esophageal cancer.

Abstract Background Chemoradiotherapy for Esophageal cancer followed by Surgery (CROSS regimen) is standard of care for locally-advanced esophageal cancer. We evaluated CROSS completion rates, toxicity, and postoperative outcomes between older and younger adults receiving trimodality therapy. Methods Retrospective analysis of patients with locally-advanced esophageal cancer who underwent CROSS regimen from May 2016 to January 2020 at a single academic center. Outcomes of those aged ≥70-years-old and Results Of 201 patients, 136 were 0.05). Time to surgery following neoadjuvant therapy was similar between age groups, except in those ≥80-years-old as compared to 0.05). Conclusion Trimodality CROSS regimen for esophageal cancer in older adults is feasible, with similar completion rates and postoperative outcomes as compared to their younger counterparts.
More Stringent Sanctions Under Federal Civil Rull 11: A Reply to Professor Nelken

In her recent work, “Sanctions Under Amended Federal Rule 11 - Some ‘Chilling’ Problems in the Struggle Between Compensation and Punishment,” Professor Melissa Nelken provides a thoughtful and thought provoking look at the first two years of practice under the 1983 amendments to rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Her work will and should be read by all interested in the burgeoning caseload spawned by the amendments. After reviewing the case law, she opines that the "punitive approach to rule 11 sanctions, if applied frequently, threatens to chill vigorous advocacy….” She also finds the punitive approach has the "potential for circumventing established due process protections recognized in the law of contempt." These concerns lead her to conclude that the "language of the rule should clearly proscribe monetary sanctions in excess of the costs and fees incurred by the opposing party ...." She considers such "excess" sanctions to be punishment, which she deems inappropriate in a rule 11 proceeding. Thus, while she finds rule 11 grants discretion "to award less stringent sanctions than reasonable costs and attorney's fees," she wishes the rule to be read as disallowing more stringent sanctions, including monetary awards (such as fines) go beyond a party's litigation-related expenses. In the following commentary, I contend that her wish should not be granted. If judiciously employed, rule 11 poses no danger to due process or zealous advocacy. Restrictions on the sanctions available under the rule would undermine the rulemakers' intentions. Punishment, compensation, and deterrence may all serve as objectives of rule 11.
Practice Vs. Appearance: Understanding Regulatory Actions against Auditors for Insufficient Professional Skepticism

Audit regulators frequently describe that auditors lack sufficient professional skepticism, but practitioners argue that these allegations are unsubstantiated. We review SEC audit enforcement actions (AAERs) and PCAOB inspection findings to understand how regulators evaluate skepticism. Our analysis of AAERs provides evidence of an outcome effect, where regulator perceptions of skeptical behavior are influenced by the results of fraud investigations (e.g. known risks and client misrepresentations). Our analysis of PCAOB inspections suggests that the occurrence of a skepticism deficiency is associated with the number of audit errors identified. Also, inspection findings related to documentation issues, audit opinions, and related parties are associated with skepticism deficiencies. These results substantiate practitioner claims that there is an issue with skepticism in appearance rather than skepticism in practice. This study provides guidance for auditors to more visibly demonstrate skeptical behavior and emphasizes the need for clearer expectations and processes for evaluating skepticism.
Design of a tokenless architecture for parallel computations using associative dataflow processor

The currently existing models of computation, control-flow and data-flow, have their limitations and weaknesses in utilizing parallelism adequately. A new refined model of computation, called associative dataflow, has been previously proposed in the literature which attempts to circumvent the bottlenecks inherent in conventional dataflow using associative memories. In this new model of computation, a dataflow graph is conceptually assumed to be upside-down and the computation is divided into two phases, namely the search phase and the execution phase. During the search phase, each node at the top of the hierarchy, called the parent, attempts to find the nodes connected to it in the dataflow graph, called the children. During the execution phase, the operations are carried out as in conventional dataflow paradigm. The limitations and weaknesses associated with control-flow and data-flow are described, leading to the proposed concept of associative dataflow. Simulation results of existing dataflow systems are compared with the associative dataflow model to support the fact that the new model of computation provides faster execution time and better ALU utilization than the conventional models. The design of an associative dataflow system is described by providing as much detail as can possibly be incorporated to understand the concept with reference to existing computer systems. Finally, specifications of the designed system are outlined by listing important characteristics of the associative dataflow system.
Relationships of X Irradiation to the Enhancement of Candida albicans Infections

