cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pseudofermion approach to binary disordered systems. II. Goldstone systems with off-diagonal disorder

A simple approximation is developed for the frequency spectrum of binary disordered Goldstone systems such as phonons in mixed crystals with both mass and force-constant disorder. This localized pseudofermion approximation is a simplification of the one-pseudofermion approximation previously discussed, which gives the coherent-potential approximation for systems with diagonal disorder. The approximation is shown to give properly analytic Green's functions, and to have the correct virtual-crystal, atomic, and dilute limits. Numerical results are presented for linear chains of atoms for comparison with the exact density of states, and results are given in the random-hopping electronic model for comparison with the theory of Blackman et al. It is found that the theory produces results very similar to those produced by the coherent-potential approximation for diagonal disorder. However, the neglect of pseudofermion propagation and certain overlap effects leads to somewhat incorrect locations of the impurity band edges. This effect vanishes when the disordered force constants superimpose linearly.
Violent Victimization and Perpetration: Joint and Distinctive Implications for Adolescent Development

To date few reports have provided direct comparison of psychosocial vulnerability and resources among youth with victimization and perpetration histories. Within a racially diverse, high-risk adolescent sample (n = 849), this study undertakes MANCOVA tests on a multidimensional set of risk and protective factors contrasting youth with histories of 1) neither violent victimization nor perpetration, 2) victimization only , 3) both perpetration only, and 4) both victimization and perpetration. All three violence-affected groups reported elevated risk and diminished protection, with perpetrating victims demonstrating the greatest psychosocial impairment. Detailed contrasts among the youth group profiles provide insights regarding overlapping and distinct developmental etiologies and implications for preventive and remedial intervention.
Clinical series of oncoplastic mastopexy to optimize cosmesis of large-volume resections for breast conservation.

Oncoplastic mastopexy has been popularized as a method to hide the cosmetic effects of central or large-volume resections associated with breast conservation surgery for breast cancer. This review was undertaken to study the uses and limitations of these techniques in providing adequate breast conservation lumpectomy for breast cancer of any stage in a single surgeon’s practice. A review of breast cancer cases March 2004 through December 2009 were analyzed for the use of oncoplastic reconstruction in breast conservation surgery. A total of 167 patients had lumpectomies during this period associated with oncoplastic mastopexy reconstruction. The average age was 55.6 years with a range of 33–85 years. Stage 0 breast cancer accounted for 33 cases (19.8%), and 134 cases were invasive cancers stages 1–3 (stage 1, 34.1%; stage 2, 30.6%; and stage 3, 15.6%). The most common oncoplastic techniques used were, in order of frequency: batwing mastopexy, parallelogram mastopexy, and Modified Wise pattern mastopexy. Positive or close margins (≤2 mm) were present in 37 of 167 cases (22%). Positive margins were most associated with higher stage, positive nodes, positive lymphovascular invasion (LVI), use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and larger initial T stage, positive estrogen receptor (ER), and younger age. Of these higher stage, node positive, and use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy were statistically significant in this small series (P values = 0.034, 0.016, and 0.022, respectively). Ki-67 and HER2 status were not associated with positive margins. Positive margins were manageable by local re-excision of a solitary face of the prior resection wall in more than 2/3 of cases to achieve negative pathologic margins. Only 11 of 167 required mastectomy because of failure to achieve adequate margins for oncologic control. Oncoplastic mastopexy allows the surgeon to address large tumors or tumors in cosmetically difficult sites adequately for breast conservation. Careful margin marking and re-excision of close or positive margins is still often feasible to achieve adequate negative margin with acceptable cosmesis in spite of the large initial volumes of resection.
Immune consequences of mutations in the human common γ-chain gene

A mutation (c.878T>A) in the common gamma chain (gamma(c)) causes an X-linked combined immunodeficiency (XCID) in a large kindred of British origin. In the disease, gamma(c) is expressed, but its binding to Jak3 is reduced. The immune deficiencies and clinical course were less marked in toddlers and school age children with XCID(L293Q) than in severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). However, affected newborns were profoundly deficient in thymic size and T cells. In some affected infants, thymic size and numbers of T cells gradually increased during the first year. Their clinical course was relatively benign. In affected infants of one lineage, the number of blood T cells failed to increase substantially. They succumbed to opportunistic infections. T cell deficiencies in XCID(L293Q) progressively worsened during adolescence. Decreased thymic function, failure to rescue T cells from apoptosis, and replication senescence were possible causes. Blood T cells with the phenotype CD45RA(+)CD62L(+) (unstimulated T cells) were most depressed. CD4(+) T cells were also deficient in a specific marker of recent thymic emigrants, episomal DNA deletion circles created during TcR gene rearrangements. Apoptosis of T cells was increased, but neither apoptosis nor cell death was age-related. In contrast, telomere shortening in T cells increased with age. Unlike murine gamma(c) gene deletions, gamma delta T cells were prominent in affected adolescents and young adults. Furthermore, T cells with a V delta 2/V gamma 9 specificity declined with age and were replaced in the oldest male with a V delta 1 specificity. Thus, the mutation provides many insights concerning the role of gamma(c) in the biology of T cells.
Computing the theory of evolution

