cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clear cell basal cell epithelioma: light and electron microscopic study of an unusual variant

We report the light and electron microscopic study of 7 examples of an unusual clear cell variant of basal cell epithelioma (BCE). The clear cells show cytoplasmic vacuoles that contain glycogen but do not stain with mucicarmine or fat stains. By electron microscopy the cytoplasmic vacuoles consist of empty spaces not surrounded by membranes. The clear cell pattern may occupy all or part of a given tumor. Typical nodular BCE was found in all 7 cases, but not in every section. Some nodules were composed of mixed solid and clear cell types. Differentiation of this uncommon variant from other clear cell tumors is important.
Maximal irredundance and maximal ideal independence in Boolean algebras

Introduction. Recall that a subset X of an algebra A is irredundant iff x ^ (Z\{x}) for all x e X, where (X\{x}) is the subalgebra generated by X\{x}. By Zorn's lemma there is always a maximal irredundant set in an algebra. This gives rise to a natural cardinal function Irrmm^) = min{|X| : X is a maximal irre dundant subset of A}. The first half of this article is devoted to proving that there is an atomless Boolean algebra A of size 2 for which lvvmm(A) = co. A subset X of a BA A is ideal independent iff x ? (X\{x})ld for all x e X, where (X\{x})ld is the ideal generated by X\{x}. Again, by Zorn's lemma there is always a maximal ideal independent subset of any Boolean algebra. We then consider two associated functions. A spectrum function
Knot invariants and universal R-matrices from perturbative Chern-Simons theory in the almost axial gauge

Abstract Using perturbative Chern-Simons theory in the almost axial gauge on the euclidean manifold S 1 × R 2, we give a prescription for the computation of knot invariants. The method gives the correct expectation value of the unknot to all orders in perturbation theory and gives the correct answer for the spectral-parameter-dependent universal R-matrix to second order. All results are derived for a general semi-simple Lie algebra.
Embolism to the right side of the heart

Abstract The sudden death of a 74-year-old woman who was recovering from a myocardial infarction is attributed to an unusual result of thromboembolism. The embolus, by a curious twist of fate, had become trapped in the chordae tendineae of the tricuspid valve and produced a major obstruction to blood flow through the tricuspid orifice.
Improved recovery of the hemodynamic response in diffuse optical imaging using short optode separations and state-space modeling.

Diffuse Optical Imaging (DOI) allows the recovery of the hemodynamic response associated with evoked brain activity. The signal is contaminated with systemic physiological interference which occurs in the superficial layers of the head as well as in the brain tissue. The back-reflection geometry of the measurement makes the DOI signal strongly contaminated by systemic interference occurring in the superficial layers. A recent development has been the use of signals from small source-detector separation (1 cm) optodes as regressors. Since those additional measurements are mainly sensitive to superficial layers in adult humans, they help in removing the systemic interference present in longer separation measurements (3 cm). Encouraged by those findings, we developed a dynamic estimation procedure to remove global interference using small optode separations and to estimate simultaneously the hemodynamic response. The algorithm was tested by recovering a simulated synthetic hemodynamic response added over baseline DOI data acquired from 6 human subjects at rest. The performance of the algorithm was quantified by the Pearson R2 coefficient and the mean square error (MSE) between the recovered and the simulated hemodynamic responses. Our dynamic estimator was also compared with a static estimator and the traditional adaptive filtering method. We observed a significant improvement (two-tailed paired t-test, p < 0.05) in both HbO and HbR recovery using our Kalman filter dynamic estimator compared to the traditional adaptive filter, the static estimator and the standard GLM technique.
Gene expression profiling of normal breast epithelial cells following treatment with insulin-like growth factor I

Gene expression profiling of normal breast epithelial cells following treatment with insulin-like growth factor I
The mechanism of the action of the growth substance of plants

It was first suggested by Sachs that stimulating substances of the type which would now be called hormones play an important part in cell growth. Experimental evidence followed much later along two lines, ( a ) the discovery by Haberlandt (1921) of a substance produced in wounded tissue, stimulating cell division, and ( b ) the gradual accumulation of evidence from many workers of the existence of a substance present in growing plants which stimulates growth by increase in cell size. It is with certain aspects of this latter phenomenon with which we are concerned. Since the earlier extensive literature has been reviewed by Stark (1926) and the more recent literature by Went (1928) and Nielsen (1930), it will be sufficient here to summarize briefly the properties of this growth substances in relation to plant growth, so far as they have been determined. Although the growth substances has been shown to be non-specific, we have limited ourselves in this work to consideration of the phenomena occuring in Avena coleoptiles. In these coleoptiles, at the age used for experiment, cell divisions do not occur, and growth takes place by extension only. On this account they have been the principal objects studied.
Cervical Histopathology Variability Among Laboratories: A Population-Based Statewide Investigation