Preirradiation significantly reduced the number of Candida albicans cells required for the ld50 of experimentally infected mice. The start and extent of recovery of total leukocytes of preirradiated infected mice were proportional to the dose of X rays administered. During 10 days postinfection, heterophils of infected mice preirradiated with 400 R recovered to levels above unirradiated, uninfected controls but did not exceed those of unirradiated, infected animals. On the other hand, the more radiosensitive lymphocytes were depressed greatly, and a limited recovery below normal values was obtained. The lymph to heterophil ratio of uninfected mice irradiated with 400 R recovered to normal values by 11 days postirradiation. However, decreases in the ratio of unirradiated or X-irradiated infected mice showed little recovery. During 6 to 10 days postinfection, a reduction in microhematocrit values after a dose of 400 R alone was not observed when a C. albicans infection was superimposed on X-irradiated mice. This difference was not due to changes in the red blood cell volume which was decreased by 400 R with or without infection, but was attributed to a greater decrease in plasma volume caused by a combination of X irradiation and infection. Reticulocyte counts indicated that recovery from the significant decrease in erythrocyte production caused by 400 R was retarded by a progressive infection. Elevated total serum protein of unirradiated mice at 6 days after infection was attributed to increases in α- and β-globulins. A dose of 400 R limited but did not prevent an increase α- and β-globulins upon subsequent infection. Candida species infection or 400 R or both did not greatly affect the concentration of γ-globulins. The albumin to globulin ratio of irradiated, infected mice was intermediate between those ratios found after X irradiation or infection.
Energy-income coefficients and ratios: Their use and abuse

Abstract The author considers two commonly used relations between income and energy consumption: the ratio of consumption to income; and the incremental energy- income coefficient. The shortcomings and inherent confusions of the latter coefficient are discussed, and its tendency to fluctuate violently is examined. The author concludes that, while the energy-income ratio is valid although imprecise, use of the incremental coefficient should be abandoned altogether.
Multiple disease‐linked myotubularin mutations cause NFL assembly defects in cultured cells and disrupt myotubularin dimerization

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is an inherited peripheral neuropathy that has been linked to mutations in multiple genes. Mutations in the neurofilament light (NFL) chain gene lead to the CMT2E form whereas mutations in the myotubularin-related protein 2 and 13 (MTMR2 and MTMR13) genes lead to the CMT4B form. These two forms share characteristic pathological hallmarks on nerve biopsies including concentric sheaths ('onion bulbs') and, in at least one case, myelin loops. In addition, MTMR2 protein has been shown to interact physically with both NFL and MTMR13. Here, we present evidence that CMT-linked mutations of MTMR2 can cause NFL aggregation in a cell line devoid of endogenous intermediate filaments, SW13vim(-). Mutations in the protein responsible for X-linked myotubular myopathy (myotubularin, MTM1) also induced NFL abnormalities in these cells. We also show that two MTMR2 mutant proteins, G103E and R283W, are unable to form dimers and undergo phosphorylation in vivo, implicating impaired complex formation in myotubularin-related pathology.
ON THE STEADY STATE OF AN AGE DEPENDENT MODEL FOR MALARIA

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses some basic analysis of the steady state equations of an age-dependent model of malaria, suggested by Klaus Dietz in cooperation with others at the World Health Organization. The model considers population density of the sporozoite (asexual) malarial parasite in a host; the death rate of the sporozoites; and the population density of the gametocyte (sexual) malarial parasite in a host. The sporozoite is involved directly in the effect of the disease on the host but not in the transfer of disease, while the gametocyte has little symptomatic effect but is the key to the spread of the disease via the mosquito. The chapter describes different assumptions that are incorporated in the model.
The photospheric magnetic fields of cool stars: Recent results of survey and time-variability programs

The past decade has seen considerable advances in our ability to measure magnetic fields on cool stars. New observational and analytical techniques have been employed, producing a considerable body of data on the mean magnetic field strength in stellar active regions (B) and the fraction (filling factor = f) of the stellar surface covered by these fields (f) for G, K, and M dwarfs. I focus on some of the recent results of observational programs aimed at surveying magnetic parameters on a broad range of stars and studying the time-variability of B and f.
Molecular modeling of the surface charging of hematite. II. Optimal proton distribution and simulation of surface charge versus pH relationships

A parameterized classical potential model for the interaction of water and hydroxide with iron oxide was used to calculate the optimal proton arrangement and proton binding energies on the (012) surface of hematite. Energy minimization calculations with the parameterized potential model indicate that approximately 75% of adsorbed water molecules are dissociated on this surface, in agreement with recent TPD and HREELS measurements. Surface protonation/deprotonation energies were calculated from the predicted optimal arrangement of protons on the neutral (012) surface. A supercell geometry with translational symmetry in two dimensions and finite in the third dimension (2-D PBC) was assumed. The calculated surface protonation energies were then used to model the experimentally observed surface-charging curve of hematite in aqueous solution. Excellent agreement was found between the calculated and measured surface charge for ionic strengths ranging from 0.001 to 0.1 M. Our calculations favor the value of 8.5 for the pH of zero charge of hematite over the more recent result of 6.7.
Tidal truncation of inclined circumstellar and circumbinary discs in young stellar binaries

