cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An alternative molecular mechanism of action of 5-fluorouracil, a potent anticancer drug

It is assumed that the primary mode of action of 5-fluorouracil (5-FUra) is mediated via inhibition of thymidylate synthetase. Persistent inhibition of cellular proliferation after treatment of the 5-FUra-inhibited cells with exogenous thymidine do not support the notion that the anti-proliferitive action of 5-FUra is due exclusively to inhibition of DNA replication. Our studies have revealed an alternative mechanism of action at the level of pre-ribosomal RNA (pre-rRNA) processing. Pre-rRNA processing was inhibited completely in vitro as well as in S-100 extract from the mouse lymphosarcoma P1798 cells that were treated with 5-FUra. Under this condition, the 5-FUra-substituted pre-rRNA substrate was processed efficiently at the primary processing site. This study showed that the activity and/or the synthesis of a factor potentially involved in pre-rRNA processing is blocked in cells treated with the fluoropyrimidine. UV-cross-linking study showed that a 200 kDa polypeptide designated ribosomal RNA binding protein (RRBP) was absent in the S-100 extract from the drug-treated mouse lymphosarcoma cells. Since a polypeptide that cross-links to a processing site on RNA is usually involved in the RNA processing, RRBP may have a direct role in pre-rRNA processing. A key molecular mechanism far the antiproliferative action of 5-FUra may be due to its interference with the activity and/or synthesis of RRBP. Exposure of cells to 5-FUra did not inhibit the interaction between U3 small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) and pre-rRNA at the primary processing site (a key step in the processing reaction) and the formation of U3 small nucleolar ribonucleoprotein (snoRNP). Treatment of cells with the fluoropyrimidine did not block the 3' end processing of pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA). This article also discusses the effects of 5-FUra on pre-mRNA splicing and mRNA translation, and proposes other avenues of research to explore further the mechanism of action of this important pyrimidine analog.
On a novel critically-sampled discrete-time real Gabor transform

Abstract In the generalized discrete-time Gabor transform (DTGT), localization of both the dual sequences is not possible at critical sampling. A novel DTGT is defined for real signals and real symmetric synthesis and analysis sequences. It allows small length dual sequences even at critical sampling. The novel DTGT is similar to a modulated lapped transform or a perfect reconstruction cosine-modulated filter bank structure. The novel DTGT is derived and a method to compute the analysis (synthesis) sequence given the synthesis (analysis) sequence is presented. We computed the dual sequences for various popular windows to demonstrate that they have finite lengths, or can be well-approximated by sequences of finite length. We validated the dual sequences by reconstructing a sequence of normally distributed random numbers and demonstrating low mean-square-error in reconstruction. Based on the results, we make some recommendations on the choice of analysis window or filter.
How to utilize compression after sclerotherapy.

background. Although much has been published on the effects of compression on the venous system in patients with venous ulcers, relatively few studies address compression following sclerotherapy of telangiectatic webs associated with reticular veins. objective. To describe my method for using compression after sclerotherapy treatment of varicose and telangiectatic leg veins. methods. Review of my techniques and the rational for compression. conclusion. I believe that compression after sclerotherapy is beneficial.
Dynamics of a pair of vortices in a rectangle

Abstract The dynamics of a pair of point vortices of opposite signs in a rectangular domain is investigated in the whole range of energies. This simplest nonintegrable system reflects important features of different vortex flows: Benard convection, Gortler vortices, flow in a cavity etc. In contrast to an approximate “cloud-in-cell” method that has been used for many vortices, the exact equations of motion for an arbitrary system of point vortices in a rectangle are derived and applied to the particular case of a pair of vortices. Patterns of periodic, quasiperiodic, chaotic and billiards-type motions are revealed for generic cases and two limiting cases: two close vortices (near-dipole) and a vortex close to the boundary. New criteria of ergodicity are introduced, and it is found that some chaotic motions are close to, in some sense, ergodic ones.
Effect of hypoxia on arterial baroreflex control of heart rate and muscle sympathetic nerve activity in humans

We tested the hypothesis that acute hypoxia would alter the sensitivity of arterial baroreflex control of both heart rate and sympathetic vasoconstrictor outflow. In 16 healthy, nonsmoking, normote...
THE IMPACT OF RACIALLY INCLUSIVE SCHOOLING ON ADULT INCARCERATION RATES AMONG U.S. COHORTS OF AFRICAN AMERICANS AND WHITES SINCE 1930

