cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Proton Pump Inhibitors, H2-Receptor Antagonists, Metformin, and Vitamin B-12 Deficiency: Clinical Implications

There is clear evidence that proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs), and metformin can reduce serum vitamin B-12 concentrations by inhibiting the absorption of the vitamin. However, it is unclear if the effects of these drugs on serum vitamin B-12 are associated with increased risk of biochemical or functional deficiency (as is indicated by elevated blood concentrations of homocysteine and methylmalonic acid) or clinical deficiency (including megaloblastic anemia and neurologic disorders such as peripheral neuropathy and cognitive dysfunction). This review provides an overview of vitamin B-12 absorption and biochemistry and the mechanisms by which PPIs, H2RAs, and metformin affect these functions. It also summarizes the literature relating the use of these drugs to the risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency. Also discussed is that strategies for assessing vitamin B-12 status and diagnosing vitamin B-12 deficiency have evolved in recent years beyond solely measuring serum total vitamin B-12. Multiple analyte testing, a strategy in which ≥2 of 4 biomarkers of vitamin B-12 status-serum total vitamin B-12, holotranscobalamin, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid-are measured, increases sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing vitamin B-12 deficiency. It is concluded that randomized controlled trials are now needed that use the strategy of multiple analyte testing to determine if PPIs, H2RAs, and metformin do indeed increase the risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency. Until these studies are conducted, a reasonable recommendation for physicians and their patients who are taking these drugs is to monitor vitamin B-12 status and to provide vitamin B-12 supplements if altered blood biomarkers or clinical signs consistent with low or deficient vitamin B-12 status develop.
Concentration polarization in membrane distillation: I. Development of a laser-based spectrophotometric method for in-situ characterization

Abstract Membrane-based processes have gained prominence for environmental and industrial separations, especially in water purification and desalination. In spite of these developments, a fundamental knowledge gap exists with regards to fully understanding the processes that occur at or near the membrane surface. Concentration polarization is a phenomenon that may have a significant impact on mass transfer and fouling of the membrane. While attempts have been made to experimentally characterize this phenomenon for pressure-driven filtration processes, most studies employ semi-empirical methods to estimate the extent of concentration polarization. This study presents a novel non-intrusive spectrophotometric method developed to measure the concentration profile of solute near the membrane surface in a direct contact membrane distillation system. A custom membrane cell was designed and fabricated for this study to allow accurate in-situ characterization of the concentration polarization layer with spatial resolution of 4.5 μm. The spectrophotometric method was developed and validated using transition metal salt (i.e., nickel chloride) in the feed solution to probe the concentration profile near the membrane surface. The method developed in this study can be extended to other membrane-based separation processes and other solutes with known absorption spectra.
Neuroimaging selection for thrombectomy in pediatric stroke: a single-center experience.

Background The extended time window for endovascular therapy in adult stroke represents an opportunity for stroke treatment in children for whom diagnosis may be delayed. However, selection criteria for pediatric thrombectomy has not been defined. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients aged Results Twelve children were included: 8/12 (66.7%) were female, mean age 9.7±5.0 years, median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) 11.5 (IQR 10–14). Stroke etiology was cardioembolic in 75%, dissection in 16.7%, and cryptogenic in 8.3%. For 2/5 with perfusion imaging, Tmax >4 s appeared to better correlate with NIHSS. Nine patients (75%) were treated: seven underwent thrombectomy alone; one received IV alteplase and thrombectomy, and one received IV alteplase alone. Favorable outcome was achieved in 78% of treated patients versus 0% of untreated patients (P=0.018). All untreated patients had poor outcome, with death (n=2) or severe disability (n=1) at follow-up. Among treated patients, older children (12.8±2.9 vs 4.2±5.0 years, P=0.014) and children presenting as outpatient (100% vs 0%, P=0.028) appeared to have better outcomes. Conclusions Perfusion imaging is feasible in pediatric stroke and may help identify salvageable tissue in extended time windows, though penumbral thresholds may differ from adult values. Further studies are needed to define criteria for thrombectomy in this unique population.
Characterization of the Silicon / Fluoride Solution Interface by In-Situ Microwave Reflectivity

Etching of silicon in aqueous fluoride solutions can lead to almost atomically flat surfaces with a low density of surface states and recombination centers. The final quality of the surface, however, is strongly dependent on the solution composition and pH. We have performed electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in combination with potential modulated microwave reflectance spectroscopy (PMMRS) to elucidate the processes occurring at the surface during etching. PMMRS is a novel technique that only probes the free carriers in the conduction and valence bands and is, under certain conditions, not affected by processes involving electrically active surface states or charge transfer. This unique feature allows us to separate the energetics of the semiconductor from surface processes. Microwave reflectivity (δR) versus potential curves in HF solutions demonstrate the variation of the flatband potential as a function of pH. The AR response in the narrow potential region around the flatband potential and at more negative potentials is also discussed.
The Arcane Paganism of Celestina: Plutonic Magic Versus Satanic Witchcraft in Tragicomedia De Calixto Y Melibea

