cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Designing the Local Government Enhancement Fund for the Philippines

The main transfer instrument from the central governments to local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines, the IRA (Internal Revenue Allotment), introduced in 2001, has been criticized for two main failings: its inability to equalize sufficiently, especially regarding the poorer municipalities and provinces, and that its funds have not been spent in an efficient manner. Recently LGU associations have petitioned the Government of the Philippines (GoP) for an expansion in the funding of the IRA from 40 percent of internal revenue collections to 50 percent, and several draft Bills have been prepared. There appears to be ample consensus that if the additional 10 percent in funding were to take place, these funds should not be distributed following the same methodology used for the IRA and that a new transfer mechanism should be put in place. Two general requirements for the new transfers are often mentioned. First, the distribution of the additional funds would need to have a much stronger equalization effect among LGUs. Second, the recipient LGUs would need to be held accountable to use the funds to improve the performance of public services. The new transfer so far has been called the “Local Government Enhancement Fund” or LGEF. We propose a more descriptive name for it -- the fund for “Fiscal Equity and Expenditure Performance” or FEEP. The design of the new transfer with 10 percent additional funding and separate from the IRA will face four major challenges: (1) How to concretely define the origin and computation of the 10 percent additional funding (2) How to apportion the additional funding among the different groups of LGUs (provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays) (3) What formula to use for the distribution of the additional funds for qualifying LGUs in each particular group of LGUs (4) How to ensure that the additional funds will be used by LGUs to improve their service delivery performance These four challenges are addressed in this paper.
Structure–Conduct–Performance: A Comment on Blaug's ``Is Competition Such a Good Thing? Static Efficiency versus Dynamic Efficiency''

Blaug (2001) airily announces that, “Empirical science frequently proceeds on the untidy basis of what is plausible rather than what can be formally demonstrated beyond any doubt. The Structure–Conduct–Performance paradigm of yesteryear ...d id just that but has since been superseded by game theory and transaction cost on one hand and the Chicago School of Richard Posner and Robert Bork on the other hand (p. 45)”. This statement occurs in an essay where he laments the sterile formality of the generally accepted model of competition (PERFECT) and reminds readers of the behavioral roots of the idea of competition. One certainly cannot dispute Blaug’s immense learning on anything having to do with the development of economic doctrines, however, this judgement that structure–conduct–performance has been superseded strikes me as, at very least, premature. Competition is by its very nature an aspect of human behavior. (Dare we call it their conduct?) In fact, in the trenches of actual economic analysis of industry and firm behavior, as opposed to otiose theorizing, that is to say in Industrial Organization, the behavioral dimension of competition is never far distant. Game theory as an endeavor to explain human behavior in particular contexts is capable of producing substantial insights, however, it bears the same burden as the perfectly competitive model that Blaug abrades. That is, an insistence on equilibrium state rather than dynamic process, and a sensitive dependence on the simplifying assumptions made in formulating the models. It is precisely these facts that make “empirical science” proceeding on the “untidy basis of what is plausible” so essential in the continuing pursuit of economic knowledge. Each of the elements of structure–conduct–performance has a role in sharpening the focus of the models offered by game theorists. Structural studies can define what assumptions about the nature of the game (possible strategies and payoff functions) are empirically plausible. The conduct of actual firms and individuals can be matched against the predictions of game theoretic models with
Upper semicontinuous global attractors for viscous flow

A particular form of regularization of the Navier-Stokes equations is studied. It is shown that as the regularization parameter goes to zero, the global attractor for the regularized system converges to the global attractor for the conventional Navier-Stokes system.
Measuring Operations: An Analysis of the Financial Statements of U.S. Private Colleges and Universities

As events in the business sector have highlighted, companies can play by the rules and yet produce misleading financial statements. This study examines the nongovernmental organizations that provide a substantial portion of higher education in the United States. We seek to determine whether private colleges and universities take advantage of the discretion available to them under accounting and auditing standards by presenting an operating measure in their statement of activities. We find that nearly 60 percent of schools report an operating measure but the items included or excluded from operations vary widely.
Distribution of Postsynaptic Density (PSD)-95 and Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II at the PSD