Despite the substantial body of research on the psychological and social effects of racial segregation in schools on African Americans, few studies have considered the possibility that more racially inclusive schools might reduce the risk of extremely negative adult life experiences such as incarceration. Yet such a connection is made plausible by research linking black racial isolation in schools to variables that are often associated with incarceration rates, including concentrated poverty, and low educational and occupational aspirations and attainment. In this paper, we apply methods first developed by labor economists to assess the impact of racial inclusiveness in schools on individual incarceration rates for 5-year cohorts of African Americans and whites born since 1930. We find strong support for the conclusion that blacks educated in states where a higher proportion of their classmates were white experienced significantly lower incarceration rates as adults. Moreover, our analysis suggests that the effects of racial inclusiveness on black incarceration rates have grown stronger over time. These longitudinal effects are consistent with the argument that the educational climate of predominantly black schools has deteriorated in more recent decades.
A new medium-voltage energy storage converter topology with medium-frequency transformer isolation

In this paper, a new medium-voltage energy storage converter topology with medium-frequency-link transformer isolation is introduced. A medium-voltage (MV) medium frequency (MF) transformer is realized along with several series connected AC-AC full-bridge converters with bi-directional switches. The AC-AC converters transform the low-frequency (50/60 Hz) AC utility voltage into MF (0.4 to 2 kHz) AC voltage by modulating the utility input with MF square wave. The series stacked AC-AC converters share equal voltages, enabling the usage of lower voltage rated IGBTs/MOSFETs. The 3-phase voltage at the secondary winding of the MF transformer is fed to a three-phase Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) rectifier to enable bi-directional power flow. The rectifier output is filtered and interfaced with the energy storage devices. The rectifier gating signals can be generated using hysteresis or PI control of 3-phase transformer currents, forcing the currents to be of the same shape as the transformer voltages. It is shown that the system input currents as well as the battery current are of good quality and at the same time, the transformer voltages are of medium frequency. Overall, the proposed energy storage converter topology results in smaller weight/volume and at the same time, provides unity power factor sinusoidal input currents. Simulation results along with preliminary experimental waveforms are shown to validate the concept.
A Framework for Management of Semistructured Probabilistic Data

This paper describes the theoretical framework and implementation of a database management system for storing and manipulating diverse probability distributions of discrete random variables with finite domains, and associated information. A formal Semistructured Probabilistic Object (SPO) data model and a Semistructured Probabilistic Query Algebra (SP-algebra) are proposed. The SP-algebra supports standard database queries as well as some specific to probabilities, such as conditionalization and marginalization. Thus, the Semistructured Probabilistic Database may be used as a backend to any application that involves the management of large quantities of probabilistic information, such as building stochastic models. The implementation uses XML encoding of SPOs to facilitate communication with diverse applications. The database management system has been implemented on top of a relational DBMS. The translation of SP-algebra queries into relational queries are discussed here, and the results of initial experiments evaluating the system are reported.
PI3-kinase and TOR: PIKTORing cell growth

Regulation of growth and proliferation in higher eukaryotic cells results from an integration of nutritional, energy, and mitogenic signals. Biochemical processes underlying cell growth and proliferation are governed by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathways. The importance of the interplay between these two pathways is underscored by the discovery that the TOR inhibitor rapamycin is effective against tumors caused by misregulation of the PI3K pathway. We review here recent data concerning the convergence of the PI3K and TOR pathways, the role of these pathways in cell growth and proliferation, and the regulation of growth by downstream TOR targets.
Estrogen receptor expression in a human primitive neuroectodermal tumor cell line from the cerebral cortex: estrogen stimulates rapid ERK1/2 activation and receptor-dependent cell migration

Primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs) are the most common form of pediatric brain tumor. Most often these malignant childhood brain tumors arise from neuroepithelial precursor cells in the cerebellum, and less frequently in the cerebral cortex. Because the normal PNET precursor cells from the cerebrum and cerebellum transiently express high levels of estrogen receptors (ERs), we hypothesized that the PNET cells of the cerebrocortical-derived cell line PFSK1 may also express ERs and would be responsive to estrogen. Results of immunoblot studies using ER-specific antiserum indicate that both ERalpha and ERbeta are expressed in PFSK1 cells. The ability of estrogen to rapidly activate MAPK signaling was tested; low physiological concentrations of E(2) stimulated ERK1/2 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation within 15min of exposure. Exogenously added 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) could not stimulate PFSK1 growth, however E(2) significantly increased PFSK1 cell migration, suggesting that rapid actions of E(2) and ER-mediated processes might contribute to the metastatic phenotype of some PNETs.
Plasma concentrations of vitamin D3 and its metabolites in the rat as influenced by vitamin D3 or 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 intakes.