Abstract The sources of diversity in evolutionary ecosystems are investigated using a discrete event model (EVOLVE III). This interactional model incorporates realistic features of organisms, including complex phenotypic traits and a detailed representation of genetic organization. The model differs from traditional models by allowing the fitness of an organism to be an emergent property of the ecosystem. Local interactions between pairs of organisms determine the fitness of the individual. Experimental results are presented for simulation runs that competed generalist and specialist populations in a gradient free environment. These experiments reveal three sources of diversity: transient polymorphisms, selection driven polymorphisms, and character displacement. A principle of equality of maximum resource utilization is proposed as a major factor in the process of diversification.
Strontium isotopes in some Cenozoic lavas from Oregon and Washington

Abstract The87Sr/86Sr ratios have been determined in 22 volcanic rocks from Oregon and Washington. The emphasis of the study was on andesites and dacites, but several basalts were included. Most of the samples have a very limited range in strontium isotopic composition and all fall within variations previously defined for oceanic basalts. There are no systematic differences between lavas erupted through the pre-Cenozoic basement and those erupted in the Columbia River Embayment. It is concluded that the role played by crustal rocks in the generation of these andesites and dacites is minor or nonexistent, but assimiliation of crustal material may have been a factor for some of the basalts of the Columbia River Group.
The Relation of Coloration in Mammals to Low Temperature

It is well known that the color of certain mammals, such as the snowshoe hares ( Lepus ), collared lemmings ( Dicrostonyx ), weasels ( Mustela ) and Arctic foxes ( Alopex ) changes with the seasons, the animals becoming white in winter and brown in summer. The explanation usually advanced is that this seasonal difference in coloration renders the animals inconspicuous against the snows of winter and the brown background in summer and thus they avoid detection. Recently another interpretation has been advanced to account for these coloration changes. The following quotation taken from Hesse, Allee and Schmidt's ecological animal geography, Ed. 2, 1936, expresses the basic tenets of this concept. “The warm blooded animals of polar regions contrast … with … poikilothermic forms in their pale or pure white coloration.… The poikilothermic forms are almost all dark, and thus absorb the greatest amount of heat during the brief period of their activity. The white coloration of the homeotherms radiates less heat than the dark, and prevention of heat loss is evidently of greater importance than the absorption of the relatively small amounts of heat received from the sun.… Every means of heat conservation for homeothermic animals in polar regions is of importance, since they depend directly on heat of metabolism during the greater part of the year, and only secondarily on radiant heat from the sun.” In order to test the validity of the heat conservation concept the heat production of normally colored albino rats ( Rattus norvegiens ) was compared to those dyed black. Albino rats were used because of their uniform color and density of fur. Preliminary experiments comparing weasels in the brown summer and white winter pelage showed that there were marked seasonal differences in fur density that could modify the results. Acknowledgments .—Acknowledgment is made for aid and …
Using Probability Densities to Evolve more Secure Software Configurations

The use of Evolutionary Algorithms (EAs) is one method for securing software configurations in a changing environment. Using this approach, configurations are modeled as biological chromosomes, and a continual sequence of selection, recombination, and mutation processes is performed. While this approach can evolve secure configurations based on current conditions, it is also possible to inadvertently lose solutions to previous threats during the evolution process. This paper improves the performance of EA-based configuration management by incorporating parameter-setting history. Over the generations (EA iterations), counts are maintained regarding the parameter-settings and the security of the configuration. Probability densities are then developed and used during mutation to encourage the selection of previously secure settings. As a result, these secure settings are likely to be maintained as attacks alternate between vulnerabilities. Experimental results using configuration parameters from RedHat Linux installed Apache web-servers indicate the addition of parameter history significantly improves the ability to maintain secure settings as an attacker alternates between different threats.
Comparative Effectiveness Research

The goal of comparative effectiveness research is to improve health care while dealing with the seemingly ever-rising cost. An understanding of comparative effectiveness research as a core topic is important for neuroradiologists. It can be used in a variety of ways. Its goal is to look at alternative methods of interacting with a clinical condition, ideally, while improving delivery of care. While the Patient-Centered Outcome Research initiative is the most mature US-based foray into comparative effectiveness research, it has been used more robustly in decision-making in other countries for quite some time. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence of the United Kingdom is a noteworthy example of comparative effectiveness research in action.
Monoterpenes: relationship between structure and inhibition of germination

Abstract Of a group of structurally and metabolically related monoterpenes, the ones most toxic toward radish seeds ( Raphanus sativus ) were those having a ketone functional group, camphor and pulegone. All the monoterpenes stimulated germination at low concentrations and inhibited it at increasing concentrations.
Structure and formation of twins in the orthorhombic YBa2Cu3O7-x

