cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Desertification from an economic perspective

It is often asserted that desertification is a socially nonoptimal land use policy and that sustainable use is optimal. This paper analyzes this contention by developing a model that examines the optimal rate of desertification from the producer's perspective and from society's perspective. The results indicate that sustainable use is not necessarily optimal and that in some cases it might be optimal to completely desertify the land. Critical economic determinants of optimal land use policy are land-tenure arrangements, discount rates, and whether the selling price of the land at the end of the time horizon is a function of the soil's quality.
Social Cognitive Theory as a Predictor of Dietary Behavior and Leisure Time Physical Activity Behavior in Middle-Aged Asian Indian Women Residing in United States

The purpose of the study was to determine to what extent expectations, self-control, and self-efficacy from the social cognitive theory account for variance in the dietary behaviors and leisure tim...
The Scientific Method is Dead-Long Live the (New) Scientific Method

The scientific method has been the mainstay of scientific inquiry and clinical practice for nearly a century. A new methodology has been emerging from the scientific (nonmedical) community: the introduction of modeling and simulation as an integral part of the scientific process. Thus, after the hypothesis is proposed and an experiment is designed, modern scientists perform numerous simulations of the experiment. An iterative optimization of the design of the experiment is performed on the computer and is seen in virtual prototyping and virtual testing and evaluation. After this iterative step, when the best design has been refined, the actual experiment is conducted in the laboratory. The value is that the modeling and simulation step saves time and money for conducting the live experiment. The practice of medicine should look to the tools being used by the rest of the scientific community and consider adopting and adapting those new principles.
Effect of a Home Learning Program on Learning Disabled Children's Balance.

Improving the balance of learning disabled children was investigated through the use of a structured gross motor home learning program. Fifteen boys ranging from 7 to 9 yr. (M = 7.9 yr., SD = 1.1) who were classified by the federal definition (2) as learning disabled were evaluated on static and dynamic balance components of the Six Category Gross Motor Survey (1). Ch~ldren scoring at least 1 SD below the mean for normal children of like chronological age on each test component were selected. Those children whose parents volunteered to conduct a 12-wk. home learning program were matched on their pretest balance scores and randomly assigned to Group 1. In Group 2 were those in a home program of fine motor and pre-academic tasks and in a control group those who were not in any home program. Each group also received a 12-wk. physical education program conducted at school by the same physical educator. The program for Group 1 included developmental static and dynamic balance tasks such as standing on one foot and walking lines/boards, etc. Group 2 included cutting, listening to records, and reading newspapers/magazines. Each group was instructed in the use of the materials prior to the initiation of the program. Specific directions for teaching, provisions for modeling and/or prompting responses, and equipment were included in a packet. Training was implemented by weekly follow-up telephone calls. At the end of a 12-wk. program (three times weekly for 30 min. a day) and a minimum of 30 home sessions (M = 33.1, SD = 2.7), each child was re-evaluated on static and dynamic balance. Using a Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks analysis and a Mann-Whitney U test (4). it was concluded that parents can significantly enhance (p < .05) the static and dynamic balance of their learning disabled children by implementing a structured gross-motor training program at home; see the data. This supplements the position of many authors who reported that balance of handicapped children can be improved through practice (3). It is important that parents can supplement a school's physical education program and provide support when there is little time or opportunity for an individualized program for children with special needs.
Dissection of the aorta: A clinical update

Aortic dissection is a catastrophic condition that occurs precipitously and is most commonly associated with a history of hypertension or cystic medial necrosis. Although the clinical presentation is quite variable, the heralding symptom is almost always severe chest or back pain. Aortic dissection is categorized as Type A if it involves the ascending thoracic aorta and Type B if it involves only the aorta distal to the left subclavian artery. During the first 48 hours, acute Type A dissection has a mortality of greater than 1% per hour; it is treated as a surgical emergency. Surgical repair for Type B dissection is generally reserved for patients who have persistent pain, intractable hypertension, or evidence of dissection progression. In all patients with aortic dissection, pharmacologic antihypertensive and negative inotropic therapy is essential to control extension of the dissection process. Vigilant monitoring of blood pressure and serial assessment to detect dissection progression are the key components of nursing management.
The Japanese Management Theory Jungle

Many competing hypotheses have been advanced to account for the apparent effectiveness of Japanese management practices. The present review of some of the leading theories attempts to classify and clarify the state of knowledge of Japanese management. Although each theory may be correct as a partial explanation of Japan's success, no single conceptualization has captured the complexity of Japan's managerial achievement. Further development of integrated, internally consistent models is needed.
Association values for selected trigrams with children

Association values, in terms of percentage of S s who responded “Yes,” for selected trigrams were obtained from children in grades 4–6 and from a residential school for the deaf. Correlations of from .83 to .87 were obtained between the values from children and the corresponding adult values from Archer for CVC trigrams, and of .88 between values from Witmer and from the children for a sample of 25 CCC trigrams. Reliability measures from the children were good. Values obtained from deaf children correlated .90 with those obtained from grades 4–5. Independent samples of normal children correlated .93 and .97 with each other, and a test-retest reliability group had an r of .99.
Magnetic enhancement in cobalt-manganese alloy clusters.

