cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia Prophylaxis Current Therapies and Recommendations

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) can be life threatening for children receiving chemotherapy and immunosuppressive medication, including high-dose steroids. Although there are no current guidelines for prophylaxis in pediatric oncology patients, ongoing studies are evaluating the efficacy, side effects, ease of administration, and compliance of drugs used for PCP prophylaxis. Drugs currently being prescribed in practice include Bactrim, pentamidine, dapsone, and atovaquone. Bactrim remains superior for preventing PCP, but alternatives are being analyzed and investigated for those unable to tolerate Bactrim because of drug allergy or side effects. Educating patients and families about the importance of PCP prophylaxis and compliance should be a priority for all health care providers caring for children receiving immunosuppressive medications, including chemotherapy.
Fuzzy neural network-based in-process mixed material-caused flash prediction (FNN-IPMFP) in injection molding operations

This paper describes the development of a fuzzy neural network-based in-process mixed material-caused flash prediction (FNN-IPMFP) system for injection molding processes. The goal is to employ a fuzzy neural network to predict flash in injection molding operations when using recycled mixed plastics. Major processing parameters, such as injection speed, melt temperature, and holding pressure, are varied within a small range. The vibration signal data during the mold closing and injection filling stages was collected in real-time using an accelerometer sensor. The data was analyzed with neural networks and fuzzy reasoning algorithms, in conjunction with a multiple-regression model, to obtain flash prediction threshold values under different parameter settings. The FNN-IPMFP system was shown to predict flash with 96.1% accuracy during the injection molding process.
Some new basic results for singularly perturbed ordinary differential equations

Abstract Asymptotic results are obtained for an initial-value problem for singularly perturbed systems. Existence of bounded solutions to singularly perturbed systems is deduced from the results of a previous paper [9]. These results significantly enlarge the class of limiting asymptotic solutions of singularly perturbed systems inasmuch as the limiting solutions satisfy equations more general than the classical reduced system. These results generalize those of Tikhonov [3] for the initial value problem, Flatto and Levinson [6] for the existence of periodic solutions and Hale and Seifert [7] for the existence of almost-periodic solutions.
Making ends meet in old age: DSB repair and aging

Accumulation of somatic mutations has long been considered as a major cause of aging and age-related diseases such as cancer. Genomic rearrangements, which arise from aberrant repair of DNA breaks, are the most characteristic component of the mutation spectra in aging cells and tissues. The studies conducted in the past few years provide further support for the role of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair in aging and cellular senescence. Evidence was obtained that in addition to accumulation of mutations the efficiency and fidelity of repair declines with age. We propose that DNA damage and age-related decline of DNA repair form a vicious cycle leading to amplification of damage and progression of aging, and discuss a hypothesis on how the interplay between the two pathways of DSB repair, homologous recombination and nonhomologous end joining, may contribute to the aging process.
Preliminary Pharmacological Studies of Some Amides of Chloral and Alpha, Alpha, Beta-Trichlorobutyraldehyde†

The HD50 and LD50 for 19 amide derivatives of chloral and α,α,β-trichlorobutyraldehyde have been determined. Of these compounds, chloral butyramide, chloral isovaleramide, chloral 2-ethylbutyrarnide, and chloral 2-ethylcaproamide were found to be most active. These compounds compare favorably with chloral hydrate as to milligram potency, therapeutic ratio, and duration of action. In general, the α,α,β-trichlorobutyraldehyde amides, were found to be less active than the chloral derivatives.
Biodistribution of cyclic carbonate of ioxilan: a radiopaque particulate macrophage imaging agent.

Rationale and Objectives. A biodegradable radiopaque particulate contrast agent formulated from cyclic carbonate of ioxilan (IXC), which is a prodrug of nonionic water-soluble contrast ioxilan, recently has been developed. This contrast agent enhances liver attenuation and is cleared from the body as ioxilan. In the current study, we tested whether the biodistribution of IXC particles would be affected by the characteristics of particles. Methods. IXC nanoparticles (average diameter = 290 nm) and IXC microparticles (average diameter = 1.7 mm) were prepared, characterized, and injected intravenously (IV; 50 mg I/kg body weight) into rats. Two sensitive, reproducible analytic methods—inductively coupled plasma—mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)—were used to quantify tissue iodine and ioxilan concentrations. Results. Both IXC nanoparticles and microparticles were taken up in the liver and spleen. The IXC nanoparticles remained in the liver at high concentrations for 6 hr and were slowly cleared. They also gave a high blood iodine concentration in the first 5 min after IV injection, suggesting their potential use as a blood-pool imaging agent. Unlike the nanoparticles, the microparticles had a significantly lower uptake by the kidney. Conclusion. Because of reduced renal uptake, microparticles are a preferred macrophage imaging agent. Biodegradable radiopaque particles may be used either as blood-pool imaging agents or as macrophage imaging agents depending on their size and distribution characteristics. The ICP-MS and HPLC methods are useful for biodistribution studies of iodinated contrast agents.
Myoglobin-catalyzed tyrosine nitration: no need for peroxynitrite.

