cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mash1 and neurogenin1 Expression Patterns Define Complementary Domains of Neuroepithelium in the Developing CNS and Are Correlated with Regions Expressing Notch Ligands

Genetic studies in Drosophila and in vertebrates have implicated basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) genes in neuronal fate determination and cell type specification. We have compared directly the expression of Mash1 and neurogenin1(ngn1), two bHLH genes that are expressed specifically at early stages of neurogenesis. In the PNS these genes are expressed in complementary autonomic and sensory lineages. In the CNS in situ hybridization to serial sections and double-labeling experiments indicate that Mash1 andngn1 are expressed in adjacent and nonoverlapping regions of the neuroepithelium that correspond to future functionally distinct areas of the brain. We also showed that in the PNS several other bHLH genes exhibit similar lineal restriction, as dongn1 and Mash1, suggesting that complementary cascades of bHLH factors are involved in PNS development. Finally, we found that there is a close association between expression of ngn1 and Mash1 and that of two Notch ligands. These observations suggest a basic plan for vertebrate neurogenesis whereby regionalization of the neuroepithelium is followed by activation of a relatively small number of bHLH genes, which are used repeatedly in complementary domains to promote neural determination and differentiation.
Electronic coupling between ligand and core energy states in dithiolate-monothiolate stabilized Au clusters

Electron transfer activities of metal clusters are fundamentally significant and have promising potential in catalysis, charge or energy storage, sensing, biomedicine and other applications. Strong resonance coupling between the metal core energy states and the ligand molecular orbitals has not been established experimentally, albeit exciting progress has been achieved in the composition and structure determination of these types of nanomaterials recently. In this report, the coupling between core and ligand energy states is demonstrated by the rich electron transfer activities of Au130 clusters. Quantized electron transfers to the core and multi-electron transfers involving the durene-dithiolate ligands were observed at lower and higher potentials, respectively, in voltammetric studies. After a facile multi-electron oxidation from +1.34 to +1.40 V, several reversal reduction processes at more negative potentials, i.e. +0.91 V, +0.18 V and -0.34 V, were observed in an electrochemically irreversible fashion or with sluggish kinetics. The number of electrons and the shifts of the respective reduction potentials in the reversal process were attributed to the electronic coupling or energy relaxation processes. The electron transfer activities and subsequent relaxation processes are drastically reduced at lower temperatures. The time- and temperature-dependent relaxation, involving multiple energy states in the reversal reduction processes upon the oxidation of ligands, reveals the coupling between core and ligand energy states.
An incremental-approximate-clustering approach for developing dynamic reduced models for design optimization

This paper we describe a method for improving genetic algorithm based optimization using reduced models. The main idea is to maintain a large sample of the points encountered in the course of the optimization divided into clusters. Least squares quadratic approximations are periodically formed of the entire sample as well as the big enough clusters. These approximations are used as a reduced model to compute cheap approximations of the fitness function through a two phase approach in which the point is first classified (into potentially feasible, infeasible or unevaluable) and then its fitness is computed accordingly. We then use the reduced models to speedup the GA optimization by making the genetic operators such as mutation and crossover more informed. The proposed approach is particularly suitable for search spaces with expensive evaluation functions, such as those that arise in engineering design. Empirical results in several engineering design domains demonstrate that the proposed method can significantly speed up the GA optimizer.
Embryonic stem cell research: the state of the union of "those who create the lines" and "those who draw the lines".

Recent events have ostensibly removed the primacy of the United States in embryonic stem (ES) cell research. George Walker Bush was the first U.S. President to allow federal funding of ES cell research under guidelines influenced by statements from pre-eminent stem cell scientists. The guidelines delimiting federal funding of ES cell research put forth by President Bush were endorsed by the public, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and by, at least by silent assent, the scientific community. At the time, the President was assured by eminent scientists and advisors that ES cells were immortal and stable, many viable lines existed, and they could be used for years for research and therapy. These premises have now been publicly challenged and individual states and other countries have announced plans to proceed with research that would be considered outside of the President's guidelines. All have thus far discovered that removal of U.S. federal support and oversight not only blunts science, but also ab...
Screencasting strategies: heuristics for using video content in 3D computer graphics technological and aesthetic education

Supplementing both text and lecture with videos has become a necessary part of a comprehensive course that incorporates both technical and design elements. As educators who have participated in developing multiple training videos we have begun to develop strategies and rules of thumb for developing and implementing effective video within our educational process.
In search of the whales' sisters

The cetaceans — dolphins, porpoises and whales — are aquatic mammals that returned to the sea. A long-standing puzzle is which other mammals are their closest relatives, for molecular and morphological approaches to the question give conflicting answers. A study that includes analysis of ancient ‘divergent’ fossil groups shows that such groups may contain much information to help resolve the puzzle.
Interaction, imagination and immersion some research needs

This paper discusses four ways that humans interact with their environments, plus four variables that determine the experience of virtual reality, and also which of the interactions support which of the VR-enhancing variables. Some philosophical issues abou immersion, the experience of presence, and the meaning of realit are then considered. The engineering paradigm of estimation is then reviewed as a way of bridging classical ontologica differences of opinion about reaility. Finally some VR research needs are discussed: haptics, mi nimally invasive diagnosis and surgery, driving simulation, decision aids in system operation, education, computer-aided synthesis, measures of presence and whether presence enhances performance, social ills of VR, and the relation of VR to spirituality.
Probe and method for simultaneous measurements of ''true'' instantaneous temperature and three velocity components in turbulent flow.

