cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Learning Styles in a Technology-Rich Environment

AbstractThis study investigated whether learning style would change after a year of schooling in a technology-rich educational environment dedicated to a constructivist approach to learning. The subjects were 15 gifted freshmen who had been accepted into a “magnet” high school. The subjects were given Dunn and Dunn’s Learning Style Inventory and a questionnaire before and after the school year. This study could not conclude that learning styles change after one year; however, there are suggestions that learning styles are affected by factors within the environment, such as exposure to technology. Results suggest that a technology-rich environment affects the written and unwritten curriculum within a classroom, especially impacting the social context that exists. The use of computers affected the way the content was explored and presented. A technology-rich environment also seemed to affect the interaction that occurred between students and students, students and teachers, and teachers and teachers. A much...
Prediction of plant height in Arabidopsis thaliana using DNA methylation data.

Prediction of complex traits using molecular genetic information is an active area in quantitative genetics research. In the postgenomic era, many types of -omic (e.g., transcriptomic, epigenomic, methylomic, and proteomic) data are becoming increasingly available. Therefore, evaluating the utility of this massive amount of information in prediction of complex traits is of interest. DNA methylation, the covalent change of a DNA molecule without affecting its underlying sequence, is one quantifiable form of epigenetic modification. We used methylation information for predicting plant height (PH) in Arabidopsis thaliana nonparametrically, using reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces (RKHS) regression. Also, we used different criteria for selecting smaller sets of probes, to assess how representative probes could be used in prediction instead of using all probes, which may lessen computational burden and lower experimental costs. Methylation information was used for describing epigenetic similarities between individuals through a kernel matrix, and the performance of predicting PH using this similarity matrix was reasonably good. The predictive correlation reached 0.53 and the same value was attained when only preselected probes were used for prediction. We created a kernel that mimics the genomic relationship matrix in genomic best linear unbiased prediction (G-BLUP) and estimated that, in this particular data set, epigenetic variation accounted for 65% of the phenotypic variance. Our results suggest that methylation information can be useful in whole-genome prediction of complex traits and that it may help to enhance understanding of complex traits when epigenetics is under examination.
Control methodology for single stator, dual-rotor induction motor drives for electric vehicles

This paper presents a methodology for controlling the transient as well as steady state torque production from each rotor of a single stator, dual-rotor induction motor drive fed by a single power inverter. This type of drive topology is targeted towards electric vehicle applications where the expected benefits are a more simple drive train design no mechanical differential required, traction control, and lower cost compared to a two inverter, two motor combination. This paper includes the theoretical formulation of a suitable "dual motor" machine model from which the required control relations are derived. Experimental results from a laboratory set up are presented as well to verify the potential of the arrangement. >
Image modeling using higher-order statistics with application to predictive image coding

The mathematical framework to develop parametric image models based on higher-order statistics (HOS) is discussed. For non-Gaussian images, the model parameters will depend on the HOS if the model has a nonlinear form or if a fidelity criterion other than the mean square error (MSE) is utilized. Three new image models are proposed: (i) a nonlinear model based on the MSE criterion, (ii) a linear model under a criterion other than the MSE, and (iii) a nonlinear model using a criterion other than the MSE. These models are applied to predictive image coding, and the results are compared with those obtained by a linear model based on the MSE criterion. >
Response to conspecific and heterospecific alarm cues by pumpkinseeds in simple and complex habitats: field verification of an ontogenetic shift

Three focal size classes [small ( 80 mm L S )] of pumpkinseed Lepomis gibhosus were exposed to conspecific or one of three heterospecific chemical alarm cues under one of three levels of habitat complexity (low, intermediate and high). Under low and intermediate habitat complexities, pumpkinseeds 80mm L S exhibited a foraging response. Under highly complex habitats, pumpkinseeds of all three size classes exhibited an antipredator response. Moreover, under all three habitat conditions, pumpkinseeds of all size classes exhibited an antipredator response to conspecific alarm cues. There was no change in behaviour under any treatment combination in response to an allopatric heterospecific control (swordtails Xiphophorus helleri). These results provide the first field verification of the size dependent use of chemical alarm cues by centrarchids and demonstrate that microhabitat complexity significantly influences the threat-sensitive use of these cues.
Energy-Efficient Thread-Level Speculation

Chip multiprocessors with thread-level speculation have become the subject of intense research, this article refutes the claim that such a design is necessarily too energy inefficient. In addition, it proposes out-of-order task spawning to exploit more sources of speculative task-level parallelism
The Anorectic Effect of GLP-1 in Rats Is Nutrient Dependent