Recent observations have shown that circumstellar and circumbinary discs in young stellar binaries are often misaligned with respect to the binary orbital plane. We analyze the tidal truncation of such misaligned discs due to torques applied to the disc at the Lindblad resonances from the tidal forcings of the binary. We consider eccentric binaries with arbitrary binary-disc inclination angles. We determine the dependence of the tidal forcing strengths on the binary parameters and show that they are complicated non-monotonic functions of eccentricity and inclination. We adopt a truncation criterion determined by the balance between resonant torque and viscous torque, and use it to calculate the outer radii of circumstellar discs and the inner radii of circumbinary discs. Misaligned circumstellar discs have systematically larger outer radii than aligned discs, and are likely to fill their Roche lobes if inclined by more than $45^\circ - 90^\circ$, depending on the binary mass ratio and disc viscosity parameter. Misaligned circumbinary discs generally have smaller inner radii than aligned discs, but the details depend sensitively on the binary and disc parameters.
Preliminary Kerr electro-optic field measurements in melted polyethylene

Utilizing a frequency-selective amplifier, sensitive Kerr electrooptic field mapping measurements were made in melted (>110 degrees C) low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with a small signal AC voltage superimposed on a DC voltage. Preliminary measurements show significant levels of field distortion due to bipolar homocharge injection with charge density magnitudes on the order of 0.01 C/m/sup 3/ for field strengths on the order of 6 kV/cm. The experiment utilizes short parallel-plate electrodes of length 15 cm so that E/sub m/, the electric field necessary for the first light maxima with crossed polarizers, is approximately 500 kV/cm. By normalizing the optically measured average field to the voltage divided by spacing, the Kerr constant of melted LDPE at approximately=140 degrees C was found to be B approximately=1.3*10/sup -15/ m/V/sup 2/. The high sensitivity of the experiment also makes it possible to measure the self-field, and its subsequent decay, due to the charge density alone after the electrodes have been short-circuited. >
New directions in dietary studies of coronary heart disease

For several decades the debate on diet and coronary heart disease has been dominated by the classic diet-heart hypothesis, which predicts an adverse effect of dietary saturated fat and cholesterol and a beneficial effect of polyunsaturated fat intake. However, recent research suggests that the diet-heart relationship is much more complex than previously recognized. Antioxidants, and in particular vitamin E, are emerging as potentially useful protective factors, and there is increasing evidence that hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor that may be modified by dietary changes. However, substantial data support the notion that the trans fatty acids contained in partially hydrogenated vegetable oils adversely affect the risk of coronary heart disease. Other questions, such as the role of selenium and iron, the ideal amount in the diet of polyunsaturated fat of the n-6 or n-3 group (including fish oil) and how the benefits of a diet high in monounsaturated fat (such as the Mediterranean diet) compare with those of diet low in total fat (such as the traditional Asian diet) remain to be settled.
Effects of sidestream smoke exposure and age on pulmonary function and airway reactivity in developing rats