Magnetic moments of ${\mathrm{Co}}_{N}{\mathrm{Mn}}_{M}$ and ${\mathrm{Co}}_{N}{\mathrm{V}}_{M}$ clusters ($N\ensuremath{\le}60$; $M\ensuremath{\le}N/3$) are measured in molecular beams using the Stern-Gerlach deflection method. Surprisingly, the per atom average moments of ${\mathrm{Co}}_{N}{\mathrm{Mn}}_{M}$ clusters are found to increase with Mn concentration, in contrast to bulk CoMn. The enhancement with Mn doping is found to be independent of cluster size and composition in the size range studied. Meanwhile, ${\mathrm{Co}}_{N}{\mathrm{V}}_{M}$ clusters show reduction of average moments with increasing V doping, consistent with what is expected in bulk CoV. The results are discussed within the virtual bound states model.
The Thorny Question of Automatic Service Charges Policies at Prominent U.S. Resorts

A study of 51 four-and five-star resorts in the U.S. found that about half added an automatic service charge to their guests' bills, in lieu of tips. The resorts that do so, however, generally use ...
Compact modeling of spin-transport parameters in semiconducting channels in non-local spin-torque devices

In this paper, compact semi-empirical models of spin-transport parameters in Si and GaAs as a function of doping concentration, temperature, and size effects are developed. It is found that the room-temperature spin-relaxation length, Ls, in n-type Si degrades from ∼5 µm at low doping levels to &#60;1 µm for a doping level of 1019 cm−3. On the other hand, Ls is ∼ 0.5 µm in GaAs at R.T., and it is independent of doping concentration but it degrades as 1/T, where T is the lattice temperature. Using the models of spin-transport parameters, the spin injection and transport efficiency (SITE) in non-local spin-torque (NLST) devices is quantified. It is found that there is an optimal doping concentration in Si that maximizes SITE. In the case of GaAs, SITE improves with increasing doping concentration due to the reduction in the resistivity with doping. The compact spin-transport models developed in this work can be used to estimate the performance and the energy dissipation of the NLST logic.
Reproductive and genetic consequences of founding isolated lion populations

Species survival is critically dependent on reproductive performance, a complex physiological process under rigorous genetic control. Classical studies of inbreeding in laboratory animals and livestock have shown that increased homozygosity can adversely affect spermatogenesis, ovulation and perinatal mortality and morbidity1–3. For wild populations, the consequences of inbreeding depression have not been examined intensively, although our recent studies of the African cheetah revealed a striking degree of genetic uniformity4,5 combined with an extremely high incidence of structurally abnormal spermatozoa (>70%) in captive6 as well as free-ranging7 males. In this study, we report definitive evidence that the reproductive function of free-ranging mammals can be impaired as a result of demographic contraction followed by inbreeding. In an examination of three distinct lion populations (two from the Serengeti ecosystem in East Africa and a third descended from lions in the Gir Forest of western India), a direct correlation was observed between genetic variability and two physiological traits, incidence of abnormal sperm and circulating testosterone, a critical hormone for spermatogenesis.
Chronic heliodermatitis: a morphologic evaluation of chronic actinic dermal damage with emphasis on the role of mast cells.

Abstract Descriptions of actinically damaged human dermis have focused on the late stages of elastotic degeneration. This has diverted attention from preceeding events, which are important for understanding the sequence of pathologic changes that culminate in the deranged fibrous structures of elastotic dermis. We studied specimens from the back of the necks (exposed) and inner arms (unexposed) of 24 individuals, aged 35–84 yrs by light and transmission electron microscopy. Intense sunlight exposure was common to all. A previously undescribed finding was the presence of a perivenular, histiocytic-lymphocytic infiltrate in which numerous mast cells, often in close apposition to fibroblasts, were observed. We have termed this "chronic heliodermatitis". We postulate that mast cell-derived mediators in conjunction with enzymes released by the infiltrating cells lead to breakdown of elastic and collagen fibers.
Grazing rate determination of Corynoneura scutellata Winnertz (Chironomidae: Diptera)

Corynoneura scutellata Winnertz (Chironomidae: Diptera) grazing rates were determined radiometrically at different temperatures. The resulting temperature-grazing function was used to calculate C. scutellata grazing rates in the littoral zone of a Rhode Island lake. These grazing rates were compared to periphyton net accumulation rates, grazing rate: accumulation rate ratios ranged from 3–15% with a maximum of 70%.
Letter regarding article by Staat et al, "postconditioning the human heart".