GLP-1-induced insulin secretion from the β-cell is dependent upon glucose availability. The purpose of the current study was to determine whether CNS GLP-1 signaling is also glucose-dependent. We found that fasting blunted the ability of 3rd cerebroventricularly (i3vt)-administered GLP-1 to reduce food intake. However, fasted animals maintained the anorexic response to melanotan II, a melanocortin receptor agonist, indicating a specific effect of fasting on GLP-1 action. We also found that i3vt administration of leptin, which is also decreased with fasting, was not able to potentiate GLP-1 action in fasted animals. However, we did find that CNS glucose sensing is important in GLP-1 action. Specifically, we found that i3vt injection of 2DG, a drug that blocks cellular glucose utilization, and AICAR which activates AMPK, both blocked GLP-1-induced reductions in food intake. To examine the role of glucokinase, an important CNS glucose sensor, we studied glucokinase-heterozygous knockout mice, but found that they responded normally to peripherally administered GLP-1 and exendin-4. Interestingly, oral, but not i3vt or IP glucose potentiated GLP-1′s anorectic action. Thus, CNS and peripheral fuel sensing are both important in GLP-1-induced reductions in food intake.
Managing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

Purpose To describe strategies used in managing postmenopausal osteoporosis, including a bone-healthy lifestyle, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, and drug therapy options; considerations in selecting osteoporosis drug therapy; and the role of health-system pharmacists in managing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Summary Postmenopausal women are at risk for osteoporosis and fractures. Weight-bearing and resistance exercise, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, smoking cessation, and fall prevention strategies are part of a bone-healthy lifestyle used to manage postmenopausal osteoporosis. Supplements containing calcium and vitamin D are needed by many postmenopausal women because of an inadequate intake and other factors. The choice of osteoporosis drug therapy should take into consideration patient characteristics and preference and drug efficacy, safety, route of administration, dosing frequency, convenience, cost, and potential for nonadherence. Bisphosphonates generally are preferred for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, with raloxifene, teriparatide, and calcitonin salmon as alternatives. Denosumab, a fully human monoclonal immunoglobulin G2 antibody, may become available soon for prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Health-system pharmacists can improve the management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women by counseling them on a bone-healthy lifestyle and making recommendations for calcium and vitamin D supplements and osteoporosis medications to prevent or treat the disease. Conclusion A variety of approaches are available to promote bone health in postmenopausal women. Health-system pharmacists can promote interventions to optimize patient outcomes.
Relationship of Satisfaction with Body Size and Trying to Lose Weight in a National Survey of Overweight and Obese Women Aged 40 and Older, United States

Background. Despite the potential benefits of weight loss, the factors associated with weight loss behavior are only beginning to be identified. We examined the association between sociodemographic factors, perceived health, satisfaction with body size, and trying to lose weight. Methods. Data were obtained from the 1996–1997 U.S. Women's Determinants Study. We included over 1,700 overweight and obese women aged 40 and older from the following four racial/ethnic groups: Hispanic, black, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and non-Hispanic white. Results. About half of the women reported that they were satisfied or very satisfied with their body size. Satisfaction was associated with lower body mass index (BMI), greater age, lower educational level, and better self-rated health. Compared with non-Hispanic white women, women in the other racial/ethnic groups expressed greater body satisfaction. About 65% of women reported that they were currently trying to lose weight. The strongest predictor of trying to lose weight was satisfaction with body size; women who were not satisfied were nine times more likely to report trying to lose weight than those who were very satisfied. Other significant predictors were BMI, race/ethnicity, and age. Conclusions. Our findings should serve as the impetus for the inclusion of measures of body image in surveillance and intervention studies of weight loss and control.
Contralateral reflux after unilateral ureteral reimplantation.

AbstractPurpose: We analyzed the incidence and outcome of postoperative contralateral reflux after unilateral ureteral reimplantation by the Cohen and Glenn-Anderson techniques.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 120 patients 3 months to 21 years old in whom unilateral vesicoureteral reflux was treated by unilateral reimplantation. The incidence of postoperative contralateral reflux was documented by followup voiding cystourethrography.Results: Overall 19 percent of patients who underwent unilateral reimplantation had contralateral vesicoureteral reflux postoperatively, including 21 percent after the Cohen and 17 percent after the Glenn-Anderson procedure. Of the cases 61 percent spontaneously resolved, 13 percent were surgically corrected and 26 percent continue to be followed.Conclusions: The rates of postoperative contralateral vesicoureteral reflux are not significantly different after Cohen and Glenn-Anderson repair. A majority of cases will resolve spontaneously within ...
Kinetic study of the reactions of atomic chlorine with several volatile organic compounds at 240–340 K

The rate constant for the reactions of atomic chlorine with 1,4-dioxane (k1), cyclohexane (k2), cyclohexane-d12(k3), and n-octane (k4) has been determined at 240–340 K using the relative rate/discharge fast flow/mass spectrometer (RR/DF/MS) technique developed in our laboratory. Essentially, no temperature dependence for these reactions was observed over this temperature range, with an average of k1 = (1.91 ± 0.20) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, k2 = (2.91 ± 0.31) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, k3 = (2.73 ± 0.30) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, and k4 = (3.22 ± 0.36) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, respectively. The kinetic isotope effect of the reaction of cyclohexane with atomic chlorine has also been determined to be 1.14 by directly monitoring the decay of both cyclohexane and cyclohexane-d12 in the presence of chlorine atoms, which is consistent with the literature value of 1.20. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 38: 386–398, 2006
Emissivity of Aluminum-Oxide Particle Clouds: Application to Pyrometry of Explosive Fireballs

