cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Back to the basic science of fertility

One day later, there was a marked increase in the vascular supply of the testis, and numerous vessels appeared to have breached the membrana propria of the tubules. Kochar NK, Harrison RG. The effects of x-rays on the vascularization of the mouse testis. Fertil Steril 1971;22:53‐57. The impact of temperature shock upon mammalian sperm is severe, and produces physical as well as biochemical alterations in the cells. Ackerman DR. Variation due to freezing in the citrate acid content of human semen. Fertil Steril 1971;22:58–60.
RiboA: a web application to identify ribosome A-site locations in ribosome profiling data.

Translation is a fundamental process in gene expression. Ribosome profiling is a method that enables the study of transcriptome-wide translation. A fundamental, technical challenge in analyzing Ribo-Seq data is identifying the A-site location on ribosome-protected mRNA fragments. Identification of the A-site is essential as it is at this location on the ribosome where a codon is translated into an amino acid. Incorrect assignment of a read to the A-site can lead to lower signal-to-noise ratio and loss of correlations necessary to understand the molecular factors influencing translation. Therefore, an easy-to-use and accurate analysis tool is needed to accurately identify the A-site locations. We present RiboA, a web application that identifies the most accurate A-site location on a ribosome-protected mRNA fragment and generates the A-site read density profiles. It uses an Integer Programming method that reflects the biological fact that the A-site of actively translating ribosomes is generally located between the second codon and stop codon of a transcript, and utilizes a wide range of mRNA fragment sizes in and around the coding sequence (CDS). The web application is containerized with Docker, and it can be easily ported across platforms. The Integer Programming method that RiboA utilizes is the most accurate in identifying the A-site on Ribo-Seq mRNA fragments compared to other methods. RiboA makes it easier for the community to use this method via a user-friendly and portable web application. In addition, RiboA supports reproducible analyses by tracking all the input datasets and parameters, and it provides enhanced visualization to facilitate scientific exploration. RiboA is available as a web service at https://a-site.vmhost.psu.edu/ . The code is publicly available at https://github.com/obrien-lab/aip_web_docker under the MIT license.
A Semi-Analytical Solution Approach for Solving Constant-Coefficient First-Order Partial Differential Equations

Simulation and control of many dynamic systems involve solving partial differential equations (PDE). This letter proposes a semi-analytical solution (SAS) approach for fast and high-quality solution of first-order PDEs. The region of interest of the studied PDE is divided into a grid, and an SAS is derived for each grid cell in the form of the multivariate polynomials, of which the coefficients are identified using initial value and boundary value conditions. The solutions are solved in a “time-stepping” manner, i.e., within one time step, the coefficients of the SAS are identified and the initial value of the next time step is evaluated. This approach achieves a significantly larger grid cell than the widely used finite difference method, and thus enhances the computational efficiency significantly. The simulation result on the natural gas pipeline model demonstrates the advantages of SAS in accuracy and computational efficiency.
Effect of Stress State on High-Temperature Low-Cycle Fatigue

A study of the behavior of Inconel at 1500 deg F under realistic dynamic stress states was performed to critically evaluate present criteria used to solve low-cycle fatigue problems and to demonstrate their applicability for the more complex situations. The relative agreement between the static complex stress- creep-rupture results and the low-cycle fatigue data is demonstrated. From the relationships developed for static complex stress-creep-rupture data, it is demonstrated that the magnitudes of the effects of stress state and frequency on low-cycle fatigue can be determined. (auth)
Cdx Genes, Inflammation, and the Pathogenesis of Intestinal Metaplasia

Intestinal metaplasia (IM) is a biologically interesting and clinically relevant condition in which one differentiated type of epithelium is replaced by another that is morphologically similar to normal intestinal epithelium. Two classic examples of this are gastric IM and Barrett's esophagus (BE). In both, a chronic inflammatory microenvironment, provoked either by Helicobacter pylori infection of the stomach or acid and bile reflux into the esophagus, precedes the metaplasia. The Caudal-related homeodomain transcription factors Cdx1 and Cdx2 are critical regulators of the normal intestinal epithelial cell phenotype. Ectopic expression of Cdx1 and Cdx2 occurs in both gastric IM as well as in BE. This expression precedes the onset of the metaplasia and implies a causal role for these factors in this process. We review the observations regarding the role of chronic inflammation and the Cdx transcription factors in the pathogenesis of gastric IM and BE.
T Cell-Independent Spontaneous Loss of Tolerance by Anti-Double-Stranded DNA B Cells in C57BL/6 Mice