Abstract The nitration of tyrosine residues in protein to yield 3-nitrotyrosine derivatives has been suggested to represent a specific footprint for peroxynitrite formation in vivo. However, recent studies suggest that certain hemoproteins such as peroxidases catalyze the H2O2-dependent nitration of tyrosine to yield 3-nitrotyrosine in a peroxynitrite-independent reaction. Because 3-nitrotyrosine has been shown to be present in the postischemic myocardium, we wished to assess the ability of myoglobin to catalyze the nitration of tyrosine in vitro. We found that myoglobin catalyzed the oxidation of nitrite and promoted the nitration of tyrosine. Both nitrite oxidation and tyrosine nitration were H2O2-dependent and required the formation of ferryl (Fe+4) myoglobin. In addition, nitrite oxidation and tyrosine nitration were pH-dependent with a pH optimum of approximately 6.0. Taken together, these data suggest that the acidic pH and low oxygen tension produced during myocardial ischemia will facilitate myoglobin-catalyzed, peroxyntrite-independent formation of 3-nitrotyrosine.
IMMUNOLOGIC TOLERANCE IN THYMECTOMIZED, IRRADIATED RATS GRAFTED WITH THYMUS FROM TOLERANT DONORS.

Lewis rats, thymectomized at 5 weeks of age and irradiated at 8 weeks, received grafts of adult thymus and marrow, one or both grafts being derived from donors tolerant to bovine γ-globulin. Challenge 3 or 6 weeks after grafting showed that delayed sensitization could not be induced in animals which received a tolerant thymus or tolerant thymus and marrow, though sensitization to a heterologous antigen (chicken ovalbumin) occurred normally. Arthus reactivity was regained slowly in animals receiving normal thymus and marrow and, to an equal extent, in those receiving grafts from tolerant donors.
An Overview of Evidence-Based Support for the Therapeutic Use of Music in Occupational Therapy

Music is a modality present in occupational therapy, yet little educational material about music exists within the field. This paper presents a myriad of possibilities for practitioners considering using music, providing a resource of research within and outside the field. Applications are organized around enhancement of occupational performance, utilizing three distinct methods: (1) Music-assisted occupation, (2) Music as occupation, and (3) Music in preparation for occupation. The potential effects of music in the areas of pain/discomfort, movement, emotion, cognition, self-expression/communication, relationships/groups, culture/society and community, and personal meaning/motivation, are discussed in terms of enhancing occupation.
Chemical dynamics of nano-aluminum/iodine (V) oxide

This proceeding describes our preliminary efforts in studying highly reactive composites containing crystalline iodine (V) oxide and nano-aluminum (nAl) with various amounts of cyclohexanone in the form of powders. In this study we report upon the application of physiochemical techniques such as thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powdered X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and electron microscopy for chemical characterization of powder composites. In addition dynamic measurements were conducted by recording pressure trace profiles during a combustion event. These various techniques were employed to examine these energetic materials (EMs) and associate changes to the chemical dynamics of the composite with the additive.
Extremely low frequency antenna operation: tests for possible impact on five naturally exposed animal populations.

Wood lice, Oniscus asellus, earthworms, Lumbricus terrestris and Lumbricus rubellus, slugs, Arion sp., and red-backed salamanders, Plethodon cinereus cinereus, were collected under the Sanguine test facility antenna during summer 1972 and 1973 and their O2 consumption and RQ were compared with controls collected on the same day, 6–13 miles from the nearest antenna. In 1972 there were no significant differences in O2 consumption in four groups of test and control animals and marginal significance (P < 0.05) in wood lice; there were no significant differences in RQ of any group. In 1973, there were no significant differences in the O2 consumption and RQ of all five groups.
American interests and IMF lending

Does the United States shape the content of International Monetary Fund conditionality agreements? If so, in pursuit of what goals does the United States use its influence? We present evidence that American interests do shape the content of IMF conditionality agreements. We find that American policymakers use their influence in the IMF to pursue American financial and foreign policy objectives. The IMF offers larger loans to countries heavily indebted to American commercial banks than to other countries. In addition, the IMF offers larger loans to governments closely allied to the United States.
A convenient chromatographic procedure for the separation of lower fatty acids