Magic and Witchcraft are two distinct and mutually exclusive esoteric pursuits, the one being ritualistic and the other religious. After defining each and tracing their histories, the distinction is applied to Tragicomedia de Calixto y Melibea in order to rectify the traditional conception of Celestina as a witch in the popular sense of a person who has made a pact with Satan and is thus empowered to affect human life through supernatural means. But Celestina's "power" derives from a different source. Based upon the internal evidence of words and rites, Celestina is now revealed as a practitioner of Magic, the object of her incantations being the pagan Pluto and not the Christian Satan.
A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Differences in Physical Activity Levels between Stroke Belt and Non-Stroke Belt US Adults

Abstract Background: The Stroke Belt is a region of the United States with elevated stroke incidence and prevalence of stroke risk factors. Physical inactivity is an important stroke risk factor, but little is known about whether current physical activity levels differ between Stroke Belt and non-Stroke Belt states. In this nationally representative study, we determined whether unadjusted and adjusted physical activity levels differ between the Stroke Belt region and the rest of the United States. Methods: Using 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, we conducted bivariate analyses to obtain unadjusted physical activity levels in Stroke Belt and non-Stroke Belt states. Logistic regressions that controlled for sociodemographic and stroke risk factors were created to estimate adjusted associations between Stroke Belt residence and physical activity. Results: A higher percentage of Stroke Belt residents were inactive (Stroke Belt: 35.3%, non-Stroke Belt: 29.4%) and failed to meet physical activity guidelines (Stroke Belt: 53.7%, non-Stroke Belt: 47.8%) compared to non-Stroke Belt residents. Stroke Belt residence was significantly associated with lower odds of meeting physical activity guidelines in a model that adjusted for sociodemographic factors only (odds ratio [OR]: 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.78-0.91) and one that adjusted for both sociodemographic and stroke risk factors (OR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.81-0.93). Conclusions: The considerably lower physical activity levels and likelihood of meeting physical activity guidelines in Stroke Belt residents compared to their non-Stroke Belt counterparts demonstrates a need for clinician attention and public health interventions to increase regular physical activity as part of a stroke reduction strategy in this region.
Abstract IA25: Development of PI3K inhibitors in breast cancer

The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is crucial to many aspects of cell growth and survival. PI3K pathway is frequently deregulated in breast cancer due to genetic or epigenetic alterations in components of this pathway and contributes to treatment resistance. Notably, PIK3CA mutation is the most frequent genetic event in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, while loss of PTEN expression is commonly observed in triple-negative disease (TNBC). There has been significant interest in developing PI3K inhibitors in breast cancer. Several randomized clinical trials assessing the benefit of adding PI3K inhibitors to fulvestrant in patients with advanced ER+ breast cancer, including BELLE-2, BELLE-3, FERGI, and SANDPIPER, have been reported. Significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) has been observed in these trials. However, dose-limiting toxicities of pan-PI3K inhibitors are common, which limit their clinical application. Isoform selective inhibitors, such as alpha selective PI3K inhibitor, are in clinical trials with the hope to reduce toxicity. There is ongoing effect in the investigation of predictors of response and mechanisms of treatment resistance. This presentation will summarize clinical trial data in breast cancer and challenges in the development of PI3K inhibitors in breast cancer. Citation Format: Cynthia X. Ma. Development of PI3K inhibitors in breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Targeting PI3K/mTOR Signaling; 2018 Nov 30-Dec 8; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2020;18(10_Suppl):Abstract nr IA25.
Effect of dietary corn starch intake on ruminal, small intestinal and large intestinal starch digestion in cattle.

In Exp. 1, 24 yearling Holstein steers averaging 340 kg were fed either an alfalfa hay diet at a maintenance level of metabolizable energy (ME) intake or corn silage-corn diets at one, two or three times maintenance ME intake. After a 42-day adjustment period, steers were fed individually, and digestibilities of total alpha-glucosides, starch oligosaccharides and glucose were determined at 2-week intervals, with chromic oxide used as an indicator. Steers fed the alfalfa hay diet had higher (P less than .05) total tract digestibilities of total alpha-glucosides and starch than steers fed the corn diets. Fecal starch (percentage of dry matter) in steers fed the corn diets increased (P less than .05) from approximately 11 to 31% as level of ME intake increased from one to three times maintenance. Starch digestibilities for the corn diets fed at one, two and three times maintenance were 81.4, 76.4 and 76.0%, respectively. However, these trends toward reduced starch digestibilities were not significant. There appeared to be no apparent adaption of alpha-glucoside digestibility in the total digestive tract among steers fed different levels of corn over the intervals observed. In Exp. 2, four Holstein steers (350 KH) were each fitted with duodenal and ileal reentrant cannulas and fed either a low or a high level of corn. Alpha-glucoside intakes for animals given the low and high levels of cord averaged 1.7 and 3.2 kg, respectively. Steers fed the high level of corn digested more (p less than .05) alpha-glucoside in the total tract (2.9 vs 1.6 kg), reticulo-rumen (2.3 vs 1.2 kg) and large intestine level of corn. Steers fed the high level of corn also digested more corn in the small intestine (.415 vs .221 kg) than steers fed the lower level; however, differences were not significant. Although there were trends toward lower partial digestion coefficients (expressed as a percentage of alpha-glucoside presented to that segment) in the total tract, reticulo-rumen and small intestine for steers fed the high corn diet, the magnitude of the differences was not significant.
Remarks on the existence of CMC Cauchy surfaces