Systemic lupus erythematosus is characterized by loss of tolerance to DNA and other nuclear Ags. To understand the role of T cells in the breaking of tolerance, an anti-DNA site-specific transgenic model of spontaneous lupus, B6x56R, was studied. T cells were eliminated by crossing B6x56R with CD4(-/)(-) or TCRbeta(-/-)delta(-/-) mice, and the effects on anti-dsDNA serum levels, numbers of anti-dsDNA Ab-secreting cells, and isotypes of anti-dsDNA were analyzed. In addition, the development and activation of B cells in these mice were examined. Surprisingly, the presence of T cells made little difference in the development and character of the serum anti-dsDNA Ab in B6x56R mice. At 1 mo of age, anti-dsDNA Abs were somewhat lower in mice deficient in alphabeta and gammadelta T cells. Levels of Abs later were not affected by T cells, nor was autoantibody class switching. B cell activation was somewhat diminished in T cell-deficient mice. Thus, in the B6 background, the presence of an anti-dsDNA transgene led the production of autoantibodies with a specificity and isotype characteristic of murine systemic lupus erythematosus with little influence from T cells. TLR9 also did not appear to play a role. Although we do not yet understand the mechanism of this failure of immunoregulation, these results suggest that similar processes may influence autoimmunity associated with clinical disease.
Using magpie for request extraction and workload modelling

Tools to understand complex system behaviour are essential for many performance analysis and debugging tasks, yet there are many open research problems in their development. Magpie is a toolchain for automatically extracting a system's workload under realistic operating conditions. Using low-overhead instrumentation, we monitor the system to record fine-grained events generated by kernel, middleware and application components. The Magpie request extraction tool uses an application-specific event schema to correlate these events, and hence precisely capture the control flow and resource consumption of each and every request. By removing scheduling artefacts, whilst preserving causal dependencies, we obtain canonical request descriptions from which we can construct concise workload models suitable for performance prediction and change detection. In this paper we describe and evaluate the capability of Magpie to accurately extract requests and construct representative models of system behaviour.
Legal and social issues in medical genetics

This paper was written for the purpose of providing the physician with a perspective of the conflicting scientific, individual, and societal interests which have been evoked by increasing medical and scientific innovation in the area of human genetic disease. In it the following subjects are considered: (1) obtaining genetic information by amniocentesis, by genetic counseling, and by screening; (2) disclosure of genetic data to the patient; (3) inclusion of genetic data on the medical record; (4) courses of action available to the individual after disclosure of genetic information, i.e., abortion, sterilization, etc.; (5) the state and involuntary sterilization; and (6) prohibitions on marriage.
Late paleozoic fusulinoidean gigantism driven by atmospheric hyperoxia

Atmospheric hyperoxia, with pO(2) in excess of 30%, has long been hypothesized to account for late Paleozoic (360-250 million years ago) gigantism in numerous higher taxa. However, this hypothesis has not been evaluated statistically because comprehensive size data have not been compiled previously at sufficient temporal resolution to permit quantitative analysis. In this study, we test the hyperoxia-gigantism hypothesis by examining the fossil record of fusulinoidean foraminifers, a dramatic example of protistan gigantism with some individuals exceeding 10 cm in length and exceeding their relatives by six orders of magnitude in biovolume. We assembled and examined comprehensive regional and global, species-level datasets containing 270 and 1823 species, respectively. A statistical model of size evolution forced by atmospheric pO(2) is conclusively favored over alternative models based on random walks or a constant tendency toward size increase. Moreover, the ratios of volume to surface area in the largest fusulinoideans are consistent in magnitude and trend with a mathematical model based on oxygen transport limitation. We further validate the hyperoxia-gigantism model through an examination of modern foraminiferal species living along a measured gradient in oxygen concentration. These findings provide the first quantitative confirmation of a direct connection between Paleozoic gigantism and atmospheric hyperoxia.
Subtractive plasma-etch process for patterning high performance ZnO TFTs

Fig 2 shows a cross sectional SEM image of the channel area after etching tungsten prior to stripping the PMMA etch mask. The thickness of the ZnO film measured ∼52 nm, both in the channel area and underneath the source/drain pads, indicating that the ZnO film was not thinned during the plasma-etch process. Fig 3(a) and (b) show the I D -V D output characteristics of a ZnO TFT with a 155 nm and 425 nm channel, respectively. The maximum observed drain current density (I D ) and transconductance (g m ) for the 155 nm devices was 830 mA/mm and 121 mS/mm, respectively. However, the devices do not saturate at high V D values, due to lateral breakdown limitations of the short channels. Fig 3(c) shows I D plotted as a function of V G on both a log- and linear-scale for devices operating in the linear region with measured channel lengths of 155, 215, 325 and 425 nm. The devices show a near linear dependence on I D versus L C . However, a negative shift in the on-voltage (V on ), defined as the gate voltage when I D begins its initial increase the log(I D )-V G plot [4] is observed as L C is decreased. Fig 4(a) shows the extracted on-resistance (R on ) plotted as a function of channel length. From the data, the total parasitic source/drain resistance (R SD ) can be extracted by gated-TLM method [5], shown in Fig 4(b). The devices exhibit a width normalized R SD of 2.1 Ω·mm indicating the tungsten/ZnO interface resistance is low.
Rethinking Borders, Violence, and Space