To the Editor: I read with great interest the recent report by Staat et al1 and the accompanying editorial by Vinten-Johansen and colleagues2 on the topic of “postconditioning” of the heart. I would like to compliment Dr Staat and colleagues on the conduct of a most timely and elegant trial. Although clinical medicine has struggled with finding the proper role for ischemic preconditioning of the myocardium,3 the concept of postconditioning was not on anyone’s radar screen until the seminal studies of Vinten-Johansen (in Zhao et al4). The idea that myocardial protection might be conferred by manipulations after the lethal ischemic insult, for example, acute myocardial infarction, was inconceivable to all but the most ardent believers in preconditioning. In fact, several years ago, …
Pregnancy intention and preterm birth: differential associations among a diverse population of women.

Studies published to date provide mixed evidence on the relationship between unintended pregnancy and preterm birth and none take into consideration that the meaning of unintended pregnancy may vary across racial and ethnic groups. Data from the 1999-2003 rounds of the Maternal and Infant Health Assessment a population-based representative survey of postpartum women in California were used to assess the relationship between pregnancy intention and preterm birth. For racial and ethnic groups in which an association was found sequential logistic regression was conducted to further examine the relationship while controlling for socioeconomic characteristics. In unadjusted results pregnancy intention was associated with preterm birth among both whites and immigrant Latinas but not among blacks or U.S.-born Latinas. Among whites compared with women who reported that their pregnancy was intended those who were unsure about their pregnancy had elevated odds of preterm birth (odds ratio 1.4) as did those who reported their pregnancy was unwanted (1.7) or mistimed (1.4). Among immigrant Latinas those who reported being unsure about their pregnancy were at higher risk of preterm birth than were those who reported an intended pregnancy (1.6). After adjustment for socioeconomic factors the association remained significant for immigrant Latinas who were unsure about their pregnancy (1.5) but none of the associations remained significant for whites. Womens interpretations of questions about pregnancy intention and their social experiences regarding pregnancy intention may vary by race or ethnicity. Studies on the association between pregnancy intention and preterm birth may need to be group-specific.
Parallel and deterministic algorithms from MRFs: surface reconstruction

Deterministic approximations to Markov random field (MRF) models are derived. One of the models is shown to give in a natural way the graduated nonconvexity (GNC) algorithm proposed by A. Blake and A. Zisserman (1987). This model can be applied to smooth a field preserving its discontinuities. A class of more complex models is then proposed in order to deal with a variety of vision problems. All the theoretical results are obtained in the framework of statistical mechanics and mean field techniques. A parallel, iterative algorithm to solve the deterministic equations of the two models is presented, together with some experiments on synthetic and real images. >
Absorption of Si H 4 in the Extreme Ultraviolet

The absorption spectrum of Si${\mathrm{H}}_{4}$ gas has been measured in the silicon $L$ region. Three spin-orbit-split Rydberg series with sharp structure have been observed converging on the ${L}_{\mathrm{III},\mathrm{II}}$ edges of Si${\mathrm{H}}_{4}$ at 107.2 and 107.8 eV. The three series correspond in a unitedatom picture (the united atom for Si${\mathrm{H}}_{4}$ is argon) to transitions from a $2p$ core state to $4s$ and higher $s$ states and to $3d$ and higher $d$ states $d$ states are split into two components by the molecular field). A molecular-orbital calculation of some peak positions gives reasonable agreement with experiment.
Correlation between tubulin mRNA stability and poly(A) length over the cell cycle of Physarum polycephalum

Abstract During the cell cycle of the Physarum polycephalum plasmodium, levels of α-tubulin mRNA rise exponentially in G 2 phase, reach a peak at metaphase 40-fold above basal levels, and then fall exponentially to basal levels after mitosis. We show that post-mitotic α-tubulin mRNA carries poly(A) tracts of less than 30 residues. By contrast, when levels of α-tubulin mRNA rise during G 2 phase, the mRNA has a poly(A) tract of approximately 80 bases. The length of the poly(A) tract of any mRNA encoding actin is relatively constant at fewer than 30 bases through the cycle. We have estimated the apparent rate of synthesis of α-tubulin mRNA at different stages of the cell cycle by short-term labeling in vivo . Transcription of α-tubulin mRNA continues even after mitosis, though the rate may be diminished relative to that in late G 2 phase. So, the post-mitotic molecular half-life of α-tubulin mRNA must be less than the 19 minute half-life by which the levels of this species fall. The fact that the apparent rate of α-tubulin mRNA synthesis is not vastly greater in early G 2 phase than in post-mitotic plasmodia is consistent with an S-phase destabilization of α-tubulin mRNA molecules. Thus, the poly(A) tail is shorter when the α-tubulin mRNA is less stable.
Measuring external profiles of porous objects using CMM