Pyrometry measurements of clouds of high-temperature particles require an estimate of the spectral dependence of the particle emissivity. Common assumptions for this dependence range from e λ ~ λ -2 to e λ ~ constant. Depending upon the assumption used, there is uncertainty in the temperature of 100 s to a 1000 K in high-temperature clouds. Such errors are not apparent in goodness of fit of spectral data. A heterogeneous shock tube was used to measure the emissivity of aluminum oxide in an inert environment as a function of temperature (2000-3500 K), wavelength (0.55-0.95 μm), and particle diameter (50 nm-10 μm). In micro-sized alumina particles, the spectral dependence upon temperature transitions from decreasing with wavelength to increasing with wavelength with the dependence being roughly gray at about 3000 K. Because of local minima in the e λ vs λ curve, a power-law (λ n ) dependence is insufficient to describe the emissivity. However, if such a dependence is assumed, n transitions from -1.4 to 0.5 as temperature increases from 2500-3500 K. Nano-sized alumina particles exhibit an even stronger spectral dependence. At 2678 K, n is approximately -1.2 but reaches as high as 2.1 at 3052 K. Considering optical depth issues, there is merit in gray emissivity approximations for high-temperature (~3000-3300 K) particles typical of aluminum particle combustion.
Time-resolved IR detection and study of an iminooxirane intermediate.

Iminooxirane 4 has been generated by the reaction of phenylchlorocarbene (2) with phenyl isocyanate (3) and studied by nanosecond time-resolved infrared spectroscopy. Iminooxirane 4 (1830 cm-1) isomerizes to α-lactam 5 (1880 cm-1) at an observed rate of 3 × 104 s-1. Peak assignments were confirmed by a combination of B3LYP calculations and isotopic labeling. An acyclic transition state was found computationally for the isomerization reaction.
Fluorescence spectroscopy on Huntington's fibroblasts.

– 8-Anilino-1-naphthalene sulfonic acid (ANS), a fluorescent probe specific for membrane polar-apolar interfaces, has been used to investigate differences in corrected excitation, emission and scanned excitation polarization spectra of intact age, sex and passage number matched Huntington's disease (HD) and normal fibroblasts grown in cell culture. At passage number 4, the HD fibroblasts, compared to normals, exhibited a 30-fold increase in excitation and emission intensity, a 30 nm blue shift of the emission maximum and a 0.18 polarization unit increase. These findings suggest that the ANS molecule experiences either increased binding sites or an increased quantum yield, a more nonpolar environment, and a more restricted motion in HD fibroblasts. Continued subculture at higher passages (10) showed a change of these findings towards normals. These fluorescent studies support the concept that a membrane abnormality is present in HD.
Update 2001: Right latissimus dorsi cardiomyoplasty augments left ventricular systolic performance

Abstract As Originally Published in 1993: Right Latissimus Dorsi Cardiomyoplasty Augments Left Ventricular Systolic Performance by Stephen E. Park, MD, Brian L. Cmolik, MD, Robert R. Lazzara, MD, Dennis R. Trumble, MS, and James A. Magovern, MD. Department of Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, Surgical Research, Allegheny-Singer Research Institute, and Allegheny Campus, The Medical College of Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA We hypothesized that the right latissimus dorsi cardiomyoplasty augments left ventricular performance. Five dogs underwent staged right latissimus dorsi cardiomyoplasty. Ventricular function was studied 1 to 3 weeks later. Left ventricular pressure was measured with a micromanometer and left ventricular dimensions with piezoelectric crystals. Inferior vena caval occlusion was used to vary preload. Pressure-volume data were collected with the muscle unstimulated and stimulated at 1:2 and 1:1 muscle/heart ratios. The end-systolic pressure-volume relation (mm Hg/mL), stroke work, preload recruitable stroke work, left ventricular end-diastolic volume, and the diastolic relaxation constant were calculated and expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Stimulated beats at a 1:2 ratio showed an increase in stroke work of 42.1% (978 ± 381 to 1,390 ± 449 g · cm; p 3 ; p = 0.05) compared with the unstimulated beats. With the stimulator on at 1:1, smaller changes occurred: stroke work increased 9% (1,167 ± 390 to 1,273 ± 363 g · cm; not significant) and preload recruitable stroke work increased 27% (63.9 ± 22.7 to 80.9 ± 23.1 g · cm/cm 3 ; p = 0.05). There were no significant changes in the end-systolic pressure-volume relation. The diastolic relaxation constant did not change at 1:1 (36 ± 9.7 to 37 ± 6.4 ms; not significant) or 1:2 (36 ± 9.3 to 39 ± 8.2 ms; not significant). Left ventricular end-diastolic volume was unchanged at 1:1 (34 ± 10.7 to 32 ± 10.3 mL) and at 1:2 (31 ± 9.0 to 32 ± 8.7 mL). Right unconditioned latissimus dorsi cardiomyoplasty in anesthetized dogs with normal hearts resulted in enhanced systolic work and contractility with no change in diastolic relaxation at stimulation rates of 1:2 and 1:1.
The Initial Value Problem in Relativistic Plasma