The paper I am proposing draws on my earlier analysis of hard borders, violence, fluid identities and political space. Given our contemporary landscapes of mobility and immobility, failing sovereigns and competing ethnocrats, new global actors, and modes interaction, we need to be rethinking our notions of political association beyond container states and fixed territorial spaces. The practices of fixing identities into differential political statuses and arbitrary geographic borders are particularly dangerous as responses to “crises.” While many pundits suggest that it is the lack of defined or secure borders that encourages violent conflicts, facilitates terror-bent incursions, and tempts traffickers to defy border guards, I argue that it is the proliferation of hard borders (symbolic, legal, and material walls, fences, and frontiers) that incites violence, provides mechanisms for domination, and undermines opportunities for peaceful and sustainable political association. In the face of “hard times,” this is not a utopian argument for world government, but an attempt to rethink the relationship of borders, violence, and space.This paper draws on my earlier interrogation of traditional notions of sovereignty in the context of ongoing processes of fragmentation and integration and my concern that the linkage of citizenship to nationality in this context exposes many individuals to conditions of extreme vulnerability and violence. Using the theme of crises to frame moments of conflict, multiple strains, uncertainty, and vulnerability in symbolic and physical borderlands, the paper will attempt to pose both the dangerous securitizing pressures to close and harden borders and the liberating possibilities of fluidity and malleability, opening and softening of borders. Softening borders undermines the construction of power relations around fixed definitions of difference and institutionalized practices of domination and violence. While the instinct toward closure is often built into narratives of “hard times” and the language of crisis; I hope to offer resistance to this turn through both an analysis of moments of crisis and a re-thinking of borders, violence, and space.
Synchronization in systems coupled via complex networks

Recently, several models of complex networks such as small world networks and scale free networks have emerged in order to model real-life networks. This paper studies the synchronization that occurs in an array of identical chaotic systems coupled via such complex networks. We show that locally coupled arrays and randomly coupled arrays form two extremes in terms of their synchronization properties. Furthermore, we show that a locally coupled array can be made to synchronize by adding arbitrarily small couplings to an arbitrarily small fraction of coupling sites. We also present a criterion to classify such complex networks according to their synchronizability in the limit.
Contrasts between the Acoustic Emission Signals Generated by Monopole Versus Dipole Sources

Acoustic emission (AE) practitioners routinely use surface pencil lead breaks (monopoles) to observe expected AE signal characteristics. In contrast, stress-generated AE sources are almost universally composed of dipoles. Thus, understanding the primary differences between the signals generated by these two different source classes is of key importance. This research had the goal of analyzing and contrasting the AE signals generated by monopole and dipole sources. A finite-element-modeled database of AE signals provided an ideal means to study these two source types. The AE signals represented the top-surface out-of-plane displacement versus time from point sources inside an aluminum plate 4.7 mm thick. In addition, monopole sources both on the plate top surface and the edge surface were included in the database. The AE signals were obtained from both in-plane and out-of-plane monopole and dipole sources. Results were analyzed with both a 100 to 300 kHz bandpass filter and a 40 kHz high-pass filter. The wide-plate specimen domain effectively eliminated edge reflections from interfering with the direct signal arrivals.
Investigation of strain-sensing materials based on EM surface wave propagation for steel bridge health monitoring

Abstract This paper describes the exploration of a sensor concept for use in structural health monitoring. The sensor is based on the principle of electromagnetic (EM) surface wave propagation, and consists of a thin-layer of wave-guiding media attached to a metal base (e.g., steel bridge elements) and an EM wave emitter and receiver. Targeting at a low-cost and practical solution, various dielectric materials that facilitate EM wave propagation were examined. Low-density polyethylene was determined to have the most suitable dielectric properties and was selected for laboratory tests using tension coupon specimens. The tests of steel coupons with a low-density polyethylene strip indicated that the parameters of an EM wave (e.g., amplitude and phase) changed as the coupon specimens deformed. Therefore, the proposed sensor concept based on EM surface wave propagation can be a viable option for monitoring steel bridges.
Genetic Gain in Fiber Properties of Upland Cotton under Varying Plant Densities

Competition from foreign grown cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and artificial fibers have increased the demand for improved fiber quality. The genetic potential for effecting change in many traits can be judged by previous gains from selection. Nine upland cotton cultivars developed over the past century were grown during 2004 and 2005 in five plant densities to evaluate varying levels of interplant competition on genetic gain estimates for high volume instrument fiber properties. The rates of genetic gain since 1905 among this set of genotypes for fiber length and strength were significantly higher under the greatest planting densities, implying that genetic gains for these characteristics have been made for tolerance to interplant competition as well as for the fiber trait per se. Both fiber elongation and uniformity index appear to be largely unaffected by the stresses of increased interplant competition. Plant density impacted genetic gain in micronaire but cultivars were essentially unchanged over the century, reflecting that the market demands fiber micronaire to be within a range that neither maximizes nor minimizes this trait. Caution should be practiced in the interpretation of these data since the capability to objectively measure these traits has been widely available to breeders only since the 1980s and because selection pressure for these traits has been sporadic with little concentrated effort to maximize or minimize each characteristic.
Pesticide body residues of Hyalella azteca exposed to Mississippi Delta sediments.