Postsynaptic densities (PSDs) contain proteins that regulate synaptic transmission. We determined the positions of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and PSD-95 within the three-dimensional structure of isolated PSDs using immunogold labeling, rotary shadowing, and electron microscopic tomography. The results show that all PSDs contain a central mesh immediately underlying the postsynaptic membrane. Label for PSD-95 is found on both the cytoplasmic and cleft sides of this mesh, averaging 12 nm from the cleft side. All PSDs label for PSD-95. The properties of CaMKII labeling are quite different. Label is virtually absent on the cleft sides of PSDs, but can be heavy on the cytoplasmic side at a mean distance of 25 nm from the cleft. In tomograms, CaMKII holoenzymes can be visualized directly, appearing as labeled, tower-like structures reflecting the 20 nm diameter of the holoenzyme. These towers protrude from the cytoplasmic side of the central mesh. There appears to be a local organization of CaMKII, as judged by fact that the nearest-neighbor distances are nearly invariant over a wide range of labeling density for CaMKII. The average density of CaMKII holoenzymes is highly variable, ranging from zero to values approaching a tightly packed state. This variability is significantly higher than that for PSD-95 and is consistent with an information storage role for CaMKII.
Survival following Ommaya reservoir placement for neoplastic meningitis.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients with neoplastic meningitis (NM) following Ommaya reservoir placement in order to determine whether any patient factors are associated with longer survival. NM is a devastating late manifestation of cancer, and given its dismal prognosis, identifying appropriate patients for Ommaya reservoir placement is difficult. The authors performed a retrospective review of 80 patients who underwent Ommaya reservoir placement at three medical centers from September 2001 through September 2012. The primary outcome was death. Differences in survival were assessed with Kaplan–Meier survival analyses. The Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression modeling were performed to identify factors associated with survival. The primary diagnoses were solid organ, hematologic, and primary central nervous system tumors in 53.8%, 41.3%, and 5%, respectively. The median overall survival was 72.5 days (95% confidence interval 36–122) with 30% expiring within 30 days and only 13.8% surviving more than 1 year. There were no differences in median overall survival between sites (p = 0.37) despite differences in time from diagnosis of NM to Ommaya reservoir placement (p < 0.001). Diagnosis of hematologic malignancy was inversely associated with death within 90 days (p = 0.04; odds ratio 0.34), older age was associated with death within 90 days (p = 0.05; odds ratio 1.5, per 10 year increase in age). The prognosis of NM remains poor despite the available treatment with intraventricular chemotherapy. There exists significant variability in treatment algorithms among medical centers and consideration of this variability is crucial when interpreting existing series of Ommaya reservoir use in the treatment of patients with NM.
Beyond the Berle and Means Paradigm: Private Equity and the New Capitalist Order

The rise of private equity funds represents a new stage in capitalism. These funds combine financial resources and capital markets expertise with detailed operational knowledge of the operations of takeover targets to maximize the creation and expropriation of value on behalf of investors. Their significant size and aggressive buyout record suggests that we may be witnessing the confirmation of Michael Jensen's 1989 prediction, made in the midst of the first wave of leveraged buyouts, of the “eclipse of the public corporation.” Critics of private equity share a view of the corporation rooted in a decades old characterization by Berle and Means of the nature of the modern corporation. Rethinking the framework of Berle and Means is an important first step in responding appropriately to the rise of private equity funds.
Proximity Model for Expression Quantitative Trait Loci (eQTL) Detection

Summary Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) are loci or markers on the genomes that are associated with gene expression. It is well known to biologists that some (cis) genetic influences on expression occur over short distances on the genome while some (trans) influences can operate remotely. We use a log-linear model to place structure on the prior probability for genetic control of a transcript by a marker locus so that the loci that are closest to a transcript are given a higher prior probability of controlling that transcript to reflect the important role that genomic proximity can play in the regulation of expression. This proximity model is an extension of the mixture over marker (MOM) model for the simultaneous detection of cis and trans eQTL of Kendziorski (Kendziorski et al., 2006, Biometrics62(1), 19–27). The genomic locations of the transcripts are used to improve the accuracy of the posterior distribution for the location of the eQTL. We compare the MOM method to our extension with both simulated data and data sets of recombinant inbred mouse lines. We also discuss an extension of the MOM method to model multiple eQTLs, and find that many transcripts are likely associated with more than one eQTL.
Mass spectroscopic phosphoprotein mapping of Ral Binding protein 1 (RalBP1/Rip1/RLIP76)

RalBP1, a multifunctional protein implicated in cancer cell proliferation, radiation and chemoresistance, and ligand dependent receptor internalization, is upregulated in bladder cancer and is a downstream effector of RalB, a GTPase associated with metastasis. RalBP1 can be regulated by phosphorylation by protein kinase C (PKC). No studies have comprehensively mapped RalBP1 phosphorylation sites or whether RalB affects these. We identified 14 phosphorylation sites of RalBP1 in human bladder carcinoma UMUC-3 and embryonic kidney derived 293T cells. The phosphorylated residues are concentrated at the N-terminus. Ten of the first 100 amino acids of the primary structure were phosphorylated. Nine were serine residues, and one a threonine. We evaluated the effect of RalB overexpression on RalBP1 phosphorylation and found the largest change in phosphorylation status at S463 and S645. Further characterization of these sites will provide novel insights on RalBP1 biology, its functional relationship to RalB and possible avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Interactions of soluble iron with wheat bran.