Abstract Structure and formation of twins in the orthorhombic phase of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7- x samples, exhibiting bulk superconductivity at 90 K, are studied by transmission electron microscopy and modeling. Twinned domains with {110} twin boundaries form with separation λ which is dictated by energetic and geometrical requirements. Both of these requirements are related to Δa = b - a , where b and a are lattice parameters of the orthorhombic phase. Geometrical requirement leads to the estimate that the stable values of λ are integer multiples of d = ab /(√2 Δa ). In some samples λ's are regular, in others not. Deviation of λ from theoretically expected stable separations is interpreted as due to local variation of oxygen ordering and/or local elastic strain. The twin boundary has a structure different from the bulk orthorhombic phase and electron micrographs suggest that it has a width of 30–50 A. In bulk samples twinned domains can be present at different stages of the growth process. These substructural variations suggest that samples are at metastable equilibrium and are consistent with samples being in the superconducting glassy state.
PHYLOGENETIC SYSTEMATICS AND THE SPECIES PROBLEM

— A tension has arisen over the primacy of interbreeding versus monophyly in defining the species category. Manifestations of this tension include unnecessary restriction of the concept of monophyly as well as inappropriate attribution of “species” properties, to “higher taxa”, and vice versa. Distinctions between systems (wholes) deriving their existence from different underlying. processes have been obscured by failure to acknowledge different interpretations of the concept of individuality. We identify interbreeding (resulting in populations) and evolutionary descent (resulting in monophyletic groups) as two processes of interest to phylogenetic systematists, and explore the relations between the systems resulting from these processes. In the case of sexual reproduction, populations of interbreeding organisms (regardless of whether they are monophyletic) exist as cohesive wholes and play a special role in phylogenetic systematics, being the least inclusive entities appropriate for use as terminal units in phylogenetic analysis of organismal relationships. Both sexual and asexual organisms form monophyletic groups. Accepting the reality and significance of both interbreeding and monophyly emphasizes that a conscious decision must be made regarding which phenomenon should be used to define the species category. Examination of species concepts that focus either on interbreeding or on common descent leads us to conclude that several alternatives are acceptable from the standpoint of phylogenetic systematics but that no one species concept can meet the needs of all comparative biologists.
Temperature dependence of myosin-II tail fragment assembly

Dictyostelium myosin-II bipolar thick filament (BTF) assembly is heavily dependent on ionic strength and temperature and is reversible by the phosphorylation of just three threonines. Truncated tail fragments of Dictyostelium myosin-II are commonly used as models for BTF assembly, as they self-assemble into regular paracrystals that recapitulate the ionic strength and phosphorylation dependence of full-length Dictyostelium myosin-II BTF assembly. Here we show that Dictyostelium myosin-II tail fragment assembly is highly temperature dependent, similar to full-length Dictyostelium myosin-II. Assembly of paracrystals was far more robust at 4°C than at higher temperatures. Pre-assembled paracrystals disassembled completely when shifted to 37°C, indicating that assembly does not greatly improve the thermostability of these tail fragments. The melting temperatures of individual Dictyostelium myosin-II tail coiled-coils under both low and high ionic strength conditions that prohibit paracrystal assembly are extremely low, 21°C and 28°C, respectively. These data are consistent with reversible thermal denaturation of the coiled-coil as the most likely explanation for assembly incompetence under either very low ionic strength or high temperature conditions. Assembled paracrystals of a structurally similar fragment of nonmuscle myosin-IIA were far more thermodynamically stable than their Dictyostelium counterparts at the temperatures examined here.
Parental influences on academic performance in African-American students

We investigated the relationship between parental influences and academic outcomes for African-American students. Secondary data analysis was conducted on the National Survey of Family and Household data set. Multiple regression analysis showed that parenting style (nurture and control) and parental involvement significantly predicted academic outcomes. Research has traditionally focused on the reasons for the failure of African-American students to succeed in school. This study focused on factors that determine success. The problem of negative school outcomes may be alleviated by studying what works to promote school success rather than what does not work for African-American students.
Structure–Process–Property Relationship of Biomimetic Chitosan‐Based Nanocomposite Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering: Biological, Physico‐Chemical, and Mechanical Functions

