cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hardware-enhanced access control for cloud computing

Future trustworthy computer systems should provide built-in support for at least the cornerstone security properties of confidentiality, integrity and availability. Access control can help significantly towards achieving this. However, in today's computing landscape, traditional access control implemented only in software may be either insufficient or non-optimal. We discuss some of these situations. Furthermore, fine-grained access control and usage control mechanisms implemented in software are themselves subject to attack, and may impose heavy performance overheads. Can new hardware architecture improve the security achievable by software mechanisms for access control and usage control? If so, what types of hardware support are most useful while retaining the flexibility of software protection mechanisms? What can software do, to help hardware achieve the best results?With the trend towards Cloud Computing, we discuss how new hardware architectural features for cloud servers can help protect the confidentiality and integrity of a cloud customer's code and data in his leased Virtual Machines -- even when the powerful underlying hypervisor may be compromised. This uses a new, non-bypassable form of hardware access control. Without requiring new hardware, we can also leverage the hardware trend towards manycore chips, and the already available hardware virtualization features, to enhance Cloud Security -- but with a few restrictions and some new software support.In general, we would like to motivate collaborations between the software security and the hardware architecture communities to explore software-hardware co-design for security. What comes beyond access control in cloud computing and mobile computing ecosystems? The goal is to design future trustworthy systems that provide security protections, at the levels needed, when needed, even with malware in the system.
Cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate and phosphodiesterase activity in mitogen-stimulated human lymphocytes.

Abstract The cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) phosphodiesterase from human leukemic lymphocytes differes from the normal cell enzyme in having a much higher activity and a loss of inhibition by cyclic guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic GMP). In an effort to determine the mechanism of these alterations, we have studied this enzyme in a model system, lectin-stimulated normal human lymphocytes. Following stimulation of cells with concanavalin A (con A) the enzyme activity gradually becomes altered, until it fully resembles the phosphodiesterase found in leukemic lymphocytes. The changes in the enzyme parallel cell proliferation as measured by increases in thymidine incorporation into DNA. The addition of a guanylate cyclase inhibitor preparation from the bitter melon prevents both the changes in the phosphodiesterase and the thymidine incorporation into DNA. This blockage can be partially reversed by addition of 8-bromo cyclic guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (8-bromo cyclic GMP) to the con A-stimulated normal lymphocytes. These results indicate a possible role of cyclic GMP in a growth related alteration of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase.
Visioning family-centered care in genetics: what parents and providers have to say.

The purpose of this multisite exploratory research study involving focus groups of consumers and service providers was to generate stakeholder input for a statewide strategic plan for genetic services in the southwestern region of the United States. This article describes the qualitative methods by which the data were collected and summarizes major themes in participants’ perceptions about genetic services. It also describes processes related to obtaining genetic services and characteristics of an ideal service delivery system for children affected by genetic disorders and the families that care for them. Implications for practice and policy are also reviewed.
Correlations Among Scores on the Matrix Analogies Test: Short Form and the WISC-R with Gifted Youth

A study of the correlations between scores on the Matrix Analogies Test—Short Form and the WISC—R was conducted with 39 students enrolled in a Saturday program for the intellectually gifted. The Ma...
Space Shuttle vehicle lift-off dynamics occurring in a transition from a cantilever to a free-free flight phase

The Space Shuttle configuration (orbiter, external tank, and solid rocket boosters) generated a pitch trim requirement for the orbiter main engines, which resulted in a prelaunch cantilever bending mode. This bending mode produces translational, rotational, and vibrational energies at lift-off. The magnitude of these energies was a consideration in evaluating lift-off clearances. This paper includes a derivation of equations defining the initial vehicle motions at liftoff. The analysis techniques used to predict lift-off clearances of the Shuttle are also addressed.
Peirce and Hjelmslev: The two semiotics

Abstract Two traditions seem to have developed separately and without interpenetration in the ‘semiotic landscape’. That is, Anglo-saxon semioticians consider the Peircean framework to provide the adequate conceptual apparatus for their empirical research, whereas the so-called Continental semioticians refer to the sign theory in Saussure and in its interpretation by Hjelmslev (for instance, the Ecole semiotique de Paris : A.J. Greimas and followers). The two orientations, apparently, have ignored each other and manifested mutual distrust. It may, therefore, prove to be of importance and interest to go back to the central intuitions of Peirce, on the one hand, and of Saussure/Hjelmslev, on the other, in order to weigh possible solidarities and contrasts between them. The evaluation of their projects, methods, and results could, thus, lead to a more balanced view. And the purpose of my paper is to get the best out of the adequate insights from both sides, and to make som suggestions of how the semioticians from the Peircean and Saussuro-Hjelmslevian school can remove themselves from their isolationist positions. In the couse of my discussion, the objective of comparing and homologating (in part) the two semiotics will be carried out from three angles: first, the context of origin of both semiotics, then the typology of sign relations in Peirce and Saussure/Hjelmslev, and finally the impact of pragmaticism on both semiotic orientations.
P-polarized reflectance spectroscopy: A highly sensitive real-time monitoring technique to study surface kinetics under steady state epitaxial deposition conditions

