cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulation of a heavy rainfall event during the PRE‐STORM Experiment

Numerical simulation of a storm that occurred along the Kansas-Oklahoma border June 9–10, 1985, during the Preliminary Regional Experiment for STORM-Central (PRE-STORM) was carried out to examine the effect of atmospheric moisture on extreme rainstorms. This storm developed in a weak synoptic forcing environment and produced more than 200 mm of rainfall in a few hours. Heavy rainfall was confined to a small area and storm structure has been described as that of a chaotic convective system. Rainfall events like the June 9–10 storm which produce large rainfall amounts in small areas over short time periods and which have weak synoptic scale forcing are a particular challenge for numerical modeling. These events are also of particular importance for problems of engineering hydrometeorology, which motivates the analyses presented in this paper. The model used in this study is the nonhydrostatic version of the Pennsylvania State University/National Center for Atmospheric Research (PSU/NCAR) mesoscale model (MM5). Three nested domains were used for modeling the June 9–10 storm. The grid spacing is 90 km for the outer, coarse grid, which covers most of the continental United States; 30 km for the intermediate grid (covering the central and southern plains); and 10 km for the local grid covering the PRE-STORM region. Using operationaland PRE-STORM surface and upper air observations, the model accurately reproduces storm total rainfall and storm location. To examine the role of atmospheric water vapor for heavy rainfall events, a series of model runs are carried out in which initial moisture is varied from 75% to 125% of the observed value. Storm total rainfall, storm structure, and storm timing, as well as all elements of the atmospheric water budget, exhibit a striking sensitivity to changes in atmospheric water vapor. These results have significant implications for engineering hydrometeorology procedures, especially procedures used for probable maximum precipitation (PMP) analyses.
Predicting protein-protein interactions using first principle methods and statistical scoring

Proteins are a combination of different PDB structures. To understand the interactions of the proteins, we have proposed a methodology that integrates the first principle parameters for protein interaction along with the number of PDB structures defining these proteins. Annotating possibly interacting proteins pairs with their Pfam and GO domains increases the strength of each interaction and can identify the important link between the two proteins. We propose a novel technique to predict protein interactions by integrating a protein's physico-chemical properties and the number of PDB structures that uses sliding window algorithm to compute the optimal interacting score. The proposed method identified ~94% true prediction from a known set of interacting protein dataset and a 100% prediction for non-interacting dataset. The prediction model that was developed was applied to an unknown protein dataset and we identified a novel interacting protein pairs with high relevance.
Temporal patterns of heroin and cocaine use among methadone patients

A sample of 1,038 patients newly admitted to 15 methadone clinics in New York City were studied for up to three years in treatment or until discharge. Cluster analysis identified distinct patient groups with very different heroin and cocaine usage patterns during treatment. About 80% either started in or transitioned to a low heroin use group and 50% either started in or transitioned to a low cocaine use group during treatment. One-third of patients used cocaine extensively during treatment. Other "high risk" groups, such as those not recently employed, younger, or involved with criminal justice, could benefit from special interventions very early in treatment.
Associations between neighborhood characteristics and self-rated health: A cross-sectional investigation in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) cohort

Quantifying the effects of specific neighborhood features on self-reported health is important in understanding the global health impact of neighborhood context. We investigated associations of neighborhood poverty, sociability and walkability with self-rated physical and mental health in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). In separate models, each neighborhood variable was associated with physical health but associations with sociability and walkability were stronger than those for poverty. Only walkability remained significant after adjusting for the other neighborhood variables. There was no evidence that self-rated mental health as assessed by the SF12 was associated with neighborhood poverty, walkability or sociability. This study provides information on how neighborhood context is associated with global health in diverse midlife and older persons.
Port Investment Strategies under Uncertainty: The Case of a Southeast Asian Multipurpose Port1

Abstract Port investment decisions are mainly related to productivity improvement strategies or capacity expansion leading to higher capacity utilization and financial performance. The authors propose an investment decision-making process for future port infrastructure investments taking into account various uncertainties, which can impact the return of the investment over the project's useful life. The methodology has been applied on the expansion evaluation of warehousing facilities in a multipurpose port. For the evaluation of the alternatives, the expected net present value (ENPV) is based on earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). Results show that the investment strategy for a new 4-level warehouse with a flexible option was the optimal choice when compared with strategies of similar scale. However, depending on the emphasis placed on the various investment metrics the optimal investment strategy seems to be closer to a non-flexible 5-level warehouse.
Loss of Body Protein and Antibody Production by Rats on Low Protein Diets.