This article discusses pesticide residues in the sediments of the Lower Mississippi River Alluvial Plain of Arkansas and Mississippi related to bioaccumumulation by the freshwater crustacean Hyalella azteca. According to the authors, most of these pesticides are the result of agricultural runoff and consist of both current use and legacy or discontinued pesticides. Three types of watersheds were investigated including National Wildlife Refuge, Best Management Practices (BMPs) and watersheds where the total maximum daily load of legacy pesticides exceeded guidelines. They concluded that BMPs have little if any impact on pesticide sequestration and few available current-use insecticides but greater legacy compounds accumulated in H. azteca tissues
Metabolic Myopathies: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Approach

The rheumatologist is frequently called on to evaluate patients with complaints of myalgia, muscle cramps, and fatigue. The evaluation of these patients presents a diagnostic challenge given the nonspecific and intermittent nature of their complaints, often leading to inappropriate diagnostic testing. When these symptoms are associated with physical exertion, a metabolic myopathy should be suspected Although inflammatory myopathies may present with similar features, such a pattern should prompt a thorough evaluation for an underlying metabolic myopathy. This review discusses the most common causes of metabolic myopathies and reviews the current diagnostic options available to the clinician.
Consumer information cues in television advertising: A cross country analysis

This paper compares the number of consumer information cues found in television advertisements in three countries: Australia, Ecuador, and the United States. Earlier studies conducted by Resnick and Stern in the United States and Dowling in Australia were replicated in Ecuador. Content analysis of 108 Ecuadorian television advertisements evaluated the number and types of information cues in each commercial. Results indicate that a much greater proportion of Ecuadorian television commercials contain consumer information cues than those broadcast in the other two countries. The explanation suggested for this observation is that Ecuador, due to its level of economic development, has many more products in the introductory stages of the product life cycle. This situation, in turn, requires more extensive communication of consumer information to market the products effectively. This finding implies an additional dimension, information content level, which must be considered when adapting international campaigns to conditions in developing countries.
Hydrogen compatibility of austenitic stainless steel tubing and orbital tube welds

Abstract Refueling infrastructure for use in gaseous hydrogen powered vehicles requires extensive manifolding for delivering the hydrogen from the stationary fuel storage at the refueling station to the vehicle as well as from the mobile storage on the vehicle to the fuel cell or combustion engine. Manifolds for gas handling often use welded construction (as opposed to compression fittings) to minimize gas leaks. Therefore, it is important to understand the effects of hydrogen on tubing and tubing welds. This paper provides a brief overview of on-going studies on the effects of hydrogen precharging on the tensile properties of austenitic stainless tubing and orbital tube welds.
A new algorithm for determination of crack growth path in HMA materials

In this paper, a new algorithm is presented for determination of the crack growth path in hot mix asphalt (HMA) materials. In a newly developed fracture simulator, the pavement structure is modeled with a viscoelastic boundary element method, which provides an attractive alternative to finite element-based methods for modeling crack initiation and growth. According to the HMA fracture mechanics, a fundamental energy-based threshold is used to determine crack growth and the direction of crack growth, and viscoelastic mixture properties are used to determine the rate of crack growth. To determine where a crack propagates, a grid in the critical zone is defined to cover a range of possible crack growth directions and locate the direction of the maximum dissipated creep strain energy (DCSE). The crack will propagate in the direction of the maximum DCSE when the DCSE in this direction reaches the damage threshold. The fracture simulator is shown to predict top-down crack growth patterns in hot mix asphalt pavements observed in the field.
Practical immunochemical method for determination of 3,5, 6-trichloro-2-pyridinol in human urine: applications and considerations for exposure assessment.