Abstract A simplified preparative procedure for the separation of homologous fatty acids lower than hexanoic has been developed. The method employs partition chromatography of the free fatty acids on silicic acid. Glycine solution (1 M ), with indicators incorporated, comprise the aqueous phase; chloroform is the mobile phase. It is particularly applicable to separation of “carrier” quantities of mixed fatty acids (60–500 mg range, total) which accrue from Schmidt, KuhnRoth, or permanganate degradations of radioactive metabolites. The methodology requires neither extensive collection of fractions nor titrations and provides high recoveries of well-resolved components which are analytically pure, as judged by gasliquid chromatographic analysis.
Effect of luteinizing hormone on the steroidogenic pathway in prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND Recent data has shown that prostate cancer (PCA) cells are capable of producing testosterone directly from cholesterol, which may contribute to the development of castration resistance. While up-regulation of steroidogenic enzymes has been previously described during castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) progression, regulation of this process is poorly defined. These data examine the role of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the regulation of steroidogenic machinery in PCA cells. METHODS PCA cell lines LNCaP, C4-2B, and 22RV1 were exposed to LH. Gene expression was quantified using real-time PCR and protein expression was characterized with standard Western blot analysis. Steroid analysis was performed using radioimmunoassay (RIA). Cell viability was measured using an MTS viability assay. RESULTS Androgen-sensitive (LNCaP) and -independent PCA cells (C4-2B and 22RV1) express both mRNA and protein for LH and LH receptor (LHR). Exposure of these cells to LH for 4 hr increased the expression of several steroidogenic genes. Exposure for 10 days resulted in the increase of additional genes. At both time points, the upregulation of these genes was dose-dependent. This was mirrored by an increase in the expression of several key steroidogenic enzymes, including StAR, CYB5B, CYP11A, and 3βHSD. LH stimulated the production of progesterone and testosterone in LNCaP cells as measured by RIA. We have also demonstrated that treatment of LNCaP cells with LH enhanced their viability. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that LH-mediated activation of LHR significantly up-regulates the expression of genes and enzymes required for steroidogenesis and increases steroid production in PCA cells. Prostate 71:892–898, 2011. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Response properties of spinal neurons projecting to midbrain or midbrain-thalamus in the monkey.

Abstract Response and receptive field properties were determined for 24 spinal neurons backfired from midbrain or midbrain-thalamus in the anesthetized monkey. Recording sites were located in laminae I (11 cells), IV (6). V (6) and VI (1) in the lumbosacral spinal cord. The mean axonal conduction velocity of cells projecting to midbrain was significantly less than that of cells projecting to midbrain-thalamus. Cells backfired only from midbrain had complex excitatory receptive fields whereas those projecting to midbrain-thalamus had excitatory receptive fields confined to a single limb. Cells in both populations had complex inhibitory receptive fields.
NONCONTINGENT ESCAPE AS TREATMENT FOR SELF-INJURIOUS BEHAVIOR MAINTAINED BY NEGATIVE REINFORCEMENT

We extended research on the role of noncontingent positive reinforcement following a functional analysis of attention-maintained self-injurious behavior to self-injury maintained by negative reinforcement in 2 young males with developmental disabilities. During a pretreatment functional analysis, each participant's self-injury was shown to be differentially sensitive to escape from instructional activities as negative reinforcement. During noncontingent escape, escape from learning activities was provided on a fixed-time schedule that was not influenced by the participant's behavior. One participant was also exposed to differential negative reinforcement of other behavior. During this condition, escape from instructional activities was provided contingent on the omission of self-injury for prespecified intervals. Results showed that the provision of escape, even when noncontingent, resulted in significant reductions in self-injury. These results are particularly interesting in light of the experimental history of noncontingent reinforcement as a control rather than as a therapeutic procedure. Noncontingent escape is discussed as a form of extinction that may be less likely than other forms of extinction to produce severe side effects.
Toward The Goal Of Video Deaf Communication Over Public Telephone Lines

At least 500,000 profoundly deaf persons in the United States communicate primarily by American Sign Language (ASL), a language quite distinct from English and not well suited to writing. Currently, telephone communication for an ASL user is basically limited to use of a teletype machine, which requires both typing skills and proficiency in English. This paper reviews recent research relevant to the development of techniques which would allow manual communication across existing telephone channels using video imagery. Two possibilities for such manual communication are ASL and cued speech. The latter technique uses hand signals to aid lip reading. In either case, conventional television video transmission would require a bandwidth many times that available on a telephone channel. The achievement of visual communication using sign language or cued speech at data rates below 10 kbps, low enough to be transmitted over a public telephone line, will require the development of new data reducing algorithms. Avenues for future research toward this goal are presented.
First principles determination of the magnetic structure of p(1×1) O/Fe(001)