This paper describes the results of real-time optical monitoring of epitaxial growth processes by p-polarized reflectance spectroscopy (PRS) using a single wavelength application under pulsed chemical beam epitaxy (PCBE) condition. The high surface sensitivity of PRS allows the monitoring of submonolayer precursor coverage on the surface as shown for GaP homoepitaxy and GaP on Si heteroepitaxy as examples. In the case of heteroepitaxy, the growth rate and optical properties are revealed by PRS using interference oscillations as they occur during growth. Superimposed on these interference oscillations, the PRS signal exhibits a fine structure caused by the periodic alteration of the surface chemistry by the pulsed supply of chemical precursors. This fine structure is modeled under conditions where the surface chemistry cycles between phosphorus supersaturated and phosphorus depleted surfaces. The mathematical model describes the fine structure using a surface layer that increases during the tertiarybutyl phosphine (TBP) supply and decreases during and after the triethylgallium (TEG) pulse, which increases the growing GaP film thickness. The imaginary part of the dielectric function of the surface layer is revealed from the turning points in the fine structure, where the optical response to the first precursor pulse in the cycle sequence changes sign. The amplitude of the fine structure is determinated by the surface layer thickness and the complex dielectric functions for the surface layer with the underlying bulk film. Surface kinetic data can be obtained by analyzing the rise and decay transients of the fine structure.
Raman and infrared spectra, conformational stability, ab initio calculations and assignment of fundamentals for 1-bromo-3-fluoropropane

The infrared and Raman spectrum of 1-bromo-3-fluoropropane is reported in the gas, liquid, amorphous solid and annealed polycrystalline states. Only one of the five possible conformers is stable in the crystal, designated the C conformer. The disordered phases show the presence of several other conformers of higher energy, due entirely to conformers designated B and D. Ab initio calculations were performed as rhf/4-31g*/MIDI-4*, rhf/6-31g* and mp2/6-31g* (both frozen core and full electron correlation) for all five conformers. The scaled harmonic force field obtained using the mp2 = full/6-31g* level of the theory is reported for the most stable conformer together with an assignment of fundamentals and potential energy distributions for local symmetry coordinates. Selected computational results are reported for all conformers together with scaled and unscaled wavenumbers and infrared and Raman intensities. The temperature dependent Raman spectrum is reported from room temperature to -100 degrees C. Only three of the five possible conformers can be identified in this spectrum, and there is no evidence of the other two. The energy differences between conformers in the liquid phase were found experimentally to be 132+/-27, 232+/-46 and 106+/-30 cm(-1), respectively between the D and C, B and C and D and B conformers. These differences are substantially less than the differences calculated ab initio at the highest level of the theory used, suggesting that energy differences were decreased by large dipole-dipole interactions present in the liquid but not in the gas.
Size-fractionating aerosol generator

An aerosol generator has been developed and evaluated for applications where the aerosol concentration and size distribution need to be tailored to specific needs. In this device, a modified Wright nebulizer generates the primary aerosol whose concentration and, to a limited degree, size distribution are adjusted through selection of the pressure drop and the gas-to-liquid flow rate ratio. Further modification of the size distribution is achieved through virtual and solid-plate impaction so that specific aerosol concentration in specific size ranges can be chosen as the aerosol output.
COMPARISON OF OBSERVED AND SIMULATED GROW-FINISH SWINE PERFORMANCE UNDER SUMMER CONDITIONS

As a part of a National Pork Producers Council educational program, our research and extension team at the University of Kentucky was linked with an independent commercial swine producer to test the NCPIG model against observed commercial on-farm data. This experience provided improved information for model development as well as increased producer insight into the data input needs and potential benefits of modeling. Detailed production information comparisons between the NCPIG model and producer data are presented for summer time conditions to assess the validity of the NCPIG model for simulation of grow-finish swine performance. Results demonstrated that the NCPIG model accurately simulated performance.
Particle dispersion in a gas

The dispersion mechanism of particles in a gas is discussed from the viewpoint of nonequilibrium thermodynamics and kinetic theory. A heuristic equation, based on the quasi-Lorentz model developed by Mason and other workers, for the particle velocity in the presence of a gradient of pressure and temperature is proposed for all values of a parameters, wheres is defined as the ratio of the particle radiusr to a multiple of the mean free path, λ, of the gas medium. A schematic calculation demonstrates the conditions under which molecular diffusion could play a role in a realistic atmospheric pollution problem.
Postmodernism and medical anthropology: words of caution.