Children exposed to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) in their homes have in- creased cough, respiratory illness, airway obstruction, and hyperreactivity. Since an animal model is needed to understand the mechanism by which this occurs, our study was designed to determine if immature rats develop airway obstruction and increased airway reactivity when exposed to sidestream smoke (SSS, respirable suspended particulate concentration 1.00±0.03 mg/m3, CO concentration 6.48±0.29 ppm). In the first of 3 studies, rats were exposed to filtered air (FA) or SSS for 6 hr/day, 5 days/week from day 2 to week 8 or week 15 of life (n = 6-8 in each group). SSS exposure did not change lung resistance (RJ, dynamic lung compliance (Cldyn), lung weighthody weight ratio (LW/BW), pulmonary artery pressure (PPA), body weight, or airway reactivity to methacholine (all P > 0.2, 2-way ANOVA). Regardless of exposure, lungs from younger rats were relatively heavier and more reactive to methacholine than lungs from older rats (P 0.2, ANOVA). In the third study, rats were exposed to FA or SSS from day 2 to week 11 of life (n = 7 in each group). SSS exposure reduced airway (P = 0.004) but not pulmonary artery (P = 0.63) reactivity to serotonin. We conclude that (1) SSS exposure to the immature rats did not mimic the effects of ETS seen in children, (2) younger rats had greater muscarinic airway reactivity than older rats, and (3) serotonin may play a role in ETS-induced lung problems.Pediatr Pulmonol. 1993; 16:281–288. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Changes in cotherapies after initiation of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Objective. We hypothesized that initiation of a new disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) would decrease the use of corticosteroids, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and narcotics.Methods. Using administrative databases, we assembled 4 retrospective cohorts of RA patients (1998-2005) and identified 5 groups initiating DMARD regimens: methotrexate (MTX) with (new MTX) or without (first MTX) use of other nonbiologic DMARDs in the previous year; new hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and/or sulfasalazine (SSZ; new HCQ/SSZ)and new leflunomide (new LEF), both with previous use of MTX; and new tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) antagonists(new anti-TNF). We compared within-person differences in any use of cotherapies (≥ prescription) between the 6 months before and the 6-12 months after DMARD initiation.Results. Among 32,476 DMARD initiators, the prevalence of corticosteroid, NSAID, and narcotic use increased by 15%, 5%,and 6%, respectively, in the 6 months before initiation compared to the previous 6 months, suggesting worsening of the disease. In the 6-12 months after initiation for most initiator groups, more patients stopped using corticosteroids and NSAIDs than started, with overall decreases of 8.9% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 8.4-9.4%) for corticosteroids and 12.9% (95%CI 12.3-13.4%) for NSAIDs. The proportion of narcotic users changed little (overall decrease of 2.5%; 95% CI 1.9-3.0%).Conclusion. Use of all 3 cotherapies increased in the 6 months before initiation of new DMARD regimens for RA. Use of corticosteroids and NSAIDs decreased modestly 6-12 months after initiation, but there was only a very small decrease in narcotic use. These differential changes require further study.
Bioassays for the detection of a cytokine that enhances the development of cytolytic T lymphocytes

Abstract Interleukin 2 (IL-2) is an important growth factor for cytolytic T lymphocytes (CTL). Other factors here termed cytolytic differentiation factor(s) (CDF) may be required for CTL responses, but it has been difficult to identify suitable bioassays. We report a polyclonal assay in which lytic activity develops after 2 days of culture with lectin and lymphokines. CDF is required for the development of Thy-1 + , CD8 + , CD4 − CTL in this assay. The responsive T cells are thymocytes from certain strains of mice (A, Swiss NCS, B6.H-2k) or peripheral T cells cultured in the presence of high doses of hydrocortisone acetate. If these precautions are taken, little or no lytic activity develops in the presence of rIL-2 alone. CDF is present in the media of mitogen-stimulated mouse spleen or human blood mononuclear cells, but not in the conditioned media of a number of mouse and human cell lines. It is immunlogically distinct from IL-2, but only acts in concert with IL-2 to induce CTL. A large panel of available mouse and human cytokines do not synergize with Il-2 in the bioassay. These include interferons, colony-stimulating factors, lymphotoxin/tumor necrosis factor and IL-1, -3, and -4. Therefore a distinct CDF(s) seems essential for the induction of at least some CTL. The assays described here should be useful in purifying the molecule responsible for this biological activity.
Effects of chronic estrogen treatment on modulating age‐related bone loss in female mice

While female mice do not have the equivalent of a menopause, they do undergo reproductive senescence. Thus, to dissociate the effects of aging versus estrogen deficiency on age-related bone loss, we sham-operated, ovariectomized, or ovariectomized and estrogen-replaced female C57/BL6 mice at 6 months of age and followed them to age 18 to 22 months. Lumbar spines and femurs were excised for analysis, and bone marrow hematopoietic lineage negative (lin-) cells (enriched for osteoprogenitor cells) were isolated for gene expression studies. Six-month-old intact control mice were euthanized to define baseline parameters. Compared with young mice, aged/sham-operated mice had a 42% reduction in lumbar spine bone volume/total volume (BV/TV), and maintaining constant estrogen levels over life in ovariectomized/estrogen-treated mice did not prevent age-related trabecular bone loss at this site. By contrast, lifelong estrogen treatment of ovariectomized mice completely prevented the age-related reduction in cortical volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and thickness at the tibial diaphysis present in the aged/sham-operated mice. As compared with cells from young mice, lin- cells from aged/sham-operated mice expressed significantly higher mRNA levels for osteoblast differentiation and proliferation marker genes. These data thus demonstrate that, in mice, age-related loss of cortical bone in the appendicular skeleton, but not loss of trabecular bone in the spine, can be prevented by maintaining constant estrogen levels over life. The observed increase in osteoblastic differentiation and proliferation marker gene expression in progenitor bone marrow cells from aged versus young mice may represent a compensatory mechanism in response to ongoing bone loss.