Abstract Rats were dosed orally for 14 days with 0.65, 6.5, 65, 650, or 6500 nmol/day vitamin D 3 or 0.46, 4.6, 46, 460, or 4600 nmol/day 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 and examined for morbidity, weight loss, plasma phosphorus, and plasma calcium concentration. Vitamin D intoxication was produced, as indicated by hypercalcemia, by 650 nmol/day vitamin D 3 and 4600 nmol/day 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 ; 6500 nmol/day vitamin D 3 caused hypercalcemia and death. For all groups of rats, plasma concentrations of vitamin D 3 , 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 , 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 -26,23-lactone, 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 , 25,26-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 , and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 were determined by a multiple assay procedure. The following changes in plasma concentrations of these metabolites occurred as the dose level of vitamin D 3 was increased from 0.65 to 650 nmol/day: vitamin D 3 , 11.3 to 1339 ng/ml; 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 , 2.3 to 643 ng/ml; 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 -26,23-lactone, 3 , 0.56 to 73.5 ng/ml; 25,26-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 , 3 , 80 to 51 pg/ml. The following changes in plasma concentrations of these metabolites occurred as the dose level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 increased from 0.46 to 4600 nmol/day: vitamin D 3 , undetectable; 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 , 6.2 to 688 ng/ml; 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 -26,23-lactone, 0.31 to 110 ng/ml; 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 , 2.29 to 214 ng/ml; 25,26-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 , 3 , 187 to 22 pg/ml. Based on plasma concentrations and relative effectiveness of interaction with the vitamin D receptor protein of in vitro bone and intestinal systems, 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 could be the cause of the vitamin D toxicity, although other unmeasured metabolites of vitamin D 3 cannot be ruled out. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D 3 -26,23-lactone is of interest because it shows the greatest relative increase of all the vitamin D 3 metabolites in plasma with increasing dose of vitamin D. Based on relative ultraviolet absorption and rat plasma transport protein binding assay, the lactone has about fourfold the affinity of 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 or 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 for the rat plasma binding protein.
The Effect of R&D Investments on Market Value of Firms: Evidence from the U.S., Germany, and Japan

This paper examines the effect of RD the market places a significant and positive value on RD and there are notable differences among the three nations with respect to several other variables. The overall evidence lends little support to the corporate myopia view on U.S. firms.
Tunable refraction in superlattice photonic crystals

The refraction properties of photonic crystal lattices offers methods to control the beam steering of light through use of non-linear dispersion contours. In this paper new photonic crystal structures, such as the square and triangular superlattices, that provide novel refractive properties are analyzed. The property difference between rows in these structures is the hole radius Δr. The difference in hole sizes leads to observation of the superlattice effect, that is, a change in the refractive index Δ n between opposite rows of holes. The index difference becomes a function of the size of the smaller r 2 hole area or volume due to the addition of the higher index background material compared to the larger r 1 holes. The difference in hole radii Δr = r 1 - r 2 is referred to as the static superlattice strength and is designated by the ratio of r 2 /r 1 . The superlattice strength increases as the ratio of r 2 /r 1 decreases. The hole size modulation creates modified dispersion contours that can be used to fabricate advanced beam steering devices through the introduction of electro-optical materials and a controlled bias. A discussion of these superlattice structures and their optical properties will be covered, followed by both static and dynamic tunable device constructions utilizing these designs. Also, static tuning of the devices through the use of atomic layer deposition, as well as active tuning methods utilizing liquid crystal (LC) infiltration, sealed LC cells, and the addition of electro-optic material will be discussed.
Multiple intracerebral arteriovenous malformations: report of three cases and review of the literature.

Abstract Multiple intracerebral arteriovenous malformations are thought to be exceedingly rare lesions and have usually been reported as single cases. During the past 2 years, we have treated three patients with multiple cerebral arterio-venous malformations, representing 3.2% of a consecutive series of 95 arteriovenous malformation patients seen since 1976. Details on 17 other cases are available in the literature and are summarized here. The incidence of multiple arteriovenous malformations in major series ranges from 0.3% to 3.2%; the average incidence is 1.9% based on 21 cases encountered in a total population of 1102 arteriovenous malformation patients. Patients with multiple arteriovenous malformations often have other vascular anomalies of the brain or soft tissues, but the clinical mode of presentation, age, sex, and anatomical distribution of the lesions are the same as those of patients with single arteriovenous malformations. The use of four-vessel angiography in combination with magnetic resonance imaging may result in a higher detection rate for such cases.
The contribution of attentional lapses to individual differences in visual working memory capacity