Of late, discourse in anthropology increasingly has been set within the frame of postmodernism. While debate continues as to whether postmodernism represents a particular period or an historically conditioned perspective (or interrelated set of perspectives) within the social sciences and beyond, it is clear that assessment is needed of the impact of postmodernism on work within the field. This paper represents a critique of the potential effect of postmodernism within medical anthropology. It is the argument of this paper that despite the postmodern eschewal of so‐called grand theory, postmodern writers in anthropology smuggle a theoretical perspective into their work. The problems of this perspective in terms of the critical turn within medical anthropology are examined.
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and cognition in Down syndrome

Aim Good-quality sleep is essential for normal learning and memory. Sleep fragmentation and disrupted sleep architecture are commonly observed throughout the lifespan of individuals with Down syndrome, a condition marked by cognitive deficits emerging within the first few months of life. While obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is known to contribute to the loss of sleep quality in Down syndrome, its relation to cognitive and behavioral impairment remains poorly understood. Method Using ambulatory polysomnography, we measured sleep in an unreferred community-based sample of 38 individuals with Down syndrome (15 males, 23 females; mean age 9y 7mo (SD 1y 9mo), range 7–12y). Cognitive outcomes were assessed with the Arizona Cognitive Test Battery, a set of psychometric measures designed and validated for this population. Results Among children with Down syndrome, mean Verbal IQ score (p=0.006) was 9 points lower in those with comorbid OSAS (apnea–hypopnea index >1.5) than in those without OSAS, and performance on measures of cognitive flexibility was poorer (p=0.03). In addition, those with OSAS showed increased light-stage sleep (p=0.009) at the expense of slow-wave sleep (p=0.04). Interpretation These findings demonstrate a relation between OSAS and cognitive outcomes in Down syndrome. More work is required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the links between poor sleep and impaired cognitive function. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of adequate sleep in typically and atypically developing populations.
Minimally Invasive Colectomy for Crohn's Colitis: A Single Institution Experience

Background: Minimally invasive surgery for Crohn's ileocolitis is well established but few data exist regarding laparoscopic techniques for Crohn's colitis. We aimed to describe outcomes associated with minimally invasive surgery for Crohn's colitis, including predictors of conversion to laparotomy and postoperative complications. Methods: We identified all Crohn's patients who underwent minimal invasive colectomy at our institution from 1997–2008. Data represent frequency (proportion) or median (interquartile range). Multivariate regression identified factors associated with conversion and 30-day complications (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]). Results: Over 11 years we identified 92 patients, median age 40 (26–51) years, body mass index (BMI) 22.9 (19.3–26.4) kg/m2; 61% were women. Median Crohn's duration was 6.5 (4–15) years, 11% had prior intestinal resection; medications included immunomodulators (62%), corticosteroids (54%), infliximab (35%). Forty-three cases (47%) were total colectomy, 17 (18%) subtotal colectomy, 32 (35%) were segmental. Straight laparoscopy was used in 57%; 43% were hand-assisted. Median operative time was 248 (190–292) minutes. There were 15 (16%) conversions; only small bowel disease predicted conversion (OR 7 [1.6–35]). Conversion was not associated with increased length of stay or with postoperative complications. Overall postoperative length of stay was 5 (4–7) days. Short-term complications occurred in 34% with reoperation in 5: obstruction n = 3, anastomotic leak n = 2. Only perianal disease predicted complications (2.6 [1.0–6.6]). There was no 30-day mortality. Conclusions: Minimally invasive colectomy in patients with Crohn's colitis can be safely accomplished with reasonable operative times, conversion rates, and excellent postoperative outcomes. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010
Asymmetric direct aldol reaction of 1,2-diketones and ketones mediated by proline derivatives

The direct aldol reaction of 1,2-diketones and ketones mediated by proline derivatives yields the corresponding 2-hydroxy 1,4-diketones in high regioselectivity, diastereoselectivity and good enantioselectivity. This reaction provides an easy access to optically active tertiary alcohols, which are flanked by two carbonyl groups for further elaborations.
SU‐E‐I‐84: Comparing the Accuracy of the Bilateral Filter and Gaussian Filter for PET Image Post‐Processing Through a Phantom Study

Purpose: To compare the accuracy of an edge‐preserving filter to the standard Gaussian filter for PET image post‐processing through a phantom study. Methods: A phantom was used, consisting of four different spheres (diameter 1–4 cm, filled with a solution of 11‐C) that were mounted inside an acrylic cylinder (filled with a solution of 18‐FDG) to generate a time‐varying signal to background ratio (SBR). To mimic lung and liver lesions, SBRs were chosen to range from 2 to 30 and 2 to 5, respectively. The edge‐preserving filter used was the bilateral filter, which weights pixels based on both spatial distance and intensity difference. Reconstructed 3D‐PET images were separately smoothed with the bilateral filter and Gaussian filter. A commercially available gradient‐based technique was used to segment images and measure sphere volumes. Results were evaluated by the ratio of measured to true volume (RMT) of spheres. Paired two‐tailed t‐tests were applied to test for statistical significance. Results: In the lung case, RMT differences were not statistically significant across all sphere sizes. In the liver case, statistically significant differences were obtained for the 3 cm and 4 cm spheres, with average RMTs of 1.14 (bilateral) and 1.11 (Gaussian). However, these differences did not amount to a clinically significant level. For the 2 cm sphere, the differences were not statistically significant; for the 1 cm sphere, RMT differences were statistically, and potentially clinically, significant: 0.66 (bilateral) vs. 1.31 (Gaussian). However, it should be noted that volume segmentation of the 1 cm sphere was not fully reproducible on a case‐by‐case basis. Conclusion: This work indicates that the bilateral filter has a comparable accuracy to the Gaussian filter in volume measurements of 3D‐PET images. The commercially available gradient‐based segmentation algorithm is reasonably correct for spheres greater than 2 cm, but further studies are needed for smaller spheres. NIH R01 CA096679
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus: Case Reviews After Transplantation