Soft white and hard red wheat bran were found to contain 98.8 and 99.2% water insoluble iron, respectively. As the concentration of iron added to wheat bran was increased, less of the total added iron was bound. Ascorbic acid was found to inhibit binding of ferrous iron to wheat bran. It was found that boiling for 1 hr in a boiling water bath (BWB) had no effect on the destruction of phytic acid in wheat bran, whereas toasting for 1 hr at 178°C (350°F) and boiling for 1 hr in 1N HC1 had a significant effect.
Mapping of recombinant retrovirus integration sites that cause expression of the viral genome in murine embryonal carcinoma cells

Murine embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells do not normally express Moloney murine leukemia virus genes. Earlier, rare EC cell lines were isolated that expressed proviral neomycin resistance (neo) gene. This expression was dependent on cellular enhancer or promoter sequences that flank the proviral integration site. Four such integration sites, designated as Mint (for Moloney murine leukemia virus integration and expression sites in EC cells), have been mapped on mouse chromosomes. Minta, Mintb, Mintc and Mintd are unlinked and mapped on different chromosomes (Chr), Chr 10, Chr 1, Chr 5 and the X Chr, respectively. None of these loci appear to be linded to any known Mo-MuLV proviral integration sites previously mapped. These enhancer and promoter loci may represent a new set of genes active in undifferentiated embryonic cells.
Automated high-throughput cell microsurgery on-chip

Laser cell kill is an established tool for studying cells' roles during development and behavior, but its use has been limited due to the manual and low-throughput nature. We demonstrate here a technique combining multiplexing microfluidic manipulation of Caenorhabditis elegans and software for image processing and automation, allowing for high-throughput cell ablations.
Preventing Marital Distress in Remarried Couples

ABSTRACT Although there is evidence that remedial couples therapy is an effective form of treatment for couples experiencing marital distress, preventive interventions have emerged as an equally viable form of treatment for couples at risk for marital distress. More importantly, evaluations of prevention programs reveal long-term effects, whereas remedial couples therapy has shown only short-term effects. Evidence presented in this paper reveals the importance of taking a prevention approach with high risk populations, such as the remarried couple. An example of a prevention program that addresses the unique needs of the remarried couple is presented.
Molecular expression of PsPIN1, a putative auxin efflux carrier gene from pea (Pisum sativum L.)

A cDNA coding for a putative auxin efflux carrier was amplified from Pisum sativum seedling shoot tips by RT-PCR and the corresponding full-length cDNA, PsPIN1, was subsequently obtained by RACE-PCR. The deduced amino acid sequence (599 residues) showed the three domain topology typical of the other PIN proteins. The PsPIN1 protein structure prediction possessed five transmembrane domains at both the N-(7-150) and C-(450-575) termini and a hydrophylic region in the middle. PsPIN1 showed highest similarity to Medicago, MtPIN4. Using the Genome Walking technique, a 1511 bp upstream region for PsPIN1 gene was sequenced. This PsPIN1 upstream region possessed multiple putative auxin, GA and light regulatory elements. The PsPIN1 mRNA was ubiquitously expressed throughout the pea plant, especially in growing tissues. Auxin induced PsPIN1 mRNA in dark grown pea seedling shoot tips. It was induced by 4-chloro-IAA, which is also an active auxin in pea, and by gibberellin (GA3). Interestingly, the PsPIN1 mRNA was down-regulated by light treatment, possibly because light negatively regulates auxin and, especially GA levels in pea. Thus PIN1-mediated auxin efflux is a highly regulated process, not only at the level of protein localization, but also at the level of mRNA accumulation.
Changes in the concentrations and speciation of aluminum in response to an experimental addition of ammonium sulfate to the bear Brook Watershed, Maine, USA

An understanding of the biogeochemistry of aluminum (Al) in acid-sensitive terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems is critical to assessments of the effects of acidic deposition. Bear Brook Watershed, Maine, USA includes paired watersheds, East Bear and West Bear. Starting in November 1989, experimental additions of ammonium sulfate ((NH4)2SO4; 900 mol/ha-yr) have been made to West Bear Brook Watershed. Chemical analysis of soil and stream waters were conducted to evaluate the speciation of Al prior to (1987–89) and following (1989–92) the experimental treatments. Before the treatments, soilwater Al occurred largely as inorganic monomeric Al (Ali). Concentrations of organic monomeric Al (Alo), Ali and dissolved organic C (DOC) were high in soil solutions draining the E horizon, and decreased in the lower mineral soilwater (Bs horizon) and streamwater. Streamwater concentrations of monomeric Al (Alm) were largely in the form of Alo. After the (NH4)2SO4 treatments were initiated in the West Bear Brook Watershed, concentrations of Alm increased in soilwater and streamwater, largely as Ali. These increases in Al accompanied decreases in pH and increases in concentrations of SO4 2− and NO3 − in drainage waters. Increases in stream concentrations of Al were particularly evident during high flow events. This pattern, coupled with the increases in concentrations of Ali in upper soilwaters in response to the (NH4)2SO4 addition, suggests that episodic increases in Ali were due to inputs of water entering the stream from shallow hydrologic flowpaths.
Feedback onhibition of uridine kinase by cytidine triphosphate and uridine triphosphate