In the measurement of turbulent flows the need has always existed to obtain correct instantaneous values of temperature and three components of velocity at a particular point. Many proposed lengthy approximate correction methods that attempt to account for ’’nonlinear’’ effects (cross contamination between different quantities) in hot‐wire measurements cannot be considered satisfactory. The availability of powerful digital computers for theoretical and experimental studies has placed pressure on experimentalists to develop better probes and methods. This paper attemspts to answer these pressures by descrbing the development of a special four‐wire probe and a method of processing the obtained signals. The use of four 0.625‐μm‐diam sensors makes the probe practically interference free. The processing method is based on the simultaneous solution of four complete nonlinear response equations for the sensors, yielding in principle exact instantaneous values of velocity components and temperature. Additional features of the processing method include: instantaneous full correction for tunnel free stream velocity and temperature fluctuations, first‐order correction for dc drifts of the signals during data acquisition, subtraction of all 60‐Hz related noise, and correction for streamwise displacement of sensors based on instantaneous streamwise velocity.
Simultaneous determination of magnetic flux and electric charge

The determination of magnetic flux and electric charge using a coil and capacitor is subject to the uncertainty relation.
Thermogenesis detection of single living cells via quantum dots

Cellular endocytotic quantum dots (QDs) have been successfully used as thermometers to sense temperature variations inside single living cells. Temperature changes have been detected remotely through optical readout. We showed the increased extracellular calcium concentration can trigger the thermogenesis of NIH/3T3 cells and therefore elevated the cellular temperature about 1.5 °C. This technique has the potential as nanoscale thermometers for intracellular temperature measurements using non-contact, far field optical instruments with combination of both diffraction-limited spatial resolution at about 700 nm and sampling-rate-limited temporal resolution at about 30–100 ms.
Cerebral injury and cardiac operations.

Abstract Cerebral complications constitute the leading source of morbidity and disability after cardiac operations. The incidence of stroke after coronary artery bypass grafting has increased in tandem with the mean age of the patient population. Although many cerebral deficits resolve with time, others remain sources of disability for otherwise functional patients and detract from an otherwise successful procedure. The clinical spectrum of cerebral complications includes both neurologic and neuropsychologic deficits. Neurologic deficits include fatal cerebral injury, stroke, impaired level of consciousness, and seizures. The incidence of these deficits is 1% to 6%. Neuropsychologic deficits refer to cognitive changes, and are quantitated with tests of memory and learning and speed of visual-motor response. The incidence of these deficits is 60% to 80% at 1 week after operation and 20% to 40% at 8 weeks after operation. Central nervous system complications after cardiac operations have been attributed in large part to the effects of cardiopulmonary bypass on the brain. Potential mechanisms include macroembolization of air or particulate matter; microembolization of gas, fat, aggregates of blood cells, platelets or fibrin, and particles of silicone or Polyvinylchloride tubing; and inadequate cerebral perfusion pressure. Methods of assessment include those applied during the procedure (clinical observation, assessment of cerebral blood flow and metabolism, intraoperative electroencephalography, transcranial and carotid Doppler echography, quantitative embolic measurement, and fluorescein angiography) and those performed to measure outcome (neurologic and neuropsychologic testing, computed tomographic scans, magnetic resonance imaging, and cerebrospinal fluid studies). Much of the literature regarding cerebral injury and cardiopulmonary bypass is descriptive, relating patient risk factors to the incidence of postoperative stroke. A limited but growing body of work seeks to prospectively examine patients and identify interventions that will reduce the incidence and severity of central nervous system complications.
Epidemiology: Theory, study design, and planning for education

Many health professionals have received formal training in epidemiology; however, much of it has been limited to introductory courses at the undergraduate level. Further, continuing education for health professionals has focused historically on substantive rather than methodologic issues in epidemiology. A methodologic focus is recommended to improve continuing education for the health of the public. It is crucial to equip educators and health professionals with the necessary tools or resources to understand study design, conduct research, analyze and interpret data, and critically evaluate published research. Thus, in this article, a general overview of epidemiologic study design and some of the most common methodologic issues are presented. Issues such as confounding, effect modification, measurement error, and power and sample size are highlighted. A broader recognition of these issues by educators and health professionals may ultimately help to improve public health by facilitating effective educational interventions, proper study design, analysis, interpretation, and application of epidemiologic research.
Chronic opiate treatment enhances both cocaine-reinforced and cocaine-seeking behaviors following opiate withdrawal.