We describe here the structure―property―process relationship of two sets of chitosan-based scaffolds as potential materials for hard tissue bioengineering applications. The first set of scaffolds was designed to study the effect of degree of deacetylation (%DD) of chitosan at 85 and 95% DD with identical molecular weight. The second set of scaffolds were synthesized to enhance the bioactivity and mechanical properties of 95% DD chitosan scaffold by the addition of 1, 3, and 5 wt% nanohydroxyapatite (nHA). Both sets of scaffolds were processed using freezing and lyophilization and their in vitro biological response was examined using pre-osteoblast (MC 3T3-E1) cells. The pure chitosan and chitosan―nHA nanocomposite scaffolds were characterized by a three-dimensional porous structure with pore size in the range of (≈50―120 μm), irrespective of %DD and nHA content. The compression modulus of hydrated 95% DD chitosan scaffolds increased from 6.0 kPa in pure chitosan to 9.2 kPa in chitosan-5 wt% nHA. The water uptake ability of 95% DD chitosan scaffolds was lower than 85% DD chitosan scaffolds, and decreased with the addition of nHA. On the other hand the water retention ability of 95% DD chitosan scaffolds was greater than 85% DD chitosan scaffolds but did not increase much with the addition of nHA. Chitosan degrades mainly by lysozyme present in physiological fluid. After 28 days of in vitro biodegradation test with physiological fluid, the 95% DD chitosan exhibited slightly lower degradation rate as compared to 85% DD and the degradation decreased with increase in nHA content in chitosan scaffold. Pre-osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) grown on nHA scaffolds showed improved cell attachment, more proliferation, and a more extended cellular morphology. In vitro experimental observations suggest chitosan-nHA nanocomposite scaffolds as potential biomaterials for hard tissue bioengineering (bone regeneration) or as a template for cell attachment and proliferation in the repair of osseous and chondral defects.
Broadening of the Sodium D Lines by Atomic Hydrogen. An Analysis in Terms of the NaH Molecular Potentials

Na D lines broadening by atomic H, discussing interatomic forces between Na and H atoms in terms of NaH molecular potentials
Betwixt and Between in the Intermediate Area

The great diversity in early subsistence practices and in the later development of complex patterns of social, political, and economic organization is one of the Intermediate Area's greatest riches for comparative anthropological study. Archaeological research there is now in the midst of the conceptual shift needed to take full advantage of the opportunities offered.
Past experience and shell use in hermit crabs: Shell exchange behavior

Three species of hermit crabs (Calcinus tibecen, C. seurati, and Clibanarius zebra) were tested to see if recent experience with a type of shell influenced the ability of crabs to exchange shells according to the negotiations model of resource exchange (Hazlett, 1978). Crabs experienced one shell type for 30 days and were then transferred to either a familiar or unfamiliar shell type. Shell exchange activity was then observed and the predictive power of resource exchange models compared for crabs in familiar and unfamiliar shell types. When given a short accommodation period following transfer to a new shell and observed in a concrete tank, crabs in familiar shells followed the negotiations model while crabs without recent experience with a shell type did not. Crabs tested without an accommodation period or tested in glass aquaria did not behave in a predictable fashion when exchanging shells irrespective of their recent experience with shells.
APPLYING U.S. EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION LAWS TO INTERNATIONAL EMPLOYERS: ADVICE FOR SCIENTISTS AND PRACTITIONERS

The question of whether U.S. employment discrimination laws apply to international employers is complex and involves multiple sources of legal authority including U.S. statutes, international treaties, and the laws of non-American host countries. This article provides detailed and simplifying guidance to assist employers in working through that complexity. Based on an examination of 98 federal courts cases, this article identifies and explains 8 general guidelines for determining when U.S. laws apply to international employers (e.g., U.S. employees working abroad or “foreign” employees working in the United States). These guidelines are incorporated into an organizing framework or “decision tree” that leads employers through the various decisions that must be made to determine whether U.S. discrimination laws apply in a wide range of international employment situations. Guidance for industrial and organizational (I-O) psychologists who advise international employers is provided and summarized in terms of general recommendations and conclusions.
A National Survey of Mentoring Programs for KL2 Scholars

There is limited information on how academic institutions support effective mentoring practices for new investigators. A national semistructured telephone interview was conducted to assess current “state of the art” mentoring practices for KL2 scholars among the 46 institutions participating in the Clinical Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Consortium. Mentoring practices examined included: mentor selection, articulating and aligning expectations, assessing the mentoring relationship, and mentor training. Telephone interviews were conducted in winter/fall 2009, with 100% of the CTSAs funded (n= 46) through 2009, participating in the survey. Primary findings include: five programs selected mentors for K scholars, 14 programs used mentor contracts to define expectations, 16 programs reported formal mentor evaluation, 10 offered financial incentives to mentors, and 13 offered formal mentoring training. The interviews found considerable variation in mentoring practices for training new investigators among the 46 CTSAs. There was also limited consensus on “what works” and what are the core elements of “effective mentoring practices. Empirical research is needed to help research leaders decide on where and how to place resources related to mentoring. Clin Trans Sci 2010; Volume 3: 299–304
Effect of viscosity on drug absorption