As is well known, constant mean curvature (CMC) spacelike hypersurfaces play an important role in solving the Einstein equations, both in solving the contraints and the evolution equations. In this paper we review the CMC existence result obtained by the authors in [10] and consider some new existence results motivated by a conjecture of Dilts and Holst [8]. We also address some issues concerning the conformal structure of cosmological spacetimes.
Revisit of macroscopic dynamics for chemical reactions from a Hamiltonian viewpoint

The random time-changed Poisson representation for the concentration of each species in chemical reactions is a powerful tool to study macroscopic properties for chemical reactions. The nonlinear semigroup for the corresponding large volume stochastic process, i.e., the classical WKB expansion, defines a Hamiltonian $H$, a Hamiltonian dynamics and a Hamilton-Jacobi equation. Through this Hamiltonian $H$, we revisit and bridge some important macroscopic properties: (i) The detailed/complex balance and the associated symmetric property give rise gradient flow structures; (ii) The rate function $L$, as the conjugate of $H$, measures the deviation of any path from the thermodynamic limit Kurtz equation written in its generalized gradient flow form; (iii) The solution to the thermodynamic limit Kurtz equation, is a least action curve with zero action cost, while its time reversed solution is also a least action curve with a nonzero affinity; (iv) We give an infinite time optimal control interpretation for the most probable path connecting two typical states of a chemical reaction and prove nonexistence of transitions between two steady states in a detailed balanced reaction system.
Risk Assessment of Pune Metro Underground Construction Using Risk Matrix and Expected Monitory Value

Many complexities can be observed in the construction of tunnels for Pune metro (the second-largest city in the state of Maharashtra, India). It inherently involves many risky activities like excavation and lining, transportation of material, scaling and mucking, ventilation, cutter head intervention of tunnel boring machine (TBM) in compressed as well as in open mode, handling of tunnel machinery, working in narrow space, overloading of the crane, temporary segment dismantling, etc. Although tunneling for metro rail is risky, the risk involved is more in the longer tunnels. To save valuable resources and winning the trust of the client, risk assessment for each activity during tunnel construction is crucial. The expository literature review indicates that very few studies are available on risk assessment of each activity of tunnel construction in India using TBM. This study presents a case study on risk assessment of underground construction for the Pune metro. The work provides an insight into risk which occurs during the construction and describes general consideration for the uncertainties during execution. The paper provides the qualification and quantification for the risks in metro tunnel using risk matrix and expected monitory value (EMV) analysis. The risk matrix is the most effective tool for risk assessment and qualitative risk analysis. And EMV is succeeded using recommendations accessible in the literature of domain of risk management. Though it is a straightforward method, it is a productive application for the quantification to accomplish the goals of the metro tunnel project in terms of controlling the time delay and cost overrun as well. After the qualification of the risk process, quantitative assessment can be done for the further elected majors to choose the suitable reaction schemes. To manage the risk-associated cases efficiently. TBM data has been taken into account for risk assessment.
Device features and user behaviors as predictors of dependence among never-smoking electronic cigarette users: PATH Wave 4.

Abstract Introduction Electronic cigarettes (ECIGs) vary greatly in their ability to deliver nicotine, which suggests they may also vary in their ability to produce dependence. This study examined individual and combined ECIG device features, and also user behaviors, as predictors of dependence in never-smoking ECIG users. Methods Data were collected from 711 current ECIG users who had smoked Results Results for ECIG dependence and craving showed a similar pattern; higher levels were observed for older age, more frequent past 30-day use, using an ECIG containing nicotine (vs no nicotine), and using a non-refillable cartridge or refillable tank style (vs disposables). Higher withdrawal levels were observed for higher education levels and individual device features of tank (vs no tank), cartridge (vs no cartridge), refillable (vs non-refillable), and “other” flavor preference (vs tobacco flavor). Lower withdrawal levels were associated with a preference for sweet/fruit flavor(s) (vs tobacco flavor). Conclusions Few use behaviors and device features, whether examined alone or in combination, predicted dependence-related outcomes. Findings underscore the challenge with regulating ECIG products in the current marketplace, which is inundated with a myriad of device types.
Geomorphic expressions of active tectonics across the Indo-Burma Range