Abstract Uridine kinase was found to be the rate-limiting step in the anabolism of uridine to its successive nucleotide derivatives. This enzymatic activity was susceptible to feedback inhibition by the pyrimidine nucleoside triphosphate end-products; effective inhibition was exerted by UTP and even more strikingly by CTP. The analog nucleoside triphosphates, azauridine triphosphate and fluorouridine triphosphate, mimicked the normal compound in exerting inhibition. The inhibition could be partially reversed by higher levels of either uridine or ATP-Mg2+. The phosphorylation of cytidine to its nucleotide derivatives was similarly inhibited by both CTP and UTP. Thus, feedback control over salvage pathways for pyrimidine ribonucleotide biosynthesis has been demonstrated.
Time-domain solution to Maxwell's equations for a lightning dart leader and subsequent return stroke leader and subsequent return stroke

In this study we present an analytic solution to Maxwell's Equations for the lightning leader followed by a novel return stroke model. We model the leader as a downward propagating boxcar function of uniform charge density and constant velocity, and the subsequent return stroke is modeled as an upward propagating boxcar with a time dependent velocity. Charge conservation is applied to ensure self-consistency of the driving current and charge sources, and physical observations are used to support model development. The resulting transient electric and magnetic fields are presented at various distances and delay times and compared with measured waveforms and previously published models.
Factors affecting maternal participation in the genetic component of the National Birth Defects Prevention Study-United States, 1997-2007.

As epidemiological studies expand to examine gene–environment interaction effects, it is important to identify factors associated with participation in genetic studies. The National Birth Defects Prevention Study is a multisite case–control study designed to investigate environmental and genetic risk factors for major birth defects. The National Birth Defects Prevention Study includes maternal telephone interviews and mailed buccal cell self-collection kits. Because subjects can participate in the interview, independent of buccal cell collection, detailed analysis of factors associated with participation in buccal cell collection was possible. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify the factors associated with participation in the genetic component of the study. Buccal cell participation rates varied by race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic whites, 66.9%; Hispanics, 60.4%; and non-Hispanic blacks, 47.3%) and study site (50.2–74.2%). Additional monetary incentive following return of buccal cell kit and shorter interval between infant’s estimated date of delivery and interview were associated with increased participation across all racial/ethnic groups. Higher education and delivering an infant with a birth defect were associated with increased participation among non-Hispanic whites and Hispanics. Factors associated with participation varied by race/ethnicity. Improved understanding of factors associated with participation may facilitate strategies to increase participation, thereby improving generalizability of study findings. Genet Med 2014:16(4):329–337.
THE KINETICS OF OSMOTIC SWELLING IN LIVING CELLS

The rate of swelling of unfertilized sea urchin eggs in hypotonic sea water was investigated. Analysis of curves leads to the following conclusions. 1. The rate of swelling follows the equation, See PDF for Equation where Veq., V0, and Vt stand for volume at equilibrium, at first instant, and at time t, respectively, the other symbols having their usual significance. This equation is found to hold over a wide range of temperatures and osmotic pressures. This relation is the one expected in a diffusion process. 2. The rate of swelling is found to have a high temperature coefficient (Q10 = 2 to 3, or µ = 13,000 to 19,000). This deviation from the usual effect of temperature on diffusion processes is thought to be associated with changes in cell permeability to water. The possible influence of changes in viscosity is discussed. 3. The lower the osmotic pressure of the solution, the longer it takes for swelling of the cell. Thus at 15° in 80 per cent sea water, the velocity constant has a value of 0.072, in 20 per cent sea water, of 0.006.
β93 modified hemoglobin: Kinetic and conformational consequences

The reactive sulfhydryl on Cys β93 in human adult hemoglobin (HbA) has been the focus of much attention. It has purported functional roles such as a transporter of nitric oxide and a detoxifier of super oxide. In addition, it has a proposed role in the allosteric mechanism. The present study addresses the functional and conformational consequences of modifying the β93 sulfhydryl using either maleimide or disulfide-based reactions. The geminate and bimolecular recombination of CO derivatives of several different β93-modified Hbs in both solution and sol−gel matrixes provide a window into functional modifications associated with both the R and T states of these proteins. Nanosecond time-resolved visible resonance Raman spectroscopy is used to probe conformational consequences associated with the proximal heme environment. The results show functional and conformational consequences that depend on the specific chemistry used to modify β93. Maleimide-based modification show the most significant alterations of ...
A quantitative determination of phosphonate phosphorus in naturally occurring aminophosphonates.

A new method is described for the quantitative determination of naturally occurring aminophosphonates. Samples are treated sequentially with hydrochloric acid and alkaline phosphatase to convert esters to inorganic phosphate without destruction of phosphonates. The difference between inorganic phosphate and total phosphorus is then a measure of phosphonate phosphorus.
Rhabdomyolysis: computed tomography findings

Computed tomography scans were performed on two patients who presented with clinical rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria. Localized muscle swelling with patchy focal areas of low attenuation were demonstrated. Computed tomography may be helpful to clarify the nature and extent of the muscle injury in the appropriate medical setting.
The treatment of female bladder outlet obstruction

Authors from the USA present a review of the treatment of BOO in the female. This topic is important, which should be of considerable help to the reader. It is covered systematically, dealing with anatomy and then therapy. There is also a meta-analysis comparing industry- and non-industry funded trials of antimuscarinic medication. This careful study shows no difference in outcomes between them, but suggests there are some shortcomings that need to be overcome.
Prediction of the solubility of quartz in salt solutions from 25 °C to 900 °C using the 3-parameter Non-Random Two-Liquid (NRTL) model