SummaryThe present experiment investigated the rate of loss of the capacity to produce antibody in comparison with the rate of loss of protein from body compartments including carcass, liver and plasma. Young adult male albino rats were tested at intervals from 0 to 100 days after initiation of the low protein diet for agglutinin and hemolysin production. Blood volumes, hemoglobin, serum protein, liver and carcass protein were determined. It was found that all protein compartments and the rate of antibody production fell at approximately linear percentage rates per day, the antibody production falling much faster than the rest. Statistically significant depression of the antibody titers was not reached till the 30th day with hemolysins and the 17th day with the agglutinins.
High Flow Addition Curing Polyimides

A new series of high flow PMR-type addition curing polyimides was developed, which employed the substitution of 2,2′-bis(trifluoromethyl)-4,4′-diaminobiphenyl (BTDB) for p-phenylenediamine (p-PDA) in a PMR-II formulation. These thermoset polyimides, designated as 12F resins, were prepared from BTDB and the dimethyl ester of 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)-diphthalic acid (HFDE) with either nadic ester (NE) or p-aminostyrene (PAS) as the endcaps for addition curing. The 12F prepolymers displayed lower melting temperatures in DSC analysis, and higher melt flow in rheological studies than the corresponding PMR-II polyimides. Long-term isothermal aging studies showed that BTDB-based 12F resins exhibited comparable thermo-oxidative stability to p-PDA based PMR-II polyimides. The noncoplanar 2- and 2′-disubstituted biphenyldiamine (BTDB) not only lowered the melt viscosities of 12F prepolymers, but also retained reasonable thermal stability of the cured resins. The 12F polyimide resin with p-aminostyrene endcaps showed the best promise for long-term, high-temperature application at 343°C (650°F). © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Clinical evaluation − continuous real-time intra-arterial blood gas monitoring during anesthesia and surgery by fiber optic sensor

A clinical evaluation of the clinical utility, techniques of use, durability, accuracy, and potential complications of a newly available system for the continuous real-time, intra-arterial monitoring of arterial blood gas and acid base status (ABG) has been studied (Optex BioSentry® System, Optex Biomedical, Incorporated, The Woodlands, Texas, U.S.A.). The system consists of three separate fiber optic channels with contained fluorescent and absorbant chemical analytes imbedded in a single probe and capable of insertion inside of a twenty gauge indwelling arterial catheter (The Optex Optode® Sensor), along with an external monitor. The system was utilized during anesthesia and surgery in the care of five informed patients. Constant trend monitoring of all three variables was deemed satisfactory in four of the patients. The fifth sensor was damaged by a surgical assistant while in place and ceased to function. Comparison of Optode® sensor readings with standard clinical laboratory ABG analysis was excellent in three uncomplicated patients (pH: bias−0.0183 pH units, precision: 0.0237 pH units; PCO2: bias 3.22 mmHg, precision 2.04 mmHg; PO2: bias −5.94 mmHg, precision 11.74 mmHg). Postoperative study suggested that discrepancies in a fourth patient may have been due to an incorrect ‘offset’ applied to the Optode® sensor yielding a constant error.
Enhancement and inhibition of enzymes of heme metabolism by diethyl maleate in the rat kidney.

Abstract The effect of treatment of rats with the sulfhydryl agent, diethyl maleate, on heme metabolism in the kidney was investigated. Particular emphasis was placed on examining the effect of this agent on the activities of mitochondrial δ-aminolevulinate synthetase and microsomal heme oxygenase. The activity of δ-aminolevulinate synthease, the rate-limiting enzyme of heme biosynthesis, was increased in response to diethyl maleate treatment. The increase in enzyme activity was time and dose related, and could be inhibited by the administration of allylisopropylacetamide. Similarly, diethylmaleate treatment caused a time-dependent increase in the activity of heme oxygenase, the rate-limiting enzyme in heme degradation pathway. Diethyl maleate-mediated increase in the activities of heme oxygenase and δ-aminolevulinate synthetase could be inhibited by the administration of cycloheximide. Furthermore, stimulatory effects could not be elicited by in vitro treatment of the enzyme preparations with diethyl maleate. In addition, the activity of δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase was severely inhibited by diethyl maleate. However, the sulfhydryl agent was ineffective in altering the activities of uroporphyrinogen I synthetase, ferrochelatase, and biliverdin reductase. The increase in the activity of δ-aminolevulinate synthetase did not appear to be a feedback response to a decrease in cellular porphyrin and heme contents or a decrease in cellular glutathione level. It is suggested that diethyl maleate directly stimulates the synthesis of δ-aminolevulinate synthetase.
Role of channels in the fusion of vesicles with a planar bilayer.

Fluorescence microscopy combined with electrical conductance measurements were used to assess fusion of phospholipid vesicles with a planar bilayer. Large unilamellar vesicles (0.5–3 microns diam.) filled with the fluorescent dye, calcein, were made both with or without porin channels. Vesicle-bilayer fusion was induced by increasing the osmolarity of the solution on the side of the bilayer to which the vesicles were added. Fusion was detected optically by the fluorescent flash due to release of vesicular contents. Although both porin-containing and porin-free vesicles give the same kind of flash upon content release, the conditions necessary to induce release are very different. Only 4% of the porin-free vesicles fuse (release their contents) when subjected to 3 M urea. However, the same conditions induce 53% of the porin-containing vesicles to fuse and most of these fusions occur at a lower osmolarity ([urea] less than 400 mM). Thus channels greatly enhance fusion in this model system. A physical model based on the postulate that fusion is induced by an increase in surface tension, predicts that three conditions are necessary for fusion in this system: (a) an open channel in the vesicle membrane, (b) an osmotic gradient across the bilayer, and (c) the vesicle in contact with the planar membrane. These are the conditions that experimentally produce fusion in the model system.
Discretization modeling, integer programming formulations and dynamic programming algorithms for robust traffic signal timing