Coordinate measuring machine (CMM) has been extensively used in surface measurement and inspection. CMM produces more accurate and reliable results compared with non-contact measurement devices, since CMM measures target surfaces in a tactile way and is not affected by surface reflection quality. However, when there is porosity on the outside surfaces, CMM measurement will have errors because part of the probing stylus will come into the porosity spaces. This paper presents a method of using CMM to measure external profiles of objects with external porosity spaces. The center of a CMM probing stylus will be compensated to avoid porosity spaces and located above external surface areas along surface normal directions. Such a probing strategy can be implemented in both computer-aided design (CAD)-guided mode and non-CAD-guided mode. When the CAD model is available, the probing styli are guided to approach the surface along its normal directions successively to identify and avoid porosity spaces. When the CAD model is unavailable, surface normal directions will be estimated first and then adjusted. The presented method is able to avoid porosity spaces in CMM measurement regardless of the availability of CAD models.
Virtual Infrastructure:Putting Information Infrastructure on the Technology Curve

Abstract The present debate concerning the National Information Infrastructure (NII) has focused primarily on competition. Although competition will be an important component of the NII, and one which we welcome, we argue that it is inappropriate to frame the debate entirely in terms of competition. Competition can be seen as a consequence of a fundamental development driving innovation within the information industries; namely, the adoption of the digital paradigm. However, digitization offers opportunities for innovation that go beyond competition. We hypothesize that the second wave of the digital revolution will be the virtualization of the infrastructure; that is, the adoption of a software perspective on information and on the devices and channels with which it is processed and distributed. In this paper, we offer a vision of what it would mean for the NII to be a Virtual Infrastructure (VI) that takes full advantage of the digital paradigm. We present a taxonomy for describing alternative infrastructure scenarios and show how the key properties of digital information favor a competitive, generic, and decoupled (CGD) infrastructure. We explore several technical issues, including information appliances and software; the mosaic of overlapping distribution networks; and the brokerage functions that match up suppliers, distributors, and customers. In our treatment of the technical issues, we identify heterogeneity as a key challenge facing computer scientists and offer suggestions for areas of investigation that might prove fruitful. We conclude with a discussion of the policy implications of this work. We are particularly concerned with policies that foster innovation by reducing barriers to the insertion of new technology. Topics addressed include decoupling the regulation of information services from the regulation of distribution, dealing with monopolies and vertical integration, and the publication of interface specifications.
Photoabsorption of the neutral sodium atom: A many-body calculation

By applying many-body perturbation theory, the effects of electron correlations are included in the calculation for the photoionization cross section of the neutral sodium atom from threshold to 16 eV for the photoejected electron energy. The improvement of the lowest-order Hartree-Fock approximation for the cross section by the first-order and second-order correlation corrections is small. The discrepancy between the experiment and the calculations at the short-wavelength side of the minimum is still not understood.
Mechanisms by which exercise improves bone strength

Certain exercises can induce osteogenesis and improve bone strength, yet the biological processes involved in bone mechanotransduction are only beginning to be understood. Several pathways are emerging from current research, including calcium signaling associated with membrane ion channels, adenosine triphosphate signaling, second messengers such as prostaglandins and nitric oxide, and signaling involving mitogen-activated protein kinase. One characteristic of the mechanosensing apparatus that has only recently been studied is the important role of desensitization. Experimental protocols that insert "rest" periods to reduce the effects of desensitization can double anabolic responses to mechanical loading. Exercises that reduce desensitization may provide an effective means to build bone strength.
Effect of positive feedback on compliance following transgression

The hypothesis was tested that positive feedback following transgression would lead to less compliance than would an absence of feedback following transgression. It was also predicted that compliance following transgression would be reduced if a high self-esteem manipulation preceded the compliance request. A 2 by 2 by 2 factorial design manipulating transgression, self-esteem, and feedback was employed. Results supported the hypothesis.
Imaging algorithms for geophysical applications of impedance tomography

The methods of impedance tomography may be employed to obtain images of subsurface electrical conductivity variations. For practical reasons, voltages and currents are usually applied at locations on the ground surface or down a limited number of boreholes, but almost never over the entire surface of the region being investigated. The geophysical inversion process can be facilitated by constructing algorithms adopted to these particular geometries and to the lack of complete surface data. In this paper we assume that the fluctuations in conductivity are small compared to the background value. The imaging of these fluctuations is carried out exactly within the constraints imposed by the problem geometry. Several possible arrangements of injection and monitoring electrodes are considered. In two dimensions these include: Cross-line geometry, current input along one line (borehole) and measurements along a separate parallel line. Single-line geometry, injection and monitoring using the same borehole. Surface reflection geometry, all input and measurement along the ground surface. Theoretical and practical limitations on the image quality produced by the algorithms are discussed. They are applied to several sets of simulated data, and the images produced are analyzed.
Examining the Impact of Aggregated Design Impulses on Process Architecture in Distributed Design