Abstract After chronic exposure to psychostimulants or opiates, self-administration or conditioned place preference with either class is increased (sensitized). Cross-sensitization of conditioned place preference, i.e., enhancement of psychostimulant-induced preferences after exposure to opiates, has also been described, but increases in cocaine self-administration after morphine pretreatment have not been reported. The present study evaluated effects of chronic morphine treatment on cocaine reinforcement. Opiate dependence was established in Wistar rats by administration of morphine as a constant infusion that was gradually increased to a dose of 50 mg/kg per day over a 1-week period. Immediately after discontinuation of chronic morphine treatment, animals were allowed to acquire cocaine self-administration under a simple fixed-ratio schedule (FR-1), and were subsequently advanced to a progressive ratio schedule. Acquisition of cocaine self-administration under the FR-1 did not differ in saline- and morphine-pretreated animals. For cocaine self-administration under a progressive ratio schedule measured at 5 or more days after the onset of opiate withdrawal, chronic pretreatment with morphine increased the number of ratios completed, augmented final response requirements, and produced a more stable pattern of cocaine self-administration. Responding was also increased in morphine-pretreated animals during an initial extinction session. These results show that chronic opiate treatment can enhance both cocaine-reinforced and cocaine-seeking behaviors following opiate withdrawal. A similar effect may occur in human patients who discontinue methadone or other forms of replacement therapy for opiate abuse, and may contribute to relapse involving use of cocaine or other psychostimulants.
Looking for leverage in PAC markets: Corporate and labor contributions considered

In this paper we explore the popular perception that political action committees (PACs) have substantial influence over elected legislators. We question whether the leverage in the PAC market is on the side of the contribution-maker or the contribution-taker. Analysis of the structure of PAC markets suggests most markets are sellers' markets, not buyers' markets. PAC contributions then may be more like protection money than attempts to buy votes or access. The leverage of the politician (seller) may be tempered if a substantial number of large PACs have homogeneous interests, and the ability to concentrate their contributions to the same legislators. This contention is supported by analysis of differences in labor and corporate PAC giving in the 1980 and 1984 general elections. Labor PACs, which are much larger than corporate PACs, have more homogeneous interests, give virtually all of their money to one party, and appear to have more discretion in making contribution decisions than do corporate PACs. An implication of this analysis for corporate executives is that using political action committees at the federal level may not be a strategy where corporations have a comparative advantage. — Senator Robert Dole (R-Kan.) — Senator Thomas Eaglecton (D-Mo.)
Determination of DLCO and cardiac output from expired gas slopes with cardiogenic oscillations.

Abstract Effects of ‘cardiogenic oscillations’ on alveolar plateau gas concentration slope measurements, constant expiratory pulmonary capillary blood flow, and D l CO determination have not been previously described. We examined cardiogenic oscillations during constant expiratory maneuvers to assess factors influencing magnitude of oscillations as well as effect of oscillatory phase at the start and end of exhalation measurement period on alveolar gas slope. Five normal volunteers performed repeated single breath constant exhalation vital capacity maneuvers using test gas containing 2 physiologically ‘inert’ gases: Helium (He M w 4) and argon (Ar M w 40). The mixture contained 3 absorbable gases, acetylene (C 2 H 2 M w 26), carbon monoxide (C 18 O M w 30), and oxygen. Alveolar plateau slope, magnitude of cardiogenic oscillations, relative signal to noise ratios, and effect of cardiogenic oscillation phase on measured slope were determined for each gas. Cardiogenic oscillations were present for all inert gases. Oscillations were less evident for CO. However, the effects on calculated Qc and D l CO were negligible. cardiac oscillations of considerable magnitude are seen during single breath constant exhalation maneuvers and affect constant expiratory gas slope calculations. Cardiogenic oscillation phase does not have a significant effect on measured Qc and D l CO using constant expiratory techniques.
Stressing the critically ill patient: The cardiopulmonary and metabolic responses to an acute increase in oxygen consumption

Abstract Critically ill patients frequently have compromised respiratory and hemodynamic function. Chest physical therapy has been previously shown to increase oxygen demand and therefore was used to examine how postoperative mechanically ventilated patients responded to an increased oxygen demand. We found that during chest physical therapy, oxygen consumption increased 52% ±- 37% (SD) over baseline values. There was a 35% ±- 32% increase in oxygen extraction and a 17% ±- 33% increase in oxygen delivery. Arterial and pulmonary artery pressures also increased. The cardiac output increase was due to increased heart rate with no change in stroke volume. The increases in minute ventilation and alveolar ventilation were not sufficient to eliminate the greater quantity of carbon dioxide produced, resulting in a small increase in Paco2. There was no significant change in systemic vascular resistance. The increase in oxygen demand caused by chest physical therapy triggered an integrated physiological response that resulted in increased respiratory and cardiac performance. This in some ways, such as the lack of increase in systemic vascular resistance, resembles the response to exercise.
Modeling the eye's optical system by ocular wavefront tomography.