Increased and inappropriate use of vancomycin during the past 35 years has led to the development of vancomycin-resistant enterococcal (VRE) species that are difficult and expensive to treat. This article presents case reviews of patients who experienced vancomycin-resistant enterococcus faecium (VREF) infections during prolonged hospitalizations after transplantation. The risk factors for the development of VRE infection, prevention measures, and the interventions to be implemented once VRE infection is diagnosed are discussed.
Critical Field of Superconducting Aluminum as a Function of Pressure and Temperature above 0.3°K

Precise measurements have been made of the critical field of superconducting Al from ${0.3}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}K$ to ${T}_{c}$, at pressures of 0, 3100, 5400, and 7200 psi. The data are extrapolated to $T=0$, yielding the values (at zero pressure) ${H}_{0}=104.93\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2$ G, $\ensuremath{\gamma}=1.349\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.015$ mJ/mole \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ and ${T}_{c}=1.1793\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.003$ \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. These values are used to calculate the superconducting electronic entropy and the deviation of the critical-field curve from a parabolic law. The results are compared with previous experimental work and with the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer theory as extended by Clem to include effects of energy-gap anisotropy. The present work gives better agreement with previous calorimetric measurements of the thermodynamic properties of superconducting Al than do earlier published critical-field measurements. The shape of the critical-field curve shows no pressure dependence to within the experimental accuracy. Assuming that the shape of the critical-field curve is entirely independent of pressure, we find $\frac{d\mathrm{ln}{H}_{0}}{d\mathrm{ln}V}=19.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.4$, $\frac{d\mathrm{ln}{T}_{c}}{d\mathrm{ln}V}=16.4\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.1$, and $\frac{d\mathrm{ln}\ensuremath{\gamma}}{d\mathrm{ln}V}=6.65\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3$. These results are in fair agreement with earlier ${H}_{c}(P,T)$ measurements of Al, although our result for $\frac{d\mathrm{ln}\ensuremath{\gamma}}{d\mathrm{ln}V}$ is about a factor of 3 larger than has been obtained from thermal expansion measurements.
Avoidance Responses of Salmon and Trout to Air‐Supersaturated Water

Abstract Coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch), sockeye (O. nerka), and chinook (O. tschawytscha) salmon smolts, and rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) avoided air-supersaturated water when tested in a shallow round tank. Steelheads (S. gairdneri) did not consistently avoid the supersaturated water and died from gas bubble disease. The salmon and rainbow trout generally avoided 145 and 125% saturation but did not always avoid 115%. Territorial activity reduced avoidance by steelheads and rainbow trout.
Behavior of Thin-Walled Beams Made of Advanced Composite Materials and Incorporating Non-Classical Effects

Several results concerning the refined theory of thin-walled beams of arbitrary closed cross-section incorporating non-classical effects are presented. These effects are related both with the exotic properties characterizing the advanced composite material structures and the non-uniform torsional model. A special case of the general equations is used to study several problems of cantilevered thin-walled beams and to assess the influence of the incorporated effects. The results presented in this paper could be useful towards a more rational design of aeronautical or aerospace constructions, as well as of helicopter or tilt rotor blades constructed of advanced composite materials.
A Role for a Rat Homolog of Staufen in the Transport of RNA to Neuronal Dendrites

RNAs are present in dendrites and may be used for local protein synthesis in response to synaptic activity. To begin to understand dendritic RNA targeting, we cloned a rat homolog of staufen, a Drosophila gene that participates in mRNA targeting during development. In hippocampal neurons, rat staufen protein displays a microtubule-dependent somatodendritic distribution pattern that overlaps with dendritic RNAs. To determine whether r-staufen is required for dendritic RNA targeting, we constructed a mutant version containing the RNA binding domains (stau-RBD) but lacking the C-terminal portion potentially involved in dendritic targeting. Stau-RBD expression was restricted to the cell bodies and proximal dendrites. Expression of stau-RBD significantly decreased, while overexpression of wild-type r-staufen increased, the amount of dendritic mRNA. Taken together, these results suggest that the rat staufen protein plays an important role in the delivery of RNA to dendrites.
PhytoBeta imager: a positron imager for plant biology