Abstract We have determined the equilibrium adsorption-induced surface relaxation, the equilibrium adsorbate height, and the associated electronic and magnetic structures of p(1×1) oxygen adsorbed on Fe(001) in the first, first-principles, all-electron study of a gaseous chemisorption in which the positions of both the adsorbate and surface are derived from the minimum of the local density total energy. Derived from the Film-FLAPW method applied to a seven layer Fe slab with and without an additional oxygen on each surface, our results for the adsorbate height and surface-relaxation reveal a relaxation three times larger than found from a LEED intensity analysis but are in good agreement for the surface-adsorbate bond distance. We suggest in situ surface Mossbauer experiments to verify our predictions for the hyperfine fields on the surface and subsurface layers. We find that the absorption not only leads to an outward surface relaxation but induces a ∽10% enhancement of the surface Fe moment.
Bison and Box Turtles : Faunal Remains from The Lower Walnut Settlement

AbstractThis study examines a sample of animal bone recovered from features at the Lower Walnut settlement on the Walnut and Arkansas River drainage. Bison and box turtles make up the largest proportion of identified specimens, followed by deer, canids, fur bearing mammals, a variety of birds, small mammals, and fish. Bison were the primary animal resource. Large numbers of turtles also provided a source of protein and shells were used for implements at all of the sites. Evidence suggests that the contents of many of the features reflect cultural behavioral patterns such as sharing and distribution of food and specialized processing of carcasses and bone. Patterns of animal utilization similar to that of the Lower Walnut settlement have been observed in faunal assemblages from a variety of other Wichita affiliated sites from this region. While the overall pattern of exploitation in these sites is similar, differences are observed in the type and variety of secondary taxa that are represented. The variety ...
An efficient automatic redeye detection and correction algorithm

A fully automatic redeye detection and correction algorithm is presented to address the redeye artifacts in digital photos. The algorithm contains a redeye detection part and a correction part. The detection part is modeled as a feature based object detection problem. Adaboost is used to simultaneously select features and train the classifier. A new feature set is designed to address the orientation-dependency problem associated with the Haar-like features commonly used for object detection design. For each detected redeye, a correction algorithm is applied to do adaptive desaturation and darkening over the redeye region.
Photolithographic fabrication of high frequency second sound detectors

Abstract A photolithographic technique is described for the fabrication of superconducting thin films to detect high frequency second sound in liquid helium.
Crystallization of Brome mosaic virus and T = 1 Brome mosaic virus particles following a structural transition.

Brome mosaic virus (BMV), a T = 3 icosahedral plant virus, can be dissociated into coat protein subunits and subunit oligomers at pH 7.5 in the presence of concentrated salts. We have found that during the course of this treatment the coat protein subunits are cleaved, presumably by plant cell proteases still present in the preparation, between amino acids 35 and 36. The truncated protein subunits will then reorganize into T = 1 icosahedral particles and can be crystallized from sodium malonate. Quasi elastic light scattering and atomic force microscopy results suggest that the transition from T = 3 to T = 1 particles can occur by separate pathways, dissociation into coat protein subunits and oligomers and reassembly into T = 1 particles, or direct condensation of the T = 3 virions to T = 1 particles with the shedding of hexameric capsomeres. The latter process has been directly visualized using atomic force microscopy. Native T = 3 virions have been crystallized in several different crystal forms, but neither a rhombohedral form nor either of two orthorhombic forms diffract beyond about 3.4 A. Tetragonal crystals of the T = 1 particles, however, diffract to at least 2.5 A resolution. Evidence suggests that the T = 1 particles are more structurally uniform and ordered than are native T = 3 virions. A variety of anomalous virus particles having diverse sizes have been visualized in preparations of BMV used for crystallization. In some cases these aberrant particles are incorporated into growing crystals where they are frequently responsible for defect formation.
High specificity of a phosphate transport protein determined by hydrogen bonds

TRANSPORT of the essential nutrient phosphorus—primarily in the form of orthophosphate—into cells and organelles is highly specific. This is exemplified by the uptake of phosphate or its close analogue arsenate by bacterial cells by way of a high affinity active transport system dependent on a phosphate-binding protein; this system is unable to recognize other inorganic oxyanions and is, moreover, distinct from the one for sulphate transport1,2. The phosphate-binding protein is a member of a family of periplasmic proteins acting as initial high-affinity receptors for the osmotic shock-sensitive active transport systems or permeases for various sugars, amino acids, oligopeptides, and oxyanions2,3. We report here the highly refined 1.7 A resolution X-ray structure of the liganded form of the phosphate-binding protein. The structure reveals the atomic features responsible for phosphate selectivity, either in monobasic or dibasic form, and the exclusion of sulphate. These features are fundamental to understanding phosphate transport systems and molecular recognition of charged substrates or ions in other biological processes.
Does a tradeoff exist between morphological and physiological root plasticity? A comparison of grass growth forms