Abstract Traffic volumes are naturally variable and fluctuate from day to day. Robust optimization approaches have been utilized to address the uncertainty in traffic signal timing optimization. However, due to complicated nonlinear programming models, obtaining a global optimal solution is difficult. Instead of working with nonlinear programming models, we propose a discretization modeling approach, where the cycle, green time, and traffic volume are divided into a finite number of discrete values. The robust signal timing problem is formulated as a binary integer program. Two dynamic programming algorithms are then developed. We obtain optimal solutions for all of the instances with respect to the inputs generated from the discretization.
‘Why worship?’: Schleiermacher speaks to the question

A study of the origins, acts and efficacy, aims and ends of worship according to Friedrich Schleiermacher. Worship originates in inexpressible feeling, is ‘incarnate’ within a particular community, and functions dialectically. Worship consists of singing, preaching, prayer, baptism, the Lord's Supper and the ‘Power of the Keys’ (forgiveness). The efficacy of these acts derives from the mission and ministry of Christ, supported by the power of the Holy Spirit, and made effective through human action, insofar as it is conformed to the divine governance of the world. The chief aim of worship is to communicate the ‘religious moments in life’. Viewed negatively, worship can have no real or intended impact on God. Viewed positively, worship ends in the perfection of the common consciousness of the church. At its best, worship assists the human community in its proper development by ‘tuning us in’ to those feelings and dispositions that will best help us to act in accord with God's design. When this is true, worship can be said to truly continue and reflect the mission and ministry of Christ.
Assessment of Phonology in Preschool African American Vernacular English Speakers Using an Alternate Response Mode

The purpose of this study was to determine whether an adapted stimulus elicitation format would reduce the amount of final consonant absence in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) speakers and to determine the extent to which the adapted and standard response formats would differ in their predictions of membership in a delayed and a typical group. Findings revealed that the alternate response mode resulted in statistically significant decreases in the use of final consonant absence and that it was less likely than the standard response mode to penalize the AAVE speaker to a degree that was clinically significant.
A cloned bacterial enzyme for nerve agent decontamination

Abstract Organophosphorus acid (OPA) anhydrolases offer considerable potential for safe, non-corrosive decontamination of chemical nerve agents. The Alteromonas sp. strain JD6.5 gene encoding an OPA anhydrolase (designated as OPAA-2), which hydrolyzes a wide variety of nerve agents, has been cloned in Escherichia coli . Employing agent-analog diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) as a substrate, the effects of buffers, pH, temperature, and various protein stabilizing agents on OPAA-2 activity were studied. Ammonium carbonate, which is innocuous and inexpensive, proved to be a superior buffer for enzyme activity. Compared with enzyme assayed under standard conditions, enzyme activity with ammonium carbonate was six-fold greater. To evaluate effects of storage and reconstitution on enzyme activity, the cloned enzyme was lyophilized, rehydrated, and then assessed by measuring activity against DFP. Whereas almost 100% of the hydrolytic activity was recovered with enzyme reconstituted in (NH 4 ) 2 CO 3 -buffered distilled water or chlorinated drinking water, approximately 20% of the activity was recovered with ocean water. Enzyme stability in blast-containment foam or fire-fighting foam was also demonstrated by high activity in (NH 4 ) 2 CO 3 -buffered distilled water or drinking water. These findings suggest the potential of a foam-based enzyme system for field decontamination of chemical nerve agents.
Endothelial cell fatty acid unsaturation mediates cold‐induced oxidative stress

Ultraprofound hypothermia (< 5 degrees C) induces changes to cell membranes such as liquid-to-gel lipid transitions and oxidative stress that have a negative effect on membrane function and cell survival. We hypothesized that fatty acid substitution of endothelial cell lipids and alterations in their unsaturation would modify cell survival at 0 degrees C, a temperature commonly used during storage and transportation of isolated cells or tissues and organs used in transplantation. Confluent bovine aortic endothelial cells were treated with 18-carbon fatty acids (C18:0, C18:1n-9, C18:2n-6, or C18:3n-3), C20:5n-3 or C22:6n-3 (DHA), and then stored at 0 degrees C without fatty acid supplements. Storage of control cells caused the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and a threefold increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO) when compared to control cells not exposed to cold. Pre-treating cells with C18:0 decreased the unsaturation of cell lipids and reduced LDH release at 0 degrees C by 50%, but all mono- or poly-unsaturated fatty acids increased injury in a concentration-dependent manner and as the extent of fatty acid unsaturation increased. DHA-treatment increased cell fatty acid unsaturation and caused maximal injury at 0 degrees C, which was prevented by lipophilic antioxidants BHT or vitamin E, the iron chelator deferoxamine, and to a lesser extent by vitamin C. Furthermore, the cold-induced increase in LPO was reduced by C18:0, vitamin E, or DFO but enhanced by DHA. In conclusion, the findings implicate iron catalyzed free radicals and LPO as a predominant mechanism of endothelial cell injury at 0 degrees C, which may be reduced by increasing lipid saturation or treating cells with antioxidants.
A Test of Strain and Self-Control Theories: Occupational Crime in Nursing Homes