Abstract By being able to accurately predict the behavior of silica contained in hot, high pressure water, it is possible to understand and evaluate many important subsurface chemical and geological processes. In this paper, the solubility of quartz is estimated using a 3-parameter Non-Random Two Liquid (NRTL) model, which is commonly used to predict phase equilibrium for a range of chemical processes. Model parameters were fitted to published binary interaction data (e.g. solubility data, vapor–liquid equilibrium data) using a Levenberg–Marquadt algorithm. The model is then extended to ternary systems with dissolved NaOH to predict the solubility of quartz in alkaline hydrothermal media. With no alteration to the NRTL model beyond its basic multi-component form, the model predicted silica solubilities in NaOH–water solutions from 0 °C to 900 °C, 0.5–3000 bar and pH values between 7 and 14 (room temperature/pressure equivalent) with an average error of 62%. As literature reports discrepancies between solubility data by up to an order of magnitude, the predictions seemed reasonable. It was found that the majority of the NRTL model error occurred between 100 °C and 200 °C because of insensitivity to NaOH concentration. A correction term was added that modeled residual error as a function of sodium hydroxide concentration. The model error was decreased from 62% to 28%. In so doing, the error in calculating the solubility data between 100 °C and 200 °C was reduced to 25%. While more solubility data is needed to confirm the model accuracy over the broad temperature ranges for which the model was developed, the corrected NRTL model provides a good estimate of solubility from 0.00001 mol/kg to 10 mol/kg NaOH molality, 0–900 °C and 0.1–3000 bar.
Isolation and molecular composition of starch from roots of Medicago sativa L.

The concentration and molecular composition of starch from alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) taproots were determined using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) extraction and gel permeation chromatography. Three 24-h extractions with 90% (v/v) DMSO were required to solubilize an average of 97% of the starch from freeze-dried root tissues. Amylopectin comprised approximately 80% of starch isolated from alfalfa roots. The relative proportions of amylose and amylopectin were similar among three diverse alfalfa germplasms and one cultivar even through starch concentrations ranged from 20 to 410 g kg−1 dry weight. Elution profiles of debranched starches from alfalfa taproots contained two pools of low molecular weight chains with degrees of polymerization similar to debranched starches from maize (Zea mays L.), and potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). The molecular composition of starches from these alfalfa germplasms was similar to that commonly observed for most starches from cereals and tubers. Isolierung und molekulare Zusammensetzung der Starke aus Wurzeln von Medicago sativa. Die Konzentration und molekulare Zusammensetzung von Alfalfa-(Medicago sativa L.)-Pfahlwurzeln wurden unter Verwendung von Dimethylsulfoxid-(DMSO)-Extraktion und Gelpermeation-Chromatographie bestimmt. Drei 24stundige Extraktionen mit 90% (v/v) DMSO waren erforderlich, um durchschnittlich 97% der Starke aus den gefriergetrockneten Wurzelgeweben in Losung zu bringen. Amylopektin umfaste etwa 80% der aus den Alfalfawurzeln isolierten Starke. Die relativen Anteile an Amylose und Amylopektin waren unter den drei verschiedenen Alfalfa-Keimplasmen und einer Zuchtung einander ahnlich, auch wenn die Starkekonzentrationen zwischen 20 und 410 g kg−1 Trockensubstanz lagen. Die Elutionsprofile der entzweigten Starken aus Alfalfa-Pfahlwurzeln bestanden aus zwei Gruppen mit Ketten niedrigen Molekulargewichts mit Polymerisationsgraden ahnlich wie entzweigte Starken von Mais (Zea mays L.) und Kartoffeln (Solanum tuberosum L.). Die molekulare Zusammensetzung der Starken dieser drei Alfalfa-Keimplasmen war ahnlich derjenigen, die ublicherweise bei den meisten Starken aus Getreiden und Knollen beobachtet wird.
Efficient time-domain model of the graphene dielectric function

A honey-comb monolayer lattice of carbon atoms, graphene, is not only ultra-thin, ultra-light, flexible and strong, but also highly conductive when doped and exhibits strong interaction with electromagnetic radiation in the spectral range from microwaves to the ultraviolet. Moreover, this interaction can be effectively controlled electrically. High flexibility and conductivity makes graphene an attractive material for numerous photonic applications requiring transparent conducting electrodes: touchscreens, liquid crystal displays, organic photovoltaic cells, and organic light-emitting diodes. Meanwhile, its tunability makes it desirable for optical modulators, tunable filters and polarizers. This paper deals with the basics of the time-domain modeling of the graphene dielectric function under a random-phase approximation. We focus at applicability of Pade approximants to the interband dielectric function (IDF) of single layer graphene. Our study is centered on the development of a two-critical points approximation (2CPA) of the IDF within a single-electron framework with negligible carrier scattering and a realistic range of chemical potential at room temperature. This development is successfully validated by comparing reflection and transmission spectra computed by a numerical method in time-domain versus semi-analytical calculations in frequency domain. Finally, we sum up our results - (1) high-quality approximation, (2) tunability, and (3) second-order accurate numerical FDTD implementation of the 2CPA of IDF demonstrated across the desired range of the chemical potential to temperature ratios (4 - 23). Finally, we put forward future directions for time-domain modeling of optical response of graphene with wide range of tunable and fabrication-dependent parameters, including other broadening factors and variations of temperature and chemical potentials.
IMMUNOCHEMICAL DETECTION OF OVINE, PORCINE AND EQUINE FLESH IN BEEF PRODUCTS WITH ANTISERA TO SPECIES MYOGLOBIN