To inform the proposed systematic adjudicative staining of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2) and equivocal diagnoses, we characterized diagnostic heterogeneity across 15 laboratories. Laboratory-specific distributions of 37,486 biopsy specimen diagnoses were compared after adjusting for preceding cytology. In a subset of preceding cytology specimens, HPV16 genotyping was considered an indicator of lesion severity. Distributions of normal and CIN1 diagnoses varied widely, with laboratories favoring either normal (5.5%-57.7%) or CIN1 diagnoses (23.3%-86.7%; P < .001 for normal:CIN1 variability). Excluding extreme values, 6.2% to 14.4% of diagnoses were CIN2 (P < .001). For CIN2 diagnoses, HPV16 positivity in the preceding cytology varied between 39.0% in the largest laboratory and 57.4% in others (P < .001), suggesting differential interpretation, not population differences, as a cause of variability. In conclusion, the frequency of diagnoses requiring special staining (p16 INK4a immunostaining) to adjudicate equivocal CIN2 will be sizable and vary between laboratories, especially if extended to a fraction of CIN1 lesions.
Ontogeny of Proteolytic Immunity IgM SERINE PROTEASES

We report the chemical activity of immunoglobulin μ and κ/λ subunits expressed on the surface of B cells and in secreted IgM antibodies (Abs) found in the preimmune repertoire. Most of the nucleophilic reactivity of B cells measured by formation of covalent adducts of a hapten amidino phosphonate diester was attributed to μ and κ/λ subunits of the B cell receptor. Secreted IgM Abs displayed superior nucleophilic reactivity than IgG Abs. IgM Abs catalyzed the cleavage of model peptide substrates at rates up to 344-fold greater than IgG Abs. Catalytic activities were observed in polyclonal IgM Abs from immunologically naive mice and humans without immunological disease, as well as monoclonal IgM Abs to unrelated antigens. Comparison of several IgM Abs indicated divergent activity levels and substrate preferences, with the common requirement of a basic residue flanking the cleavage site. Fab fragments of a monoclonal IgM Ab expressed catalytic activity, confirming the V domain location of the catalytic site. The catalytic reaction was inhibited by the covalently reactive hapten probe and diisopropylfluorophosphate, suggesting a serine protease-like mechanism. These observations indicate the existence of serine protease-like BCRs and secreted IgM Abs as innate immunity components with potential roles in B cell development and Ab effector functions.
A bayes approach to quality control of an M/G/1 queue

This article provides a Bayes approach for the quality control of a production process which is defined by an M/G/1 queue. An inspection procedure which is jointly optimal from the queue's operational characteristics and quality-control perspectives is found using a queue-inspection renewal cycle analysis (with overall expected profit per unit time as the optimization objective). Numerical results are obtained, highlighting the relationships between quality control and (queue-like) production management.
Information Requirements for Urban Systems: A View into the Possible Future?

The successful management of urban systems is becoming increasingly a matter of successful information about the urban area and its environment. Using information as a basis for developing a structure for, and outlining the flows in, an urban area, this paper develops a dual hierarchy of information requirements and management activities. Each level of the hierarchy is discussed in terms of the emergent problems and requirements that are likely to confront management scientists and urban administrators in the future. As the information requirements of urban areas become more complex and as the components of the urban system become more highly interrelated, developments in information technology can be expected to have a direct impact on the activities of urban area administrators. This development is illustrated here through the presentation of a selected number of possible impacts of information technology developments upon the information and management hierarchies of urban systems.
One-Shot Illusory Correlations and Stereotype Formation

In four studies, the authors explored the emergence of one-shot illusory correlations--in which a single instance of unusual behavior by a member of a rare group is sufficient to create an association between group and behavior. In Studies 1, 2, and 3, unusual behaviors committed by members of rare groups were processed differently than other types of behaviors. They received more processing time, prompted more attributional thinking, and were more memorable. In Study 4, the authors obtained evidence from two implicit measures of association that one-shot illusory correlations are generalized to other members of a rare group. The authors contend that one-shot illusory correlations arise because unusual pairings of behaviors and groups uniquely prompt people to entertain group membership as an explanation of the unusual behavior.
Portable liquid chromatograph for analysis of primary aromatic amines in coal-derived materials

This paper presents the preliminary results of the selective detection of primary aromatic amines with the use of a portable liquid chromatography with electro-chemical detection system. The primary aromatic amines were in materials derived from coal. (13 refs.)
Metabolism and diuretic effect of furosemide: development of protocols for the regulation of furosemide medication in horses.