The Landau problem in relativistic plasma is considered in detail. It is shown how all modes in the plasma arise through proper treatment of the inverse Laplace transforms without imposition of any external conditions. A correct derivation of the asymptotic behavior of the electric field is included and estimates of the contribution of more rapidly decaying Landau modes are made analytically and are compared with numerical computations.
Assessing the reliability and validity of locally developed information literacy test items

Purpose – With a call for increased accountability for student learning across higher education, it is becoming more important for academic libraries to show their value to the greater university community with the use of quantitative data. This paper seeks to describe the development of an information literacy test at the University of Arizona to measure student learning in an online credit course. In order to measure the impact of an online course, a test that was statistically valid, and reliable was created by local librarians.Design/methodology/approach – The methodology involved administering test items to undergraduate students enrolled in an online information literacy course and applying both classical test theory and item response theory models to evaluate the validity and reliability of test items. This study included the longitudinal and cross‐sectional development of test items for pre and post‐testing across different student groups. Over the course of two semesters, 125 items were developed...
The complexation of trivalent actinides by TMDTA

Abstract The stability constants in 0.10 M (NaCl) ionic strength solution for the formation of MTMDTA −1 (M=Am, Cm, Bk and Cf; TMDTA = trimethylenedinitrilotetraacetate) were measured by solvent extraction. The values are 13.45 (Am), 13.79 (Cm), 14.36 (Bk) and 14.66 (Cf) and are much lower than expected from the σp K a of the TMDTA acid. The data do not allow a definite interpretation of this decreased stability which may be due to a generalized weaker bonding or to failure to form the 6-membered chelate ring.
Ammonia and sulfur dioxide treated wheat straw as a feedstuff for cattle

Abstract Wheat straw was treated with anhydrous NH 3 at 0, 1.75 or 3.50% of dry matter (DM) and then with SO 2 (0, 2, 3, 4 and 5% DM) for either 3 or 7 days. Dry matter degradability (DMD) was measured using an in situ nylon bag technique. Nitrogen retention and DMD of the wheat straw was increased by the ammoniation ( P 3 × SO 2 interaction ( P 2 also showed increased DMD and crude protein (CP) at 0, 2, 3, 4 and 5% levels ( P 2 resulted in increased DMD (62.0% vs. 59.7%, P Two feeding trials were conducted with wheat straw treated with either NH 3 alone or a combination of NH 3 and SO 2 . In Study 1, growing beef heifers were fed: (a) untreated straw (US); (b) ammoniated straw (AS); (c) NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw; (d) NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw (43% DM) and hay (57% DM); (e) bromegrass hay (H) alone fed ad libitum. All heifers received 1.3 kg of supplement in two daily meals. Intake of NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw for the first 28 days was very low compared with AS (1.8 kg vs. 3.8 kg), resulting in severe weight loss (−600 g day −1 ). This treatment was replaced by a mixture of NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw (43% DM) and haylage (57% DM) for the rest of the trial (10 weeks). Ammoniation of wheat straw did not significantly increase DM intakes (DMI) compared with US (5.99 kg day −1 vs. 5.12 kg day −1 , P > 0.05) but improved average daily gain (ADG) (510 g vs. 347 g, P 3 + SO 2 treated straw and either haylage or hay consumed more feed (7.27 kg day −1 and 8.07 kg day −1 vs. 5.99 kg day −1 ) and gained more weight (833 g day −1 and 816 g day −1 vs. 510 g day −1 ) than animals fed AS. Animals fed H had DMI and ADG values similar to those fed NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw and hay ( P > 0.05). The second trial was done to determine the effects of chemical treatment of straw on ruminal function and fiber digestion. The diets, offered ad libitum with a supplement, were US, AS, NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw alone and with hay. There was no effect of diet on ruminal dilution rate. The DMD values of the US, AS, NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw, and H were 48%, 58%, 68% and 62%, respectively. When fed as the only forage, NH 3 + SO 2 treated straw resulted in anorexia and weight loss; however, when fed at 43% of diet DM, feed intakes and weight gains of heifers were better than AS and similar to H. In summary, the combined use of NH 3 and SO 2 at ambient temperatures has potential as a practical method for treatment of wheat straw.
Multiple mechanisms of ligand interaction with the human organic cation transporter, OCT2

OCT2 is the entry step for organic cation (OC) secretion by renal proximal tubules. Although many drugs inhibit OCT2 activity, neither the mechanistic basis of their inhibition nor their transport ...
Junctional structures in haemopoiesis: a study of bone marrow using freeze-fracture and lanthanum impregnation techniques.