During the design of complex systems, a design process may be subjected to stochastic inputs, interruptions, and changes. These design impulses can have a significant impact on the transient response and converged equilibrium for the design system. We distinguish this research by focusing on the interactions between local and architectural impulses in the form of designer mistakes and dissolution, division, and combination impulses, respectively. We find that local impulses tend to slow convergence but systems subjected to dissolution/division impulses still favor parallel arrangements. The strategy to mitigate combination impulses is unaffected by the presence of local impulses.
Unsettled issues in infant color vision

The purpose of this paper is to clarify several issues in infant color vision that, despite previous reviews in this journal, remain in dispute. We argue that the data are still insufficient to conclude that 2-3-month-old infants are adult-like trichromats, but they are at least dichromats. How closely infant hue perception parallels adult hue perception cannot be discerned from existing data.
Realizations of Daily Weather in Forecast Seasonal Climate

Stochastic daily weather time series models (‘‘weather generators’’) are parameterized consistent with both local climate and probabilistic seasonal forecasts. Both single-station weather generators, and spatial networks of coherently operating weather generators, are considered. Only a subset of parameters for individual station models (proportion of wet days, precipitation mean parameters on wet days, and daily temperature means and standard deviations) are found to depend appreciably on the seasonal temperature and precipitation outcomes, so that extension of the single-station models to coherent multisite weather generators is straightforward. The result allows stochastic simulation of multiple daily weather series, conditional on seasonal forecasts. Example applications of spatially integrated extreme daily precipitation and snowpack water content are used to illustrate the method.
SU-E-T-220: Investigation of Intrafraction Changes to Photon Beam Profiles

Purpose: Treatment Planning Systems model beam profiles to be static and independent of gantry angle. This work investigates how beam profiles change over time, with varying gantry angle. Methods: 200 cGy was delivered to ICProfiler (Sun Nuclear) on 2 Elekta Synergys and 1 Varian 21EX linacs at 8 gantry angles and 1 clockwise arc. Measurements were recorded 8 times per second. To investigate the initial portion of the beams, single-shot and multi-control-point beams were measured. The differences in beam profiles were analyzed as well as the length of time for the beam to stabilize. Symmetry was calculated 5cm from the central axis at 100cm SSD. Field sizes ranged from 30×30 cm{sup 2} to 40×40 cm{sup 2}. Results: The beam profiles changed over time and were dependent on gantry angle. The composite profile for each beam met 1% tolerance described in TG-142. It took up to 14.7, 3.7 and 11.3 cGy for the two Elektas and Varian respectively to satisfy the tolerance. All linacs had the most flat, symmetric, and stable beam profile with the gantry at 0 degrees, where the symmetry was 100.5%±0.55, 101.0%±0.52 and 101.1%±0.44 respectively. The symmetry was 100.7%±1.06, 101.1%±1.05 and 101.2%±0.64 at the gantry angle with themore » biggest discrepancy (90, 180 and 180 degrees respectively). Symmetry was better in the X direction for the Elektas and the Y for the Varian. Fluctuations in beam profiles corresponded to changes in dose rate. Conclusion: Flatness and symmetry changed over time and with gantry angle. Because Treatment Planning Systems do not account for these changes, it may be necessary to limit certain beams from clinical use, for example, beams with low MU. It may also be necessary to add additional QA procedures beyond those suggested in TG-142 to account for these changes.« less
Ranking and evaluation of field corn hybrids for resistance to blackbird damage

Abstract We measured husk characteristics for a sample of ears from each of 229 hybrids grown in a performance test in Ohio in 1987 and ranked these hybrids for potential resistance to bird damage. Hybrids predicted to be resistant (i.e. with heavier husks) tended to mature later and have lower yields in the 1987 performance test than did the lighter-husked hybrids. We selected three hybrids from the 10 predicted to be most resistant, three from the 10 predicted to be least resistant and two intermediate hybrids to be evaluated in a free-choice aviary test with red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus L.) in 1988. The three resistant hybrids averaged 2.5% corn loss, significantly (P
The Culture of Pig Oocytes in Minimal Medium, and the Influence of Progesterone and Estradiol-17β on Meiotic Maturation

Pig oocytes, with (intact) or without (denuded) adhering granulosa cells, were cultured for 33 to 35 h in minimal culture media containing bovine serum albumin and either progesterone or estradiol-17β or both steroids. The incidence of maturation for intact oocytes in minimal medium was comparable, if not superior, to that observed by other investigators using complex culture media. No statistically significant stimulation of maturation by progesterone was observed for either intact or denuded oocytes. Estradiol-17β at concentrations of 1.0 and 10.0 fig per ml inhibited the maturation of denuded oocytes, but the inhibition was overcome either by including progesterone in the medium or by subsequently culturing the inhibited oocytes in steroid-free medium. Chromosomal examination of air-dried oocytes indicated that intact and denuded oocytes cultured either in progesterone or estradiol- 17β exhibited an increased incidence of diploidy and hyperhaploidy at telophase I and metaphase II, but that oocytes cult...
Morphological characterisation and spectroscopic studies of the corrosion behaviour of tungsten heavy alloys