The effect of viscosity on the absorption rate of two model drugs (ethanol and salicylic acid) from the stomach of rats has been determined. The two drugs were administered simultaneously, dissolved in an aqueous solution containing 0, 1, or 1.5 per cent methylcellulose (Methocel 4000, 60 HG.). These solutions had a range of viscosities from about 1 to 500 cps. The osmotic pressure of the different solutions was essentially the same. The experiments were designed to allow recognition of possible effects due to complex formation and evaluation of the effect of viscosity on ( a ) the rate of movement of drug molecules to the absorbing membranes and ( b ) the rate of gastrointestinal transit of the solutions. It was found that both a and b were decreased with increasing viscosity. Correlation of ethanol and salicylic acid absorption data obtained in this study, together with consideration of the results of additional experiments with everted intestine preparations, provide an explanation for the initial lag time encountered in absorption studies with salicylic acid and certain other drugs. The results also rationalize the use of zero time shifts in the kinetic models recently developed in this laboratory for drug absorption in humans.
Review of the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of oral norfloxacin

The pharmacokinetic profile of norfloxacin, an oral fluoroquinolone, is more complex than that of many antibacterial agents. Following administration of a 400-mg dose, peak serum concentrations of 1.5 to 2.0 micrograms/ml are achieved within one to two hours. The drug is widely distributed throughout the body, achieves high ratios of tissue to serum concentrations in both renal and prostatic tissue, and undergoes metabolic conversion. Six metabolites of norfloxacin have been identified. Approximately 30 percent of an administered dose is excreted as unchanged drug by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Following a single dose of norfloxacin, therapeutic levels of drug in the urine are achieved rapidly and maintained for at least 12 to 24 hours. Norfloxacin has a terminal elimination half-life of approximately three hours, although the presence of a reduced glomerular filtration rate increases the elimination half-life. Dosage modification is, therefore, necessary when the glomerular filtration rate falls below 20 ml/minute.
A study of premixed turbulent flames by scattered light

A nonflow-disturbing, light-scattering technique for continuous measurements of both mean and fluctuating values of temperature has been developed that is capable of high-frequency response. The technique was used to study turbulent atmospheric premixed flames of natural gas and air. Thermally stable, submicron, magnesium oxide particles were introduced steadily into a premixed unburned gas-air stream. Since the combustion occurred under conditions of turbulent convective transport at constant pressure with no molal change and no dilution with external fluid, the particle concentration at any point in the flame was inversely proportional to the absolute temperature. The concentration was determined from photomultiplier tube measurements of mercury-arc light scattered at 90 degrees from within a volume approximately 0.1-inch diameter by 0.1-inch long. The technique did measure temperature and temperature fluctuations and can be a powerful tool for the study of premixed turbulent flames. Analysis of the fluctuations gave information directly relatable to the speeds, amplitudes, and wavelengths associated with turbulent combustion. Flame shapes determined from high-speed photographs were consistent with interpretations based on the light-scattering measurements. Under the conditions studied, the influence of upstream turbulence on flame structure was negligible except for its action as a triggering mechanism for downstream flame turbulence. Demonstrations are given of the use of the technique both for measurements of local average volumetric burning rates within the flame brush and for measurements of gross volumetric burning rates.
An improvement in quantitative separation of phospholipids with silicic acid-impregnated filter paper.

SummaryA technic is described for avoiding loss of lecithin at point of origin during quantitative separation of phospholipids on silicic acid impregnated paper.
Metabolic evaluation of obese and nonobese siblings.

Objective: To test the hypotheses that obese adolescents have a lower resting metabolic rate and less aerobic endurance than their nonobese siblings. Design: Case-referent study of obese and nonobese siblings from the same kindred. Setting: Tertiary referral center. Participants: Telephone screening of community volunteers resulted in a consecutive sample of 16 kindreds. Obese and nonobese siblings were similar in age, height, and pubertal status. Significantly more female subjects were in the obese group ( p Measurements and main results: Body composition studies revealed that the obese siblings had higher body fat ( p Conclusions: The obese adolescents did not have a reduced resting metabolic rate. As in adults, the relationship between resting metabolic rate and fat-free mass was similar for obese and nonobese children and adolescents. Any decreased sport participation by the obese siblings was not due to inherent reductions in aerobic capacity.
Production and Processing of Milk from Transgenic Goats Expressing Human Lysozyme in the Mammary Gland

The potential for applying biotechnology to benefit animal agriculture and food production has long been speculated. The addition of human milk components with intrinsic antimicrobial activity and positive charge to livestock milk by genetic engineering has the potential to benefit animal health, as well as food safety and production. We generated one line of transgenic goats as a model for the dairy cow designed to express human lysozyme in the mammary gland. Here we report the characterization of the milk from 5 transgenic females of this line expressing human lysozyme in their milk at 270 microg/mL or 68% of the level found in human milk. Milk from transgenic animals had a lower somatic cell count, but the overall component composition of the milk and milk production were not different from controls. Milk from transgenic animals had a shorter rennet clotting time and increased curd strength. Milk of such nature may be of benefit to the producer by influencing udder health and milk processing.
The stresses in a thermally loaded bimaterial interface