An analytical method is described for the quantitative determination of 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (3,5,6-TCP) in human urine. This is the primary analyte found in urine as a result of exposure to chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos-methyl, triclopyr, or 3,5,6-TCP. Conjugates of 3,5,6-TCP are released from urine by acid hydrolysis. The free 3,5,6-TCP is purified using C18 solid-phase extraction, eluting the analyte with 1-chlorobutane. An aliquot of 1-chlorobutane is placed in a vial containing Trichloropyridinol Sample Diluent and evaporated, leaving the 3,5,6-TCP in the aqueous sample diluent. The samples are assayed using the Trichloropyridinol RaPID Assay immunoassay test kit. Final results are calculated using a standard curve constructed by linear regression after a ln/Logit data transformation is performed of the concentration and the absorbance readings, respectively. The calculated lower limit of quantitation for 3,5,6-TCP in fortified control urine samples is 2.96 ng/mL (2.96 ppb). Residues of 3,5,6-TCP...
Web Solutions Platform (WSP) event system

The Web Solutions Platform (WSP) event system is a high performance and low latency general-purpose distributed message bus using a publish/subscribe pattern. Publish/subscribe is a common communication pattern though there are many variations to solve different scenario requirements. The Microsoft Windows® platform lacks publish/subscribe functionality that would meet many scenario requirements. The WSP event system provides a publish/subscribe solution for many scenarios, especially for scenarios where high performance and low latency are important.
Quality of life in patients with heart failure: Do gender differences exist?

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate gender differences in quality of life (QOL) in a large sample of age-matched and ejection fraction (EF)-matched patients with heart failure. Design: Matched comparisons of secondary data were used. Setting: The setting consisted of multicenter Studies of Left Ventricular Dysfunction trials. Sample: The sample included 1382 patients (691 men and 691 women) who were age-matched and EF-matched. Outcome Measures: Global QOL and the QOL dimensions of physical function, emotional distress, social health, and general health were measured using the Ladder of Life, items from the Profile of Mood States Inventory, the Functional Status Questionnaire, the β-Blocker Heart Attack Trial instrument, and an item from the RAND Medical Outcomes Study instrument. Results: Women had significantly worse general life satisfaction, physical function, and social and general health scores than men. There were no significant differences found between gender groups for current life situation or emotional distress. After controlling for New York Heart Association classification, women still had significantly worse ratings for intermediate activities of daily living (a sub-dimension of physical functioning) and social activity. Conclusions: Despite controlling for age, EF, and New York Heart Association classification, women had worse QOL ratings than did men for intermediate activities of daily living and social activity. Research should focus on identifying why differences exist and developing measures to improve QOL, particularly physical functioning, in women with heart failure. (Heart Lung® 2001;30:105-16.)
A Study of Daylight-Responsive Photosensor Control in Five Daylighted Classrooms

AbstractThis study analyzes the performance of daylight-responsive photosensor control in five different daylighted classrooms using advanced computer modeling (Radiance). The daylight configurations considered include windows, lightshelves, clerestories and skylights. The electric lighting systems include both direct and indirect lighting systems. Different photosensor positions and field-of-view were applied to determine their impact on a system's ability to properly track the daylight levels within each space.For each daylighted classroom condition, correlation coefficients were computed and graphical evaluations were conducted to assess the ability of different photosensor configurations to track the daylight levels at the critical work plane point within the spaces. The findings show that full-field cosine sensors work quite well since they help to minimize problems associated with high window luminances and direct sunlight patches within a space. Cutoff distributions, which are required for ceiling-...
ALLOXAN DIABETES IN THE DOG1

EXPERIMENTAL diabetes mellitus in dogs has been produced by pancreatectomy (Mehring and Minkowski, 1890; Allen, 1914) and by treatment with anterior pituitary extract (Houssay, Biasotti and Rietti, 1932; Evans, Meyer, Simpson and Reichert, 1932). The possibility that a third, or chemical, type of diabetes may be produced was first suggested by Dunn, Sheehan and McLetchie (1943). They found that alloxan has a specific necrosing action on both the pancreatic islet cells and the epithelium of the renal convoluted tubules when injected into rabbits intravenously or intraperitoneally in doses of 100 to 500 mg. per kg. Previously, Jacobs (1937) had observed that similar doses of alloxan produce in rabbits an initial hy-perglycemia followed by severe and prolonged hypoglycemia of which most of the animals die unless glucose injections are given; Jacobs, however, did not report histologic studies. Dunn and co-workers confirmed the production of alloxan hypoglycemia and found that it is accompanied by a marked ris...
A State-Based Approach To Privacy And Security For Interoperable Health Information Exchange

For the past three years, a collaboration of states and territories has examined the variation in organization-level practices, policies, and state laws governing the privacy and security of health information. An interoperable system of health information exchange (HIE) will have difficulty accommodating the current variation in policy requirements; therefore, it is important for organizations to come to agreement on a common set of widely shared policies. The project has created a lasting, coordinated network of state-level stakeholders that work together to reduce variation and propose common policies to protect health information and facilitate electronic HIE.
A note on thermoelastic rayleigh waves

Abstract The propagation of waves on the surface of an elastic thermally conducting medium, which has been the subject of two recent papers, is re-examined herein, and expressions are displayed which exhibit the frequency dependence of the phase velocity and amplitude attenuation. It is shown that the order of magnitude of the frequency dependence is a function of the heat-transfer coefficient at the boundary.
Pharmacokinetics and tolerance of zidovudine in preterm infants