Abstract A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the potential tradeoff between morphological and physiological root plasticity in caespitose and rhizomatous grass growth forms in semi-arid and mesic communities. Morphological and physiological root plasticity were evaluated with in-growth cores and excised root assays, respectively. The rhizomatous grass in the semi-arid community was the only species to display significant physiological root plasticity, but all species possessed the capacity to proportionally increase 15N uptake with increasing concentrations of (15NH4)2SO4 solution. Neither the caespitose nor the rhizomatous grass displayed morphological root plasticity in response to nitrogen addition in the mesic community. In contrast, significant morphological root plasticity occurred in species of both growth forms in the semi-arid community. These data suggest that the compact architecture and the ability to accumulate nutrients in soils directly beneath caespitose grasses did not increase selection pressure for physiological root plasticity at the expense of morphological root plasticity and that the coarse grained foraging strategy and low density of large diameter roots did not increase morphological root plasticity at the expense of physiological root plasticity in rhizomatous grasses. These preliminary data suggest that 1) a high maximum uptake rate for nitrogen in these perennial grasses may minimize the expression of physiological root plasticity, 2) morphological and physiological root plasticity may represent complimentary, rather than alternative, foraging strategies, and 3) the expression of root plasticity may be strongly influenced by abiotic variables within specific habitats.
Test of the microscopic theory of the nuclear gamma vibration

Abstract Experimental determinations of the relative (d, p) cross sections of the gamma vibrations in several even spheroidal nuclei have been made. These results are compared to a theoretical calculation based on a microscopic description of the gamma vibrations in terms of 2 + two-quasi-particle states.
Plenary talk: Revisiting the world above 100 GHz: What has changed in six years

In 2008, Dr. Mark Rosker presented a Plenary presentation describing his vision of issues and requirements above 100 GHz which would drive vacuum electronic device research and development. Since that time, the author has joined DARPA and has instituted programs that are dependent upon those device development programs discussed. This presentation will revisit those issues and requirements, discuss new DARPA programs that rely upon those developments and how the process of applying the components Dr. Rosker has taken us to the next level of challenges in vacuum electronic device development.
[1.1.1]Propellane: Reaction with free radicals

Abstract [1.1.1]Propellane is more reactive towards free radicals than bicyclo[1.1.0]butane, and much more reactive than bicyclo[2.1.0]pentane. Therefore, the reactivity is not determined by strain energy relief or the HOMO energy. The addition of acetaldehyde is unique in that a 1:2 adduct is formed. A number of other additions are described, and provide convenient routes to 1,3-disubstituted bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes.
A cell counting procedure applied to embryogenesis in cell suspension cultures of anise (Pimpinella anisum L.)

Abstract A method was developed to determine the cell number of cell aggregates and embryos. The method was employed to study the rate of cell proliferation and frequency of embryo formation in a cell suspension culture of anise ( Pimpinella anisum L.). The efficiency of embryogenesis was affected by the initial cell concentration (population density). In addition, a close relationship existed between the rate of cell division in cell aggregates and the efficiency of embryo-genesis. Maximum embryogenic efficiency and rate of cell division occurred in cultures with an initial population density of 10 5 cells/ml. Cell proliferation in creased several-fold during the transition from the “heart-stage” to the “torpedo-stage”. This burst of cell division was preceded by a transient rise of the average cell volume.
The Cosmopolitics of Asylum-Seekers in the European Union*

The UNHCR asylum regime, implemented in the 1950s in response to the displacement of people in Europe, must now respond to asylum as a global and ongoing phenomenon. A new paradigm is emerging within the European Union that seeks to define the right of asylum within broader economic and security objectives. Within this paradigm, EU asylum policies contain their own contradiction, seeking both to expand the forms of persecution to account for changing global contexts and limit those deserving asylum by defining groups of clear cases of persecution, in effect removing discretion on an individual basis. In the balance, asylum-seekers are increasingly viewed as criminal, to be kept off of the territory and outside of the “public space.” Through an analysis of the legal and judicial developments of asylum in the EU and the UK, as a member state, this study seeks to understand the right to asylum as embedded within a cosmopolitics of layered legal authority that supports the broader neo-liberal economic order.
An Assessment of Relative Globalization in Asia during the 1980s and 1990s

Abstract This paper uses factor and discriminant analyses to generate indices of globalization. The first part of the paper describes the technique and we find that the Netherlands is the most globalized and Sierra Leone the least. In the second part of the paper, comparisons are made between South Asian, East Asian and Middle East countries to see if relative globalization process is proceeding at a faster or slower pace. Although the analysis is mostly regional, we introduce evidence for several countries, including Sri Lanka, Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand, India and Malaysia to compare globalization and openness. Based on our findings, several conclusions are drawn concerning progress made and the economic implications of that progress. Because of the poor showing of Pakistan’s globalization efforts, special attention has been focused on that country. The main finding is that Pakistan appears to have fallen into a vicious cycle of low and declining globalization leading to low productivity causing low rates of return on investment. The result is low investment and technology transfer which only reinforces the drift towards an increasing globalization gap with the country’s main international competitors.
A real-time expert system for trigger-logic monitoring