Antisera to myoglobins (Mb) isolated from ovine, porcine and equine muscles were used in agar-gel diffusion experiments to determine the presence of flesh from these species in beef products. Rabbit anti-ovine Mb serum was made monospecific by immunoabsorption, and then was used to detect the presence of lamb in fresh ground beef at the 3% level of adulteration. Goat anti-porcine Mb serum was used to detect the presence of pork in fresh ground beef at the 3% level and in ground beef adulterated at the 10% level and heated to 70°C. Rabbit anti-equine Mb serum was used to detect the presence of horse meat in heated beef sausages at the 3% level of adulteration.
Application of ammonium thiosulfate for blossom thinning in apples

Abstract The efficacy of ammonium thiosulfate (ATS) in blossom thinning was investigated as a function of concentration, drying time and flower development stage at the time of treatment. In 2-year-old crabapple trees, flower damage caused by ATS, applied at a concentration of 10 g/l, increased as the drying time of the ATS spray increased. Approximately 40% of flowers were damaged when the ATS spray dried in 30 min, significantly less than the 80% damage observed when the drying time was 71 min. Application of ATS at 2% resulted in high levels of flower damage regardless of drying time. Fully developed open flowers were more susceptible to ATS damage than closed flowers. Ethylene does not appear to have a major role in mediating the thinning activity of ATS, as the levels of flower and leaf damage were unaffected by the use of an ethylene inhibitor. In ‘Jonagold’ apples, ATS at either 5 or 10% provided excellent thinning but was phytotoxic unless washed off the trees. The effects of drying time and flower development stage on ATS activity can be countered by applying ATS at a concentration of 5% at petal fall then washing the tree with water within 1 h of application to avoid excessive thinning and leaf damage.
Popliteus muscle in man.

This paper describes the morphology of the popliteus muscle based on the dissection of 15 human cadaver's knees. The muscle is found to have three origins: the strongest from the lateral femoral condyle is already wellknown, but there is also an important band from the fibula and a firm attachment to the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus. The femoral and fibular origins form the arms of an oblique Y-shaped ligament, the base of which is formed by the capsule and the meniscal origins. This previously was described as a separate entity, the “arcuate ligament,” attached to the belly of the muscle, but it is not a separate ligament. Rather it is a condensation of the fibers of origin of the popliteus including those from the fibula.
The Effects of Error-Detection Practice on Keyboard Sight-Reading Achievement of Undergraduate Music Majors

This investigation compared three methods of teaching keyboard sight-reading to undergraduate music majors. Sixty-nine students enrolled in six piano classes were randomly divided among three conditions: (1) error-detection practice plus “shadowing” (silently playing the notes on top of the keys), (2) shadowing only, and (3) unguided independent practice (contact control). A pretest-posttest design was used to assess subjects' achievement on five selected sight-reading assignments during the course of one academic semester (15 weeks). Individual pretest and posttest performances were tape-recorded and evaluated across three error categories: rhythm, notes, and hesitations. Results indicated that, while no significant differences were found in overall sight-reading improvement among groups, the EDS (error-detection plus shadowing) subjects achieved modest overall gains, and rhythm was the most improved category, followed by notes and hesitations.
87 Sr/ 86 Sr and 18 O/ 16 O isotopic systematics and geochemistry of granitoid plutons across a steeply-dipping boundary between contrasting lithospheric blocks in western Idaho