Purpose: Ocular wavefront tomography (OWT) is the process of using wavefront aberration maps obtained along multiple lines-of-sight (LoS) to determine the shape and position of the major refracting elements of an eye. One goal of OWT is to create a customized schematic model eye that is anatomically similar and functionally equivalent to the individual eye over a large field of view. Methods: Wavefront aberration maps along multiple LoS were used as design goals for configuring a generic, multisurface model eye with aberrations that match the measurements. The model was constrained by gross anatomical dimensions and optimized to mimic the measured eye. The method was evaluated with two test cases: (1) a physical model eye with a doublet lens measured with a clinical wavefront aberrometer along six LoS between -31 deg and +29 deg eccentricities, and (2) a mathematical model of the myopic eye for which wavefront aberrations were computed by ray tracing. Results: In case 1, the OWT algorithm successfully predicted the structure of the doublet model eye from the experimental on- and off-axis aberration measurements. In case 2, the algorithm started with a symmetric five surface model eye and optimized it to generate the on- and off-axis aberrations of a GRIN myopia model eye. The adjusted model closely mimicked the physical parameters and optical behavior of the expected myopia model eye over a large field of view. The maximum discrepancy between aberrations of the OWT optimized model and measurements was 0.05 microns RMS for test case 1 and 0.2 microns RMS for test case 2. Conclusion: Our implementation of OWT is a valid, feasible, and robust method for constructing an optical model that is anatomically and functionally similar to the eye over a wide field of view.
Strontium-90 Accumulation on Plant Foliage During Rainfall

Accumulation of strontium-90 in field-grown crops was measured during the spring of 1962. Each rainfall markedly increased the strontium-90 content of the crops, except when the plants were very small. Accumulation between rains was comparatively small, about equal to the expected uptake from the soil.
Prufrock: a framework for constructing polytypic theorem provers

Current formal software engineering methodologies provide a vast array of languages for specifying correctness properties, as well as a wide assortment automated tools that aid in the verification of specified properties. Unfortunately, the implementation of each such tool requires an early commitment to a particular methodology and language, in terms of both high-level semantic concerns and the lower-level syntactic representations of properties and proofs. In this paper, we present Prufrock, a novel approach to automated reasoning systems, which abstracts semantic concerns over entire classes of potential implementation languages. Prufrock utilizes polytypic programming techniques to create independent, reusable modules defining proof in different logics, independent of the language used to represent formulae in the logic, as well as the exact implementation of low-level prover functionality.
Eating and drinking in rats with anterior or posterior amygdaloid lesions

Electrolytic lesions were placed bilaterally either in the anterior or in the posterior amygdala of albino rats. In terms of comparisons of lesion data with data for animals with corresponding control operations, anterior amygdaloid lesions had no significant influence on either water or overall food intake nor on body weight, while posterior amygdaloid lesions significantly increased water consumption without reliably altering food intake or body weight. It is proposed that the dorsal portion of the anterior amygdala may contain neural elements which facilitate food consumption and inhibit water intake, that the posterodorsal amygdala may contain excitatory elements for food intake, and that the middle portion of the amygdala as a whole may facilitate water intake.
Empirical Analysis of Transformers in the Development of a Storyboarding Methodology

Transforming products, or more generally transformers, are devices that change state in order to facilitate new, or enhance an existing, functionality. Mechanical transformers relate to products that reconfigure and can be advantageous by providing multiple functions, while often conserving space. A basic example is a foldable chair that can be stowed when not in use, but provides ergonomic and structural seating when deployed. Utilizing transformation can also lead to novel designs that combine functions across domains, such as an amphibious vehicle that provides both terrestrial and aquatic transportation. In order to harness these assets of transformation, the Transformational Design Theory [1] was developed. This theory outlines a set of principles and facilitators that describe and embody transformation for the purpose of systematically assisting the design of transformers. To build on this theory, this paper analyzes a repository of popular transformer toys. Transformer toys are chosen for this study because of their richness in displaying a variety of kinematic aspects of transformation. Through this process, new definitions to describe transformation are garnered and a set of guidelines are developed to further aid designers. The empirical data set of transformer toys is rich in information and provides a basis for application to other fields, such as robotics and consumer products. These insights, in conjunction with the use of storyboarding, create a new method of designing transformers. This paper presents the method and concludes with a validation exercise in the creation of a new transformer toy.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Disaster and mental health intervention.