Several positron emitting radioisotopes such as 11C and 13N can be used in plant biology research. The 11CO2?tracer is used to facilitate plant biology research toward optimization of plant productivity, biofuel development and carbon sequestration in biomass. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging has been used to study carbon transport in live plants using 11CO2. Because plants typically have very thin leaves, little medium is present for the emitted positrons to undergo an annihilation event. The emitted positrons from 11C (maximum energy 960?keV) could require up to approximately 4?mm of water equivalent material for positron annihilation. Thus many of the positrons do not annihilate inside the leaf, resulting in limited sensitivity for PET imaging. To address this problem we have developed a compact beta-positive, beta-minus particle imager (PhytoBeta imager) for 11CO2?leaf imaging. The detector is based on a Hamamatsu H8500 position sensitive photomultiplier tube optically coupled via optical grease to a 0.5?mm thick Eljen EJ-212 plastic scintillator. The detector is equipped with a flexible arm to allow its placement and orientation over or under the leaf to be studied while maintaining the leaf's original orientation. To test the utility of the system the detector was used to measure carbon translocation in a leaf of the spicebush (Lindera benzoin) under two transient light conditions.
ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF DIETHYL STILBESTROL DIPROPIONATE1

THE INTRODUCTION of diethyl stilbestrol by Dodds and coworkers in 1938 (1) II initiated an intensive investigation of synthetic estrogenic substances. A large -1L number of reports dealing with clinical (2-22) and laboratory studies (23-33) of this and related compounds have subsequently appeared. The efficacy of this group of compounds as potent estrogens has been adequately demonstrated, both experimentally and clinically. However, toxic manifestations tending to limit the clinical application of such drugs have been generally noted (27, 34-38). The toxicity of stilbestrol led to the utilization of various derivatives in an effort to retain the estrogenie potency of the drug and eradicate its toxic effects. Of the many esters studied, diethyl stilbestrol dipropionate has yielded the least toxic manifestations, while maintaining the same degree of estrogenic potency (38).
Source/drain formation using cobalt silicide as diffusion source for deep submicron nMOS

In order to continue scaling the gate to gate spacing in CMOS for higher packing density, the thickness of source/drain (S/D) spacer and the S/D junction depth (X j ) underneath the silicide film have to be scaled accordingly. Therefore silicided shallow junction with low diode leakage at S/D region has to be achieved. Silicide as diffusion source (SADS) is an attractive shallow function formation technology, because it is a relatively simple and low-cost technology compared to other shallow junction techniques, such as raised source/drain. In the SADS process, first the self-aligned salicide is formed and followed by the S/D dopant implant into the silicided region. Subsequently low temperature annealing is performed to drive out the dopants from the silicide film and form shallow junctions. Since dopants diffuse fast in silicide, ideally the junction follows the silicide/silicon interface contour (including the any existing spiking region), which low diode leakage can be achieved. In this study, nMOS devices fabricated with CoSi 2 SADS were compared with devices fabricated using the conventional cobalt silicided junction. The spacer thickness was varies from 350 Angstrom to 850 Angstrom. Different annealing conditions (temperature and time) used to drive As dopants out of the CoSi 2 film were also studied. The advantages and problems associated with the SADS in a deep sub-micron process flow will be discussed. The key results from this study are as follows. (1) Initially X j of SADS junction increases with the annealing temperature, and then it decreases as the temperature continues increasing. Significant dopant loss occurred at high annealing temperature. (2) NMOS devices fabricated using SADS showed much better short channel characteristics compared to the conventional devices especially when the thin spacer was used. (3) Less inverse short channel effect was shown in SADS devices, which improved the variation of drive current with gate length. (4) SADS devices showed slight degradation in drive current, which was caused by the worse gate-depletion in these devices. (5) The best annealing condition for low diode leakage in the SADS junction was identified in this study. However, even in the best case, the diode leakage is an order of magnitude higher than the conventional silicided shallow junction. The drawbacks of SADS in deep sub-micron transistor design were identified and discussed.
Characteristics of Frequent Users of Emergency Departments

Study objective We identify frequent users of the emergency department (ED) and determine the characteristics of these patients. Methods Using the 2000 to 2001 population-based, nationally representative Community Tracking Study Household Survey, we determined the number of adults (aged 18 and older) making 1 to 7 or more ED visits and the number of visits for which they accounted. Based on the distribution of visits, we established a definition for frequent user of 4 or more visits. Multivariate analysis assessed the likelihood that individuals with specific characteristics used the ED more frequently. Results An estimated 45.2 million adults had 1 or more ED visits. Overall, 92% of adult users made 3 or fewer visits, accounting for 72% of all adult ED visits; the 8% of users with 4 or more visits were responsible for 28% of adult ED visits. Most frequent users had health insurance (84%) and a usual source of care (81%). Characteristics independently associated with frequent use included poor physical health (odds ratio [OR] 2.54; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.08 to 3.10), poor mental health (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.42 to 2.02), greater than or equal to 5 outpatient visits annually (OR 3.02; 95% CI 1.94 to 4.71), and family income below the poverty threshold (OR 2.36; 95% CI 1.70 to 3.28). Uninsured individuals were more likely to report frequent use, but this result was only marginally significant (OR 2.38; 95% CI 0.99 to 5.74). Individuals who lacked a usual source of care were actually less likely to be frequent users. Conclusion The majority of adults who use the ED frequently have insurance and a usual source of care but are more likely than less frequent users to be in poor health and require medical attention. Additional support systems and better access to alternative sites of care would have the benefit of improving the health of these individuals and may help to reduce ED use.
1:1 Cocrystal of (S)‐3‐(ammoniomethyl)‐5‐methylhexanoate and (S)‐mandelic acid