The conditions of equilibrium at a thermally loaded interface are considered in detail. A series of numerical models are presented to illustrate the nature of the stress system at the interface. These consist of two- and three-dimensional finite element case studies which show the limitations of existing approximate analytical solutions, and document the presence of very large normal stress gradients. The stress systems determined in the finite element calculations are in agreement with those of an experimental investigation which documented a change in sign of the stress normal to the interface, on either side of it, but which had insufficient resolution to detect the reversal of the stress which is needed to satisfy equilibrium. The implications of these large stress gradients are discussed in terms of problems involving laminated fiber composites and general bimaterial interfaces.
Hematopoietic growth factors in clinical practice.

Objective: To review the hematopoietic growth factors (HGFs) as they relate to hematopoiesis, dosing, administration, toxicities and clinical indications. Data sources: Research studies, abstracts, review articles, product package inserts, and book chapters pertaining to HGFs. Conclusions: HGFs are essential components for the development of blood cells. Recombinant DNA technology and the availability of HGFs have significantly altered the care of patients with cancer and bone marrow disorders. Implications for nursing practice: Nurses can play a major role in assisting patients, families, and various consumers by providing education about HFGs as well as their indications, schedule, methods of administration, and toxicities. Familiarity with the HFGs and the literature available can assist nurses in developing management strategies for patients receiving these agents.
Renal control of extracellular calcium.

Calcium is important not only as the major constituent of the skeleton but also as the major ionic cytosolic messenger for a variety of biochemical and physiological processes. Calcium homeostasis is maintained by the integrated activity of the gut, bone, and the kidneys. The present discussion summarizes the role of the kidneys in the maintenance of extracellular calcium.
Quasiparticle and phonon lifetimes in superconductors

Low-energy quasiparticle scattering, recombination, and branch-mixing lifetimes and phonon pair-breaking and scattering lifetimes are calculated for superconductors. The quasiparticle calculations relate these lifetimes to the low-frequency behavior of ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{2}(\ensuremath{\Omega})F(\ensuremath{\Omega})$. Results are obtained using the low-frequency approximate form ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{2}(\ensuremath{\Omega})F(\ensuremath{\Omega})=b{\ensuremath{\Omega}}^{2}$, with $b$ determined from electron tunneling measurements. For the strong-coupling superconductors Pb and Hg, the full tunneling form for ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{2}(\ensuremath{\Omega})F(\ensuremath{\Omega})$ is used. The phonon lifetimes are shown to depend on ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{2}(\ensuremath{\Omega})$. Results are compared with experiment.
Reexpression of hSNF5 in Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor Cell Lines Causes Cell Cycle Arrest through a p21CIP1/WAF1-Dependent Mechanism

Findings elucidate mechanisms of an important tumor suppressor gene in childhood kidney and brain tumors.
Digestion of butyrate glycerides by pancreatic lipase

The racemic triglycerides, glyceryl-1-palmitate-2,3-dibutyrate (PBB), glyceryl-1-butyrate-2,3-dipalmitate (PPB), glyceryl-2-butyrate-1,3-dipalmitate (PBP), and the diglyceride, racemic glyceryl-1-palmitate-3-butyrate (P-B) were synthesized and digested with pancreatic lipase. Each triglyceride was mixed with equimolar amounts of triolein (OOO) prior to incubation. The following order of digestion rates was observed: PBB>PPB>PBP>P-B. There was no evidence for short-chain fatty acid specificity; however the triglycerides containing butyric acid were hydrolyzed more rapidly than OOO. Based upon the fatty acid composition of partial glycerides, digestion of butyrate glycerides was not a simple phenomenon. For example, in the digestion of PBB, butyric acid accumulated faster than palmitic acid in the diglycerides, and monobutyrin was found to accumulate when the diglyceride, P-B, was digested. As evidenced by the fatty acid composition of the monoglycerides, positional specificity of pancreatic lipase was always maintained.
Transmitter diversity for DS-CDMA with MMSE decision feedback

We study the forward link of a DS-CDMA system with transmitter diversity, assuming the channel is known at the receiver but not at the transmitter. Space-time coding is compared to orthogonal designs for a block fading channel, including frequency-selective fading. A minimum mean squared error (MMSE) decision-feedback detector (DFD) suppresses multiple-access interference and cancels self-interference from the multiple transmitter antennas. This receiver can be implemented adaptively in the absence of channel estimates. We consider both hard decision-feedback and iterative soft decision-feedback in combination with MAP decoding. Our results show that for the cases considered, the hard and soft DFDs perform close to the receiver with perfect cancellation, which offers significant gain with respect to the orthogonal designs.
The gravity program of the University of Washington