Abstract Furosemide concentration in plasma of a large population of race horses at 2.75–3.25 h (pre-race) and 4.5–5 h (post-race) after administration of known doses of furosemide, and the relationship of plasma or urine furosemide level with urine dilution were determined to devise procedures for the regulation of furosemide medication in race horses. This study indicated that (1) HPLC was more suitable than ELISA or PCFIA in quantitation of furosemide in plasma and urine, (2) > 90% of pre-race or post-race plasma samples had furosemide level 90% of the post-race urine sample had furosemide level ranging from 2 μg/ml to 20 μg/ml, (4) the horses which excreted dilute urine (creatinine value 80 ng/ml, and (5) the urine (furosemide/creatinine) ratio was an important indicator of urine dilution due to furosemide medication in race horses. Furosemide use can be regulated by comparing plasma furosemide level with a pre-race “cut-off” value of 100 ng/ml or a post-race “cut-off” value of 80 ng/ml, and by determining urine creatinine and urine (furosemide/creatinine) ratio. Furosemide level > the “cut-off” value, urine creatinine level 0.15 should be considered violative and administrative action should be taken if all the criterion are met. An alternative “urine dilution” method for furosemide regulation has also been proposed in this study.
Informational Smallness and Private Monitoring in Repeated Games, Second Version

We consider repeated games with private monitoring that are 'close' to repeated games with public/perfect monitoring. A private monitoring information structure is close to a public monitoring information structure when private signals can generate approximately the same distribution of the public signal once they are aggregated into a public signal by some public coordination device. A player.s informational size associated with the public coordination device is the key to inducing truth-telling in nearby private monitoring games when communication is possible. A player is informationally small given a public coordination device if she believes that her signal is likely to have a small impact on the public signal generated by the public coordinating device. We show that a uniformly strict equilibrium with public monitoring is robust in a certain sense: it remains an equilibrium in nearby private monitoring repeated games when the associated public coordination device, which makes private monitoring close to public monitoring, keeps every player informationally small at the same time. We also prove a new folk theorem for repeated games with private monitoring and communication by exploiting the connection between public monitoring games and private monitoring games via public coordination devices.
Who is Educating Whom? Two-way Learning in Museum/University Partnerships

AbstractMuseums are places where inspiration and learning take place for staff as well as visitors. One way that museum staff can increase their own learning is through community-based partnerships to foster exchange of knowledge and skills. For these collaborations to be effective, both the museum educator and the community partner must be able to step into a “learner” role as well as an “educator” role. This paper describes a partnership between staff at The Franklin Institute and occupational therapy faculty and students at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, where two-way learning energized efforts to support inclusion and accessibility for museum visitors with disabilities. The article first explains the conceptual model framing this collaboration, and then describes specific examples of work accomplished together. These interactions led to increased learning for both partners and forward momentum toward a common goal based on shared values and mutual respect. Results demonstrate that community in...
Hydrogen permeability of reactor steels

The hydrogen permeability of 12Kh18N10T, 316SS, and 10Kh9VFA reactor steels and EP-838 and Kh12G20V alloyed chrome-manganese steels is studied in the intact state, after thermal treatment, alloying, application of protective coatings, oxidation, irradiation with H+ ions, and in the presence of welded joints. We compute the permeation of hydrogen P c corresponding to the ecologically safe level of losses of tritium through the reactor equipment into the environment and show how the changes in the structure and modification of the surface agree with this value. The permeability and solubility of hydrogen in welded joints of the investigated steels are determined.
A descriptive study of missed appointments: families' perceptions of barriers to care.

Abstract Introduction : When clinic appointments are missed, families deprive their child of health care opportunities and contribute to rising health care costs. The purpose of this study was to determine families' perceptions of barriers to attending clinic appointments. Method : Two hundred participants with a history of missed appointments were randomly selected to participate in a telephone survey. Ninety-five of the families selected did not have telephones. Of the 105 families contacted by telephone, 101 consented to participate in a survey. For the group without phones (n = 95), demographic information was collected to use as comparison data with families that were reached. Patterns of missed appointments were also analyzed. Results : The majority of families were headed by young single mothers. The families identified transportation problems, wait times, and not knowing the reason for the appointment as barriers. Discussion : Clearly, many issues have an impact on decisions related to attending clinic appointments. In the interest of health, interventions to decrease barriers and increase attendance should be a priority for health care professionals. Further research of the effectiveness of these interventions will delineate the appropriate focus of health care professional's efforts.
L-tryptophan transaminase of a bacterium isolated from the rhizosphere of Festuca octoflora (graminae)

Abstract Cell-free extracts of a rhizobacterial isolate from Festuca octoflora Walt. contained a soluble α-ketoglutarate-dependent L-tryptophan (L-TRP) transaminase which catalyzes the conversion of L-TRP to indole-3-pyruvic acid (IPyA). The enzyme was purified 35-fold with protamine sulfate and ammonium sulfate (45–65%) precipitation. The IPyA released in the reaction mixture was trapped and partially stabilized as an enol-borate-arsenate complex and measured spectrophotometrically. IPyA production was directly proportional with time (up to 120min) and protein concentration in the ranges employed. The optimum pH and temperature for the catalytic conversion was pH 8.0 and 40°C, respectively. Using L-TRP as the substrate in the presence of α-ketoglutarate (as an amino-group acceptor) and pyridoxal phosphate (as a coenzyme), the average Km was 1.22 mM and the activation energy 21.0 kJ mol−1. The role of this enzyme in the microbial synthesis of auxins and its possible influence on plant growth and development are discussed.
Extensions to the Kronig-Penney model