Abstract The Indo-Burma Range (IBR) is an accretionary complex associated with the oblique subduction zone between India and the Burma microplate. It remains an outstanding question whether the ongoing plate-boundary deformation involves active subduction of the Indian plate. To study the tectonics in this region, we investigate drainage divide stability and the topographic expression of active tectonics across the IBR. We extract elevation data from the 30 × 30 m SRTM digital elevation model and identify streams, drainage divides and basins. We select the divide segments to construct and evaluate divide stability using the Gilbert metrics and χ values of the channel heads located on both sides of the divide portions. We calculate several geomorphic indices, including basin-scale (hypsometry and relief) and stream-scale (normalized steepness index [ksn]) measures to reveal tectonic uplift patterns. We find that most of the divide segments are static, allowing us to study the morphometry of streams and drainage as indicators of spatial variation in tectonic uplift in the context of large-scale variations of precipitation and lithology. Our morphometric results support ongoing tectonic uplift distributed across the inner belt of the IBR, and they cannot be explained by variations in precipitation or lithology. The eastern region is characterized by higher relief, hypsometry and ksn compared to the western outer belt. While the active deformation front lies far to the west, the inferred higher uplift rates in the eastern range suggest active out-of-sequence thrusts in the inner belt of the IBR that splay off from the active megathrust.
Transport and Quantum Statistics of Excitons in Cu 2 O

Since the pioneering studies of Gross and others in the 1950fs, the semiconductor cuprous oxide (Cu2O) has provided a classic example of a Wannier exciton. Spectroscopic studies such as optical absorption, luminescence and two-photon absorption have established the hydrogen-like energy levels and the existence of ortho- and paraexcitons. Also, recent experiments have indicated that Cu2O is a good candidate for demonstrating Bose-Einstein condensation of excitons. Towards this end, we have conducted a variety of experiments to determine the thermodynamic and transport properties of ortho- and paraexcitons in Cu2O. In naturally grown crystals, the paraexciton lifetime exceeds a microsecond, and its diffusivity and drift mobility can be measured by time-resolved luminescence imaging- In this way, the low-temperature regime of deformation-potential scattering has been measured. Under intense photoexcitation, the orthoexcitons display quantum statistics. Time-resolved spectroscopy and imaging reveals the evolution of the basic thermodynamic parameters: density, temperature and volume of the excitonic gas. The conditions of quantum saturation have been reached and the system is observed to follow the phase boundary for Bose-Einstein condensation, n = CT3/2 , for over an order-of-magnitude in gas density.
A Direction for the Next Decade

The empowerment of the voluntary and community sectors and the disencumberment of large, complex health institutions from clumsy government operation are the two principal issues confronting us in the field of mental health in the 1980s.
Autoradiographic analysis of macromolecular syntheses in prospectively necrotic cells of the chick limb bud. II. Nucleic acids.

Abstract The posterior necrotic zone (PNZ) occurs at the posterior junction of the chick wing bud and body wall at stage 24. Although the progenitors of these cells are committed to die as early as they can be detected (stage 17), this commitment is reversible until stage 22. After this time the prospective fate of the PNZ cells cannot be changed. Previous results from this laboratory have shown that a decrease in protein synthesis occurs in PNZ cells by stage 23, prior to the onset of necrosis but subsequent to the time that the commitment to death has become irreversible. The present study was undertaken to determine autoradiographically the pattern of nucleic acid synthesis in the prospective PNZ cells. Radioactive precursors of DNA and RNA were injected into chick embryos at appropriate stages and their limb buds examined to determine the extent of incorporation of the nucleic acid precursors. It was determined that the synthesis for each of the nucleic acids was similar to a control area not programmed for death up to stage 21, but had significantly decreased by stage 22. Thus the decrease in the synthesis of both DNA and RNA occurs at about the same time that the commitment to death becomes irreversible. This decrease occurs approx. 6 h prior to the decrease in protein synthesis, with the pattern of decrease occurring in a parallel manner for all three macromolecules. Another series of experiments contrasting relative specific activities for newly-synthesized DNA provided biochemical corroboration of decreased DNA synthesis for the cells of the PNZ when compared to control areas. Finally, this decrease in nucleic acid synthesis occurs approx. 16 h prior to any morphologic manifestations of necrosis.
Tuning of proportional plus derivative fuzzy logic controller for nonlinear system control