Abstract Tungsten-based alloys have been used in a wide variety of industrial and military applications. These alloys are composed mainly of tungsten (88–95%) with various combinations of nickel, cobalt, iron and copper usually making up the remaining fraction. The corrosion behaviours of five munitions grade tungsten alloys of interest have been examined using immersion tests and wet-dry cycle tests to determine the mechanisms involved in the release of the metallic components. Analyses carried out using SEM, EDS and grazing incidence XRD techniques, show the release of tungsten as well as alloying elements due to galvanic corrosion resulting from the difference in electrode potential between the tungsten phase and the binder phase in all cases studied. The extent of corrosion was directly related with the dissolution of tungsten in the binder phase during the sintering stage of manufacture. In W–Ni–Co–Fe alloys binder phase corrosion was observed while the relatively noble tungsten phase was less affected. The reverse was observed for a W–Cu alloy.
LabelHash: A Flexible and Extensible Method for Matching Structural Motifs

Struct. & Comp. Biology and Molec. Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77005, USA *To whom correspondence should be addressed: {mmoll,kavraki}@cs.rice.edu 1. INTRODUCTION There is an increasing number of proteins with known structure but unknown function. Determining their function would have a significant impact on understanding diseases and designing new therapeutics. Computational methods can facilitate function determination by identifying proteins that have high structural and chemical similarity. Below, we will briefly describe LabelHash, a new method for partial structure comparison. In partial structure comparison, the goal is to find the best geometric and chemical similarity between a set of 3D points called a
Expression of glucocorticoid resistance following social stress requires a second signal

Stimulation of splenocytes from socially stressed mice [social disruption (SDR)] with Gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) revealed a state of functional glucocorticoid (GC) resistance. LPS-stimulated splenocytes were less sensitive to the inhibitory effects of corticosterone. This study demonstrated that activation signals were required for the expression of splenic GC resistance. The results demonstrated that six cycles of SDR induced splenomegaly and increased the number of CD11b-positive monocytes. SDR also increased the viability of cultured, nonstimulated splenocytes, and addition of corticosterone reduced the viability of these cells in a dose-dependent manner. However, following stimulation with LPS, the sensitivity of SDR splenocytes to GC was reduced. Similar results were obtained using lipid A, a fraction of the LPS molecule that binds to Toll-like receptor (TLR)4. Furthermore, C3H/HeJ mice that do not possess a functional TLR4 molecule responded to SDR with an increased number of CD11b-positive monocytes in the spleen and increased viability of nonstimulated splenocytes. However, neither LPS nor lipid A stimulation resulted in the expression of GC resistance. Together, these findings suggest that the expression of GC resistance in response to SDR requires a second signal that can be provided by ligation of TLR4.
A Spark Spectrographic Procedure For the Determination of Boron in Sheet Steel

Sheet metal is directly analyzed for boron by means of spark excitation. Source inductance of 200 to 300 μh, together with rotation of the specimen during excitation, provides detectability an order of magnitude better than conventional spark excitation of steel. Sheet material of 0 050 in thickness and containing a nominal 0.004% boron is analyzed with a coefficient of variation of 3.2%.
A revision of Rhododendron VI. Subgenus Pentanthera (Sections Sciadorhodion, Rhodora and Viscidula)

A revision of the seven species of Rhododendron sections Sciadorhodion, Viscidula and Rhodora (of subgenus Pentanthera; Ericaceae) is presented. A cladistic analysis of Rhododendron subgenus Pentanthera is provided, and results in the recognition of four sections: Sciadorhodion, Viscidula, Rhodora and Pentanthera. The species are delimited and compared, their distributions are mapped, and descriptions and practical keys are developed.
Book, Film, and Video Reviews

Venus on Wheels: Two Decades of Dialogue on Disability, Biography, and Being Female in America by Gelya Frank. Berkeley, CA, and London, UK: University of California Press, 2000.
The Role of Endoscopic Imaging of the Small Bowel in Clinical Practice

Enteroscopy, defined as direct visualization of the small bowel (SB) with the use of a fiberoptic or wireless endoscope, has progressed considerably over the past several years. Technological advancements in the field have facilitated endoscopic evaluation of the SB. This comprehensive clinical review summarizes the latest modalities available to aid gastroenterologists in exploring the SB for evaluation of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, tumors, inflammatory bowel disease, and celiac disease. Previous physical limitations in equipment that made a complete evaluation of the SB difficult have all but disappeared with the advent of capsule endoscopy, balloon-assisted enteroscopy, and spiral enteroscopy.
Aldehyde dehydrogenases: From eye crystallins to metabolic disease and cancer stem cells

The aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) superfamily is composed of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) (NAD(P)(+))-dependent enzymes that catalyze the oxidation of aldehydes to their corresponding carboxylic acids. To date, 24 ALDH gene families have been identified in the eukaryotic genome. In addition to aldehyde metabolizing capacity, ALDHs have additional catalytic (e.g. esterase and reductase) and non-catalytic activities. The latter include functioning as structural elements in the eye (crystallins) and as binding molecules to endobiotics and xenobiotics. Mutations in human ALDH genes and subsequent inborn errors in aldehyde metabolism are the molecular basis of several diseases. Most recently ALDH polymorphisms have been associated with gout and osteoporosis. Aldehyde dehydrogenase enzymes also play important roles in embryogenesis and development, neurotransmission, oxidative stress and cancer. This article serves as a comprehensive review of the current state of knowledge regarding the ALDH superfamily and the contribution of ALDHs to various physiological and pathophysiological processes.
Inhibition of Interferon-γ Signaling by Leishmania donovani

Leishmania infection causes marked down-regulation of interferon (IFN)-gamma-induced gene activity in macrophages, but the mechanism of the blockade has not been fully defined. The IFN-gamma signal transduction pathway was analyzed in Leishmania donovani-infected phorbol-differentiated U937 human promonocytic cells. IFN-gamma stimulation induced marked phosphorylation of its own receptor (IFN-gammaR)-alpha chain. Phosphorylation of the receptor subunit was significantly inhibited after 24 h of infection with the parasite, apparently because of decreased amounts of the receptor subunit. Formation of the IFN-gammaR complex, as assessed by tyrosine phosphorylation and association of Jak2, was strongly inhibited in cells infected for 24 h. Inhibition of the IFN-gammaR complex formation correlated with inhibition of STAT1alpha binding to the IFN-gamma response region. Pretreatment with purified parasite lipophosphoglycan before IFN-gamma stimulation had no effect on tyrosine phosphorylation. Thus, inhibition of tyrosine phosphorylation of the IFN-gammaR-alpha chain and subsequent signal transduction are most likely due to the decreased amount of IFN-gammaR-alpha protein after infection.
Wound and Intraabdominal Infections: Microbiological Considerations and Approaches to Treatment

Aerobic and anaerobic bacteria normally found in the human endogenous gastrointestinal microflora are the most frequent isolates from both postoperative incisional infections and intraabdominal infections. Experimental and clinical studies of intraabdominal infections have shown that many factors are important for successful treatment. Most important is rapid diagnosis followed by a carefully chosen and performed operation. The initial choice of antibiotics with both aerobic and anaerobic coverage has been associated with a high level of therapeutic success in both clinical and experimental settings. In addition, patients with severe intraabdominal infections appear to benefit from a scheduled postoperative relaparotomy with irrigation and exploration, which is most often done today with a zipper technique and which reduces the bacterial burden within the peritoneal cavity. The use of this approach may facilitate the action of properly chosen and administered parenteral antibiotics.
Theta reset produces optimal conditions for long-term potentiation

Connections among theta rhythm, long-term potentiation (LTP) and memory in hippocampus are suggested by previous research, but definitive links are yet to be established. We investigated the hypothesis that resetting of local hippocampal theta to relevant stimuli in a working memory task produces optimal conditions for induction of LTP. The timings of the peak and trough of the first wave of reset theta were determined in initial sessions and used to time stimulation (4 pulses, 200 Hz) during subsequent performance. Stimulation on the peak of stimulus-reset theta produced LTP while stimulation on the trough did not. These results suggest that a memory-relevant stimulus produces a phase shift of ongoing theta rhythm that induces optimal conditions for the stimulus to undergo potentiation.
Radiation sterilization compatibility of medical packaging materials

This chapter examines the gamma sterilization compatibility for three medical packaging materials. Techniques used in doing so include thermal analysis, physical testing, optical property evaluations, and failure analysis. For a variety of PVC formulations, gamma radiation often leads to discoloration. This result from conjugated polyene sequences formed through dehydrohalogenation degradation during ionizing radiation. In addition to unacceptable color formation, excessive pH shifts and high extractables are often observed. For most polyolefins, radiation was found to deplete the antioxidant package leading to discoloration and/or mechanical failures. For polypropylenes, the degradation can lead to the well-publicized catastrophic failures during post radiation shelf life storage. The chapter presents examples and methods to ensure radiation compatibility and shelf-life stability. It also describes simple (minimum sample preparation) and very rapid (minutes) techniques, such as oxidative induction time (OIT) and yellowness index (YI) and their characteristics, such as the radiation compatibility of packaging material. These techniques can be used to screen suitable radiation-sterilized packaging materials for the medical industry.
Equivalent lumped elements G, L, C, and unloaded Q's of closed- and open-loop ring resonators

A transmission-line model is used to extract the equivalent lumped-element circuits for the closed- and open-loop ring resonators. The unloaded Q values of the ring resonators can be calculated from the equivalent lumped elements G, L, and C. Four different configurations of microstrip ring resonators fabricated on low and high dielectric-constant substrates are used to investigate the lumped elements and unloaded Qs. The largest difference between the measured and calculated unloaded Q is 5.7%, which is due to measurement uncertainties and accuracies of the calculation. These simple expressions introduce an easy method for analyzing ring resonators in filters and provide, for the first time, a means of predicting their unloaded Q.
On‐line access to information: NSF as an aid to the indexer/cataloger