ABSTRACT This study investigates the effectiveness of self-control and strain theories for predicting two different forms of occupational crime in nursing homes—employee theft of patients’ belongings, and abuse of patients. The nursing home setting is one in which opportunity to commit crime is relatively stable among employees. We report the results of a national study of nursing home employees. A stratified random sample of 47 nursing homes from ten states was selected, and employees in the homes were surveyed. The results indicate that variables derived from strain theory are related to theft and abuse, while self-control theory is not related to either form of occupational crime.
Body-Shape Perceptions in Older Adults and Motivations for Exercise:

This study examined the relationships among age, sex, exercise and body-image dissatisfaction in older adults and evaluated the role of body-shape dissatisfaction as a motivation to exercise. A pencil-and-paper questionnaire was administered to 175 older adults (101 women and 74 men) ranging in age from 50 to 98 years (M=72 yr., SD=9) to obtain general information, information regarding exercise participation, motivations for exercise and body-shape perceptions. A body-shape dissatisfaction score was calculated using the difference between the participant's choice for current and ideal body shape from a nine-figure body-silhouette scale. Present study findings suggested that both older adult men and women expressed a desire for a thinner body shape independent of age and current participation in exercise. In addition, the results indicated that body-shape dissatisfaction did not motivate this sample to engage in regular exercise; physical health and physical fitness emerged as the most important motivations to exercise.
Plasmasphere Response: Tutorial and Review of Recent Imaging Results

The plasmasphere is the cold, dense innermost region of the magnetosphere that is populated by upflow of ionospheric plasma along geomagnetic field lines. Driven directly by dayside magnetopause reconnection, enhanced sunward convection erodes the outer layers of the plasmasphere. Erosion causes the plasmasphere outer boundary, the plasmapause, to move inward on the nightside and outward on the dayside to form plumes of dense plasma extending sunward into the outer magnetosphere. Coupling between the inner magnetosphere and ionosphere can significantly modify the convection field, either enhancing sunward flows near dusk or shielding them on the night side. The plasmaspheric configuration plays a crucial role in the inner magnetosphere; wave-particle interactions inside the plasmasphere can cause scattering and loss of warmer space plasmas such as the ring current and radiation belts.
Domain movement in the epidermal growth factor family of peptides

Abstract A combination of φ / ψ dihedral order parameters, essential dynamics and fuzzy clustering of trajectories was used to investigate the presence of domain movement consistent with the mitten model in the peptides murine epidermal growth factor (mEGF), human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) and human transforming growth factor-alpha (hTGF-α). Local decreases in the φ / ψ dihedral order parameters identified Val 35 and Gly 36 in hEGF and Val 33 and Cys 34 in hTGF-α as possible hinge residues. Essential dynamics analysis characterized domain movement in hEGF and hTGF-α. The domain movement in hEGF involved Val 35 and Gly 36 as hinge residues and in hTGF-α, Val 33 and Cys 34 . The fuzzy clustering of hEGF and hTGF-α trajectories resulted in two clusters that showed domain movement and involved the same hinge residues as identified by φ / ψ dihedral order parameters and characterized by the essential dynamics analysis. mEGF had no local decrease in the φ / ψ dihedral order parameters in the region of the proposed hinge residue. Essential dynamics showed only minor gaussian fluctuations within the peptide. Fuzzy clustering identified two clusters with minor variations in backbone conformation. hTGF-α is the only peptide that demonstrated domain movement consistent with the mitten model.
Mechanical Stability of Templated Mesoporous Silica Thin Films

Abstract A surfactant templated mesoporous silica thin film is essentially an air-silica composite, with mechanical properties dominated by the more rigid component: the silica mesopore walls. It is often convenient to assume that mesopore wall properties are those of fused silica. However, we measured substantial reductions in wall density and elastic modulus (Ewall), due to incomplete silica condensation. Elastic moduli (Efilm) of disordered (sponge-like) and ordered (honeycomb-like) thin films were measured by nanoindentation. Curve fits to the well-known modulus vs. film porosity (P) correlation, Efilm/Ewall = (1-P)n, gave a higher n = 2.5 for the sponge-like film, but a lower n = 2.2 for the honeycomb-like film, in contrast to theoretical expectations (n = 2 for sponge-like and n = 3 for honeycomb-like). Although properties such as the dielectric constant depend primarily on first-order structural information (P), the elastic modulus of structurally imperfect films may require second-order (pore wall thickness/diameter ratio) and third-order (pore connectivity) parameters to explain the data. The power law exponent n can vary continuously, depending on the details of the mesostructure.
Inhibition of cell transformation by resveratrol and its derivatives: Differential effects and mechanisms involved