Attentional control and working memory capacity are important cognitive abilities that substantially vary between individuals. Although much is known about how attentional control and working memory capacity relate to each other and to constructs like fluid intelligence, little is known about how trial-by-trial fluctuations in attentional engagement impact trial-by-trial working memory performance. Here, we employ a novel whole-report memory task that allowed us to distinguish between varying levels of attentional engagement in humans performing a working memory task. By characterizing low-performance trials, we can distinguish between models in which working memory performance failures are caused by either 1 complete lapses of attention or 2 variations in attentional control. We found that performance failures increase with set-size and strongly predict working memory capacity. Performance variability was best modeled by an attentional control model of attention, not a lapse model. We examined neural signatures of performance failures by measuring EEG activity while participants performed the whole-report task. The number of items correctly recalled in the memory task was predicted by frontal theta power, with decreased frontal theta power associated with poor performance on the task. In addition, we found that poor performance was not explained by failures of sensory encoding; the P1/N1 response and ocular artifact rates were equivalent for high-and low-performance trials. In all, we propose that attentional lapses alone cannot explain individual differences in working memory performance. Instead, we find that graded fluctuations in attentional control better explain the trial-by-trial differences in working memory that we observe.
Endoscopic ultrasound characteristics of mucinous cystic neoplasms of the pancreas

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Mucinous cystic neoplasms of the pancreas have a more favorable prognosis than ductal adenocarcinoma. Management of a subgroup, intraductal papillary-mucinous neoplasms, is controversial. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with fine-needle aspiration biopsy may emerge as the imaging modality of choice. There are few studies describing the EUS features of these tumors. METHODS: A total of 35 consecutive cases of cystic tumors of the pancreas with an established pathological diagnosis were analyzed for characteristic EUS features. RESULTS: Mucinous cystadenocarcinomas (n = 14) were more likely to be characterized by hypoechoic cystic/solid mass or complex cyst and were frequently associated with a dilated main pancreatic duct. Benign mucinous duct ectasia (n = 6) were characterized by a dilated main pancreatic duct in conjunction with hyperechoic thickening of the duct wall. The two cases of intraductal mucinous hyperplasia additionally showed a hypoechoic mass. Intraductal papillary carcinoma (n = 11) had features in common with mucinous cystadenocarcinoma but also had echogenic foci in the mass and intraductal hyperechoic lesions. The two cases of microcystic cystadenoma showed either a mixed hypoechoic solid/cystic mass or a complex cyst without the additional features seen in mucinous cystadenocarcinoma. CONCLUSIONS: EUS features seem to exist that may help to differentiate cystic neoplasms from adenocarcinoma of the pancreas and, thus, to establish the preoperative diagnosis of cystic tumors of the pancreas.
The q -log-concavity of q -binomial coefficients

Abstract The number [ n k ] q of k -dimensional subspaces of an n -dimensional vector space over the field with q elements is a polynomial in q with nonnegative coefficients. We establish that [ n k ] q , 0 ⩽ k ⩽ n , is a log-concave sequence of polynomials. That is, the polynomial [ n k ] q 2 −[ n k−1 ] q [ n k+1 ] q has nonnegative coefficients for 0 k n . Our proof is simple and combinatorial. Our result generalizes the easily seen fact that [ n k ] q , 0 ⩽ k ⩽ n , is a log-concave sequence of numbers when q ⩾ 0, and it strengthens our two year old observation that the polynomial [ n k ] q 2 −q[ n k−1 ] q [ n k+1 ] q has nonnegative coefficients for 0 k n . We discuss related results and questions.
Sounds pretty ethnic, eh?: A pragmatic particle in New Zealand English

A social dialect survey of a working-class suburb in New Zealand provides evidence that eh, a tag particle that is much stereotyped but evaluated negatively in NZ English, may persist in casual speech because it plays an important role as a positive politeness marker. It is used noticeably more by Maori men than by Maori women or Pakehas (British/European New Zealanders), and may function as an in-group signal of ethnic identity for these speakers. Young Pakeha women, though, seem to be the next highest users of eh. It is unlikely that they are using it to signal in-group identity in the same way; instead, it is possible that they are responding to its interpersonal and affiliative functions for Maori men, and are adopting it as a new facet in their repertoire of positive politeness markers. (Gender, ethnicity, politeness, New Zealand English, intergroup and interpersonal communication)
Effects of cell loss on MPEG video: analytical modeling and empirical validation

MPEG-encoded variable bit rate (VBR) video traffic is expected to incur cell losses during its transmission over a broadband network. These cell losses introduce distortion into the received video. Frame drop rate and root mean square error (RMSE) can be used to objectively measure this distortion. These two metrics are useful in identifying the threshold cell loss rate (CLR) beyond which the quality of received video is unacceptable to viewers. Thus, they are useful in identifying CLRs to be used in evaluating VBR video traffic models. A novel analytical model is developed for predicting both frame drop rate and RMSE as a function of (i) uniform cell loss rate and (ii) MPEG encoding parameters. The model is validated by an empirical study using an actual MPEG video.
Studies of the Stability of 18 Chemical Constituents of Human Serum

The stability of 18 chemical constituents of human serum was measured at various times and temperatures, the measurements being made with the Technicon AutoAnalyzer, by routine N-methods (Technicon laboratory method file number). Data are presented illustrating what happens to human serum under defined conditions of collection and storage. Analysis of the data indicates that under certain conditions the concentration or enzymatic activity of certain constituents may be significantly altered.
Molecular evidence of Helicobacter cinaedi organisms in human gastric biopsy specimens.