The title compound, C8H17NO2·C8H8O3, exists as a complex with the base (pregabalin) in the predicted zwitterion form, based on the pKa differences between the acid and base. The asymmetric unit consists of two molecules of each component. The –NH3 group adopts the standard propeller conformation. The structure forms pairs of hydro­phobic and hydro­philic inter­actions along both the a and c axes.
Finding Open Educational Resources in Computing

The CS OER Portal was created with the goal of improving the find ability and increasing the use of open educational resources in Computer Science. In this paper we describe the portal's design principles which exploit the domain specificity of the hosted content and are focused on enhancing the search and navigation in the portal. Distinctive retrieval features are the proposed topical recommendation and query-by-navigation. The latter allows users to formulate queries by walking through a directory-like structure based on the ACM/IEEE CS Curriculum Recommendation.
Single gene reassortants identify a critical role for PB1, HA, and NA in the high virulence of the 1918 pandemic influenza virus

The 1918 influenza pandemic was exceptionally severe, resulting in the death of up to 50 million people worldwide. Here, we show which virus genes contributed to the replication and virulence of the 1918 influenza virus. Recombinant viruses, in which genes of the 1918 virus were replaced with genes from a contemporary human H1N1 influenza virus, A/Texas/36/91 (Tx/91), were generated. The exchange of most 1918 influenza virus genes with seasonal influenza H1N1 virus genes did not alter the virulence of the 1918 virus; however, substitution of the hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA), or polymerase subunit PB1 genes significantly affected the ability of this virus to cause severe disease in mice. The 1918 virus virulence observed in mice correlated with the ability of 1918 recombinant viruses to replicate efficiently in human airway cells. In a second series of experiments, eight 1918 1:7 recombinants were generated, in which each Tx/91 virus gene was individually replaced by a corresponding gene from 1918 virus. Replication capacity of the individual 1:7 reassortant viruses was assessed in mouse lungs and human airway cells. Increased virus titers were observed among 1:7 viruses containing individual 1918 HA, NA, and PB1 genes. In addition, the 1918 PB1:Tx/91 (1:7) virus showed a distinctly larger plaque size phenotype than the small plaque phenotype of the 1918 PA:Tx/91 and 1918 PB2:Tx/91 1:7 reassortants. These results highlight the importance of the 1918 HA, NA, and PB1 genes for optimal virus replication and virulence of this pandemic strain.
The lack of association of Marijuana and other recreational drugs with progression to AIDS in the San Francisco men's health study

We evaluated the associations of specific recreational drugs and alcohol with laboratory predictors of AIDS at entry into the San Francisco Men's Health Study (SFMHS) in 1984 and with the development of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) during 6 years of follow-up. Marijuana use was associated with a decreased rate of progression to AIDS in the univariate analysis (RR = 0.7; P = 0.01). Marijuana use was more common among individuals with elevated HIV viral core protein antibody (p24Ab) titer (> 1:16) at baseline (P = 0.03); this finding suggests that marijuana users were healthier at baseline. When the data were adjusted for p24 Ab and other laboratory parameters, no association with progression to AIDS was observed for marijuana, suggesting that the observed univariate result was due to a difference in HIV-related disease at the time of enrollment. No statistically significant associations were observed for nitrites, methylene dioxyamphetamines, ethyl chloride, downers, cocaine, stimulants, narcotics, or psychedelic drugs. These data suggest no substantial association between use of these drugs and the development of AIDS among HIV-infected men.
Mucosal muscarinic receptors enhance bladder activity in cats with feline interstitial cystitis.

Purpose: Interstitial cystitis is a chronic pelvic pain syndrome of which the origin and mechanisms involved remain unclear. In this study Ca2+ transients in the bladder wall of domestic cats diagnosed with naturally occurring feline interstitial cystitis were examined.Materials and Methods: Cross-sections of full-thickness bladder strips from normal cats and cats with feline interstitial cystitis were examined by optically mapping Ca2+ transients and recording tension. Responses of Ca2+ activity and detrusor contractions to pharmacological interventions were compared. In addition, pharmacological responses were compared in mucosa denuded preparations.Results: Optical mapping showed that feline interstitial cystitis bladders had significantly more spontaneous Ca2+ transients in the mucosal layer than control bladders. Optical mapping also demonstrated that feline interstitial cystitis bladders were hypersensitive to a low dose (50 nM) of the muscarinic receptor agonist arecaidine when the mucosal layer wa...
Almost alternating links