Major disasters offer an important opportunity for the community psychiatrist to put into practice many of the principles of community mental health. By reaching out to the victims and primary care givers during the crisis, the development of posttraumatic symptoms can be averted. This entails a major departure from the traditional role of the mental health professional. This paper explores the psychological reactions to a major school bus, train accident and the intervention techniques that were utilized by a community mental health center as a response to this disaster.
A longitudinal study relating P3 amplitude to schizophrenia spectrum disorders and to global personality functioning

Auditory and visual event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded from first-degree relatives (adolescent offspring) of index cases with schizophrenic disorder, affective disorder, or no psychiatric disorder (normal controls) at a mean age of 15 years. Nearly a decade later, these subjects (at a mean age of 25 years) were evaluated for Research Diagnostic Criteria Schizophrenic Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Unspecified Functional Psychosis, and for DSM-III-R Axis II schizophrenia-related traits and disorders including schizotypal, schizoid, and paranoid features. It was hypothesized, based on Duncan et al (1987a, Duncan 1988), that reduction of P3 amplitude in the auditory (but not the visual) modality would predict subsequent schizophrenic-related outcomes in subjects from the schizophrenic disorder parental group. This specific expectation was not statistically supported. An unanticipated and statistically robust result linking P3 decrements (in both auditory and visual modalities) with poorer Global Personality Functioning was observed for offspring from both psychiatric parental groups and the offspring of the normal control group. These data are consistent with the results of a large number of clinical studies of the P3 component that have demonstrated reductions in P3 amplitude in individuals expressing a wide range of behavioral dysfunctions. Their importance lies in the fact that these P3 amplitude decrements were detected long before the overt behavioral symptoms were identified, and were nonspecific with respect to parental psychiatric diagnostic group.
Satellite-sensor calibration verification with the cloud-shadow method.

An atmospheric-correction method which uses cloud-shaded pixels together with pixels in a neighboring region of similar optical properties is described. This cloud-shadow method uses the difference between the total radiance values observed at the sensor for these two regions, thus removing the nearly identical atmospheric radiance contributions to the two signals (e.g. path radiance and Fresnel-reflected skylight). What remains is largely due to solar photons backscattered from beneath the sea to dominate the residual signal. Normalization by the direct solar irradiance reaching the sea surface and correction for some second-order effects provides the remote-sensing reflectance of the ocean at the location of the neighbor region, providing a known 'ground target' spectrum for use in testing the calibration of the sensor. A similar approach may be useful for land targets if horizontal homogeneity of scene reflectance exists about the shadow. Monte Carlo calculations have been used to correct for adjacency effects and to estimate the differences in the skylight reaching the shadowed and neighbor pixels.
Some exact analytical results and a semiempirical formula for single electron ionization induced by ultrarelativistic heavy ions

The {delta} function gauge of the electromagnetic potential allows semiclassical formulas to be obtained for the probability of exciting a single electron out of the ground state in an ultrarelativistic heavy-ion reaction. Exact formulas have been obtained in the limits of zero impact parameter and large, perturbative, impact parameter. The perturbative impact parameter result can be exploited to obtain a semiempirical cross section formula of the form {sigma}=A ln{gamma}+B for single-electron ionization. A and B can be evaluated for any combination of target and projectile, and the resulting simple formula is good at all ultrarelativistic energies. The analytical form of A and B elucidates a result previously found in numerical calculations: scaled ionization cross sections decrease with increasing charge of the nucleus being ionized. The cross section values obtained from the present formula are in good agreement with recent CERN SPS data from a Pb beam on various nuclear targets.
Enantiospecific quantification of hexobarbital and its metabolites in biological fluids by gas chromatography/electron capture negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry.

A highly sensitive and specific assay based on gas chromatography/electron capture negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry has been developed for the analysis of the enantiomers of hexobarbital and its major metabolites in human urine and plasma. S-(+)-(5-2H3)hexobarbital and R-(−)-(5-2H3)hexobarbital were synthesized for clinical studies along with (±)-(1,5-2H6)hexobarbital and the deuterated major metabolites for use as internal and reference standards. Hexobarbital enantiomers and their metabolites were analyzed after pentafluorobenzyl and trimethylsilyl derivatization, following solid-phase extraction from plasma and urine. Intense negative ion spectra were observed for all of the derivatives. The base peak in the spectra corresponded to the M - penta-fluorobenzyl anion [M PFB]− except for 1,5-dimethylbarbituric acid, where M−· was the most abundant ion. The applicability of the method was demonstrated by following the plasma concentration-time profiles and urinary excretion in a male extensive metabolizer of mephenytoin who was given a pseudoracemic oral dose of hexobarbital containing equal 50 mg amounts of S-(+)-2(H0)hexobarbital and R-(−)-(2H3)hexobarbital. Marked stereoselective disposition was observed, with the R-(−)-enantiomer being more efficiently metabolized, primarily by alicyclic oxidation and ring cleavage.
The effects of electroconvulsive shock on the action of a reinforcing stimulus