The transformation of expert's knowledge to control rules in a fuzzy logic controller has not been formalized and arbitrary choices concerning, for example, the shape of membership functions have to be made. The quality of a fuzzy controller can be drastically affected by the choice of membership functions. Thus, methods for tuning fuzzy logic controllers are needed. In this paper, neural networks and fuzzy logic are combined to address the problem of tuning fuzzy logic controllers. The neuro-fuzzy controller uses neural network learning techniques to tune membership functions while keeping the semantics of the fuzzy logic controller intact. Nonlinear systems present a wide spectrum of challenges for control engineers. With neuro-fuzzy techniques, the opportunity exits to control nonlinear systems without the need for a precise mathematical model of the system under control. The architecture and tuning algorithm for a proportional plus derivative neurofuzzy logic controller (PDNFLC) is presented in this paper. This step-by-step algorithm for the off-line tuning of a feedforward PDNFLC is demonstrated by a numerical example.
The internal structure of destination visitation model and implications for image management

In the present research, Stanley Plog's (1967) Psychocentrism � Allocentrism Visitation Model is reimagined. The researcher decomposes Plog's original model and identifies five smaller bell shaped curves constituting five tourist personas within the normal distribution of tourist flow that depicts Plog's model. The study also finds that, while allocentric tourists largely prefer nascent destinations, destinations that are close to the end of their life cycles become attractive to them once again
Differential equations in three variables

Extending the approach employed in preceding chapters for partial differential equations in two independent variables and for the Laplace equation in three independent variables, we shall develop in this chapter integral operators which transform functions of two variables into solutions of certain classes of partial differential equations, namely into (0.1.8a), (0.1.8b), (0.1.8c), see p. 4.
The “New Gymnastics” of Dio Lewis (1860–1868)

(1906). The “New Gymnastics” of Dio Lewis (1860–1868) American Physical Education Review: Vol. 11, No. 3, pp. 187-197.
Liraglutide: once-daily GLP-1 agonist for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Summary What is known and Objective: The prevalence of diabetes is increasing worldwide. Over the recent years, new discoveries have led to the development of new pharmacological agents targeting the incretin hormones gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). These agents, called incretin-mimetics, are the newest agents added to the diabetes treatment options. The purpose of this article is to review the relevant literature on the chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, metabolism, clinical trials, safety, drug interactions and place in therapy of liraglutide in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Methods: An extensive search of the literature was performed with liraglutide and NN2211 as key terms. This article presents a review of the literature related to the chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, drug interactions and safety and efficacy of liraglutide. Results and Discussion: Liraglutide, a subcutaneously administered GLP-1 agonist, displays phamacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties that allow for once-daily administration. The agent has been shown to be efficacious as monotherapy, as well as in combination with glimperide, metformin and/or rosiglitazone, reducing glycoslyated haemoglobin (A1C) between 0·84% and 1·5%. The primary adverse event reported with liraglutide is transient nausea. What is new and conclusion: Liraglutide has been well studied in dual and triple combination therapies with sulfonylureas, metformin and rosiglitazone and appears safe and effective. For patients who cannot tolerate first-line agents, metformin, insulin and sulfonylureas, liraglutide is a reasonable treatment option.
Feature level sensor fusion for target detection in dynamic environments

This paper addresses the problem of target detection in dynamic environments. A key challenge here is to simultaneously achieve high probabilities of correct detection with low false alarm rates under limited computation and communication resources. To this end, a procedure of binary hypothesis testing is proposed based on agglomerative hierarchical feature clustering. The proposed procedure has been experimentally validated in the laboratory setting on a mobile robot for target detection by using multiple homogeneous (with different orientations) infrared sensors in the presence of changing ambient light intensities. The experimental results show that the proposed target detection procedure with feature-level sensor fusion outperforms those with decision-level sensor fusion.
Turn-of-The-Century Semantics and Belief Construction in Husserl and Kafka

Kafka engages early-20th-century German-speaking cognitive theory, semantics, and propositional belief construction in his fictions, thus fusing perceptual/descriptive 19thth-century 'realism' with literary modernism's aspectual perspectivism and subjectivism.
Concepts and Strategies for Lunar Base Radiation Protection: Prefabricated Versus In-situ Materials

The most recently accepted environment data are used as inputs for the Langley nucleon and heavy-ion transport codes, BRYNTRN and HZETRN, to examine the shield effectiveness of lunar regolith in comparison with commercially-used shield materials in nuclear facilities. Several of the fabricated materials categorized as neutron absorbers exhibit favorable characteristics for space radiation protection. In particular, polyethylene with additive boron is analyzed with regard to response to the predicted lunar galactic cosmic ray and solar proton flare environment during the course of a complete solar cycle. Although this effort is not intended to be a definitive trade study for specific shielding recommendations, attention is given to several factors that warrant consideration in such trade studies. For example, the transporting of bulk shield material to the lunar site as opposed to regolith-moving and processing equipment is assessed on the basis of recent scenario studies. The transporting of shield material from Earth may also be a viable alternative to the use of regolith from standpoints of cost-effectiveness, EVA time required, and risk factor.
Digital Multiphase Modulator — A Power D/A Perspective