One hundred twenty-six urease-negative gastric biopsy specimens were evaluated for the presence of Helicobacter genus-specific 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and H. pylori-specific glmM DNA sequences by PCR. The species specificity of the glmM PCR assay was demonstrated, as H. pylori was the only Helicobacter species that yielded the expected glmM amplicon. Most urease-negative specimens (118 of 126 specimens) lacked Helicobacter DNA. However, 8 of 126 urease-negative specimens contained Helicobacter 16S rDNA. In order to identify the Helicobacter species present in urease-negative gastric biopsy specimens, 16S rDNA amplicons were cloned and sequenced. Sequence comparisons were performed by analyses of the sequences in public sequence databases. Two samples contained 16S rDNA that was identified as H. cinaedi with 100% identity and that spanned approximately 400 bp (398 and 398 bp, respectively). In contrast, multiple differences (97% identity; 390 of 398 bp) were observed with H. pylori 16S rDNA in this region. This finding was verified by sequencing an overlapping 537-bp fragment within the 5' portion of 16S rDNA. Although the clinical findings were consistent with H. pylori infection (e.g., duodenal ulcer disease), rapid urease testing and DNA sequence analyses suggested the presence of H. cinaedi organisms and the absence of H. pylori in two human antral biopsy specimens. This study represents the first report of an enteric urease-negative helicobacter in the human stomach. Although these organisms were previously associated with extragastric infections, the roles of these organisms in the pathogenesis of chronic gastritis or peptic ulcer disease remain unclear.
Extrapyramidal reactions: Neuropsychiatric mimics in patients with AIDs

The use of neuroleptic medication as antiemetics, or in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders in patients with AIDS, may be associated with extrapyramidal side effects and lead to difficulty with diagnosis and management. Two cases are presented that describe severe extrapyramidal syndromes occurring in two patients with AIDS, one treated with prochlorperazine and the other with prochlorperazine and metoclopropramide. It is possible that the neuropathologic lesions found in patients with the AIDS dementia complex may pre-dispose to extrapyramidal side effects of neuroleptic medication. The differential diagnosis and treatment of delirium, dementia, depression, and extrapyramidal reactions in patients with AIDS is discussed.
Neutrino factory - ionization cooling, emittance exchange, and /spl nu/ superbeam at BNL?

Muon collider, neutrino factory and/or a neutrino superbeam are interesting and needed to provide a probe for fundamental particle physics. In our collabortion studies we have realized some important issues needed before building a collider (cost, cooling demonstration, radiation, etc). Muon cooling is a key factor in design of muon collider, (to a less degree) muon storage ring, and neutrino factory. We present a brief overview on cooling and beam emittance dynamics, and discuss future neutrino superbeam possiblities at BNL (to be further explored at Snowmass2001).
Effect of Cane Final Molasses on Certain Cations in the Serum and Bones of Chicks

Abstract THE principal by-product of cane sugar production is final, or blackstrap, molasses. The annual production of this rich source of carbohydrates in areas supplying the United States is approximately 2.5 million tons (Rubenstone, 1953). Most of this molasses was used formerly in the production of industrial alcohol, but the expanding use of petroleum for alcohol production is eliminating this market. Thus, more molasses will be available as a carbohydrate feedstuff. Scott (1953) has reviewed many of the studies in which molasses was fed to poultry, cattle, and swine. Although molasses will vary in ash content, a typical sample of Hawaiian molasses contains about 12 percent ash (Kenda, 1952). This ash contains large amounts of potassium (38 percent analyzed as K2O) and magnesium (6.5 percent analyzed as MgO). It is generally believed these cations have a cathartic effect on livestock and poultry. As reviewed by Eenn (1940) and discussed by Heilbrunn …
Role of growth hormone and dietary adaptation on incorporation of leucine into a mitochondrial protein.

SummaryIsolated mitochondria from animals previously treated with growth hormone incorporated more amino acid into protein when succinate was substrate. In the presence of β-hydroxybutyrate and octanoate the mitochondria from fat-adapted animals incorporated amino acid at a greater rate than mitochondria from carbohydrate-fed ones. In this latter study, growth hormone enhanced incorporation rate only in mitochondria from animals fed a high carbohydrate ration.
Characterization of Relaxin Receptor (RXFP1) Desensitization and Internalization in Primary Human Decidual Cells and RXFP1-Transfected HEK293 Cells