Summary. Intercellular regions of contact in the haemopoietic compartment of normal rat bone marrow were studied using freeze-fracture and lanthanum tracer techniques. Small adhering junctions (like desmosomes and their variants) were found between haemopoietic and stromal cells but tight, gap or septate junctions could not be identified. These findings are in agreement with the concept that extensive junctional structures may be inconsistent with orderly development of this transient cell system, preventing the delivery of mature cells into the circulation and resulting in ineffective haemopoiesis. Occasionally ‘pinching off’of a portion of the cytoplasm of erythroid cells by stromal cells was seen, providing a means for intercellular communication. Structures similar to intercellular bridges responsible for direct intercellular communication were also seen.
Effects of ambient air pollution measurement error on health effect estimates in time-series studies: a simulation-based analysis

Effects of ambient air pollution measurement error on health effect estimates in time-series studies: a simulation-based analysis
THE MODIFIED FINCHAM OPTOMETER AND THE ACCOMMODATIVE STIMULUS‐RESPONSE RELATIONSHIPS*

A reduced Snellen chart was added to the Fincham optometer to achieve adequate stimulus to accommodation. The accommodative stimulus-response relationship by this modified Fincham optometer, Purkinje image photography, and haploscope were investigated, together with the conditions of polarized light and Paredrine, and measure of pupil size with change of accommodative stimuli on Purkinje image photography. Two trained and youthful observers were used for the modified Fincham and haploscope, while only one for the Purkinje image photography. Six stimulus distances were used. Linear regression equations showing accommodative stimulus-response relationships were calculated. The F tests for the slope of these lines in terms of instrumental difference, condition difference, and subject difference were not significant. Accommodation was independent of pupil size in Purkinje image photography. All the lines are essentially linear. And the “a” constant given by the modified Fincham seems to be zero rather than the usual half dioptre as given by the haploscope. Possible clinical significance of the last finding was discussed.
Bioconjugates of smart polymers and proteins: synthesis and applications

Over the past 20 years we have been deeply involved with the synthesis and applications of stimuli-responsive polymer systems, especially polymer-biomolecule conjugates. The work of Toyoichi Tanaka has been a constant inspiration for our work and this article is dedicated to him. This article summarizes the research that we have carried out along with many collaborators on polymer-protein conjugates. We include conjugates prepared by random polymer conjugation to lysine amino groups, and also those prepared by site-specific conjugation of the polymer to specific amino acid sites that are genetically-engineered into the known amino acid sequence of the protein. We describe the preparation and properties of thermally-sensitive, random conjugates to enzymes and several affinity recognition proteins. We have also prepared site-specific conjugates to streptavidin. with temperature-sensitive polymers, pH-sensitive polymers, and light-sensitive polymers. The preparation of these conjugates and their many fascinating applications are reviewed in this article.
Seismic Response of Ultra-High Performance Concrete-Filled FRP Tube Columns

The seismic response of a novel hybrid column made of a fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) tube filled with ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) was studied. A methodology was proposed to estimate the maximum ground acceleration capacity of five UHPC-filled FRP tubes (UHPCFFT) and one reference concrete (RC) column based on the results of their pseudo-static tests. The proposed analytical methodology can be applied to any pseudo-static test. The analysis showed 20% higher maximum ground acceleration capacity for the steel-free UHPCFFT column with a thin FRP tube, as compared to its RC counterpart. The results were further verified using a nonlinear dynamic simulation.
Histiocytic/dendritic cell sarcoma arising from follicular lymphoma involving the bone: a case report and review of literature

Histiocytic/dendritic cell sarcomas arising from follicular lymphoma are very rare and poorly understood lesions. We describe a case, which is unique in that it presented with a hipbone lesion simultaneously with axillary lymphadenopathy. Biopsy of the axillary lymph node showed a low-grade follicular lymphoma. The hipbone lesion was comprised two cell populations, one representing diffuse large B cell lymphoma and the other a histiocytic/dendritic sarcoma. The cells of all three lesions contained an IGH/BCL2 rearrangement, suggesting that both diffuse large B cell lymphoma and histiocytic/dendritic sarcoma differentiation developed from the same low grade precursor (follicular lymphoma). This case illustrates that sarcomatous transdifferentiation of follicular lymphoma can be an unpredictable local phenomenon and that it can occur extra nodally in the bone marrow. It may also occur concurrently with the progression of follicular lymphoma to a diffuse large B cell lymphoma.
The Medina Charter: A Historical Case of Conflict Resolution

There are many examples in Islamic history of Muslims coexisting with various religious groups. The Medina Charter, which provided a basis for a city-state between the Muslims and the Jews in the medieval Muslim city of Medina, was the first written constitution in Islam and the first documented case of constitutional law. It is also a historical example of conflict resolution in Islam. This article examines the methods of conflict resolution in the Medina Charter in comparison with the modern ideas of Western conflict resolution theory—mediation, fractioning, and focusing on goals and interests as opposed to individual religion, and power-balancing. The article also addresses the issues of conflict resolution and culture, outlining the differences between basic Islamic and Western cultural assumptions that in turn shape their different approaches to conflict mediation. However, in its comparison of the two approaches, it finds generic, universal assumptions of conflict resolution that persist despite dif...
Nearly weakly orthonormal sequences, singular value estimates, and Calderon-Zygmund operators