A new architecture is proposed for digital multiphase modulators that leads to a natural hardware efficient realization without compromise in hardware or performance. The combined modulator, switching phases and output filter are viewed as a digital to analog converter with high power output, or a “power D/A”. The duty cycle command bits are separated into high resolution and low resolution bits, where the low resolution bits directly control the number of converter phases that are on at a given time. Hardware efficiency is achieved by using only a single high resolution block that is time shared among all phases and a simple low resolution block that uses a single counter to track appropriate phasing of the outputs. Relatively little digital logic is required to combine the outputs of the two modules, resulting in an efficient design that scales easily with a large number of phases without requiring significant additional hardware per phase. The duty cycle command is updated at the fast rate of n times the single phase switching frequency, where n is the number of phases. The approach is experimentally verified in a 16 phase system operating at 1.5 MHz per phase with 9 bits (1.3 ns) of PWM resolution.
Estimates of Air and Moisture Flux into Hailstorms on the High Plains

Abstract Based on airborne observations, estimates of air and moisture flux have been calculated for 18 hailstorms: eight in Colorado, one in Oklahoma, and nine in South Dakota. The average air flux for hailstorms in this study was 2.3 × 1011 gm sec−1, while the moisture flux averaged near 2.1 × 109 gm sec−1. Precipitation efficiency for eight thunderstorms was found to be near 55%, though two severe hailstorms did exhibit slightly less efficiency.
Implications of a utility model for ultraviolet exposure behavior.

Abstract Over the past several decades, the incidence of skin cancer has reached epidemic proportions. Despite numerous efforts to increase public awareness of the risks associated with solar radiation, people continue to sunbathe, use indoor tanning facilities, avoid photoprotective clothing, and fail to use sunscreen. We propose using an economic model, the utility model, to better understand how to reduce tanning behaviors. This model has been widely applied in financial decision-making as well as in analysis of risk-taking behaviors such as smoking. The model takes into account both the current perceived benefits of tanning and the future long-term risks. People tend to discount the future; they tend to weigh current benefits more heavily than future risks. As predicted by the model, past prevention efforts that have focused on long-term benefits gained by sun-protective behavior have been largely ineffective. In the current social environment, we cannot expect tanning reduction measures based solely on health education to be very effective. Only by changing public perceptions of a tan will efforts to decrease ultraviolet exposure behavior likely be successful. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2001;45:718-22.)
The Spectrum of the Cosmic Microwave Background Anisotropy from the Combined COBE FIRAS and WMAP Observations

We analyze the cosmic microwave background (CMB) anisotropy data from the independent COBE FIRAS and DMR observations. We extract the frequency spectrum of the FIRAS signal that has the spatial distribution seen by DMR and show that it is consistent with CMB temperature fluctuations in the radiation well into the Wien region of the spectrum. Conversely, we form a map of the Planckian component of the sky temperature from FIRAS and show that it correlates with the DMR anisotropy map. The rms fluctuations at angular scales of 7° are 48 ± 14 μK for the FIRAS data versus 35 ± 2 μK for the DMR data and 31 ± 6 μK for the combination (1 σ uncertainties). The consistency of these data, from very different instruments with very different observing strategies, provides compelling support for the interpretation that the signal seen by DMR is, in fact, temperature anisotropy of cosmological origin. The data also limit rms fluctuations in the Compton y parameter, observable via the Sunyaev-Zeldovich effect, to Δy < 3 × 10-6 (95% CL) on 7° angular scales.
FRACTIONATION OF ASPHALT MATERIALS BY USING SUPERCRITICAL CYCLOHEXANE AND PENTANE

ABSTRACT Fractionation of asphalt materials by using supercritical cyclohexane and pentane has been successfully conducted. Each of three asphalts was fractionated into ten fractions. These asphalts and their fractions were then characterized by a variety of analyses including Corbett chromatographic separation, infrared analysis, refractive index- and intrinsic viscosity-size exclusion chromatography (gel permeation chromatography), and elemental analysis by atomic absorption. The fractions were then reblended to produce materials of typical asphalt consistency. These blends were then subjected to oxidative aging in a pressure oxidation vessel and were found, in some cases, to have improved aging characteristics in the sense that they did not harden in response to a given carbonyl formation (oxidation) as much as normal asphalt materials. Hence, the supercritical fractionation technique is considered to have great potential for producing improved asphalt materials.
Action of Phorbol Esters, Bryostatins, and Retinoic Acid on Cholesterol Sulfate Synthesis: Relation to the Multistep Process of Differentiation in Human Epidermal Keratinocytes