The Kronig-Penney model uses a periodic array of rectangular wells to deduce the existence of semiconductor energy bands from the solution of the corresponding Schroedinger equation. As part of this procedure, it is necessary to then solve a messy transcendental equation; this difficulty was surmounted by replacing the rectangular array with delta function potentials. The author describes two methods for presenting this topic at the undergraduate level. The first involves solving the one-dimensional Schroedinger equation with a rather complicated potential proposed by W. Prokovjev (1929). The second method uses a quadratic potential in the radial Schroedinger equation. >
Progress report on using magneto-strictive sputtered thin films to modify the shape of a x-ray telescope mirror

There is a basic need both in X-ray astronomy and in synchrotron X-ray optics to be able to modify the shape of an optic via an external source of actuation. We describe a technique of shape modification that can be applied to thin walled (~ 100-400 micron thickness) electroformed replicated optics or glass optics to improve the near net shape of the mirror as well as the mid-frequency (~ 2-10 mm length scales) ripple. The process involves sputter deposition of a magnetic smart material (MSM) film onto a magnetically hard material (i.e., one that retains a magnetic field, e.g. the material in hard disk drives). The MSM material exhibits strains about 400 times stronger than ordinary ferromagnetic materials. The deformation process involves a magnetic write head which traverses the surface, and under the guidance of active metrology feedback, locally magnetizes the surface to impart strain where needed. We describe the results of our current progress toward our ultimate goal of improving the angular resolution of grazing incidence optics.
Estimates of peak areas and relative atomic amounts from wide‐scan XPS spectra

In an earlier investigation a polynomial method to estimate area and peak positions in wide-scan XPS spectra was demonstrated with digital data (see N. H. Turner and A. M. Single, Surf. Interface Anal. 15, 215 (1990)). This method uses a density of points of about one per electron-volt. It was found that in most of the cases studied the procedure gave area estimates that agreed reasonably well with determinations made from narrow-region scans (which had a density of six to eight points per electron-volt) with non-linear least-squares (NLLS) calculations. In addition, ratios between the areas of the various peaks were in reasonable accord with the NLLS determinations. However, these estimates were made with fairly intense peaks. In this study, area estimates were made by the polynomial procedure that included peaks with low intensity (i.e. surface contaminants or elements present in relatively small amounts). Also, approximations of the relative atomic amounts were made. These estimates then were compared to those from narrow-region scan determinations that used the NLLS approach. Samples used included an insulator and conductors. In most instances the area ratios and the estimates of the relative atomic amounts from the polynomial procedure agreed to within a few per cent of values from the NLLS determinations. Poorer agreement was found in the estimates of adventitious carbon. This was due to both the comparatively small peak area and low relative intensity cross-section for carbon. Also, the polynomial method did not work well when the adventitious carbon signal was comprised of several species. Much better agreement was obtained between the polynomial procedure and the NLLS approach with elements that have a relatively high photoelectron cross-section.
Localized immunosuppressive environment in the foreign body response to implanted biomaterials.

The implantation of synthetic biomaterials initiates the foreign body response (FBR), which is characterized by macrophage infiltration, foreign body giant cell formation, and fibrotic encapsulation of the implant. The FBR is orchestrated by a complex network of immune modulators, including diverse cell types, soluble mediators, and unique cell surface interactions. The specific tissue locations, expression patterns, and spatial distribution of these immune modulators around the site of implantation are not clear. This study describes a model for studying the FBR in vivo and specifically evaluates the spatial relationship of immune modulators. We modified a biomaterials implantation in vivo model that allowed for cross-sectional in situ analysis of the FBR. Immunohistochemical techniques were used to determine the localization of soluble mediators, ie, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, IL-10, IL-6, transforming growth factor-β, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, and MCP-1; specific cell types, ie, macrophages, neutrophils, fibroblasts, and lymphocytes; and cell surface markers, ie, F4/80, CD11b, CD11c, and Ly-6C, at early, middle, and late stages of the FBR in subcutaneous implant sites. The cytokines IL-4, IL-13, IL-10, and transforming growth factor-β were localized to implant-adherent cells that included macrophages and foreign body giant cells. A better understanding of the FBR in vivo will allow the development of novel strategies to enhance biomaterial implant design to achieve better performance and safety of biomedical devices at the site of implant.
The diagnostic value of bronchoalveolar lavage in immunocompetent children with chronic diffuse pulmonary infiltrates