Abstract We introduce the category of almost alternating links: nonalternating links which have a projection for which one crossing change yields an alternating projection. We extend this category to m -almost alternating links which require m crossing changes to yield an alternating projection. We show that all but five of the nonalternating knots up through eleven crossings and links up through ten crossing are almost alternating. We also prove that a prime almost alternating knot is either a hyperbolic knot or a torus knot. We then obtain a bound on the span of the bracket polynomial for m -almost alternating links and discuss applications.
Synthesis of separation system flowsheels

A hierarchical decision procedure for the synthesis of separation system flowsheets for vapor–organic liquid– aqueous liquid– solid mixtures is proposed. An expanded set of synthesis rules that can be used to obtain a first design is discussed, but the final goal of the procedure is to generate a complete list of separation alternatives (by changing the decisions) that when coupled with short-cut screening techniques, can be used to identify the best few process flowsheets. The procedure is based on a decomposition of the separation system synthesis problem by phase splitting into a vapor recovery system, a solid recovery system, and liquid separation systems. A general superstructure presented for these subsystems includes all of the common unit operations for petrochemical processes. The procedure focuses on the development of a complete flowsheet for the separation system: which separation system recycle loops (in contrast to reactor system recycle loops) are required, as well as interactions among separation subsystems and those between the separation system and remainder of the process. An example presented illustrates the procedure, and the opportunities for pollution prevention at the source are noted.
Voltage comparator circuits for multiple-valued CMOS logic

A new voltage-mode comparator circuit for use in CMOS multiple-valued logic circuits is introduced. Existing comparator circuits for this application use static current or clocking and thus consume static power or clocking power. In order to reduce these power requirements, we have examined static circuit designs that eliminate DC current paths when the inputs and outputs are at logical values. Elimination of DC current paths requires increased circuit complexity, layout area, and signal delay. This paper proposes comparator circuits that use static logic circuits and thus require no static current and no static (DC) power. HSPICE simulations of these circuits using model parameter values for a 0.35-/spl mu/m n-well CMOS technology and a 3.3-volt power supply show that each of these comparator circuits consumes static power on the order of nW. Simulations with the model parameter values for the thick-oxide (5-volt) option of the 0.35-/spl mu/m technology and for a 1.2-/spl mu/m (5-volt) CMOS technology are also presented. These power levels are consistent with those of standard binary CMOS logic circuits in the same technologies.
Analytical force constant calculation as a minimization problem

In this letter we show that the calculation of analytic second derivatives of variational potential energy surfaces with respect to nuclear coordinates is a minimization problem.
Chromodynamics of Cooperation in Finite Populations

Background The basic idea of tag-based models for cooperation is that individuals recognize each other via arbitrary signals, so-called tags. If there are tags of different colors, then cooperators can always establish new signals of recognition. The resulting “chromodynamics” is a mechanism for the evolution of cooperation. Cooperators use a secret tag until they are discovered by defectors who then destroy cooperation based on this tag. Subsequently, a fraction of the population manages to establish cooperation based on a new tag. Methodology/Principal Findings We derive a mathematical description of stochastic evolutionary dynamics of tag-based cooperation in populations of finite size. Benefit and cost of cooperation are given by b and c. We find that cooperators are more abundant than defectors if b/c > 1+2u/v, where u is the mutation rate changing only the strategy and v is the mutation rate changing strategy and tag. We study specific assumptions for u and v in two genetic models and one cultural model. Conclusions/Significance In a genetic model, tag-based cooperation only evolves if a gene encodes both strategy and tag. In a cultural model with equal mutation rates between all possible phenotypes (tags and behaviors), the crucial condition is b/c > (K+1)/(K−1), where K is the number of tags. A larger number of tags requires a smaller benefit-to-cost ratio. In the limit of many different tags, the condition for cooperators to have a higher average abundance than defectors becomes b > c.
Plasmin alters the activity and quaternary structure of human plasma carboxypeptidase N.

Human CPN (carboxypeptidase N) is a tetrameric plasma enzyme containing two glycosylated 83 kDa non-catalytic/regulatory subunits that carry and protect two active catalytic subunits. Because CPN can regulate the level of plasminogen binding to cell surface proteins, we investigated how plasmin cleaves CPN and the consequences. The products of hydrolysis were analysed by activity assays, Western blotting, gel filtration and sequencing. When incubated with intact CPN tetramer, plasmin rapidly cleaved the 83 kDa subunit at the Arg457–Ser458 bond near the C-terminus to produce fragments of 72 and 13 kDa, thereby releasing an active 142 kDa heterodimer, and also cleaved the active subunit, decreasing its size from 55 kDa to 48 kDa. Further evidence for the heterodimeric form of CPN was obtained by re-complexing the non-catalytic 72 kDa fragment with recombinant catalytic subunit or by immunoprecipitation of the catalytic subunit after plasmin treatment of CPN using an antibody specific for the 83 kDa subunit. Upon longer incubation, plasmin cleaved the catalytic subunit at Arg218–Arg219 to generate fragments of 27 kDa and 21 kDa, held together by non-covalent bonds, that were more active than the native enzyme. These data show that plasmin can alter CPN structure and activity, and that the C-terminal 13 kDa fragment of the CPN 83 kDa subunit is a docking peptide that is necessary to maintain the stable active tetrameric form of human CPN in plasma.
Ectoparasites of Microtus californicus and Possible Emergence of an Exotic Ixodes Species Tick in California