This study examines the action of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) on the synthesis of cholesterol sulfate in cultured normal and transformed human epidermal keratinocytes and assesses the antagonistic effects by retinoids and bryostatins on PMA action in relation to the multistep program of squamous differentiation. Treatment of normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) with PMA induces terminal cell division (irreversible growth-arrest) and causes a time- and dose-dependent increase in the incorporation of Na2(35)SO4 into cholesterol sulfate, a marker for squamous cell differentiation. This stimulation in sulfate incorporation appears specific for cholesterol sulfate and is due to increased levels of cholesterol sulfotransferase activity. The increase in cholesterol sulfate accumulation parallels the increase in transglutaminase type I, another marker for squamous differentiation. Several transformed NHEK cell lines do not exhibit increased levels of cholesterol sulfate and transglutaminase type I activity after PMA treatment, indicating that they acquired defects in the regulation of squamous differentiation. Bryostatins 1 and 2, and several diacylglycerol analogues neither inhibit cell proliferation nor increase cholesterol sulfate synthesis or transglutaminase activity, indicating that these agents do not induce terminal differentiation. In contrast, the bryostatins block the increase in cholesterol sulfate and transglutaminase activity as well as the commitment to terminal cell division by PMA. Bryostatin 1 inhibits the commitment to terminal cell division and the accumulation of cholesterol sulfate significantly even when added 8 h after PMA administration. Retinoids inhibit cholesterol sulfate accumulation and the increase in transglutaminase activity by PMA but do not affect the commitment to terminal cell division. In summary, phorbol esters induce in NHEK cells a program of squamous differentiation. This process of differentiation consists of the commitment to terminal cell division and expression of a squamous phenotype. Expression of this phenotype is accompanied by an accumulation of cholesterol sulfate and increased cholesterol sulfotransferase activity. Bryostatins 1 and 2 and retinoic acid affect this differentiation process at different stages.
Optimization of spherical deflecting analyzer with finite-size effects

Spherical analyzers have been widely used in electron spectroscopy due to their high energy resolution. In this article, we present a way of optimizing the performance of a 90° spherical deflecting analyzer (SDA-90) considering finite-source effects, using an imaging matrix formalism. Results are shown for both symmetrically and asymmetrically charged cases. The asymmetrical case is found to be superior both in transmission and resolution. This unexpected advantage can be explained by the rotation of the image caused by the broken symmetry along the principle trajectory in the analyzer using an asymmetrical potential configuration. The net effect is equivalent to a reduction in the lateral magnification and a gain in energy dispersion. Both factors improve the performance of the analyzer. The fringe fields, carefully controlled by two Herzog lenses, are very important in the optimization. A telefocus electron gun is used to check the numerical result, and to investigate the transverse focusing behavior.
Risk factors for prostate cancer

The incidence of prostate cancer continues to increase in the US. Compared with other common cancers such as those of the breast and lung, the causes of prostate cancer remain poorly understood. Research endeavors continue to identify predictors of risk for prostate cancer, of which familial and genetic factors are among the strongest. Known risk factors can show significant heterogeneity in their association with prostate cancer development. However, the identification and further characterization of risk modifiers might provide insight into treatment and prevention of prostate cancer.
Fluorescent Lamp Starting Voltage Relationships at 60 HZ and High Frequency

Starting voltage values have been measured with F40-type, rapid-start fluorescent lamps operating at 60 Hertz as well as at various high frequencies. The test circuits used as well as their suggested procedures are discussed along with the resultant data.
A note on numerically computed eigenfunctions and generalized stress intensity factors associated with singular points

Abstract The solution of linear elastostatic problems in the neighborhood of singular points is characterized, by a sequence of eigenpairs and their coefficients, called generalized stress intensity factors (GSIFs). For general singular points, as cracks in anisotropic multimaterial interfaces, and V-notches in composite materials, only numerical approximations of the eigenfunctions are available. This note addresses the question: how should the GSIFs computed using the numerically determined eigenfunctions be interpreted?
Influence of pH on Two-Dimensional Streptavidin Crystals

To obtain a general understanding of the effect of intermolecular interactions on the mechanisms of two-dimensional protein crystallization, we grow protein crystals and elicit a bulk molecular manipulation by changing system pH. Two-dimensional crystals of the bacterial protein streptavidin grown on a biotinylated lipid monolayer at an air−water interface, in the presence of the noncrystallizable impurity avidin, exhibit crystallographic and morphological changes as a function of subphase pH. Large two-dimensional crystalline arrays form within minutes across a pH range from 1.5 to 11. Crystals exhibit different pH-dependent structures, lattices with P1 symmetry for 1.5 < pH < 5, P1 and P2 lattices for 5 < pH < 6, and C222 lattices for 7 < pH < 11. P1 crystals nucleate rapidly and form thin needle-shaped crystals consistent with a strong growth anisotropy between the two crystallographic growth directions. C222 crystals grow more isotropically and exhibit H- and X-shapes. The nucleation rates and aspect ...
Dynamics of three-dimensional convection in microgravity crystal growth: g-jitter with steady magnetic fields