Resveratrol, a constituent of grapes and other foods, has been reported to be a potential cancer chemopreventive agent. Our previous study showed that the antitumor activity of resveratrol occurs through mitogen-activated protein kinases-mediated p53 activation and induction of apoptosis. To develop more effective agents with fewer side effects for the chemoprevention of cancer, we investigated the effect of resveratrol and its structurally related derivatives on epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced cell transformation. Our results provided the first evidence that one of the resveratrol derivatives exerted a more potent inhibitory effect than resveratrol on EGF-induced cell transformation, but had less cytotoxic effects on normal nontransformed cells. Compared to resveratrol, this compound also caused cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase, but did not induce p53 activation and apoptosis. Furthermore, this compound, but not resveratrol, markedly inhibited EGF-induced phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI-3K) and Akt activation. Collectively, these data suggested that the higher antitumor effect of the compound compared to resveratrol, may act through a different mechanism by mainly targeting PI-3K/Akt signaling pathways.
Retinoblastoma—origin from a primitive neuroectodermal cell?

The histogenesis of retinoblastoma, the most common intraocular neoplasm of childhood, remains controversial. Previous studies have attributed the origin of the tumour to neuronal, glial or primitive stem cells of retina. In the study described here we have used immunofluorescence to search for the presence of a neuronal marker, neurone-specific enolase (NSE) and a glial marker, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), in the cells of the human retinoblastoma line Y-79 (ref. 4), before and after successful differentiation into neuronal and glial-like cells. We found that all undifferentiated cells contain both NSE and GFAP, whereas the differentiating neuronal and glial-like cells gradually lose one marker and selectively express the marker that correlates with their morphology. Our results support the notion that retinoblastoma originates from a primitive bipotential (or multipotential) neuroectodermal cell.
The MMPI-2 Profile of Adults with Learning Disabilities in University and Rehabilitation Settings

The primary purpose of this study was to compare the personality profiles of adults with learning disabilities attending a large state university (8 females, 8 males) to those participating in training programs in a rehabilitation setting (8 females, 18 males), in an attempt to identify affective variables that should be considered in transitional and postsecondary program planning. A secondary purpose of the study was to compare the performance of two groups of adults with learning disabilities (i.e., university and rehabilitation) to a normative group of college students. The mean age for all subjects was between 20 and 23 years. Findings from the study indicated that the personality profiles of individuals with learning disabilities in either a rehabilitation setting or seeking a university degree are significantly different from those of the normative population of normally achieving college students. The rehabilitation group in this study demonstrated feelings of social isolation, poor self-concept, self-doubt, and extreme restlessness. Somewhat different profiles were seen with the university group as they indicated feelings of fear, obsessive thoughts, lack of self-confidence, self-doubt, and extreme self-criticism. Both groups demonstrated profiles of individuals under extreme short- and long-term stress leading to anxiety. The study also reviewed the relevance and appropriateness of using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) that will have direct application for the assessment and intervention of adults with learning disabilities either in a rehabilitation setting or seeking a university degree.
Second-harmonic diffraction from a monolayer grating

Diffracted surface second-harmonic radiation emerging in several orders has been observed from a periodically modulated monolayer of adsorbed dye molecules. The molecular grating was produced by laser-induced desorption in the field of two crossed beams. An elementary theory is presented that relates the characteristics of the second-harmonic diffraction pattern to the spatially varying properties of the surface and is applied to infer the adsorbate density profile of the spatially modulated grating. The density profile is compared with the predictions of a model of grating formation based on thermal desorption.
This paper surely contains some errors

The preface paradox can be motivated by appealing to a plausible inference from an author’s reasonable assertion that her book is bound to contain errors to the author’s rational belief that her book contains errors. By evaluating and undermining the validity of this inference, I offer a resolution of the paradox. Discussions of the preface paradox have surprisingly failed to note that expressions of fallibility made in prefaces typically employ terms such as surely, undoubtedly, and bound to be. After considering what these terms mean, I show that the motivating inference is invalid. Moreover, I argue that a closer consideration of our expressions of fallibility suggest that epistemically responsible authors would not be rational to believe that their books contains errors. I conclude by considering alternative expressions of fallibility that employ terms such as possible and probable, and discuss the role that expressions of fallibility play in conversation.
New strategies for Ge-on-Si materials and devices using non-conventional hydride chemistries: the tetragermane case

We introduce a practical chemical vapor deposition strategy for next-generation Ge-on-Si epitaxy utilizing recently introduced Ge4H10 hydride sources that confer unprecedented deposition efficiencies at very low-temperatures (<400 °C). The corresponding high growth rates produce thick bulk-like Ge films with structural and electrical properties significantly improved relative to state-of-the-art results obtained using conventional approaches. The use of a pure, single-source compound facilitates the control of residual doping, and enables p-i-n devices whose dark currents are not entirely determined by defects and whose zero-bias optical collection efficiencies are higher than obtained from samples fabricated using alternative Ge-on-Si approaches. The reaction pathways leading to the high-yield synthesis of Ge4H10 are identified on the basis of quantum thermochemistry simulations. The results suggest a simple approach to routine synthesis of tetragermane as the main product in quantities sufficient to be deployed as a commercial source.
SOME FLUVIAL GEOMORPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MANATI BASIN, PUERTO RICO