Abstract We are developing a novel real-time expert system to monitor the performance of a triggering system in a high-energy/nuclear physics experiment at Brookhaven National Laboratory (Experiment 814). The system runs on an 80386 processor that is completely independent of the data-acquisition computer for the experiment. Artificial intelligence techniques are seen as especially important for the diagnostic capability of the system. In particular, a separation of the diagnostic knowledge from the control procedures facilitates modification of the expert system and hence the diagnostic capability of the overall system. This is highly desirable as changes in the trigger conditions often occur during the course of a physics run. In addition, one of the objectives of this research is to develop a system which is capable of detecting fault conditions in a serial trigger processor and to aid in locating their cause.
Shielding and flux trapping properties of high temperature superconductors in the shape of hollow cylinders

Allowing for a field-dependent critical current density, the authors calculate the magnetic field that can be supported by hollow cylinders of varying wall thickness. An adiabatically stable field of 1.0 T can be shielded by or trapped in a cylinder with a wall thickness of 0.4 cm if the critical current density varies linearly with magnetic field and has a value of 10/sup 4/ A/cm/sup 2/ at a field of 1.0 T. Such a current density appears to be within reach of present state-of-the-art melt-processed YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7/
The Electron Radiation Belt

Electron radiation belts can change dramatically in a few seconds or slowly over years. Important issues in understanding such changes are: (1) What is the source of electrons in the radiation belts? (2) How important is radial diffusion compared to other radial transport mechanisms? (3) What are the detailed changes in the magnetosphere that produce radial diffusion? (4) Why is the response of the electron radiation belt to changes in the solar wind different from that of substorms and of the ring current? (5) Are processes other than radial transport, such as wave-particle interactions, important in energizing electrons in the radiation belts?
Appropriateness and Effectiveness of Communication Channels in Competent Interpersonal Communication

We examined perceived appropriateness and effectiveness of six communication channels (face-to-face, telephone, voice mail, electronic mail, letter, fax) used in relation to interpersonal communication motives (inclusion, affection, control, relaxation, escape, pleasure) in other-directed and self-directed need-fulfillment situations. In study 1, respondents selected the channel they thought would best communicate standard messages and rated it on effectiveness and appropriateness. In study 2, respondents rated the effectiveness and appropriateness of all six communication channels by considering scenarios that reflected the two need-fulfillment directions of all six motives. Analyses revealed significant main effects for direction, channel, and motive, and significant interaction effects.
Two to tango: micropatterned substrates to control cell-cell interactions

Specifying the location of cells with respect to each other is important for cell-based biosensors, tissue engineering, and fundamental questions in cell biology. Cell-substrate interactions can be spatially controlled using a variety of microfabrication- and soft lithography-based approaches; however, because these techniques rely on two-dimensional chemical patterning, they cannot be used to control cell-cell interactions at either the single cell- or tissue-level. By patterning non-adhesive and adhesive gels, we have engineered three-dimensional substrates that can control: 1) the exact location of cell-cell contacts in single cells with micrometer precision, and 2) the final architecture of multi-cellular aggregates. We will demonstrate how these substrates can be used to separate effects due to endothelial cell-cell contact from those due to diffusible, paracrine signaling. In addition, we will show how these techniques can be applied to create tissue constructs and stable, cell-based biosensor platforms.
Estimating the number of drug injectors in Indonesia

Abstract Background Drug injection, little known in Indonesia just a decade ago, is apparently a growing practice, especially among young men. In some cities, HIV prevalence has been recorded at close to 50% among injectors. Yet authorities in the world's fourth most populous nation had no information on the magnitude of the problem. Objectives To estimate the number and distribution of drug injectors in Indonesia, and to use the estimates to draw the attention of policy makers to the need for services for this population. Methods The Ministry of Health asked a wide variety of partners to collect all data relevant to drug injection in the country. Data were made available by treatment centres, health authorities, social welfare workers, law enforcement authorities and non-government groups providing services for drug users. Data sources were compared and it was decided that data would support estimates at the provincial level using multiplier methods. Three estimates were made based on different data sources. Results The results of the three methods were in a very close range, between 145,000 and 170,000. Methods and data sources were published in detail, and weaknesses clearly acknowledged. The estimates were accepted by all groups, and formed the basis for subsequent modelling and advocacy work which greatly increased attention to the need to provide services to drug injectors in the country, and contributed to the adoption of harm reduction approaches in the national HIV strategy. Conclusion An inclusive and transparent estimation process based on existing data sources can provide an important starting point for advocacy and rational planning of drug-related services. It has proven feasible, affordable and useful in the context of a large and diverse developing country with an IDU-driven epidemic of HIV.
Anhydrous Superprotonic Polymer by Superacid Protonation of Cross-linked (PNCl2)n