Abstract Objective To determine zidovudine pharmacokinetics and tolerance in premature human human immunodeficiency virus-exposed infants. Study design Pediatric AIDS Clinical Trials Group Study 331 was a multicentered prospective, open-label study of the use of zidovudine in premature infants. Thirty-eight infants Results Zidovudine clearance was lower than reported in term infants at similar postnatal ages. Nine premature infants required dose reduction because of high levels (7/19 Conclusions Zidovudine clearance is greatly reduced in premature infants. We recommend the following zidovudine dosing schedule in this population: 1.5 mg/kg (intravenous) or 2.0 mg/kg (oral) every 12 hours increased to every 8 hours at 2 weeks of age (≥30 weeks' GA) or at 4 weeks ( (J Pediatr 2003;142:47-52)
Optimal structural design under dynamic loads

This paper presents an algorithm for optimal design of elastic structures, subjected to dynamic loads. Finite element, modal analysis and a generalized steepest descent method are employed in developing a computational algorithm. Structural weight is minimized subject to constraints on displacement, stress, structural frequency, and member size. Optimum results for several example problems are presented and compared with those available in the literature.
The strategic role of Human Resource Development in managing core competencies

The Resource-Based View (R-BV) of strategy emphasizes the importance of core competencies as the critical basis for sustainable competitive advantage. Yet, discussions of strategy typically ignore the role of the Human Resource Development (HRD) function in core competency development and management. The literature on strategic HRD is reviewed to locate the R-BV as a basis for redefining HRD's role in organizational strategy. Three strategic roles for the HRD function in core competency management are proposed and discussed: participating in strategic planning, developing core competencies, and protecting them. Specific tasks for each role are proposed. The final section identifies needs for further research as well as the practical implications from this discussion.
Social-Emotional Behavior of Preschool-Age Children with and without Developmental Delays.

Differences in parent and teacher ratings of social-emotional behavior among young children with developmental delays and those without significant developmental problems were examined. Participants included 198 preschool-age children identified as having a developmental delay (DD group) and 198 preschool-age children without significant developmental problems (Comparison group) who were matched to the DD group by age and gender, using a randomized block procedure. Parent and teacher perceptions of social-emotional behavior of the participants were assessed using the Preschool and Kindergarten Behavior Scale (PKBS), a social skills and problem behavior rating scale for the use with young children. PKBS scores were found to classify the participants into their respective groups with a substantial degree of accuracy. Statistically significant differences in social skills and problem behavior scores between the two groups were found, with the DD participants evidencing greater social skills deficits and problem behavior excesses than the Comparison group. Individuals in the DD group were found to be four to five times more likely to have significant social skills deficits and problem behavior excesses than individuals in the Comparison group. The critical social-emotional behaviors separating the two groups appeared to be social interaction and independence skills, and socially withdrawn and isolated behavior patterns. New validity evidence for the PKBS is discussed, as are future needs pertaining to research and clinical practice in the area of social-emotional behavior of young children with developmental delays.
Solitary mastocytoma (Urticaria Pigmentosa)

Mastocytosis implies tissue involvement with excessive numbers of tissue mast cells, the skin or any other organ system may be involved. Symptoms range from absent to severe and occasionally life threatening. In children, the solitary mastocytoma or urticaria pigmentosa is a relatively benign condition without increased risk of later systemic involvement. In adults, however, other organs and diffuse skin involvement may be present with increased morbidity and mortality. Without specific symptoms relating to a particular organ system, an elaborate and extensive staging workup is not indicated. There is, at present, no evidence of a reproducibly effective therapy for this systemic disease, and symptoms can only be controlled by various medications. In children, the solitary mastocytoma is perhaps best followed as ultimately the lesions most commonly resolve with time. If, however, vesiculation, breakdown or infection is present, or there is a cosmetic problem, the solitary lesion can be excised safely with good longterm results.
Development of a Prototypical PACS Workstation Based on the IBM RS6000 and the X Window System

Research into all aspects of PACS increased in the 1980s as advances in technology enabled key components of PACS to be implemented. The University of Washington has worked on many issues of PACS, such as workstation development, teleradiology, and PACS-RIS (Radiology Information System) interconnection. In the past, special-purpose workstations have had to be developed to support the high demands of medical imaging. However, recently developed general-purpose workstations are now being considered as potential components of a PACS. Our latest research, a joint UW/IBM study, has involved the development of a system based on the IBM RISC System 6000 (RS6000). Evaluations of radiology workstation user interfaces led to the conclusion that a Graphical User Interface is the most acceptable. Since a general-purpose workstation is employed, it was felt that the software should be as portable as possible. These two requirements led to the selection of the X Window System for software development. What is discussed in this paper is the development of image display and processing functions on the RS6000 in the X Window System environment, and how this development effort satisfies the requirements of a PACS workstation.
Infrared spectrum and stability of the H2O-HO complex: experiment and theory.