We present results from three-dimensional simulations of the flow induced by transient acceleration (g-jitter) in microgravity crystal growth. Transient accelerations in both axial and transverse directions are considered for a simple prototype of a vertical Bridgman crystal growth system. We also consider the effects of applying a steady magnetic field in axial or transverse directions to suppress the flow. In most cases, application of a magnetic field suppresses flow oscillations, but for transverse jitter at intermediate frequencies, flow oscillations are increased. This counter-intuitive effect is a dynamic one, in which boundary layer formation under the influence of a magnetic field shortens the time scale of momentum transfer, allowing the flow to respond more quickly to the time variation of acceleration. The effect of the magnetic field on an enclosed flow with electrically insulating boundary conditions is to preferentially suppress the velocity component tangential to the magnetic field. The ability to filter a single velocity component by application of a specified magnetic field could be useful for simultaneously improving both axial and radial segregation in semiconductor crystal growth.
Adaptive configuration and control in an ATR system

Today's ATR is constructed via inefficient and suboptimal system configuration and training. The process of configuring an ATR is currently very labor intensive, subjective, and inaccurate, as is the process of training an ATR for a particular mission. To cure this deficiency, what is desired is an automated method of configuration and training which is capable of searching the N-dimensional space of modules, algorithms, and parameter values to produce ATR algorithm suites which perform best in each trained scenario. Also, today's ATR is only capable of a limited amount of adaptation to sensed (or otherwise obtained) changes in the environment. To improve the adaptibility of ATR processing and thereby improve accuracy and robustness, what is desired is a high-level control structure which enables system adaptation via changes in parameter values and changes in algorithms (at the component and at the 'suite' level). The Honeywell effort is producing a system for Adaptive Configuration and Control (ACC) of an ATR system which addresses the above described problems. The software system is using the machine learning technique of Genetic Algorithms to autonomously and optimally perform configuration and training and it is using case-based reasoning to provide run-time configuration and control of the ATR system. This paper provides an overview of the ACC system, describes its operation, and describes the benefits it provides to ATR systems.
Liberty, equality, sorority: Contradiction and integrity in feminist thought and practice

Abstract This paper provides an analysis of the inherent contradictions in and the essential integrity of feminist thought and practice. It is argued that three of the central concepts in feminist thought are liberty, equality, and sorority. By their very nature, these concepts conflict with each other and it is argued that the divisions within feminist thought and practice have specific roots in the inherent contradictions of these three concepts. It is also argued, paradoxically, that while these concepts tend to contradict each other, they are each necessary for the definition and integrity of the others. They act as limits towards each other. It is suggested that it is the balanced juxtaposition of these three concepts which maintains the integrity of feminism. Finally, it is suggested that the balancing of these three concepts provides the framework for a feminist ethic.
Probing individual molecules with confocal fluorescence microscopy

Confocal fluorescence microscopy coupled with a diffraction-limited laser beam and a high-efficiency detection system has been used to study the diffusive movement and emission process of individual fluorescent molecules in the liquid phase at room temperature. The high detection sensitivity achieved at fast data acquisition speeds (greater than 1 kilohertz) allows real-time observation of single-molecule fluorescence without statistical analysis. The results show fluorescence-cycle saturation at the single-molecule level and multiple recrossings of a single molecule into and out of the probe volume as well as the triplet state.
The Use of Therapeutic Stories in Counseling Child and Adolescent Sexual Abuse Survivors

Counselors will regularly counsel children and adolescents with histories of sexual abuse and be challenged with providing supportive and empowering interventions that serve to move the client from victim to survivor status. Therapeutic stories are a creative counseling technique that can be used when counseling child and adolescent sexual abuse survivors. Theoretical support and guidelines for using therapeutic stories when counseling sexual abuse survivors are presented. In this article, case examples, sample therapeutic stories, and applications of therapeutic stories are provided.
Use of Locally Enhanced Sampling in Free Energy Calculations: Testing and Application to the α → β Anomerization of Glucose

We present a new approach to calculating conformational equilibria in complex molecules, multiple-copy locally enhanced sampling (LES), and apply this approach to the well-known α → β anomeric equilibrium in glucose. Although a variant of this method has been previously applied to protein stability mutations, it is particularly suited to analyze conformational equilibria in molecules such as glucose, with its many OH groups. This methodology allows us to more rapidly calculate complex equilibria both in vacuo and in solution. We have employed a “generic” force field using 1,1-dimethoxymethane and 1,1-dihydroxymethane as models to derive the torsional parameters associated with O−C−O−C and O−C−O−H fragments. Within this model, we can definitively establish the magnitude of intramolecular and solvation contributions to the α → β equilibrium. Specifically, we find that in vacuo glucose prefers to be in the α configuration by ∼0.5−1.0 kcal/mol (predominantly because of the gauche tendency of the O−C−O−C linka...