Abstract The direct way to estimate the singular values of a compact operator is to decompose it as a sum of orthogonal rank one pieces. However, such decompositions can generally not be found in practice. We give a variation of the decomposition using nearly weakly orthonormal (NWO) sequences. The NWO decomposition is easier to do in examples but is still strong enough to give good singular value estimates. We illustrate this by giving sharp trace ideal estimates for the double layer potential and for the first and higher commutators of multiplication operators and Calderon-Zygmund operators. In particular, NWO sequences seem well suited for dealing with operators which depend nonlinearly on their symbol. We also show that the class of operators which admit NWO expansions is well behaved under composition, under conjugation by weights, and under conjugation by changes of variable.
Studies of peat as the input to coalification, II. Sampling sites and preliminary fractionation

Abstract Five investigational sites in the Florida Everglades and Okefenokee Swamp have been selected in which the present vegetational cover includes a gymnosperm and various monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous angiosperms, and cores have been obtained that represent complete profiles from surface to underlying inorganic sediment. Since previous methods of fractionating peat were regarded as unsatisfactory for various reasons, a purely mechanical technique has been used in which organized plant tissue is separated from fine-grained humic matter by slurrying the peat samples in an excess of water and passing the slurry through standard 20 and 80 mesh sieves. Microscopic examination confirms that the coarse fraction consists of fragments of tissue and organs, though not all such fragments can be assigned to a specific source plant. Fragments of roots or rhizomes tend to dominate. Peats from sites in the proximity of saline waters have high sulfur contents (3–5%), most of the sulfur being combined with the organic matter. Nitrogen contents are high, most probably due to the presence of abundant amino acids condensed with the insoluble organic matter.
Cut marks on the Bodo cranium: A case of prehistoric defleshing

Cut marks were discovered on the Middle Pleistocene Bodo cranium from Ethiopia. The cut marks most closely resemble experimental damage caused by the application of stone tools to fresh bone. This discovery constitutes the earliest solid evidence for intentional defleshing of a human ancestor and offers new research avenues for the investigation of early hominid mortuary practices.
SU-A-WAB-01: Professional Council Symposium: The Medical Physicist as a Professional Leader - The Importance of Leadership Development

Medical physicists have a unique combination of education and training in physics principles, radiation physics applications in medicine, human anatomy, as well as safety analysis and quality control methods. To be highly effective, we must be leaders in our local practice environments — that is, our professional mission should be to provide professional leadership within our respective institutions. Unfortunately, many medical physicists focus exclusively on their narrow specialty of practice (e.g. imaging physics, radiation oncology physics). Such an approach represents a missed opportunity. Within every institution, whether it has a clinical, research or teaching focus, there are key stakeholders who are not experts in the science of physics in medicine, and many colleagues who rely on medical physicists to provide direction and prioritization of the group's work. An effective medical physicist recognizes that to advance the institution's mission, the medical physicist must join other professional leaders within the institution to provide clear direction and perspective for the entire team. This year's Professional Council Symposium will explore the many facets of professional leadership in medical physics. Dr. Hendee will provide an overview of medical physicists as leaders in our profession, with a focus on our long partnership with our physician colleagues. Dr. Hazle will describe how the medical physicist can have a significant impact on the environment of care in one's institution. Ms. Clements will describe how the medical physicist can influence the professional standards within their institution, even if the medical physicist does not yet possess several decades of experience. Being an effective professional leader is quite different from being an effective manager. The professional leader helps the entire team or institution to recognize the most important topics to focus on and why these topics matter, and provides the entire team with clear direction and support. To be effective as medical physicists, we must learn how to provide leadership to a diverse team of colleagues. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the difference between management and leadership. 2. Understand the importance of professional leadership for medical physicists to be highly effective in their professional mission. 3. Understand some strategies for developing as a professional leader.
A cohort study of cancer risk in relation to family histories of cancer in the Utah population database