During the past two years members of the solid-earth geophysics group within the Geology Department at the University of Washington have initiated several projects that involve observations of the earth's gravity field in western Washington. In excess of 400 stations have been established with a LaCoste geodetic meter. The surveys have been primarily designed to provide an increased understanding of the crustal structure and tectonics of western Washington. Most of the field work has been completed and analysis of the data is underway.
African American Grandparent Caregivers: Stresses and Implications for Counselors

Many grandparents today have the responsibility of caring for their grandchildren. Although caregiving grandparents come from all racial groups and social classes, single African American grandpare...
Vertical FDI versus outsourcing : the role of host country human capital

The existing literature on offshoring neglects the importance of host country conditions in affecting the boundaries of a firm. In this paper, the author focuses on the role of the host country's human capital in affecting the organization of offshore production. Acknowledging that an input is produced offshore only after training the host labor, this training cost depends on the human capital gap between the home and the host country. The model finds that a sourcing firm prefers to offshore production internationally only if the human capital gap between the home and the host country is below a threshold. Secondly, as the human capital gap increases, the probability for international outsourcing vis-a-vis intra-firm trade increases. Finally, as opposed to conventional wisdom, the model shows the possibility of outsourcing inputs of a high-tech good when the human capital gap between the home and the host is high.
Bounding the error of path loss models

In this paper we analyze the efficacy of basic path loss models at predicting median path loss in urban environments. We attempt to bound the practical error of these models and look at how they may hinder practical wireless applications, and in particular dynamic spectrum access networks. This analysis is made using a large set of measurements from production networks in two US cities. We are able to show quantitatively what many experienced radio engineers understand: these models perform poorly at predicting path loss in even relatively simple outdoor environments and are of little practical use aside from making crude estimates of coverage in the least demanding applications. As a solution, we advocate a renewed focus on measurement-based, adaptive path loss models built on appropriate statistical methods.
First Impressions of Sarah Palin: Pit Bulls, Politics, Gender Performance, and a Discursive Media (Re)contextualization

This study examines and compares discursive constructions and performance of gender in Sarah Palin's media portrayal during the first week of her nomination to the Republican vice-presidential candidacy. Using a discourse analysis of online video clips posted by 5 U.S. network news websites, the authors found a discourse rich with complexity in both Palin's gendered performance and the resulting discursive media (re)contextualization of Palin. Her gender performance serves as an example of how masculinity and femininity are performed in a complex blend and how Palin's “masculinity” is accepted and celebrated, while at the same time also firmly rooted in more traditional notions of femininity.
The influence of differential rotation on the equatorial component of the sun's magnetic dipole field

This paper examines the effect that solar differential rotation would have on a hypothetical large-scale equatorial dipole field. The evolving large-scale field pattern is expressed as a series of non-axisymmetric moments. As time increases, power is transferred to progressively higher order moments. In the 27d rotating coordinate system, each moment undergoes a small retrograde drift which remains nearly uniform until that mode begins to fade. The synodic rotation periods of the first few moments are comparable to the observed 28.5d period of the sun's large-scale field near sunspot maximum. Differential rotation may be the source of this 28.5d period, but the eruption of new flux is necessary to keep the pattern going.
Validation of the standalone implementation of the dynamic wake meandering model for power production

This paper presents validation for using the standalone implementation of the dynamic wake meandering (DWM) model to conduct numerical simulations of power production of rows of wind turbines. The standalone DWM model is an alternative formulation of the conventional DWM model that does not require information exchange with an aeroelastic code. As a consequence, the standalone DWM model has significantly shorter computational times and lower demands on the user environment. The drawback of the standalone DWM model is that it does not have the capability to predict turbine loads. Instead, it should be seen as an alternative for simulating the power production of a wind farm. The main advantage of the standalone DWM model is the ability to capture the key physics for wake dynamics such as the turbine specific induction, the build-up of wake turbulence and wake deficit in the wind farm, and the effect of ambient turbulence intensity and atmospheric stability. The predicted power production of the standalone DWM model is compared with that of full scale measurements from Horns Rev, Lillgrund, Nysted and Weingermeer wind farms. Overall, the difference between the models predictions and the reference data is on the order of 5%. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An architecture and a wrapper synthesis approach for multi-clock latency-insensitive systems

This paper presents an architecture and a wrapper synthesis approach for the design of multi-clock systems-on-chips. We build upon the initial work on multi-clock latency-insensitive systems by Singh and Theobald (2004), and provide a detailed system architecture with the following capabilities and benefits: (i) modules arc stalled only when needed, thereby avoiding unnecessary stalling, (ii) adequate metastability resolution is provided, (iii) handshake interfaces between modules are high-performance and low-latency, i.e., capable of transferring data packets on every clock cycle, (iv) IP cores with large clock distribution delays are correctly handled, and (v) an automated approach is provided for wrapper synthesis from formal specifications. For wrapper synthesis, we have developed an automated tool which accepts interface specifications in a high-level language (Component Wrapper Language, or CWL), and automatically produces gate-level implementations of wrapper circuitry that will correctly and efficiently stall the synchronous modules depending on the availability of I/O channels. An optimization is introduced to reduce the cost of the wrapper circuitry by eliminating "busy waiting." A small set of benchmark examples is also proposed, and synthesis results for the tool are promising.
Programmable air bearing sliders (for magnetic storage)