Three experiments sought to evaluate the effect of electroconvulsive shock on the action of a reinforcing stimulus. In all experiments behavior was maintained on a 2 min variable interval schedule for food reinforcement. Foot shock at the termination of a buzzer stimulus served as the reinforcing stimulus for conditioned suppression during the ensuing buzzer interval. Omission of foot shock at the termination of the buzzer stimulus was followed by normal responding (no conditioned suppression) during the next buzzer interval. In Exp I electroconvulsive shock followed foot shock at varying time intervals. In the first subsidiary experiment electroconvulsive shock followed an unreinforced buzzer stimulus at varying time intervals. In the second subsidiary experiment electroconvulsive shock followed foot shock at varying time intervals and an additional buzzer stimulus was sounded between the termination of foot shock and the onset of electroconvulsive shock. These three experiments demonstrated that electroconvulsive shock invariably abolished the effects of the reinforcing stimulus if it followed conditioning by no more than 10.0 sec and never had an effect if it followed conditioning by 12.5 sec or more; electroconvulsive shock was not acting as a reinforcing stimulus in this situation.
Do consumers understand the role of privacy seals in e-commerce?

E-Commerce sales in the U.S. totaled $56.0 billion in 2003, an increase of 26.4% over the 2002 total of $44.3 billion [7]. This increase was achieved at a time when the U.S. economy teetered in and out of recession. While e-commerce sales are expected to grow rapidly, Jupiter Research speculates that privacy concerns will cause billions in lost sales for Internet-related businesses [2]. Although all commercial and business transactions require an element of trust, the amount of data required to complete an online B2C transaction and the potential for fraud has continually raised privacy concerns [1, 9].
Isoregic Thienylene‐Phenylene Polymers: The Effects of Structural Variation and Application to Photovoltaic Devices

Isoregic conjugated polymers composed of thiophene and dialkoxybenzene units were designed to harvest incident light in the mid‐visible energy range (band gap of 2.1 eV). Poly(1,4‐bis(2‐thienyl)‐2,5‐diheptoxybenzene) (PBTB(OC7H15)2) and poly(1,4‐bis(2‐thienyl)‐2,5‐didodecyloxybenzene) (PBTB(OC12H25)2) have shown significant photovoltaic performance as an electron donor when used in tandem with the electron acceptor [6, 6]‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) in bulk hetero‐junction photovoltaic devices. Photovoltaic devices incorporating PBTB(OC7H15)2 and PCBM have shown AM1.5 efficiencies of ∼0.6% with a short circuit current density of 2.5 mA/cm2, an open circuit voltage of 0.74 V, and a fill factor of 0.32. Incident Photon‐to‐Current Efficiency (IPCE) of the device was found to be ca. 16% at 410 nm. In order to examine the relationship between the molecular structure of the polymers and their electronic energy levels, and to correlate this with photovoltaic performance, optoelectronic and electr...
Gambling participation and problems among older adults.

Few studies have evaluated rates of gambling participation and problems in older adults. This study recruited 492 adults aged 65 years and older from bingo sites (n = 132) and senior centers (n = 360). Compared to those recruited from senior centers, participants recruited at bingo events had higher South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) scores and greater gambling frequency and expenditures. Lifetime rates of combined problem and pathological gambling were 12.9% in the bingo sample and 9.7% in the senior center sample (10.6% overall). Compared to non-problem gamblers, problem and pathological gamblers were more likely to be younger (73 versus 76 years) and male (52% versus 27%). Overall, 39.1% reported gambling at least twice per month over the past year, and 33.7% wagered $50 or more over the prior 2 months. This study suggests that subsets of active older adults have high rates of gambling participation and problems. (J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2003; 16:172-177).
Use of a focussed teen prenatal clinic at a military teaching hospital: model for improved outcomes of unmarried mothers.

Summary: We evaluated the utility of a focussed, multidisciplinary adolescent clinic in improving perinatal outcomes. The study population included all delivering unmarried teenagers (13–19 years) from January 1, 1993 to December 31, 1995 attending the focussed adolescent obstetrical clinic compared to a similar cohort of married teenagers (13–19 years), married 20–24 year-old patients, and unmarried 20–24 year-old patients. There were no statistical differences in chorioamnionitis, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), postpartum haemorrhage, maternal weight gain, mean gestational age at delivery, preterm delivery rates ( 41 weeks), macrosomia (<4,000 g), placental abruption, chronic hypertension, alcohol use, Apgar scores or stillbirth rates or neonatal death rates among the 4 groups studied. Statistical differences were noted in mean delivery weights (p < 0.05), preeclampsia (p < 0.004), gestational diabetes (p < 0.01), history of substance abuse (p < 0.0001), tobacco use (p < 0.0001), and forceps delivery rates (p < 0.004). However, in the teen cohort none of these differences appeared to adversely affect perinatal outcomes in our patients. The focussed, adolescent obstetrical clinic appears to provide perinatal morbidities equal to a low-risk, general population generating better than expected outcomes for pregnant teenagers.
Am(III) and Eu(III) extraction by aliquat.336 and benzyl substituted quaternary ammonium salts from nitrate and thiocyanate solutions