We have investigated the diagnostic value of (BAL) in 29 immunocompetent children (ages 1 month to 18 years) with chronic diffuse pulmonary infiltrates on chest radiograph who presented for evaluation over a 3-year period. The median age at the time of the BAL was 20 months with a range of 1–210 months. Positive results (1) diagnostic of a primary disorder; (2) consistent with a diagnosis; or (3) diagnostic of a secondary disorder, were obtained in 20/29 patients (13 with a single positive BAL finding and 7 with more than one finding). BAL was diagnostic of a primary disorder in only 5 patients (17%) with aspiration detected in 3 and infection in 2. The differential diagnosis was narrowed in 15 patients by the presence of lymphocytosis, neutrophilia, or eosinophilia. A secondary disorder was uncovered in 8 patients. Negative results were obtained in 9 additional patients. We conclude that BAL provided useful information in children with chronic diffuse infiltrates, but its ability to determine the primary cause was limited. Pediatr Pulmonol. 1997; 23:8–13. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc
Structural Modeling of Profiled Edge Laminae (PEL) Tools

Profiled Edge Laminae (PEL) tooling is a thick-layer Rapid Tooling (RT) method that involves assembling an array of laminae-each having a uniquely profiled and beveled top edge-together in a precise and repeatable manner by registering each lamina's bottom edge and an adjacent side edge to a fixture that has precisely machined edges. The processed laminae are then clamped or bonded into a rigid tool for use in manufacturing (e.g., as a thermoforming mold). Because a PEL tool is inherently more compliant than a solid tool, manufacturing personnel who are considering its use are understandably concerned about excessive tool deflection, which may lead to unacceptable changes in tool shape, decreased tool life due to high stresses and increased wear, and part dimensional errors. The ability to predict deflection (i.e., shape changes) in a laminated construction, either clamped or bonded, is extremely important to promote widespread acceptance of the PEL method. This paper develops basic analytical structural models for both clamped and adhesively bonded PEL tools, which will allow tooling designers and engineers to predict how changing various design parameters (e.g., the number of laminations, tool material, unclamped length of laminations, bonding adhesive, adhesive thickness) affect a tool's stiffness. Deflection results from these models are shown to agree very well with experimental results. The usefulness of these analytical models is then shown by a design example. Finally, FEM modeling of PEL tools is demonstrated and shown to provide results that agree reasonably well with experimental results. FEM modeling may allow for prediction of shape changes to a PEL tool characterized by a complex three-dimensional surface and subject to arbitrary structural loads.
It depends: Planning and managing induced innovation in uncertain environments; a contingency approach to extension reforms in Lesotho

Uncertain environments and much innovation typically characterise agricultural extension education programming. Hence, rational approaches to planning may not be as effective as more incremental types. Organic management strategies premised on a contingency planning approach may prove more useful Effective decentralisation of management, improved communication between the farmer, extension personnel and technical specialist, and appropriate skills levels of staff are common extension concerns. The concept of organisation as open systems serves a useful management mindset. In Lesotho this mindset, coupled with an interactive management and contingency planning strategy, provided the foundation for a single eclectic programme dealing with all of these issues.
Left ventricular endocardial longitudinal and transverse changes during isovolumic contraction and relaxation: a challenge

Left ventricular (LV) longitudinal and transverse geometric changes during isovolumic contraction and relaxation are still controversial. This confusion is compounded by traditional definitions of these phases of the cardiac cycle. High-resolution sonomicrometry studies might clarify these issues. Crystals were implanted in six sheep at the LV apex, fibrous trigones, lateral and posterior mitral annulus, base of the aortic right coronary sinus, anterior and septal endocardial wall, papillary muscle tips, and edge of the anterior and posterior mitral leaflets. Changes in distances were time related to LV and aortic pressures and to mitral valve opening. At the beginning of isovolumic contraction, while the mitral valve was still open, the LV endocardial transverse diameter started to shorten while the endocardial longitudinal diameter increased. During isovolumic relaxation, while the mitral valve was closed, LV transverse diameter started to increase while the longitudinal diameter continued to decrease. These findings are inconsistent with the classic definitions of the phases of the cardiac cycle.
Levetiracetam: past, present and future

Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic drug approved for use as an adjunctive agent in partial-onset seizures in adults. This approval was recently extended to children over 4 years of age. Among the currently approved antiepileptic drugs, levetiracetam is unique in its mechanism of action. Its CNS binding site, the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, was discovered recently. Binding at this site may be important for the antiseizure activity of levetiracetam and the role of this binding site and its modulation by levetiracetam is an area of active research in epilepsy. Levetiracetam is generally safe, has near to ideal pharmacokinetics and does not interact with other medications. The most serious adverse events are behavioral in nature. Recent studies suggest that levetiracetam may be effective in generalized epilepsies, status epilepticus, pain and selected movement disorders. Intriguing studies using the kindling model of epilepsy suggest that levetiracetam may protect against the development of kindling and chr...
Neutron damage calculations in Cu, Nb and Au to 32 MeV: Application to sputtering and deuteron-breakup neutron sources☆