ABSTRACT This study analyzes the hydraulic geometry of the Manati Basin, located in north central Puerto Rico. Measurements of stream width, depth, velocity, and discharge were made at ten different stations along the Rio Manati. At each station and in the downstream direction, the adjustments of stream width, depth, and velocity to stream discharge for the Manati Basin are found to be adequately expressed by three power equations: w = aQb, d = cQf , and v = kQm. The rates of change, expressed by the values of the exponents, are found to be determined partially by the locations of sites relative to the river control, the cohesion of the channel materials, the roughness of the channels, and the nonuniform velocity distribution within the river. The similarity in the orderly adjustment of the Manati channels to discharge fluctuations strongly indicates that the geometric and kinematic properties of the Rio Manati are continuously in equilibrium.
Poverty and Material Hardship in Grandparent-Headed Households.

Using the 2001 Survey of Income and Program Participation, the current study examines poverty and material hardship among children living in 3-generation (n = 486), skipped-generation (n = 238), single-parent (n = 2,076), and 2-parent (n = 6,061) households. Multinomial and logistic regression models indicated that children living in grandparent-headed households experience elevated risk of health insecurity (as measured by receipt of public insurance and uninsurance)—a disproportionate risk given rates of poverty within those households. Children living with single parents did not share this substantial risk. Risk of food and housing insecurity did not differ significantly from 2-parent households once characteristics of the household and caregivers were taken into account.
Choice of Topology Estimators in Bayesian Phylogenetic Analysis

Wheeler WC and Pickett KM (2008. Topology-Bayes versus clade-Bayes in phylogenetic analysis. Mol Biol Evol. 25:447-453.) discuss two ways of summarizing the posterior probability distribution of a Bayesian phylogenetic analysis, which they refer to as "topology-Bayes" and "clade-Bayes." They claim that the clade-Bayes approach leads to problems such as "exaggerated clade support, inconsistently biased priors, and the impossibility of topology hypothesis testing," which are not problems for the topology-Bayes approach. However, their argument for topology-Bayes over clade-Bayes is based on errors in the interpretation of summary statistics associated with Bayesian phylogenetic analysis. Although there is a well-documented difference between the maximum posterior probability topology and the majority-rule consensus topology (the established terms for topology-Bayes and clade-Bayes summaries, respectively), both have a place in phylogenetic analysis. Choice of summarization strategy should be driven by choice of parameters that need to be estimated versus those to be marginalized given the evolutionary questions being asked or hypotheses being tested.
A population-based comparison of adenocarcinoma of the large and small intestine: insights into a rare disease.

Background Because of its rarity, adenocarcinoma of the small intestine is frequently compared to adenocarcinoma of the colon, although the validity of this comparison is not known.
Temporary anestrus induced by injection of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone in hamsters.

The photoperiod-induced anovulatory state of the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) is characterized by a daily rhythm of circulating LH and FSH with a surge in blood levels occurring each afternoon. The association between anestrus and the presence of daily gonadotropin surges suggests that initiation of the characteristic daily rhythm of LH and/or FSH after transfer to short days results in blockade of ovulation. We tested whether daily injection of LHRH affects the 4-day rhythm of vaginal estrous cycles, induces daily surges of LH and FSH, blocks ovulation, and induces regression of the ovaries. LHRH (1 microgram/animal) was injected (s.c.) at 1630 h each day into females with regular 4-day estrous cycles. Injections began on the afternoon of estrus and continued for 12 days (experiment 1) or 8 days (experiments 2 and 3). In saline-injected controls, vaginal discharges occurred regularly at 4-day intervals during the injection period in all experiments. In contrast, vaginal estrus was not observed during the period of LHRH injection in any animals. Ova were found in oviducts of all saline-injected controls (8.9 +/- 0.8; n = 8) on the morning of estrus (after 8 injections), but no ova were found in oviducts of LHRH-injected females. Levels of plasma LH but not FSH increased after injection of LHRH each day, whereas the 4-day estrous cycle rhythm of gonadotropins was not disturbed in saline-injected controls. Vaginal estrous cycles and a 4-day rhythm of LH release resumed within 7 days after LHRH injections were stopped.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Probabilistic Sensitivity Analysis With Respect to Bounds of Truncated Distributions