Infrared action spectroscopy is utilized to characterize the gas-phase, hydrogen-bonded H2O−HO complex, a primary interaction in the hydration of the hydroxyl radical. The OH radical stretch of the...
Effects of instantaneous constant-power loads on DC micro-grids for sustainable power systems

This paper discusses stability issues in dc micro-grids with cascade distributed architectures. In these architectures point-of-load converters behave as instantaneous constant-power loads to line regulating converters located upstream. Constant-power loads introduce a destabilizing effect into a dc micro-grid that may cause its main bus voltages to show significant oscillations or to collapse. Mitigating strategies such as load shedding, use of linear and nonlinear (geometric) controllers, or addition of resistive loads, filters or energy storage directly connected to the main bus are explained. Advantages and disadvantages of these methods are discussed and the analysis is verified through simulations and experiments with prototypes.
The durability dependence of Pt/CNT electrocatalysts on the nanostructures of carbon nanotubes: Hollow-and bamboo-CNTs

The electrochemical durability of Pt/CNT with hollow- and bamboo-structured carbon nanotubes as the support for PEM fuel cells was investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV, 0.6-1.1V) accelerated degradation test method. Pt/CNT catalysts were characterized with cyclic voltammograms, rotating disk electrodes, and TEM images. The changes in the electrochemical surface area of Pt and the activity toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) before and after the degradation indicate that bamboo-structured carbon nanotubes supported Pt (Pt/B-CNT) catalyst exhibited much higher durability. TEM images indicate that the sintering of Pt nanoparticles was much less for Pt/B-CNT. These are attributed to the specific bamboo-like nanostructures which provide more “bamboo-knot” defects and edge plane-like defects. Pt-support interaction was therefore enhanced and the durability was improved.
Advances in the understanding of cobalamin assimilation and metabolism

The haematological and neurological consequences of cobalamin deficiency define the essential role of this vitamin in key metabolic reactions. The identification of cubilin-amnionless as the receptors for intestinal absorption of intrinsic factor-bound cobalamin and the plasma membrane receptor for cellular uptake of transcobalamin bound cobalamin have provided a clearer understanding of the absorption and cellular uptake of this vitamin. As the genes involved in the intracellular processing of cobalamins and genetic defects of these pathways are identified, the metabolic disposition of cobalamins and the proteins involved are being recognized. The synthesis of methylcobalamin and 5'-deoxyadenosylcobalamin, their utilization in conjunction with methionine synthase and methylmalonylCoA mutase, respectively, and the metabolic consequences of defects in these pathways could provide insights into the clinical presentation of cobalamin deficiency.
Über die Herstellung einiger Phosphinsäurehydrazide

Die Synthesen einiger Phosphinsaurehydrazide der Formeln RR′P(O)NHNH2, RR′P(O)NHNHP(O)RR′, RR′P(O)NHNHP-(S)RR′, RR′P(O)NHNHC(O)C6H5 und RR′P(S)NHNHC(O)C6H5 werden beschrieben. Bemerkenswerte Unterschiede in den Moglichkeiten der Darstellung und in den Eigenschaften der Hydrazide werden aufgezeigt.
Disturbed sleep is associated with increased C-reactive protein in young women

Evidence links disturbed sleep with an exaggerated inflammatory response and increased risk of adverse health outcomes. An emerging risk factor for many adverse health outcomes is chronic, low-grade inflammation. An exaggerated inflammatory response could provide a biological link between disturbed sleep and adverse health outcomes. The relationship between sleep and chronic, low-grade inflammation has been sparsely examined in otherwise healthy, young women. We evaluated cross-sectional relationships between self-reported sleep and three inflammatory markers. Participants were community dwelling nonpregnant women (N=43, 28.2+/-5.2 years of age). Measures included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), sleep diaries, and serum levels of IL-6, TNF-alpha and C-reactive protein. Poor sleep quality and continuity were associated with higher CRP levels after controlling for covariates. No significant relationships were observed between PSQI scores and IL-6 or TNF-alpha; sleep duration was not related to any of the inflammatory markers. Poor sleep, in young adulthood, may contribute to the chronic, low-grade inflammation associated with an increased risk for future adverse health outcomes. Future work should longitudinally evaluate how these relationships may affect development of gender-specific diseases in apparently healthy young women.
Space, culture, state: uneven developments in political geography

Abstract In this lecture I explore the ways cultural questions relating to identity and meaning-making are fundamentally connected to political questions about power and the adjudicating role of the state. In the first part of the lecture I show how political geography has largely failed to substantively engage cultural questions in its theorizations of the state. I review a growing body of literature outside the discipline that is attempting to examine the process of state formation in response to the ongoing “cultural turn” in the social sciences. I then explore the theoretical relevance of culture to political geography by using the South Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade conflict as a way of exposing how the state is responding to the demands for inclusion of newly emerging identity groups. I analyze this case through a close reading of a 1995 Supreme Court decision in order to reveal the judiciary’s understanding of the relationship between culture, space, and speech. Of particular importance to my argument is the centrality of the First Amendment to the Court’s unanimous decision which granted parade organizers the right to exclude groups whose message is disagreeable to them; a decision premised on the separation of discursive and physical space in the making of cultural meaning and practice.
Design of an autoland controller for an F-14 aircraft using H-infinity synthesis