A spatially abrupt geochemical boundary is preserved within four plutonic complexes along the western margin of the Cretaceous Idaho Batholith near McCall, Idaho. These intrusives ranging in composition from tonalite to granite were emplaced across a regional boundary between accreted oceanic-arc terranes and the continental margin, and their isotopic, major-element, and trace-element geochemistry provide detailed information about this change in crustal characteristics at depth, indicating that the boundary is nearly vertical and extends deep into the lithosphere. The Hazard Creek complex, emplaced west of the transition in wall-rock lithology, has initial 87Sr/86Sr (Ri) less than 0.7045 and δ18O greater than 7.5, indicating little or no continental crust in its source region; however, elevated δ18O requires some incorporation of rocks formed or altered at the earth's surface. A large shift in Ri and δ18O is observed across the 5–8 km wide Little Goose Creek complex, which was emplaced across the wall-rock boundary. This is interpreted as mixing between: (1) a basaltic or andesitic magma with low K2O and high Na2O, Al2O3, and Sr, similar to that forming the Hazard Creek complex; and (2) materials similar to Precambrian sedimentary sedimentary rocks with low Sr, high δ18O (+15) and high Ri (0.83 at 100 Ma). The Payette River complex, emplaced east of the wall-rock boundary, exhibits at least one additional component with low δ18O (+6), moderate Ri (0.708) and mafic composition. This component is inferred to be old basaltic material in the lower crust or upper mantle similar to that inferred to be a minor part of the Peninsular Ranges Batholith in SE California (Silver et al. 1979; Hill et al. 1986). The easternmost complex in the Idaho transect is made up of granites that may contain a component of granitic cratonal basement. The entire west-to-east geochemical transition from oceanic-arc magmas to cratonal magmas takes place over a lateral distance of less than 20 km. Although the zone of transitional protolith dominated by metasedimentary rocks is unusually narrow and may have been in part tectonically removed, the striking geochemical similarities between this traverse and several other transects across much broader areas of Nevada and California suggest that the craton itself was not rifted apart, but that juxtaposition of the accreted oceanic-arc terranes occurred along the preexisting craton margin. The data confirm that the isotopic geochemistry of granitoid plutons can be used as a probe of deep lithospheric character, and that major lateral variations in the lithosphere on the order of one to two kilometers in width can be recognized in favorable circumstances.
The safety of antiretroviral drugs

Antiretroviral (ARV) medications have been in clinical use for 20 years in the treatment of HIV and our knowledge about the safety of these medicines continues to grow. The potential side effects of ARVs can be either short term, such as hypersensitivity reactions, drug-induced hepatitis, anemia and lactic acidosis, or long term, including dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, lipoatrophy, lipohypertrophy and diabetes. In general, the safety profile of ARVs is improving as new combinations of medicines and newer medicines are introduced into clinical practice. However, it is crucial that vigilance be maintained in monitoring for side effects, particularly in resource-limited settings.
The examination post mortem: a teaching opportunity.

We have used a lunchtime review of the answers to the morning’s examination to help students understand physiological concepts. This system helps students by correcting their misconceptions, reinforcing correct information, and giving them an opportunity to alert faculty to misleading or ambiguous
Correlates of proximal premeditation among recently hospitalized suicide attempters.

Abstract Background Different conceptualizations of an impulsive suicide attempt (ISA) have not been studied systematically and there is no standard assessment of an ISA. This lack of clarity hinders the advancement of suicidological research and knowledge. The aim of the current study was to examine clinical correlates of different facets of an ISA (reduced proximal contemplation, planning, and decision to act) across divergent methodologies. Methods Participants included 212 recent suicide attempters presenting to a Level 1 trauma hospital. The Suicide Intent Scale and the Timeline Follow-Back Interview for suicide attempts were used to assess different facets of an ISA and their associations with other attempt characteristics, and proximal and distal clinical correlates. Results A large percentage of patients had an ISA using facets of varying severity (ranging from 42% [contemplation] to 85% [decision]). Multivariate analyses revealed unique associations between a particular ISA facet and the following: hopelessness and depressive symptoms (contemplation), subjective expectation of fatality (planning), and acute negative life events (decision). Limitations Validated self-report screening measures were used to assess current psychopathology and future studies should include structured interviews to assess diagnostic features. Conclusions Our results suggest that a fine-grained approach is needed for furthering our understanding of the ISA construct. In light of the current findings, ISA should be seriously considered given clinicians’ task of determining whether a particular patient is at imminent risk for suicide.
Utility of dast (diethylaminosulfur trifluoride) in the chemistry of carbohydrates: synthesis of 3,4,6-trideoxy-3,4,6-triflouro-α-D-galactopyranosyl fluoride

Abstract The tetrafluorogalactose derivative 6 has been synthesized in five steps starting from a protected allose precursor.
Optimal sensor placement for structural health monitoring: a comparative study between the control engineering and civil engineering approaches

We conduct a comparative study of approaches for optimal sensor placement from the fields of control engineering and civil engineering. The widely used civil engineering approaches such as EI and MAC have limitations due to the negligence of damping parameters. On the other hand, control engineering approaches do not consider the key parameters of interest in civil structures. We study the maximization of estimation performance of key structural characteristics from impulse response data, using approaches from both fields to unveil the pros and cons of each.
Early dissemination of bevacizumab for advanced colorectal cancer: a prospective cohort study

Background: We describe early dissemination patterns for first-line bevacizumab given for metastatic colorectal cancer treatment. Methods: We analyzed patient surveys and medical records for a population-based cohort with metastatic colorectal cancer treated in multiple regions and health systems in the United States (US). Eligible patients were diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer and initiated first-line chemotherapy after US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) bevacizumab approval in February 2004. First-line bevacizumab therapy was defined as receiving bevacizumab within 8 weeks of starting chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer. We evaluated factors associated with first-line bevacizumab treatment using logistic regression. Results: Among 355 patients, 31% received first-line bevacizumab in the two years after FDA approval, including 26% of men, 41% of women, and 16% of those ≥ 75 years. Use rose sharply within 6 months after FDA approval, then plateaued. 20% of patients received bevacizumab in combination with irinotecan; 53% received it with oxaliplatin. Men were less likely than women to receive bevacizumab (adjusted OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.32-0.93; p = 0.026). Patients ≥ 75 years were less likely to receive bevacizumab than patients < 55 years (adjusted OR 0.13; 95% CI 0.04-0.46; p = 0.001). Conclusions: One-third of eligible metastatic colorectal cancer patients received first-line bevacizumab shortly after FDA approval. Most patients did not receive bevacizumab as part of the regimen used in the pivotal study leading to FDA approval.
Socioeconomic status and infant mortality among Hispanics in a southwestern city.