Bounds on variables are often implemented as a part of a quality control program to ensure a sufficient pedigree of a product component, and these bounds may significantly affect the product's design through constraints such as cost, manufacturability, and reliability. Thus, it is useful to determine the sensitivity of the product reliability to the imposed bounds. In this work, a method to compute the partial derivatives of the probability-of-failure and the response moments, such as mean and the standard deviation, with respect to the bounds of truncated distributions are derived for rectangular truncation. The sensitivities with respect to the bounds are computed using a supplemental "flux" integral that can be combined with the probability-of-failure or response moment information. The formulation is exact in the sense that the accuracy depends only upon the numerical algorithms employed. The flux integral is formulated as a special case of the probability integral for which the sensitivities are being computed. As a result, the methodology can be implemented with any probabilistic method, such as sampling, first order reliability method, conditional expectation, etc. Moreover, the maximum and minimum values of the sensitivities can be obtained without any additional computational cost. The methodology is quite general and can be applied to both component and system reliability. Several numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the advantages of the proposed method. In comparison, the examples using Monte Carlo sampling demonstrated that the flux-based methodology achieved the same accuracy as a standard finite difference approach using approximately 4 orders of magnitude fewer samples. This is largely due to the fact that this method does not rely upon subtraction of two near-equal numbers.
A high-power fixed-tuned millimeter-wave balanced frequency doubler

We report on the design and evaluation of a 40-80-GHz (40/80-GHz) high-power wide-band fixed-tuned balanced doubler. The active device is a single GaAs chip comprising a linear array of six planar Schottky varactors. The varactors and a quartz microstrip circuit are embedded in a split waveguide block. We have achieved a measured 3-dB fixed-tuned bandwidth of 17% and measured flange-to-flange peak efficiency of 48% at an input-power level of 200 mW. The doubler operates at near-peak efficiency (45%) at an input power of 250 mW. We have cooled the block to 14 K and achieved an efficiency of 61% at an input-power level of 175 mW and an efficiency of 48% at an input-power level of 365 mW. Emphasis has been placed on making the design easy to fabricate and scalable to higher frequencies.
Identification of a novel alternatively spliced septin

Septins are a family of cytoskeletal proteins involved in cytokinesis, targeting of proteins to specific sites on the plasma membrane, and cellular morphogenesis. While many aspects of their function in cytokinesis in yeast cells have been investigated, the function of septins in mammalian cells is less well understood. For example, septins are present in post-mitotic neurons, suggesting they have other roles in, for example, establishing cell polarity. The full extent of the septin gene family is not known in mammalian cells. To better understand the septin gene family, we have cloned and characterized a novel mammalian septin.
Allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome associated with pancreatic exocrine abnormalities and new-onset diabetes mellitus.

Allopurinol, a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, has been in use since 1963 as an effective treatment to lower uric acid levels in patients with gout. 1 Severe and occasionally fatal adverse reactions have been attributed to allopurinol use in 1 of 260 patients and include agranulocytosis, granulomatous hepatitis, and a systemic hypersensitivity syndrome known as the allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS), 2 which most frequently develops within days to weeks after initiating allopurinol therapy. 3 The syndrome initially manifests with a rash, ranging from an intensely pruritic maculopapular rash to toxic epidermal necrolysis. 3 Associated with rash are fever, leukocytosis, eosinophilia, evidence of acute hepatic injury, and renal dysfunction. 1 , 3 , 4 We describe for the first time a patient with AHS who, along with having the common features of AHS, developed concurrent elevations in pancreatic exocrine enzyme level and new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Transgenic over‐expression of growth differentiation factor 11 propeptide in skeleton results in transformation of the seventh cervical vertebra into a thoracic vertebra

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is one of the significant genes that control skeletal formation. Knockout of GDF11 function causes abnormal patterning of the anterior/posterior axial skeleton. The mRNA of GDF11 is initially translated to a precursor protein that undergoes a proteolytic cleavage to generate the C-terminal peptide or mature GDF11, and the N-terminal peptide named GDF11 propeptide. The propeptide can antagonize GDF11 activity in vitro. To investigate the effects of GDF11 propeptide on GDF11 function in vivo, we generated transgenic mice that over-express the propeptide cDNA in skeletal tissue. The transgenic mice showed formation of extra ribs on the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) as a result of transformation of the C7 vertebra into a thoracic vertebra. The GDF11 propeptide transgene mRNA was detected in tail tissue in embryos and was highly expressed in tail and calvaria bones after birth. A high frequency of C7 rib formation was noticed in the transgenic mouse line with a high level of transgene expression. The anterior boundaries of Hoxa-4 and Hoxa-5 mRNA in situ expressions showed cranial shifts from their normal prevertebra locations in transgenic embryos. These results demonstrated significant effects of GDF11 propeptide transgene on vertebral formation, which are likely occurring through depressing GDF11 function and altered locations of Hoxa-4 and Hoxa-5 expression.
Possible Role of the Pessary in the Etiology of Toxic Shock Syndrome