ABSTRACT The extraction of Am(III) and Eu(III) from HN03 - L1NO3 or from HCOOH -NH4SCN solutions by different quaternary ammonium salts dissolved in o-xylene was investigated as function of the aqueous phase composition. As extractants, the nitrate or thiocyanate salts of Aliquat*336, tridodecylmethylammonium, benzyl-dimethyldodecylammonium, p-methoxybenzyldimethyldodecylammonium and p-trifluoromethylbenzyldimethyldodecylammonium were used. The extraction data obtained with the thiocyanate - formic acid aqueous solutions were quantitatively interpreted by a reaction scheme that takes into account the aqueous metal complexation and the competition of formic acid and metal species for the extractant reaction center. The effect of the benzyl group (whether substituted or not) on the metal and acid extraction by the different quaternary ammonium salts was interpreted on the basis of the inductive effect of the substituents. In the thiocyanate system, Aliquat*336 provided the highest Am/Eu separation factors.
Microbial degradation of sparingly soluble organic chemicals: Phthalate esters

Strains of Mycobacterium and Nocardia isolated because of their ability to use di(2‒ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) as sole carbon source also grew on diethyl, diisooctyl, and butyl benzyl phthalates. As the two bacteria grew on DEHP, they excreted products that increased the solubility of DEHP and diisooctyl, dihexyl, and diisodecyl but not butyl benzyl or di‒n‒butyl phthalates. The solubilizer was produced by Mycobacterium sp. even when grown on a water‒soluble substrate such as acetate. Addition of the solubilizer to culture media enhanced the degradation of DEHP and diisooctyl phthalate by Mycobacterium sp. and Nocardia sp. but not butyl benzyl phthalate. The extent of DEHP degradation by Mycobacterium sp. in media amended with the solubilizer was reduced and the initiation of degradation was delayed if the solubilizer was first treated with protease. The effect of protease was not a result of its toxicity to Mycobacterium or use of the enzyme preparation for growth of the organism. The results thus show that microbial products increase the solubility of certain phthalates and enhance their degradation.
Immunophenotypes in the circulation of patients with mild cognitive impairment.

Alterations in the peripheral immune system are associated with dementia and the neuropathology of Alzheimer’s disease, but have yet to be studied early in the disease process. To test the hypothesis that the balance of immune cell phenotypes is disrupted in the early progression of memory deterioration, patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and healthy elderly controls were examined for the distribution of subpopulations of leukocytes (lymphocytes, granulocytes, and monocytes) and lymphocyte subtypes (helper/inducer and suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes) in blood. MCI subjects had a significantly higher percentage of total lymphocytes and a lower percentage of granulocytes compared to elderly controls. Furthermore, the expression of cell surface amyloid precursor protein (APP) and intracellular amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) in lymphocytes and monocytes were determined. We found lymphocyte APP expression to be significantly increased in MCI subjects compared to controls. Our data indicate that changes in immunological parameters may be detected early in MCI, and an alteration of the immune response may precede clinical AD.
Very Large-Scale Systems and Some History

This column briefly introduces the issue's selections and discusses the ACM SIGMICRO's Oral History project.
Metabolism of retinoic acid in vitamin A-deficient rats

Abstract After the intravenous administration of physiological levels of [6,7-14C2] retinoic acid to vitamin A-deficient rats, the radioactivity was found to be distributed among all tissues, with highest levels in the liver and the small intestine. When tissue extracts were analyzed by Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography, all tissues were found to have at least three radioactive components: (1) free retinoic acid, a major component in all tissues except the small intestine; (2) an ester of retinoic acid; and (3) a very polar metabolite. Blood and intestines contained additional polar metabolites. Except for one polar metabolite, the metabolites of small intestine did not originate from the bile. The metabolites formed from retinoic acid are also formed from retinyl acetate suggesting that retinoic acid is a normal intermediate in the metabolism of retinol.
Influence of parotid-sparing radiotherapy on xerostomia in head and neck cancer patients

Abstract Radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancers causes permanent salivary gland dysfunction (SGD) and xerostomia. We have previously demonstrated the effectiveness of parotid-sparing RT on salivary function. The aim of this was to characterize the relationship between radiation dosages to parotid glands, SGD, xerostomia, and impaired quality of life (QOL). Ninety-three patients received unilateral ( n =38) and bilateral ( n =44) neck RT with parotid-sparing techniques, or standard three-field technique RT ( n =11). Unstimulated and stimulated parotid saliva was collected pre-RT and 1 year post-RT. Assessment of QOL and xerostomia was conducted with three questionnaires. The results demonstrated that reduced radiation dosages to parotid glands were strongly associated with percentage of baseline parotid flow rates measured at 1 year post-RT. Unilateral and bilateral neck RT with parotid-sparing techniques were successful in preserving salivary output, compared to standard three beam RT techniques. Lower radiation dose to contralateral parotid glands was associated with greater percentage of baseline salivary flow rates at 1 year post-RT, fewer xerostomic complaints, and an enhanced QOL.
Concept Mapping as a Research Tool to Evaluate Conceptual Change Related to Instructional Methods