We describe a rubbery polymer in which the conductivity reaches values typical of activated Nafion, even though it is completely anhydrous. The protons are introduced into a cross-linked polyphospazene rubber by the superacid HOTf, which is absorbed by partial protonation of the backbone nitrogens. The degree of protonation of the polymer is presumed to be higher than that for the unpolymerized molecular liquid (PNCl2)3, where NMR analysis suggests the protonation is about 20%, because the conductivity of the latter is much lower. At a mole fraction of HOTf of x = 0.5 (i.e., H:N = 1), we find that the cross-linked polymer is also much more conductive than the linear polymer with same HOTf mole fraction, implying an increased proton decoupling conduction mechanism. The decoupling of conductivity from segmental relaxation times assessed by comparison with conductivity relaxation times amounts to some 10 orders of magnitude, but with the present measurements, we cannot establish whether it is purely protonic...
Preretirement Influences on Postretirement Self-Esteem

Data derived from in-depth telephone interviews with 300 retired workers from the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill, North Carolina, metropolitan area are used to investigate whether preretirement self-investments in the roles of worker and spouse have positive or negative consequences for postretirement self-esteem. We find evidence that suggests that: (a) self-esteem does not decline in the transition into retirement; (b) commitment to the role of worker and worker identity meanings have a positive influence on postretirement self-esteem; but it may be indirect, operating through preretirement self-esteem; (c) commitment to the role of spouse has a positive impact on self-esteem in retirement; and (d) preretirement self-esteem continues to exert a positive effect on postretirement self-esteem. Thus, the findings suggest that preretirement self and identity factors continue to influence postretirement self-esteem.
Use of methotrexate in sarcoid-associated optic neuropathy

Abstract Objective To demonstrate the possible beneficial effects of methotrexate (MTX) therapy for patients with sarcoid-associated optic neuropathy (SAON). Design Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series. Participants Three patients diagnosed with SAON who received MTX. Two patients had tissue biopsies consistent with sarcoidosis, and 1 patient had clinically diagnosed sarcoidosis based on laboratory and radiographic studies. All 3 patients developed side effects with corticosteroid treatment of their optic neuropathy. Intervention Patients were treated with weekly doses of oral MTX and monitored with neuro-ophthalmic, medical, and laboratory examinations. Main outcome measures Visual acuity, automated perimetry, and reduction of oral prednisone therapy. Results After initiation of MTX, all 3 patients showed an improvement or stabilization of visual acuity. All patients had a decrease in their corticosteroid requirements, and all had improved or stabilized visual field deficits. One of the 3 patients developed leukopenia that necessitated a reduction of the methotrexate dose. Conclusion Methotrexate may be effective for SAON as an adjunct to corticosteroid therapy or as an alternative for corticosteroid-intolerant patients. Oral MTX reduced the corticosteroid requirements of 3 patients with SAON, and all 3 demonstrated stable or improved visual function.
Imaging Tumor Angiogenesis With Contrast Ultrasound and Microbubbles Targeted to αvβ3

Background— Angiogenesis is a critical determinant of tumor growth and metastasis. We hypothesized that contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEU) with microbubbles targeted to αv-integrins expressed on the neovascular endothelium could be used to image angiogenesis. Methods and Results— Malignant gliomas were produced in 14 athymic rats by intracerebral implantation of U87MG human glioma cells. On day 14 or day 28 after implantation, CEU was performed with microbubbles targeted to αvβ3 by surface conjugation of echistatin. CEU perfusion imaging with nontargeted microbubbles was used to derive tumor microvascular blood volume and blood velocity. Vascular αv-integrin expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry, and microbubble adhesion was characterized by confocal microscopy. Mean tumor size increased markedly from 14 to 28 days (2±1 versus 35±14 mm2, P<0.001). Tumor blood volume increased by ≈35% from day 14 to day 28, whereas microvascular blood velocity decreased, especially at the central portions of the ...
Noninvasive assessment of upper extremity and hand ischemia

The diagnosis and follow-up of patients with ischemic problems of the arm and hand is facilitated by the selective use of simple noninvasive methods readily available in most vascular laboratories. These tests help differentiate between obstruction and vasospasm and document the severity of the circulatory impairment. Although they may not establish etiology, they often clarify the need for further laboratory tests or arteriography.
A two-step segmentation algorithm for behavioral clustering of naturalistic driving styles