California voles (Microtus californicus Peale) harbor fleas and ticks, may be infected with vector-borne pathogens, and could themselves suffer from disease and serve as a source of infection for people and other animals. Here we summarize publications, museum archives, and recent records of ticks and fleas from California voles. There have been 18 flea species reported on California voles with geographic locations reported for 13. During recent statewide surveys, we found six flea species, with the highest species richness in Humboldt County. We found three of five previously reported tick species as well as a tick resembling the eastern North American tick Ixodes minor Neumann (which we here designate Ixodes "Mojave morphotype") on isolated Amargosa voles and Owens Valley voles (Microtus californicus vallicola Bailey) in Inyo County in 2012 and 2014. Additional incidental observations of this Mojave morphotype tick were on a western harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys megalotis Baird) at the Mojave site and a montane vole (Microtus montanus Peale) in the Owens Valley, both in March, 2014. We cannot rule out that this tick species has been present in remote areas of California but gone unrecognized, but these data are consistent with recent introduction of this tick, possibly from migrating birds. Changes in the ectoparasite fauna suggest changing ecologies of vectors and vector-borne pathogens that could influence animals and people as well.
A behavior systems view of the organization of multiple responses during a partially or continuously reinforced interfood clock

We examined how a 50% Pavlovian partial reinforcement (PRF) schedule, versus a 100% continuous reinforcement (CRF) schedule, altered the asymptotic amount and distribution of focal and general search behavior in rats during 48-sec trials with and without a four-segment interfood clock (S1-S2-S3-S4-US). Under CRF, but not PRF, average asymptotic focal search (nosing in the feeder) increased across the last two clock segments (S3 and S4), and more for the clock group than the no-clock group. Locomotor general search peaked in the second clock segment (S2) for the CRF-clock and CRF-no-clock groups and in S3 for the PRF-clock groups. Furthermore, the ratio of general search to maximum focal search was higher for the PRF-clock group than for the CRF-clock group. This pattern of results supports the view that predictable reward presentations temporally organize search states and related responses between food presentations. The relative expression of these responses varies with the predictability and proximity of reward and is more sharply defined in the presence of a clock.
Structural role of the terminal disulfide bond in the sweetness of brazzein.

Brazzein, a 54 residue sweet-tasting protein, is thought to participate in a multipoint binding interaction with the sweet taste receptor. Proposed sites for interaction with the receptor include 2 surface loops and the disulfide bond that connects the N- and C-termini. However, the importance of each site is not well understood. To characterize the structural role of the termini in the sweetness of brazzein, the position of the disulfide bond connecting the N- and C-termini was shifted by substituting K3-C4-K5 with C3-K4-R5. The apparent affinity and Vmax of the C3-K4-R5-brazzein (CKR-brazzein) variant were only modestly decreased compared with the wild-type (WT) brazzein. We determined a high-resolution structure of CKR-brazzein by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (backbone root mean square deviation of 0.39 A ˚ ). Comparing the structure of CKR-brazzein with that of WT-brazzein revealed that the terminal b-strands of the variant display extended b-structure and increased dynamics relative to WT-brazzein. These results support previous mutagenesis studies and further suggest that, whereas interactions involving the termini are necessary for full function of brazzein, the termini do not constitute the primary site of interaction between brazzein and the sweet taste receptor.
Strategic benefits of Internet referral services

Internet referral services, hosted either by independent third-party infomediaries or by manufacturers serve as "lead-generators" in electronic marketplaces, directing consumer traffic to particular retailers. In a model of price dispersion, we investigate the competitive implications of these institutions on retailer prices and their impact on channel structures and distribution of profits. Offline, retailers face a higher customer acquisition cost. In return, they obtain full information about consumer valuations. Online, they save on the acquisition costs, but lose the ability to charge prices based on consumer valuation. This critical tradeoff drives equilibrium profits. The establishment of a referral service is a strategic decision by the manufacturer, in response to a third-party infomediary. It leads to an increase in channel profits and a reallocation of the increased surplus to the manufacturer, via the franchise fees. The impetus to increased profits comes from both retailers' ability to price discriminate between informed and uninformed consumers, and by the lowering of acquisition costs due to diversion of traffic from the offline to the online channel. Our model highlights that online prices are lower than offline prices for the retailer enrolled with the infomediary. We point out that in equilibrium, the retailer associated with the infomediary, has higher expected sales and gross profits. We also show that some of the online cost savings are transferred to the consumer, leading to an overall increase in consumer welfare.