When adding a document to a collection, an indexer should choose a representation which makes evident both the content of the document and its relation to other documents already in the collection. Toward this end, the Negotiated Search Facility (NSF) makes possible indexer-controlled retrieval of information from a collection data base using tools beyond those available in a traditional bibliographic catalog. The design philosophy of NSF is to offer a framework to guide the indexer while allowing him freedom to retrieve any data which he iudges will help him make indexing decisions. An example which indicates how an indexer might use the facility also shows how the display formats and command language promote interaction. While the discussion is directed toward indexing, it should be clear that the facility would be equally useful to a searcher.
Environmental protection agency's risk management policy

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is clarifying its position and procedures on risk assessment and risk management for toxic air pollutants. It has announced final decisions on benzene regulations, with radionuclides and arsenic to follow, and will decide on whether to regulate an additional 20-25 substances by the end of 1985. The EPA risk assessment/risk management process will not completely decipher the problem of toxic air pollutants because the solution to scientific and technical questions requires more knowledge. The process does provide a framework for rational and responsible decision-making that is responsive to the needs of the public and the nation as a whole. 5 references, 2 tables.
Functional characterization of the serine/threonine protein phosphatase 5 from Trypanosoma brucei.

PP5 is a member of the PPP family of serine/threonine protein phosphatases and is present in all eukaryotes. We previously cloned and characterized a PP5 homologue from Trypanosoma brucei. Here, we synchronized the T. brucei procyclic form by hydroxyurea treatment and showed that TbPP5 expression is regulated during cell cycle progression. TbPP5 transcript and protein levels were maximal in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and reduced about 3-fold in the G2/M phase. To further evaluate its function, TbPP5 expression was depleted in both procyclic and bloodstream forms of T. brucei by RNA interference. In the procyclic form, TbPP5 knockdown resulted in a moderate reduction in cell growth. However, in the bloodstream form, ablation of TbPP5 caused an 8-fold decrease in cell growth. Furthermore, TbPP5 overexpression conferred the ability of procyclic cells to grow in serum-deprived conditions suggesting that TbPP5 acts downstream of serum factor–induced growth in T. brucei. Taken together; these findings sugg...
Detecting linguistic idiosyncratic interests in autism using distributional semantic models

Children with autism spectrum disorder often exhibit idiosyncratic patterns of behaviors and interests. In this paper, we focus on measuring the presence of idiosyncratic interests at the linguistic level in children with autism using distributional semantic models. We model the semantic space of children’s narratives by calculating pairwise word overlap, and we compare the overlap found within and across diagnostic groups. We find that the words used by children with typical development tend to be used by other children with typical development, while the words used by children with autism overlap less with those used by children with typical development and even less with those used by other children with autism. These findings suggest that children with autism are veering not only away from the topic of the target narrative but also in idiosyncratic semantic directions potentially defined by their individual topics of interest.
Local Environmental Groups: A Systematic Enumeration in Two Geographical Areas*

Local environmental groups, although acknowledged increas- ingly since the mid-1980s, have not been sampled systematically, have been reported to consist of only a few types, and are often considered to be of only minor political significance. In this study we systematically invento- ried all local environmental groups in two U.S. geographical areas: the Delmarva Peninsula and the state of North Carolina. We found 566 local groups, seven to 20 times the number reported in the best published di- rectory. Threequarters did not fit the types most commonly characterized in the literature. Extrapolating from our study areas, we estimate that 16,000 to 30,000 local environmental groups are active in the United States. We find that these groups have a subset of "core" members, those active in organizing and local operations. We estimate the population of core members at 265,000 to 290,000, over 50 times the total of profes- sional staff members of all U.S. national environmental organizations. These groups affect local and state environmental policy, enforcement of environmental laws, the shaping of environmental issues, and the social infrastructure for environmental behaviors.
Search for the SM Higgs Boson in Di-τ Final States at CMS

A search for the standard model Higgs boson decaying to tau pairs is performed using events recorded by the CMS experiment at the LHC in 2011 and 2012 at a center-of-mass energy of 7 and 8 TeV respectively. The dataset corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 17 fb 1 , split in 4.9 fb 1 of data taken at 7 TeV center-of-mass energy and 12.1 fb1 at 8 TeV. The tau-pair invariant-mass spectrum is studied in five different final states, μτh + X , eτh + X , eμ + X , τh τh + X , and μμ + X . Upper limits with respect to the standard model prediction in the mass range of 110-145 GeV are determined. An observed (expected) 95% confidence level exclusion limit for mH = 125 GeV is found to be 1.63 (1.00) times the standard model cross section.