Abstract Primary recoil distributions and specific damage energies have been computed for high energy deuteron-breakup neutrons in Cu, Nb and Au. The calculations are based on theoretical neutron cross sections and consider in particular a d-Be spectrum broadly peaked at 15 MeV with some neutrons above 30 MeV. The theoretical results are similar to corresponding calculations for monoenergetic 15-MeV neutrons and are in good agreement with range measurements of (n, 2n) recoils generated by high energy d-Be neutrons in Nb and Au. The calculations are also consistent with recent d-Be neutron sputtering experiments in Nb and Au and demonstrate the usefulness of deuteron-breakup neutron sources for simulating fusion neutron effects.
Psoriasis: emerging therapeutic strategies

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that is characterized by thickened, scaly plaques, and is estimated to affect approximately 1-3% of the Caucasian population. Traditional treatments, although effective in patients with limited disease, have numerous shortcomings, including inconvenience and toxicity. These drawbacks mean that many patients experience cycles of disease clearance, in which normal quality of life alternates with active disease and poor quality of life. However, as this review discusses, recent advances have highlighted the key role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, and have provided new defined targets for therapeutic intervention, offering hope for safe and effective psoriasis treatment.
Gas sorption‐induced dilation of poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene)

Sorption and volume dilation isotherms of semicrystalline poly(4-methyl-1-pentene) (PMP) were measured using CO 2 and C 3 H 8 as penetrants, which have sieving diameters of 3.3 and 4.3 A, respectively. On the other hand, the PMP crystal has a void width of approximately 4 A as estimated by X-ray diffraction, so it was anticipated that CO 2 would be able to sorb into the PMP crystal while C 3 H 8 would not. The data show that C 3 H 8 has a constant partial molar volume of approximately 87 cc/mol, just above the value reported in other rubbery polymers, and are consistent with the hypothesis that the C 3 H 8 molecules are too large to sorb into the PMP crystals. The partial molar volume of CO 2 was found to be 39 cc/mol for CO 2 weight fractions of up to 0.03. Since the typical partial molar volume of CO 2 in rubbery materials is 46 cc/mol, the lower values in this study were attributed to CO 2 sorption into crystalline regions of the polymer, which provided no dilation. Application of a two-phase model using the assumption of Henry's law sorption showed that apparently all C 2 H 8 sorption was occurring in the amorphous region but approximately 16% of CO 2 sorption occurred in the crystalline regions.
Excited State Processes in Ruthenium(II)/Pyrenyl Complexes Displaying Extended Lifetimes

The synthesis and photophysical properties of two Ru(II) diimine complexes bearing one (dyad) and three (tetrad) pyrenyl units, respectively, are presented. The pyrene chromophore in each metal complex is tethered through a single C−C bond in the 5-position of 1,10-phenanthroline (py-phen). Both Ru(II) complexes display increased absorption cross sections near 340 nm largely due to the presence of the pyrenyl chromophore(s). Excitation from 300 to 540 nm results exclusively in the observation of metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) based emission that is exceptionally long lived, 23.7 μs and 148 μs in deaerated CH3CN, respectively. This luminescence was analyzed using steady-state and time-resolved techniques at room temperature and 77 K. The tetrad complex, [Ru(py-phen)3]2+, displays a dynamic self-quenching reaction at room temperature in dilute CH3CN solutions that is well modeled by a Stern−Volmer expression. The excited-state processes occurring between the MLCT core and the pyrenyl units were furt...
Social Capital and the Adaptation of the Second Generation: The Case of Vietnamese Youth in New Orleans.

This article investigates some of the ways in which social capital made available in an immigrant community contributes to, rather than hinders, the adaptation of the younger generation, in school ...
The treatment of bulimia (binge‐eating and self‐induced vomiting): A quasi‐experimental investigation of the effects of stimulus narrowing, self‐reinforcement and self‐control relaxation

Previous research has suggested that inappropriate stimulus control and psychological stress may exercise functional control over eating disturbances such as binge-eating and self-induced vomiting (bulimia). This report is a single-case study of a 26-year-old bulimic female in which these factors were hypothesized to be functional elements. The intervention used a self-reinforcement program to establish appropriate stimulus control over proper nutritional habits (Stimulus Narrowing). Stimulus Narrowing was successfully implemented utilizing self-reinforcement, but Stimulus Narrowing did not reduce bulimia. Self-control relaxation was then implemented and was followed by an apparent reduction in the frequency of bulimic episodes. The results suggest that the “treatment package” of stimulus narrowing, self-reinforcement and self-control relaxation may be useful in the treatment of bulimia. Methodological and clinical implications are discussed and recommendations for future experimental-clinical research are offered.
Optimal Test Margin Computation for At-Speed Structural Test