Medical technology often has unforeseen effects on human health. For example, indwelling urethral catheters promote gram-negative endotoxin shock, and improved absorbency in tampons triggered an epidemic of toxic shock syndrome. The pessary is an ancient gynecologic device used to support or position a displaced or prolapsed uterus. As an invasive device, similar to a vaginal tampon or contraceptive diaphragm, the pessary may have increased a woman's risk of vaginal infections, possibly including toxic shock syndrome, especially during the 19th century when prolapsus uteri was a common diagnosis among young women. Evidence for the involvement of the pessary in the syndrome is drawn from early medical texts that attribute toxic-shock-type symptoms, specifically high or fatal fevers, to absorbent pessaries. Further evidence comes from the culture of Staphylococcus aureus from nonabsorbent pessaries.
Growth Inhibitory and Apoptosis-inducing Effects of Xanthohumol, a Prenylated Chalone Present in Hops, in Human Prostate Cancer Cells

Promotion of apoptosis in cancer cells could potentially lead to the regression and improved prognosis of hormone-refractory prostate cancer. Xanthohumol (XN), a prenylated chalcone-derived from hops, has shown strong antitumorigenic activity towards diverse types of cancer cells. In the present study, the growth-inhibitory and apoptosis-inducing activity of XN was tested in hormone-sensitive and hormone-refractory human prostate cancer cells lines. Cell growth/viability assay (MTS) demonstrated that prostate cancer cells are highly sensitive to XN at a concentration range of 20-40 μM. The primary mode of tumor cell destruction was apoptosis as demonstrated by the binding of annexin V-FITC, cleavage of PARP-1, activation of procaspases -3, -8, and -9, mitochondrial depolarization and release of cytochrome c from mitochondria. Induction of apoptosis by XN was associated with the inhibition of prosurvival Akt, NF-κB and mTOR signaling proteins and NF-κB-regulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and survivin. These studies provide a rationale for clinical evaluation of XN for the treatment of hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer.
Terahertz sources and detectors using two-dimensional electronic fluid in high electron-mobility transistors

In this paper, we discuss our recent theoretical and experimental results dealing with plasma waves in high electron-mobility transistors (HEMT's) and their applications for sources and detectors operating in millimeter and submillimeter range. Plasma waves in short-channel HEMT's have a resonant response. The HEMT-based source or detector utilizing plasma waves should operate at much higher frequencies than conventional transit-time limited devices since the plasma waves propagate much faster than electrons.
Reaction kinetics and network characterization of UV-curing polyester acrylate inorganic/organic hybrids

Abstract Polyester acrylate inorganic/organic hybrids were prepared using a sol–gel precursor, coupling agent, and reactive diluent. The hybrids were cured via a UV-free radical initiator. Design of experiments (DOE) was utilized to investigate reaction kinetics and complex variable interactions. The effects of the silicate groups on the free radical photo-curing reaction kinetics were investigated utilizing a time-resolved Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR) spectroscopy and a differential scanning calorimeter equipped with a photocalorimetric accessory (photo-DSC). Microgel and inorganic network formation during the UV-initiated free radical crosslinking reactions was suggested to describe the complex gel-point behavior. It was proposed that the formation of the inorganic silicate groups retarded the organic crosslinking reactions. The UV-cured inorganic/organic hybrid films exhibited more homogeneous film morphology compared to the organic counterparts. In the hybrid films, a core–shell like inorganic/organic particle morphology was observed. The UV-crosslinked organic phase forms the core, whereas, the inorganic silicate forms the surrounding shell.
Growth, dispersal, and identification of planktonic labrid and pomacentrid reef-fish larvae in the eastern Pacific Ocean

Planktonic larvae of six genera of labrid and pomacentrid reef fishes were captured in march 1985 in the eastern Pacific Ocean several hundred kilometers from the nearest reefs. The larvae were identified to genus by fin-ray counts as well as by comparison of their larval otolith morphology with that of known species. The larval otolith morphologies of known species were derived from measurements of the larval otolith embedded within the otoliths of settled juveniles (as delineated by the daily otolith-increment marks corresponding to the late larval period). The body morphology and melanophore patterns of the eastern Pacific labird and pomacentrid larvae closely matched those of congeneric larvae described from other oceans. Growth rates of larvae less than about 70 d old were similar between taxa (from 0.13 to 0.19 mm d-1). After about 70 d in the plankton, labrid larvae grew much more slowly (0.06 mm d-1 in Xyrichtys sp.). Labrid larvae had long larval durations (up to 131 d in Xyrichtys sp.), while the larval lives of the pomacentrids appeared to be shorter and much less variable. Larvae of many different ages occurred within the same water mass, and young cohorts of larvae appeared continuously over the sampling period. Some larvae were as young as 21 d, indicating that reef-fish larvae are capable of rapid long-distance dispersal (at least 18 km d-1).
Globalizing engineering ethics education through Web-based instruction

ABET engineering criteria (EC) 2000 specify that engineering colleges and universities must ensure all students understand their professional and ethical responsibilities upon graduation. This paper discusses the strategies used in developing and teaching an online engineering ethics class developed in part to meet this requirement. Web-based instruction can provide the opportunity to bridge both distance and cultural gaps, which makes it uniquely suited to connect engineering ethics communities both in the United States as well as globally. In addition, the effectiveness of this Web-based approach in teaching ethics is discussed as well as how this approach can be extended to include international student representation.