We report here the desensitization and internalization of the relaxin receptor (RXFP1) after agonist activation in both primary human decidual cells and HEK293 cells stably transfected with RXFP1. The importance of β-arrestin 2 in these processes has also been demonstrated. Thus, in HEK-RXFP1 cells the desensitization of RXFP1 was significantly increased when β-arrestin 2 was overexpressed. After relaxin activation, β-arrestin 2 was translocated to the cell membrane and RXFP1 underwent rapid internalization. We have previously shown that RXFP1 forms dimers/oligomers during its biosynthesis and trafficking to the plasma membrane, we now show that internalization of RXFP1 occurs through this dimerization/oligomerization. In nonagonist stimulated cells, it is known that the majority of the RXFP1 is located intracellularly and was confirmed in the cells used here. Constitutive internalization of RXFP1 could account for this and indeed, slow but robust constitutive internalization, which was increased after ag...
The measurement assurance concept in calibration and traceability at NBS/NIST

During the last quarter of the twentieth century, The United States National Bureau of Standards (NBS), later the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), introduced a measurement quality control concept called ”measurement assurance,” and developed measurement assurance programs, or MAPs, for high-level calibration processes. The measurement assurance approach has, over time, become increasingly popular in the metrology community, and in recent years has become well accepted both inside and, to some extent, outside the United States as a rigorous way to ensure the quality of calibrations. The concept has also found application in defining traceability to national standards. This paper traces the history of the measurement assurance concept.
The Temporal Characteristics Of The Acoustic Signal Created By Turgulent Blood Flow In Occluded Coronary Arteries

An acoustic method to noninvasively diagnose coronary artery disease was used to differentiate between pre- and post- angioplasty patients. Signal processing included the use of an analysis window which isolated segments of diastole when sounds associated with coronary occlusions are maximal, and a power spectral density function estimated by autoregressive modelling. Using a seven weight model and a resonant accelerometer microphone, diagnostic information was provided by the spectral energy contained in a high frequency (400-800Hz) spectral peak (P2). Analysis windows were shifted over a range of diastolic segments to determine the relationship between P2 magnitude and window position (time). It was determined that P2 variation within a patient gives rise to a temporal relationship similar to that of the left coronary artery blood flow profile.
Social security pensionable ages in OECD countries: 1949‐2035

This paper examines the pensionable or early retirement age in social security in 23 OECD countries over the years 1949-2035. The policies for future years are those in current law, with some not being fully effective until 2035. The paper documents a pattern of decreasing pensionable ages that reversed in the 1990s, with many countries raising pensionable ages since the beginning of that decade, though generally with future effective dates. Pensionable-age policy provides insight into broader issues in social policy, such as whether social policies across countries have converged over time. The paper also examines the time pattern in the movement toward gender equality in social programmes.
Behavioral marital bibliotherapy: An initial investigation of therapeutic efficacy

Abstract The present study reports an attempt to validate a self-help behavioral marital bibliotherapy program. Five clinical distressed couples were evaluated via a multiple baseline analysis. Dependent measures included both pre-post and continuous forms of assessment. Treatment involved the weekly introduction of both reading and exercise material. Topics included communications, problem solving, sexual dysfunction, maintaining relationship gains, etc. With the exception of a decrease in laboratory-assessed negative behaviors, results were highly variable and generally reflective of minimal change. These findings were discussed with regard to measurement failure, manipulation of the independent variable, and continued examination of marital self-help materials.
Preparation of students through asynchronously administered web-based testing in physical electronic circuits labs

Student performance in electrical engineering labs can vary depending on their prior competencies and knowledge of the basic concepts of the lab, motivation, and expectations. There are indications that students are often not prepared to perform physical electronic labs. There are usually insufficient resources available for students to learn how to perform routine lab procedures, self correct misconceptions, and evaluate their preparedness for labs. A study at Vanderbilt University explored the potential of asynchronously administered web-based pre-lab testing in electronic labs to determine if learning technology can be used to prepare engineering students for labs. Statistics on conceptual deficiencies in individual students and the class were measured. This paper presents quantitative results that show positive outcomes in students' self-correction of misconceptions and improvement in their preparedness to carry out labs. Also presented are student and instructor evaluations on the web-based method of preparing students for physical electronic circuits labs
Spatial prediction of corn rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) adult emergence in Iowa cornfields.