In the face of increased process variations, at-speed manufacturing test is necessary to detect subtle delay defects. This procedure necessarily tests chips at a slightly higher speed than the target frequency required in the field. The additional performance required on the tester is called test margin . There are many good reasons for margin, including voltage and temperature requirements, incomplete test coverage, aging effects, coupling effects, and accounting for modeling inaccuracies. By taking advantage of statistical timing, this paper proposes an optimal method of test margin determination to maximize yield while staying within a prescribed shipped product quality loss limit. If process information is available from the wafer testing of scribe-line structures or on-chip process monitoring circuitry, this information can be leveraged to determine a per-chip test margin which can further improve yield.
Transactional distance and teaching presence in e-learning environments

Adopting an ecological systems model (Shaw and Chacon, 2010), we propose using transactional distance (TD) to assess three aspects of e-learning environments: the essential learner-teacher dialogue; teaching presence (social, cognitive and cultural); and levels of infrastructure (basic, grounded and emergent). We analyse the e-learning system for: goal of a dynamic learner-teacher dialogue; engagement through effective teaching presence; management of teaching presence through short transactional distances; and support of transactional distances through levels of infrastructure. Short transactional distances for teaching presence within the framework of e-learning transactional distance improve effective e-learning at the heart of the learning system: the learner/teacher dialogue.
Motivation to change alcohol use and treatment engagement in incarcerated youth

Adolescents have been reported to be less motivated to engage and remain in substance abuse treatment than adults. When they appear motivated, it is often due to external motivators such as family pressure or court mandated treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine if adolescents' motivation to change alcohol use was related to treatment engagement while incarcerated and alcohol use after release. Participants (N=114) were youth in a state correctional facility in the Northeast and included adolescents who engaged in at least monthly drinking. Motivation to change alcohol use was measured by the Alcohol Ladder (AL), and treatment engagement was measured by the Treatment Participation Questionnaire (comprised of positive and negative treatment engagement). Measures were administered at baseline, 2 months in facility follow up, and 3 months post release follow up. Analysis indicated acceptable test-retest stability (r=.388, p≤.001). The AL at 3 months post release significantly predicted quantity and frequency of alcohol use after release. The AL at baseline also significantly predicted positive and negative treatment engagement at 2 months into incarceration (i.e., 2 months in facility follow up) indicating predictive validity. These results suggest that the AL is a reliable, valid, and useful instrument for incarcerated youth.
The synthesis of sulfonated polymers by free radical copolymerization. Poly(butadiene‐co‐sodium styrene sulfonate)

Synopsis The copolymerization of butadiene with sodium styrene sulfonate was studied and the copolymer products characterized. In general these copolymers contain 0.5-4 mole % of sulfonated monomer. The effects of the following reaction variables are described: emulsifier type and concentration, monomers feed ratio, chain transfer agent concentration, and reaction conversion. The products were heterogeneous with regard to composition, molecular weight, and solubility behavior. Copolymers prepared under certain conditions exhibited strong intermolecular interactions derived from associations of the ionic species as observed in other ionomers.
Tropical Cyclogenesis Associated with Rossby Wave Energy Dispersion of a Preexisting Typhoon. Part I: Satellite Data Analyses*

Abstract The structure and evolution characteristics of Rossby wave trains induced by tropical cyclone (TC) energy dispersion are revealed based on the Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) and Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager (TMI) data. Among 34 cyclogenesis cases analyzed in the western North Pacific during 2000–01 typhoon seasons, six cases are associated with the Rossby wave energy dispersion of a preexisting TC. The wave trains are oriented in a northwest–southeast direction, with alternating cyclonic and anticyclonic vorticity circulation. A typical wavelength of the wave train is about 2500 km. The TC genesis is observed in the cyclonic circulation region of the wave train, possibly through a scale contraction process. The satellite data analyses reveal that not all TCs have a Rossby wave train in their wakes. The occurrence of the Rossby wave train depends to a certain extent on the TC intensity and the background flow. Whether or not a Rossby wave train can finally lead to cy...
Interaction Analysis of the ALICE Chatterbot: A Two-Study Investigation of Dialog and Domain Questioning

This paper analyzes and compares the data gathered from two previously conducted artificial linguistic Internet chat entity (ALICE) chatterbot studies that were focused on response accuracy and user satisfaction measures for six chatterbots. These chatterbots were further loaded with varying degrees of conversational, telecommunications, and terrorism knowledge. From our prior experiments using 347 participants, we obtained 33 446 human/chatterbot interactions. It was found that asking the ALICE chatterbots ?are? and ?where? questions resulted in higher response satisfaction levels, as compared to other interrogative-style inputs because of their acceptability to vague, binary, or clichE?d chatterbot responses. We also found a relationship between the length of a query and the users perceived satisfaction of the chatterbot response, where shorter queries led to more satisfying responses.
The Electricity Market Game

Abstract This paper examines the effects of imperfect competition in unregulated electricity markets from a general equilibrium perspective, and demonstrates that horizontal market power can explain both the large peak-period price spikes observed recently in California and elsewhere, and the marked reduction in addition to capacity that have also occurred during the transition to competitive markets.
Calcium entry via Na/Ca exchange during the action potential directly contributes to contraction of failing human ventricular myocytes.