Abstract From data on census tract groupings from Corpus Christi, Texas, for 1979–83, this study shows that, unlike the inverse infant‐mortality‐socioeconomic‐status association observed for Anglos, no such association exists for the Spanish surname population. This finding is discussed in terms of recent research suggesting that the Spanish surname population of the Southwest has lower infant death rates than expected from its generally lower socioeconomic status.
Differences in environmental enrichment generate contrasting behavioural syndromes in a basal spider lineage

Behavioural syndrome studies are commonly descriptive and often find a relationship between boldness, shyness and exploration. However, the mechanisms underlying behavioural syndromes are not well understood. In the present study, we examined the extent to which early experience acts as a modifier of behavioural tendencies in the basal tarantula, Brachypelma smithi. Juvenile individuals were housed for 2 years either in enriched controlled conditions, or in restricted (minimal) conditions. Behavioural assays were completed both in short-term and in long-term increments. We found both short-term and long-term differences in multiple contexts of behaviour between treatments. In addition, individuals in the enriched treatment developed correlations between several behavioural traits whereas individuals in the restricted treatment did not. This result suggests that early environment can induce behavioural syndromes in some populations, or conversely, that continual stress may break down normal behavioural development and thus prevent a behavioural syndrome from emerging. This study provides a cautionary tale for those studying behavioural syndromes in captivity, and because this is a basal spider species, it provides important insight into the evolution of spider behavioural syndromes.
Academic Success of Mexican Origin Adolescent Boys and Girls: The Role of Mothers’ and Fathers’ Parenting and Cultural Orientation

To understand the role that Mexican origin parents play in their children’s academic success, this study used structural equation modeling to evaluate the associations of parents’ parenting practices (warmth, monitoring, harshness, and academic involvement) and cultural orientations (enculturation and acculturation) with their adolescents’ grades, classroom behavior, and association with peers who get into trouble at school. Data were obtained from teachers, mothers, fathers, and male and female adolescents in 560 Mexican origin families living in the southwest USA. Results indicated that mothers’ and fathers’ parenting practices and cultural orientations were linked to adolescents’ academic outcomes. However, there were differences for boys and girls. Results are discussed in relation to parent and adolescent gender roles and implications for intervention.
Why Central Banks Should Burst Bubbles

Should monetary policy respond to asset prices and asset bubbles? This issue is highly controversial, both from an academic research point of view and, more importantly, from a policy perspective. There is broad evidence that asset bubbles do occur from time to time, and that such bubbles may lead to economic distortions as well as financial and real economic instability. Thus, many authors argue that optimal monetary policy requires monetary policy authorities to react to such bubbles over and above the effects that such bubbles have on current output growth, aggregate spending and expected inflation. Others are of the view that monetary policy should not react to asset prices or bubbles beyond the effect that such asset price movements directly have on inflation, aggregate spending and economic growth. In this paper, I will present the arguments in favour of the view that monetary policy should react to asset prices and asset bubbles. In the process, I will also discuss and refute the arguments against the use of monetary policy to address bubbles.
Interference Mitigation in IEEE 802.11G OFDM Systems with Smart Antennas and Tapped Delay Lines

In an 802.11 wireless environment, signals that use Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) and OFDM with Cyclic Prefix Code (OFDM-CPC) present interference to other wireless users. This work thoroughly analyzes the interference these signals cause and contrasts the results to that of narrow band interferers. Smart antennas with tapped-delay-lines are used to mitigate the interference effect from these signals. The optimal values for the delay lines parameters (number of taps and amount of delay provided by each delay unit) to restore the performance at minimum cost are found.
Pulse shaper in a loop: demonstration of cascadable ultrafast all-optical code translation

We experimentally demonstrate repetitive M-ary spectral phase pulse shaping by placing a programmable pulse shaper driven by a 10-GHz source in a closed loop. This permits generation of encoded and decoded signals in the same apparatus by forming a closed loop to circulate a part of the output back into the pulse shaper. As a result, a series of M - 1 distinct encoded waveforms is sequentially generated, followed by generation of a properly decoded pulse.
GROWTH AND BONE MINERAL STATUS OF HEALTHY TERM INFANTS FED EITHER SOY BASED SUCROSE OR GLUCOSE POLYMER

GROWTH AND BONE MINERAL STATUS OF HEALTHY TERM INFANTS FED EITHER SOY BASED SUCROSE OR GLUCOSE POLYMER