BACKGROUND It is well known that genetic variability affects the risk of many cancers, but details of the patterning of inherited cancer risk across different sites and age groups still are not well quantified. METHODS The authors conducted a nested case–control study of the familial risk of 40 cancers based on a cohort of 662,515 individuals from the Utah Population Database. From 1 to 10 controls selected from the cohort were matched individually on gender, birth year, and birthplace to each cancer case; and familial standardized incidence ratios (FSIR) were calculated for both cases and controls. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate relative risks and population-attributable risks (PARs) of cancer in relation to FSIR. Relative risks of cancer in first-degree through fifth-degree relatives of cases, compared with controls, were calculated using the proportional hazards methods. All analyses were adjusted for spouse affection status and Latter Day Saints church affiliation. RESULTS Thirty-five of 40 cancers exhibited positive associations between risk and FSIR, and 21 of those associations were statistically significant. PAR estimates were strikingly high for prostate carcinoma (57%), breast carcinoma (39%), colon carcinoma (32%), lip carcinoma (31%), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (35%), and melanoma (32%). Both the proportion and the number of all cancers attributable to family history peaked at 32% in the group ages 65–84 years and remained high in the group age ≥ 85 years. CONCLUSIONS A substantial portion of cancer risk was attributable to familial factors. The patterns of familial cancer recurrence among distant relatives suggested that simple genetic mechanisms may explain much of the familiality of cancer. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Absolute pressure derivatives of deep level defects in III-V semiconductors

Based on transition metal reference levels, we present absolute pressure derivatives for band-edges in GaAs and InP and defects in GaAs. The defect deformation potentials are directly related to the electron-lattice coupling which drives lattice relaxation around the defects. We find an exceedingly large inward lattice relaxation of the EL2 defect in GaAs upon electron emission.
Synthesis of the hepatocarcinogen N‐methyl‐4‐aminoazobenzene with tritium in the prime ring

The new compound N-methyl-4-nitrosoacetanilide was coupled with aniline-3H (ring-G) in ethanol-acetic acid and the resulting azoamide was hydrolyzed in alkali to give a high yield of N-methyl-4-aminoazobenzene labelled in the prime ring.
Fabrication of Aluminum Nanocomposite by Ultrasonic Spray Deposited Sheet Bonding

Reinforcement with nano-sized particles offers a promising potential to significantly enhance the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of a metal matrix composite (MMC). One of the challenges of synthesizing nanocomposites, however, has been the dispersion and control of the nano-reinforcement materials. In this study, a laminate nanocomposite has been synthesized by incorporating ultrasonic spray deposition technique. An ultrasonic spray deposition system was used to deposit nano-particles on substrate foils, which were consolidated to synthesize a laminate composite. Aluminum 6061 (Al6061) alloy foils were used as the matrix material. Nano-silicon carbide (SiC) particles were used as the reinforcement phase (deposited layer). The sprayed foils were stacked together to form the composite. The composite was then consolidated by hot compaction in the semi-solid regime of the Al6061. A three point bend test was carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties. In addition, the suspension and spraying parameters that control the deposited microstructure was studied to help control the final properties of the deposited structure. The yield and ultimate flexural strength of the SiC sprayed Al6061 laminate composite showed an increase (32% and 15%, respectively) compared with that of the unsprayed sample (reference sample) processed at the same condition.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Axial Compression Properties of Kamaboko

Kamaboko, gelled seafood product from frozen surimi, has distinctive textural properties. Characterization of those properties, using an integrated approach to rheological studies, was accomplished by means of an instrumental texture profile analysis and evaluation of resultant stress-strain relationships. The material had near-ideal are expansion even at compressions of 60% while retaining its highly elastic texture. Apparently the product did not yield through 80% compression. Hardness of the kamaboko at 80% compression was characterized by a local maximum at 37.5 degrees C which may have been related to processing temperature of the initial surimi gel-set used in a double-gel-set procedure. Evaluation of stress-strain relationships confirmed the incompressible nature of the gel and showed relatively slight variations between the Young's modulus and the deformability modulus. The elastic limit of the kamaboko increased significantly as temperature increased from 25 to 50 degrees C.
Diurnal hemostatic changes in the rat.

Abstract Measurements of the bleeding time by two different techniques, platelet concentration, blood coagulation screening tests (aPTT, PT) and antithrombin-activity revealed evidence that the hemostatic mechanism in rats may be under circadian control. Bleeding times were shortened and platelet concentrations were high during the early daytime period and these measurements tended to change respectively during the nighttime. Both aPTT and PT tended to become shorter during the late daytime period with subsequent prolongation at night. There were no significant changes in diurnal antithrombin-activity. Possible implications of these findings with respect to the role of platelets in the hemostatic mechanism of the rat are discussed.
Results after surgical and endovascular treatment of paraclinoid aneurysms by a combined neurovascular team.