The most common management options for corn rootworms are rotating corn with nonhost crops, planting genetically engineered corn resistant to corn rootworms (e.g., Bacillus thuringiensis [Bt] corn), and treating with a soil insecticide at planting time. Because these control tactics are preventive, the decision to apply controls has been made without any knowledge of rootworm density and spatial distribution. This study was conducted to predict the spatial distribution of adult emergence and to generate and test management zones for insecticides and Bt corn. To identify variables that correlated best with adult emergence the following year, plant height, plant stage, soil moisture, altitude, and corn rootworm adults were sampled spatially and temporally. Correlation and regression analyses showed that the best prediction for the adult emergence the following year was adult counts in the ear zone at peak population densities during the present year. Based on the prediction, geostatistics and the geographic information system were used to generate and test prescription maps with management zones for insecticides and Bt corn. Map-overlaying analysis showed that management zones for insecticides based on the economic injury level and Bt corn with 20% refuge had potential failure of 3–15% and 0–12% of field areas, respectively. This study demonstrated the spatial prediction of adult emergence the following year and generation of management zones, which has the potential of preventative, site-specific management of corn rootworms.
The Relative Contributions of Experiential Avoidance and Distress Tolerance to OC Symptoms.

Background: Obsessive beliefs account for substantial (but not all) obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms. Intolerance of internal experiences (IIE), which encompasses the constructs of experiential avoidance (EA) and distress tolerance (DT), refers to difficulty managing unwanted thoughts, emotions, and other internal states, and might add to current explanatory models. Although IIE appears to be conceptually relevant to obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms, scant research has examined this relationship empirically. Aim: The present study examined the relative contributions of EA and DT as predictors of OC symptom dimensions. Method: A nonclinical sample ( n = 496) completed self-report questionnaires measuring general distress, EA, DT and OC symptom dimensions. Results: All variables of interest were significantly (all p s ≤ .001) correlated with one another, such that higher general distress, higher EA, and lower DT were associated with greater OC symptom severity for all symptom dimensions; however, only EA independently predicted obsessional symptoms, but not other OC symptom dimensions. Conclusions: One's willingness to endure (i.e. EA), rather than their ability to tolerate (i.e. DT) unpleasant internal experiences best predicts obsessional symptoms (i.e. obsessing) above and beyond general distress. Potential implications for understanding, assessing, and treating OC symptoms are discussed.
Rhetoric and Relevance in Technical Writing

As a concept of rhetoric in technical writing, relevance involves an awareness of time. The report deals with the past; the manual, with the present; the proposal, with the future. To be considered...
EUV spectroscopy of tin-doped laser plasma source

Detailed spectroscopic studies on extreme ultra violet (EUV) emission from tin-doped droplet laser plasmas were completed using a combination of spectroscopic instruments that allow for quantitative spectroscopy throughout the radiation region of 5-550 nm.
Severe hypermagnesemia after enteral administration of Epsom salts.

Traditionally, Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) has been used topically (for example, for sprains and hemorrhoids) or orally as a cathartic. Hypermagnesemia is a rare but potentially fatal complication of Epsom salt use.[1][1]–[3][2] This is most commonly seen with renal insufficiency, as magnesium
A semi-empirical model for electron mobility at the SiC/SiO2 interface

The mobility of electrons in inversion layers at SiC/SiO2 interfaces µinv has been characterized in 4H- and 6H-SiC using Hall effect measurements. In order to understand the cause of the low mobilities typically observed in SiC MOS devices, a semi-empirical mobility model has been developed based on a previous model for silicon inversion layers. Using this model, two scattering mechanisms, surface phonon and Coulomb scattering from high densities of electrons trapped at the SiC/SiO2 interface, are found to account reasonably well for the behavior of the mobility. The model employs a changing density of trapped electrons as a function of gate voltage to accurately model Coulomb scattering. Surprisingly, evidence of surface roughness scattering is not observed in any SiC MOS device.
Shell Shock, Memory, and the Novel in the Wake of World War I

Shell Shock, Memory, and the Novel in the Wake of World War I explores the narrative traces, subaltern faces, and commemorative spaces of shell shock in wartime and postwar novels by Mulk Raj Anand, Ford Madox Ford, Mary A. Ward, George Washington Lee, Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Christopher Isherwood. This book argues that World War I novels serve as an untapped source of information about shell shock, and renews our present understanding of the condition by exploring the nexus of shell shock and practices of commemoration. Shell shock novelists testify to the tenaciousness and complexity of the disorder, write survivors into visibility, and articulate the immediacy of wounds that remain to be seen. This book helps readers understand more fully the extent to which shell shock continues to shape and trouble modern memories of the First World War.
A Psycho-Spiritual Approach in Promoting Success in the Nurse Licensure Examination through Determined Mind-Success (DMS) Tool