Prolongation of the Ca2+ transient and action potential (AP) durations are two characteristic changes in myocyte physiology in the failing human heart. The hypothesis of this study is that Ca2+ influx via reverse mode Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) or via L-type Ca2+ channels directly activates contraction in failing human myocytes while in normal myocytes this Ca2+ is transported into the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) to regulate SR Ca2+ stores. Methods: Myocytes were isolated from failing human ( n =6), nonfailing human ( n =3) and normal feline hearts ( n =9) and whole cell current and voltage clamp techniques were used to evoke and increase the duration of APs (0.5 Hz, 37 °C). Cyclopiazonic acid (CPA 10−6 M), nifedipine (NIF;10−6 M) and KB-R 7943 (KB-R; 3×10−6 M) were used to reduce SR Ca2+ uptake, Ca2+ influx via the L-type Ca2+ current and reverse mode NCX, respectively. [Na+]i was changed by dialyzing myocytes with 0, 10 and 20 mM Na+ pipette solutions. Results: Prolongation of the AP duration caused an immediate prolongation of contraction and Ca2+ transient durations in failing myocytes. The first beat after the prolonged AP was potentiated by 21±5 and 27±5% in nonfailing human and normal feline myocytes, respectively ( P <0.05), but there was no significant effect in failing human myocytes (+5±4% vs. steady state). CPA blunted the potentiation of the first beat after AP prolongation in normal feline and nonfailing human myocytes, mimicking the failing phenotype. NIF reduced steady state contraction in feline myocytes but the potentiation of the first beat after AP prolongation was unaltered (21±3% vs. base, P <0.05). KB-R reduced basal contractility and abolished the potentiation of the first beat after AP prolongation (2±1% vs. steady state). Increasing [Na+]i shortened AP, Ca2+ transient and contraction durations and increased steady state and post AP prolongation contractions. Dialysis with 0 Na+ eliminated these effects. Conclusions: Ca2+ enters both normal and failing cardiac myocytes during the late portion of the AP plateau via reverse mode NCX. In (normal) myocytes with good SR function, this Ca2+ influx helps maintain and regulate SR Ca2+ load. In (failing) human myocytes with poor SR function this Ca2+ influx directly contributes to contraction. These studies suggest that the Ca2+ transient of the failing human ventricular myocytes has a higher than normal reliance on Ca2+ influx via the reverse mode of the NCX during the terminal phases of the AP.
Addressing the middleware configuration challenges using model-based techniques

Component middleware, such as J2EE, .Net and CORBA Component Model (CCM) have been increasingly used to develop and deploy large-scale distributed systems in different domains, including defense, enterprise, avionics and industrial process control. The different applications in each of these domains require different levels and types of quality of service (QoS) guarantees from their underlying component middleware. In an effort to support a large number of applications, therefore, component middleware developers provide enormous flexibility in the way the middleware can be configured and fine-tuned for the target application. Application developers, however, resort to ad hoc techniques to configure the middleware, which are tedious and errorprone.This paper describes a novel scheme we are using based on model-based systems engineering to address the concerns of complex middleware configuration. We present a modeling paradigm called Options Configuration Modeling Language (OCML) we have used in the context of conflguring a QoS-enabled CORBA component middleware.
The Unreasonable Ineffectiveness of Fisherian “Tests” in Biology, and Especially in Medicine

Biometrics has done damage with levels of R or p or Student’s t. The damage widened with Ronald A. Fisher’s victory in the 1920s and 1930s in devising mechanical methods of “testing,” against methods of common sense and scientific impact, “oomph.” The scale along which one would measure oomph is particularly clear in biomedical sciences: life or death. Cardiovascular epidemiology, to take one example, combines with gusto the “fallacy of the transposed conditional” and what we call the “sizeless stare” of statistical significance. Some medical editors have battled against the 5% philosophy, as did, for example, Kenneth Rothman, the founder of Epidemiology. And decades ago a sensible few in education, ecology, and sociology initiated a “significance test controversy.” But, grantors, journal referees, and tenure committees in the statistical sciences had faith that probability spaces can substitute for scientific judgment. A finding of p< .05 is deemed to be “better” for variable X than p< .11 for variable Y .I t is not. It depends on the oomph of X and Y —the effect size, size judged in the light of how much it matters for scientific or clinical purposes. In 1995 a Cancer Trialists’ Collaborative Group, for example, came to a rare consensus on effect size: 10 different studies had agreed that a certain drug for treating prostate cancer can increase patient survival by 12%. An 11th study published in the New England Journal in 1998 dismissed the drug. The dismissal was based on a t-test, not on what William Gosset (the “Student” of Student’s t) had called, against Ronald A. Fisher’s machinery, “real” error. 1