Our purpose is to present the results of a design effort to incorporate direct lift control into the F-14 aircraft automatic carrier landing system. This was accomplished using a new design methodology whereby typical single input/single output design specifications were translated into the weighting functions of an T^oo output-feedback synthesis problem. Next, robustness of the Tioo controller was analyzed using the structured singular value concept (JJL). A simplified uncertainty model for air vehicles based on flight test data was developed for this analysis. Finally, the resulting controller was successfully validated on the nonlinear simulation.
Illumination conditions of the lunar polar regions using LOLA topography

We use high-resolution altimetry data obtained by the Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter instrument onboard the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter to characterize present illumination conditions in the polar regions of the Moon. Compared to previous studies, both the spatial and temporal extent of the simulations are increased significantly, as well as the coverage (fill ratio) of the topographic maps used, thanks to the 28 Hz firing rate of the five-beam instrument. We determine the horizon elevation in a number of directions based on 240 m-resolution polar digital elevation models reaching down to 75 latitude. The illumination of both polar regions extending to 80 can be calculated for any geometry from those horizon longitudinal profiles. We validated our modeling with recent Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Wide-Angle Camera images. We assessed the extent of permanently shadowed regions (PSRs, defined as areas that never receive direct solar illumination), and obtained total areas generally larger than previous studies (12,866 and 16,055 km2, in the north and south respectively). We extended our direct illumination model to account for singly-scattered light, and found that every PSR does receive some amount of scattered light during the year. We conducted simulations over long periods (several 18.6-years lunar precession cycles) with a high temporal resolution (6 h), and identified the most illuminated locations in the vicinity of both poles. Because of the importance of those sites for exploration and engineering considerations, we characterized their illumination more precisely over the near future. Every year, a location near the Shackleton crater rim in the south polar region is sunlit continuously for 240 days, and its longest continuous period in total darkness is about 1.5 days. For some locations small height gains ( 10 m) can dramatically improve their average illumination and reduce the night duration, rendering some of those particularly attractive energy-wise as possible sites for near-continuous sources of solar power.
The MTXαR method. The determination and use of “molecular” α values in molecular multiple scattering Xα calculations

A semiempirical approach is used to fix the α value for use in the extraatomic regions in multiple-scattering (MSXα) calculations which retain the muffin-tin treatment of the potential. Such a “molecular” α value for an atom is determined by requiring the corresponding homonuclear diatomic molecule to have its minimum at the experimentally determined equilibrium separation; hence they are called αR. Molecular αR values are determined for the ground state Li2 and F2 molecules and are tested in a calculation of the ground state LiF potential curve. We find a binding energy at the calculated equilibrium separation to be within 1% of the experimental value. The LiF curve based entirely on the ordinary atomic α values is substantially inferior. The present MTXαR approach appears to be competitive with others which are intended to improve the muffin-tin version of MSXα calculations.
The renal response to an oral salt and fluid load in children with coarctation of the aorta.

Summary The natriuretic effect of an oral salt load has been tested in 6 children before and after resection of coarctation of the aorta. Pre- and postoperative determinations of GFR and PAH clearances were also made. Preoperatively the natriuresis following the salt load was depressed, indicating enhanced tubular sodium reabsorption. The GFR was slightly elevated, the PAH clearance was normal and the filtration fraction was elevated. Postoperatively there was an increase in the natriuretic response and a fall in the filtration fraction. There was a significant inverse correlation between the filtration fraction and the urinary excretion of the salt load. The results suggest that coarctation of the aorta is associated with a shift in intrarenal vascular resistance and that this hemodynamic change will, by rise in the oncotic pressure of the peritubular capillaries, result in the enhancement of the tubular sodium reabsorption.
Tunable Diode Laser Optogalvanic Spectroscopy Of Molecules

The laser optogalvanic (LOG) technique for studying molecular spectra has been extended for the first time to the infrared wavelength region. Portions of the NH3 nu-2 band at 9.5 microns and the NO2 nu-3 band at 6.2 microns have been recorded at Doppler-limited resolution using CW tunable diode lasers to probe dc electrical discharges in pure NH3 and an NO2/He gas mixture. Using adjustable electrode positions and an orthogonal geometry between the probe laser and the discharge axis, two contributions to the optogalvanic signal are identified: one which corresponds to an increase in discharge impedance and is seen only for irradiation of the negative glow region; and a second which corresponds to a decrease in discharge impedance and is seen for irradiation of all other discharge regions.