Concept maps are commonly used in a variety of educational settings as a learning aid or instructional tool. Additionally, their potential as a research tool has been recognized. This article defin...
Molecular Characterization of Three Cotton Varieties

Cotton fiber cellulose was dissolved in the solvent dimethyl acetamide with lithium chloride without cleanup or formation of derivatives. Molecular weight distributions of cotton fiber samples were obtained by gel permeation chromatography using com mercially available instrumentation. Upland cotton fiber samples from three varieties (Deltapine Acala 90, Deltapine 41, and DES 422) possessed similar physical properties, indicated by measurements of fiber length, Micronaire, and strength by Stelometer, except for inconsistencies in the HVI strength values compared to those determined by Stelometer. An evaluation of the samples demonstrated different molecular weight distributions, different peak locations of the secondary wall, and different weight average molecular weights.
components of change in the number of households: 1970–1980

There was an increase from 62.8 to 79.1 million households in the United States during the 1970s. The number of households increased much more rapidly than the population. This paper decomposes this growth in the number of households into components associated with changing age and martial status composition and changing age by marital status-specific propensities to form households. About one-third of the increase in the number of households was due to increased age by marital status propensity to form households, and two-thirds was due to shifts in the age by marital status distribution and population growth. The increased propensity to form households had its major impact at ages under 35, and primarily among never-married persons. The composition component had its primary impact at ages 25-44 as a result of the baby boom, and also because of the increased fractions never married and separated and divorced.
Courtship Displays of Birds

IN his theory to account for the occurrence of ‘mutual’ and ‘dimorphic’ courtship displays in birds, Prof. J. S. Huxley states that “in birds in which the sexes are quite or almost similar, and both adorned with bright colours or special plumes or other structures, which are displayed or otherwise used in sexual ceremonies, both sexes play a quite or nearly similar role in ‘courtship’” (Jour. Linn. Soc. (Zool.), 35, p. 253; 1923). Conversely, a dimorphic courtship is found where no such epigamic characters are developed, or where the sexes differ in structure or coloration.
Controlled antibody release from a matrix of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) fractionated with a supercritical fluid

A new method is presented for controlling the rate of antibody (Ab) release from an inert matrix composed of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (EVAc), a biocompatible polymer that is frequently used to achieve controlled release. Using supercritical propane, a parent EVAc sample (Mn = 70 kDa, Mw/Mn = 2.4) was separated into narrow fractions with a range of molecular weights (8.7 90% of the incorporated Ab was released from low molecular weight fractions (Mn 160 kDa) during 14 days of release. No significant differences in polymer composition, glass-transition temperature, or crystallinity were identified in the different molecular weight fractions of EVAc. Mechanical properties of the polymer did depend on the molecular weight distribution, and correlated directly with Ab release rates. Because it permits rapid and reproducible fractionation of polymers, supercritical fluid extraction can be used to modify the performance of polymeric biomaterials. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A simple colorimetric method for determination of the specific activity of spallation-produced copper-67 using phenylglyoxal (PG) bis-(4N-methyl)thiosemicarbazone (TSC) derivatives

Abstract Copper-67 ( 67 Cu) is a useful radioisotope for therapeutic applications and is usually available from high-energy spallation of zinc targets. High-specific-activity 67 Cu is particularly important for radiolabelling antibodies for radioimmunotherapy. Since spallation-produced 67 Cu can also contain undesirable levels of nonradioactive copper ( 63 Cu and 65 Cu), which may interfere with antibody labeling, the availability of a simple inexpensive technique to determine the specific activity of 67 Cu would be useful. Bis-thiosemicarbazone (TSC) derivatives of 1,2-diketones or α-ketoaldehydes such as phenylglyoxal (PG) form orange-colored complexes with copper(II) that exhibit an absorption maximum at 480 nm (ext. coef. = 3-5 × 10 3 ). A calibration curve was determined by analyzing a series of copper(II) chloride standards (0.1–40 μg/mL) prepared with excess PG-TSC in an ethanol-HCl-acetate buffer mixture. The standards were analyzed in duplicate and the resulting curve treated by least squares analysis ( r = 1.00). Beer's law is observed up to about 40 μg/mL, and the lower limit of detection for this method using a Carey 219 spectrophotometer with a 1 cm cell path length is about 0.4 μg/mL. The PG-TSC derivative of zinc(II) chloride was also evaluated (100 fold excess) and was shown to have no interference on the 480 nm absorbance of the Cu(II) complex (2.5 μg/mL). Analysis of HCl target solutions of 67 Cu produced at the Brookhaven National Laboratory (one sample) and the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory (four samples) by this method gave specific activity values which corresponded very well with values obtained by ion coupling plasma analysis (ICP). These results demonstrate that this simple technique can be used for the routine analysis of copper(II) solutions with no special sample preparation and with an u.v. spectrophotometer without waiting for radioactive decay of the test solution.