This research effort aims to investigate the hypothesis that drivers apply different driving styles in their daily driving tasks. A two-step algorithm is used for segmentation and clustering. First, a car-following period is broken into different duration segments that account for their temporal distribution. Second, the segments produced by the previous step are clustered based on similarity. Variations of k-means clustering and optimization techniques are used in this process. The segments centroids, used for clustering, are 8-dimensional and are produced by taking the average of the data points in each segment based on longitudinal acceleration, lateral acceleration, gyro (yaw rate), vehicle speed, lane offset, gamma (yaw angle), range, and range rate. The results of this methodology are continuous segments of car-following behavior as well as clusters of segments that show similar data and thus similar behaviors. The sample used in this paper included three different truck drivers that are representative of a high-risk driver, a medium-risk driver, and a low-risk driver. . In summary, the results revealed behavior that changed within a car-following period, between car-following periods, and between drivers. Each driver showed a unique distribution of behavior, but some of the behaviors existed in more than one driver but at different frequencies.
Canadian Regional Development: The Quest for Convergence

Abstract. This article assesses the economic development of Canadian provinces in the context provided by the theory of convergence. Two basic questions will be asked and to some extent answered. First, to what degree do the Canadian provinces reveal convergence over time in terms of general economic performance? Second, what are the implications of convergence theory for Canadian provincial policy? These questions combine to give the article a purpose that is both academic and policy relevant in nature.Four additional sections make up this article. The first explains the central place of convergence theory within the study of development, most notably as related to peripheries or lagging economies. Second, convergence theory is discussed within the special and interesting setting of the Canadian economy. Third, the research design and data analysis are presented. The results suggest that convergence is serving as a natural and highly robust corrective to regional disparity. Fourth, and finally, conclusions are offered and policy implications derived.Resume. Cet article examine le developpement economique des provinces canadiennes dans le cadre de la theorie de la convergence. Il pose deux grandes questions, auxquelles il repond en partie. Premierement, dans quelle mesure les provinces canadiennes presentent-elles une convergence a long terme pour ce qui est de leur performance economique? Deuxiemement, quelles sont les implications de la theorie de la convergence pour les politiques provinciales ? Par ces deux questions, le present article revet a la fois une portee academique et une pertinence en matiere de politique publique.L'article comprend egalement quatre parties. La premiere explique la place centrale qu'occupe la theorie de la convergence dans l'etude du developpement economique, notamment en ce qui concerne les peripheries ou les economies accusant un certain retard. La deuxieme discute la theorie de la convergence dans le cadre specifique et interessant de l'economie canadienne. La troisieme precise le cadre d'analyse et devoile l'analyse des donnees. Les resultats demontrent que la convergence represente un correctif naturel et fort efficace des disparites regionales. La quatrieme et derniere partie presente les conclusions et quelques implications politiques qui en decoulent.
Learning from Business: Incorporating the Toyota Production System into Nursing Curricula

The faculty at Drexel University decided to investigate a new model to transform nursing education, aiming to produce a new skill set that would serve to improve the transition of nursing graduates from academic settings to practice, to better serve the needs of patients and reduce medical error. Faculty looked to the Toyota Production System (TPS), which has established credibility in industry and health care settings. TPS has demonstrated increased efficiency and effectiveness, reduced cost, and enhanced achievement of stated goals. Drexel University is the first academic institution to incorporate the principles of the TPS into nursing education.
Integrating ecology with human demography, behavior, and socioeconomics: Needs and approaches

Humans have directly or indirectly affected almost every corner of the earth, through various activities. As a result, ecologists’ traditional subjects of study (e.g., ‘natural’ or pristine ecosystems) are disappearing, and human-dominated or -influenced ecosystems are inevitably and increasingly becoming their new focus of study. This paper discusses an urgent need to integrate ecology with human demography, behavior, and socioeconomics in order to understand and manage ecological patterns and processes. It also introduces the ten papers in this special issue, which integrate ecological, human demographic, behavioral, social, and economic factors through computer modeling and simulation. Finally, this paper provides some perspectives on further integration across disciplines. © 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
POVERTY AND THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF PUBLIC EDUCATION SPENDING: EVIDENCE FROM BRAZIL

A large body of literature has emphasized the elite capture of democratic institutions as the explanation for the low levels of spending on public education in many low-income democracies. This paper provides an alternative to that longstanding hypothesis. Motivated by new cross-country facts and evidence from Brazilian municipalities, we hypothesize that many democratic developing countries might invest less in public education spending because poor decisive voters prefer the government to allocate resources elsewhere. One possible explanation is that low-income voters could instead favor redistributive programs that increase their incomes in the short run, such as cash transfers. To test for this possibility, we design and implement an experimental survey and an incentivized choice experiment in Brazil. The findings from both interventions support our hypothesis.