The study focused on the development and implementation of a Determined Mind-Success (DMS) Tool, a psycho-spiritual approach to promote the success of nursing graduates in the Nurse Licensure Examination (NLE). The tool consisted of a questionnaire, and a set of modules. Mixed method was employed in the study. The initial draft of the DMS Tool was floated to a group of nursing students in a private school. After incorporating the corrections made by experts, the final draft was further reviewed by the deans of seven nursing schools and authorities of three government agencies, namely: the Board of Nursing, Professional Regulation Commission and Commission on Higher Education for content validation. After incorporating their suggestions, the DMS Tool was pilot tested at a certain private school which revealed from moderate to high reliability. After establishing such reliability, the same tool went through standardization which was administered to seven nursing schools, namely: the National Capital Region, St. Louis University in Baguio, Cebu Normal University, University of Cebu, Xavier University, Liceo de Cagayan University and San Pedro College, Davao City. The final instrument is a set of DMS Modules consisting of nine components, four of which are related to having a determined mind, namely: motivation, focus, decisiveness, and courage. The success components included self-confidence, productivity, hardwork, passion and faith. The DMS Modules utilizing psycho-spiritual approach were formulated to develop and enrich further the psycho-spiritual values of nursing students. The modules were implemented to an experimental group for two months in a private school. The posttest using ANCOVA revealed significant results. The study points to the potential of the DMS tool to help students develop values that will motivate them to accomplish their goals and succeed in life.
Esophagostomy for feeding.

In this brief but well documented report the author summarizes the clinical conditions in which bypass feeding has been needed and describes one complication of the procedure.
Homotopic Continuation Methods for the Design of Optimal Fixed-Form Dynamic Controllers

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the application of homotopy methods to control design problems. Here we consider the problem of quadratically optimal fixed-order dynamic compensation approached via solution of the Optimal Projection design equations. We review recent results wherein a convergent homotopy solution method is devised for this problem. Illustrative numerical results are given for a widely studied example.
Extended surface for membrane association in Zika virus NS1 structure

The Zika virus, which has been implicated in an increase in neonatal microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome, has spread rapidly through tropical regions of the world. The virulence protein NS1 functions in genome replication and host immune-system modulation. Here, we report the crystal structure of full-length Zika virus NS1, revealing an elongated hydrophobic surface for membrane association and a polar surface that varies substantially among flaviviruses.
Digital badge adoption: earner's perceived educational value

Digital badges are simple tools that have the potential to change the current system of credentialing, creating methods to recognize diverse learning pathways and offer opportunities for both learners and the institutions or entities that offer them. The digital badge movement is still very new, yet is growing as a method to document and communicate what an individual knows or can do. Digital badges highlight skills of the earner, who then displays the badge for someone to view, and can validate anything from mastering a skill to completion of a certain course or documenting the acquirement of a special professional experience. Digital badges have high potential to drive growth for entities that sell education as they have powerful visual potential through the badge itself and that they be displayed across multiple digital sites to large audiences such as LinkedIn. An earner’s motivation to participate in courses that offer digital badges and display the badge earned can drive growth for entities offering those courses or events. Current formal knowledge and skill achievement programs with recognition for degrees via a paper certificate exists through colleges, universities and some type of job related programs for those outside of school such as a Professional Project Manager certification. The output of these offerings is to get a diploma or certificate which can be displayed in a frame and/or with a line item on a resume recognizing the achievement. So if the earner valued these certificates, they either place the certificate in a frame or display it for all to see; they would add the certification as line item to their resume to share with potential employers; or if applicable, so note them on some other type of shareable medium such as a business card. This is true as well for many companies, businesses or formal certification programs outside of the official education model. Due to the growth of technology, the Internet, social media and portable electronic devices that are with
Ligand-accelerated enantioselective methylene C(sp3)–H bond activation

Effective differentiation of prochiral carbon–hydrogen (C–H) bonds on a single methylene carbon via asymmetric metal insertion remains a challenge. Here, we report the discovery of chiral acetyl-protected aminoethyl quinoline ligands that enable asymmetric palladium insertion into prochiral C–H bonds on a single methylene carbon center. We apply these palladium complexes to catalytic enantioselective functionalization of β-methylene C–H bonds in aliphatic amides. Using bidentate ligands to accelerate C–H activation of otherwise unreactive monodentate substrates is crucial for outcompeting the background reaction driven by substrate-directed cyclopalladation, thereby avoiding erosion of enantioselectivity. The potential of ligand acceleration in C–H activation is also demonstrated by enantioselective β-C–H arylation of simple carboxylic acids without installing directing groups.
An alternative explicit and unconditionally stable time-domain finite-element method for analyzing general lossy electromagnetic problems

A new method for making an explicit time-domain finite-element method unconditionally stable is developed for general electromagnetic analysis, where the dielectrics and conductors can be inhomogeneous, lossless, and lossy. In this method, for a given time step, we find the unstable modes that are the root cause of instability, and deduct them directly from the system matrix resulting from a time-domain finite-element based analysis. The resultant explicit time-domain simulation is absolutely stable for the given time step no matter how large it is, irrespective of the space step. The accuracy of the method is also guaranteed when the time step is chosen based on accuracy. Numerical experiments have demonstrated the accuracy, efficiency, and unconditional stability of the proposed new explicit method.