OBJECTIVE: Advances in surgical and endovascular techniques have improved treatment for paraclinoid aneurysms. A combined surgical and endovascular team can formulate individualized treatment strategies for patients with paraclinoid aneurysms. Patients who are considered to be at high surgical risk can be treated endovascularly to minimize morbidity. We reviewed the clinical and radiographic outcomes of 238 paraclinoid aneurysms treated by our combined surgical and endovascular unit. METHODS: From 1991 to 1999, the neurovascular team treated 238 paraclinoid aneurysms in 216 patients at the Massachusetts General Hospital. The modality of treatment for each aneurysm was chosen based on anatomic and clinical risk factors, with endovascular treatment offered to patients considered to have higher surgical risks. One hundred eighty aneurysms were treated by direct surgery, 57 were treated by endovascular occlusion, and one was treated by surgical extracranial-intracranial bypass and endovascular internal carotid artery balloon occlusion. Locations were transitional, 12 (5%); carotid cave, 11 (5%); ophthalmic, 131 (55%); posterior carotid wall, 38 (16%); and superior hypophyseal 46 (19%). Lesions contained completely within the cavernous sinus were excluded from this analysis. RESULTS: Using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS), overall clinical outcomes were excellent or good (GOS 5 or 4), 86%; fair (GOS 3), 7%; poor (GOS 2), 4%; and death (GOS 1), 3%. Among the surgically treated patients, 90% experienced excellent or good outcomes (GOS 5 or 4), 6% had fair outcomes (GOS 3), 2% had poor outcomes (GOS 2), and 3% died (GOS 1). Among the endovascularly treated patients, 74% had excellent or good outcomes (GOS 5 or 4), 12% had fair outcomes (GOS 3), 10% had poor outcomes (GOS 2), and 4% died (GOS 1). The overall major and minor complication rate from surgery was 29%, with a 6% surgery-related permanent morbidity rate and a mortality rate of 0%. The overall major and minor complication rate from endovascular treatment was 21%, with a 3% endovascular-related permanent morbidity rate and a 2% mortality rate. Visual outcomes for patients who presented with visual symptoms were as follows: improved, 69%; no change, 25%; worsened, 6%; and new visual deficits, 3%. In general, angiographic efficacy was lower in the endovascular treatment group. CONCLUSION: A combined team approach of direct surgery and endovascular coiling can lead to good outcomes in the treatment for paraclinoid aneurysms, including high-risk lesions that might not have been treated in previous surgical series.
Full vector model for magnetization in sediments

Abstract Sediments provide a continuous record of past geomagnetic field variations. Although it is theoretically possible to get both the direction and intensity of the geomagnetic field from sediment records, the mechanism is not fully understood. Previous workers have postulated that flocculation plays an important role in detrital remanent magnetism (DRM). Flocs are porous, loose and highly fragile aggregates of microscopic clay particles and their behavior in a viscous medium is likely to be different than single particles of magnetic minerals. In order to understand the role of flocculation in sediment magnetization, we carried out a set of redeposition experiments at different field intensities and a quasi-constant field inclination of 45°. We present here a simple numerical model of flocculation, incorporating both magnetic and hydrodynamic torques to explain the experimental data. At small floc sizes DRM acquisition is likely to be non-linear in field strengths comparable to the Earth's, but the sediments may be able to record the directions accurately. With increasing floc sizes sediments may retain a record of the intensity that is linearly related to the applied field or a direction parallel to the applied field, but are unlikely to do both at the same time. Also, the majority of the magnetic particles in the sediments may not be contributing significantly towards the net DRM and any bulk normalizing parameter may be unsuitable if the depositional environment has changed over the depositional period.
The effect of gun control laws on suicide rates

This paper has analyzed a number of gun control laws in different states and found that as a group the laws were significantly correlated with the suicide rates in those states. In other words, strict gun control may have a preventive effect on suicidal behavior, a conclusion supportive of Boyd's view.
Chronic nicotine treatment prevents neuronal loss in neocortex resulting from nucleus basalis lesions in young adult and aged rats

In both young adult and aged rats, we tested the ability of chronically administered nicotine to rescue neocortical neurons from transneuronal degeneration resulting 5 mo after ibotenic acid (IBO) lesioning of the nucleus basalis magnocellularis (NBM). Young adult (2–3 mo-old) and aged (20–22-mo-old) rats were given unilateral infusions of IBO (5 μg/1 μL) at two sites within the NBM. Following surgery, animals began receiving either daily ip injections of nicotine (0.2 mg/kg) or saline vehicle. Treatment continued for 5 mo, at which time all animals were sacrificed and their brains processed histologically. For each brain, computer-assisted image analysis was then used to analyze the unlesioned (left) and lesioned (right) side of five nonconsecutive brain sections from parietal cortex Layers II–IV and V. NBM lesioning in both young adult and aged vehicle-treated rats resulted in a significant 16–21% neuronal loss ipsilateral to NBM lesioning in neocortical Layers II–IV. Aged NBM-lesioned rats also exhibited a significant 12% neuronal loss in neocortical Layer V ipsilaterally. By contrast, those NBM-lesioned young adult and aged rats that received daily nicotine treatment postsurgery did not show any ipsilateral neuronal loss in the same parietal cortex areas, indicating that chronic nicotine treatment prevented the transneuronal degeneration of neocortical neurons resulting 5 mo afer NBM lesioning. Nicotine treatment alone did not have any effect on neuronal density, neuronal size, or glial cell numbers in the neocortex. The neuroprotective/neurotrophic action of nicotine in the neocortex following NBM lesions may involve activation of pre- and/or postsynaptic nicotinic receptors to maintain depolarizing influences or neurotrophin synthesis, or it may involve nicotine’s ability to increase glucose utilization and cerebral blood flow.