The design of programmable air bearing sliders is described. Simulation results are presented to show how the height of the front and the rear can be tuned for specific properties. The flying height of the rear is shown to be velocity dependent only because of a dependency of the front. Reducing the taper length to lower the fly height of the slider front is shown to be a simple method to lower this dependence on velocity. >
PROXIMATE CAUSES OF CANNIBALISTIC POLYPHENISM IN LARVAL TIGER SALAMANDERS

Larval tiger salamanders, Ambystoma tigrinum, exist as small-headed “typical” morphs that feed mainly on aquatic invertebrates and as large-headed “cannibal” morphs that often prey on conspecifics. Previous experiments have demonstrated that cannibals are induced facultatively when crowded with conspecific larvae. We asked: (1) What sensory cues trigger expression of cannibals? (2) Does larval age influence expression of cannibals? (3) Are cannibals also induced by crowding with heterospecifics? (4) Do cannibals suppress others from developing into cannibals? We found that tactile cues from other salamander larvae were necessary to elicit cannibals. Cannibals were produced when tiger salamander larvae were crowded with congeneric larvae, and these heterospecific-induced cannibals were expressed at an earlier age than those induced by conspecifics. Furthermore, younger larvae were more likely to develop into cannibals. Finally, visual and chemical cues from cannibals did not suppress other larvae from deve...
Dirty black holes: Thermodynamics and horizon structure

Considerable interest has recently been expressed in (static spherically symmetric) black holes in interaction with various classical matter fields (such as electromagnetic fields, dilaton fields, axion fields, Abelian Higgs fields, non-Abelian gauge fields, etc.). A common feature of these investigations that has not previously been remarked upon is that the Hawking temperature of such systems appears to be suppressed relative to that of a vacuum black hole of equal horizon area. That is, ${\mathit{kT}}_{\mathit{H}}$\ensuremath{\le}\ensuremath{\Elzxh}/(4\ensuremath{\pi}${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{H}}$)==\ensuremath{\Elzxh}/ \ensuremath{\surd}4\ensuremath{\pi}${\mathit{A}}_{\mathit{H}}$. This paper will argue that this suppression is generic. Specifically, it will be shown that ${\mathit{kT}}_{\mathit{H}}$=(\ensuremath{\Elzxh}/4\ensuremath{\pi}${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{H}}$)${\mathit{e}}_{\mathit{H}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\varphi}}(\mathit{r}}$) (1-8\ensuremath{\pi}G${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\rho}}}_{\mathit{H}}$${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{H}}^{2}$). Here \ensuremath{\varphi}(${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{H}}$) is an integral quantity, depending on the distribution of matter, that is guaranteed to be positive if the weak energy condition is satisfied. Several examples of this behavior will be discussed. Generalizations of this behavior to nonsymmetric nonstatic black holes are conjectured.
Mind Maps as Classroom Exercises.

A Mind Map is an outline in which the major categories radiate from a central image and lesser categories are portrayed as branches of larger branches. The author describes an in-class exercise in which small groups of students each create a Mind Map for a specific topic. This exercise is another example of an active and collaborative learning tool that instructors can use to move beyond "chalk and talk." The exercise can also help incorporate activities for diverse learning styles into economics courses and can reenergize a course in midsemester. The author provides ideas for Mind Map topics for a wide variety of economics courses.
Development and Validation of TQM Implementation Constructs

The contemporary quality management (QM) literature prescribes various quality improvement strategies. However, it lacks scientifically developed and tested constructs that represent an integrative QM philosophy. Moreover, an impact of the prescribed QM strategies on a firm's product quality has not been analyzed. Through a detailed analysis of the literature, this research identifies 12 constructs of integrated QM strategies. Using a survey of 371 manufacturing firms, the constructs are then empirically tested and validated. LISREL 7 is used for this purpose. Finally, a framework to examine the effects of integrated QM strategies on a firm's product quality is suggested. Comparisons between this and two other comprehensive scales of TQM are made.
Optimization of the drive circuit for enhancement mode power GaN FETs in DC-DC converters

This paper discusses the practical concerns and optimization of the drive circuit for enhancement mode Gallium-Nitride (GaN) power transistors in dc-dc converters. The GaN FET's 6.0V absolute maximum gate voltage rating and ultra low threshold voltage impose strict constrains on the drive circuit. It is critical to achieve precise gate voltage limit, realize a low impedance gate signal path, and meet the stringent noise immunity requirements by optimizing the gate drive circuit. Prototype converters were built and experimental results are presented as proof of concept.