cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ERCC2 : cDNA cloning and molecular characterization of a human nucleotide excision repair gene with high homology to yeast RAD3

Abstract Human ERCC2 genomic clones give efficient, stable correction of the nucleotide excision repair defect in UV5 Chinese hamster ovary cells. One clone having a breakpoint just 5' of classical promoter elements corrects only transiently, implicating further flanking sequences in stable gene expression. The nucleotide sequences of a cDNA clone and genomic flanking regions were determined. The ERCC2 translated amino acid sequence has 52% identity (73% homology) with the yeast nucleotide excision repair protein RAD3. RAD3 is essential for cell viability and encodes a protein that is a single-stranded DNA dependent ATPase and an ATP dependent helicase. The similarity of ERCC2 and RAD3 suggests a role for ERCC2 in both cell viability and DNA repair and provides the first insight into the biochemical function of a mammalian nucleotide excision repair gene.
A Social Learning Theory Model of Marital Violence

A social learning theory model of minor and severe marital violence offending and victimization among males and females was tested. Results support social learning as an important perspective in marital violence. However, males and females are impacted differently by their experiences with violence in childhood and adolescence. Prior experiences with violence have a more dramatic impact in the lives of females than males, both during adolescence and adulthood.
Studies on the preparation and exchange reactions of 5‐deuterated uracils

The mechanism of base catalyzed proton exchange at the 5-position of uracil and its N-methylated derivatives has been studied. These reactions proceed by addition — elimination across the 5,6-double bond when the 1-nitrogen is substituted with a methyl group, or with anchimeric assistance of the N-1 anion if the 1-position is unsubstituted. The base catalyzed hydrolyses of 1,3-dimethyluracil and 3-methyluracil also appear to proceed through hydrated intermediates. A facile method for an acid catalyzed preparation of 5-deuterated uracils is described as well as a simple and accurate method for analysis of deuterium content.
Motor patterns of male euglossine bees evoked by floral fragrances

Abstract During pollination of certain orchids, tropical euglossine bees collect fragrant chemical substances from the flower with forelegs, transfer it to the midlegs, and finally to a cavity in the hindleg tibia, as indicated by motion picture analysis. The activities of Eulaema cingulata, E. meriana and Euglossa liopoda when attracted to different orchid species and to pure compounds on blotter pads were compared. The sequence of activity was qualitatively similar in all cases, indicating that chemical cues are the principal trigger for the behaviour, but species-specific differences in timing were noted, also differences apparently related to floral species. Laboratory tests indicated that the behaviour is an innate motor pattern dependent on chemical triggers for initiation and active collection always precedes the transfer activity.
Abstract interpretation and low-level code optimization

Interpretation and Low-Level Code Optimization Saumya Debray Department of Computer Science University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 85715 Abstract Abstract interpretation is widely accepted as a natural framework for semantics-based analysis of program properties. However, most formulations of abstract interpretation are in terms of high-level semantic entities that do not adequately address the needs of lowlevel optimizations. In this paper we discuss the role of abstract interpretation in low-level compiler optimizations, examine some of its limitations, and consider ways in which they might be addressed.
In Defense of Bumbling

Throughout its history, consumer research has expressed nonuniform levels of affinity for alternative scientific styles. Fondness for the theory-oriented hypothetico-deductive approach has been understandably high, as there is much to recommend it. However, no approach is without shortcomings, and alternative approaches may offer unique avenues to knowledge development. The observations contained in this article are meant to illustrate some disadvantages of a monolithic view and, in so doing, foster tolerance of a research style that has been less favorably received.
Non-constant non-commutativity in 2d field theories and a new look at fuzzy monopoles

Abstract We write down scalar field theory and gauge theory on two-dimensional non-commutative spaces M with non-vanishing curvature and non-constant non-commutativity. Usual dynamics results upon taking the limit of M going to (i) a commutative manifold M 0 having non-vanishing curvature and (ii) the non-commutative plane. Our procedure does not require introducing singular algebraic maps or frame fields. Rather, we exploit the Kahler structure in the limit (i) and identify the symplectic two-form with the volume two-form. As an example, we take M to be the stereographically projected fuzzy sphere, and find magnetic monopole solutions to the non-commutative Maxwell equations. Although the magnetic charges are conserved, the classical theory does not require that they be quantized. The non-commutative gauge field strength transforms in the usual manner, but the same is not, in general, true for the associated potentials. We develop a perturbation scheme to obtain the expression for gauge transformations about limits (i) and (ii). We also obtain the lowest order Seiberg–Witten map to write down corrections to the commutative field equations and show that solutions to Maxwell theory on M 0 are stable under inclusion of lowest order non-commutative corrections. The results are applied to the example of non-commutative AdS2.
FATIGUE LIFE ESTIMATION IN RESISTANCE SPOT WELDS: INITIATION AND EARLY GROWTH PHASE

Abstract— The main objective of this research is to develop a model of fatigue crack initiation and early crack growth in resistance spot welds that is specimen independent. This objective is achieved by examining the stress state around a resistance spot weld. A general expression for the structural stress around the weld is formulated that is dependent only on the loading immediately surrounding the weld. As such, it is specimen independent. An additional objective is to explore the feasibility of applying this fatigue crack initiation model of life estimation using structural response data from finite element analysis (FEA). This numerical technique is often used for evaluating structural integrity of assemblies. Limited verification examples show that the structural stress range as calculated from FEA reaction load data is capable of describing fatigue crack initiation and early crack growth in cyclically loaded resistance spot welds.
Convex powerdomains I

The study of powerdomains defined as completions via Frink ideals is continued. It is shown how to represent directed ideals ofP(D)by certain compact subsets of the original domainD, and arbitrary Frink ideals by sets of such subsets. The operations union and big union are defined and their properties studied. Finally, some results on the relationship of this powerdomain to the classical Plotkin powerdomain are presented.
Optimal selection of metabolic fluxes for in vivo measurement. I. Development of mathematical methods

The measurement of uptake and secretion rates is often not sufficient to allow the calculation of all internal metabolic fluxes. Measurements of internal fluxes are needed and these additional measurements are used in conjunction with mass-balance equations to calculate the complete metabolic flux map. A method is presented that identifies the fluxes that should be selected for experimental measurement, and the fluxes that can be computed using the mass-balance equations. The criterion for selecting internal metabolic fluxes for measurement is that the values of the computed fluxes should have low sensitivity to experimental error in the measured fluxes. A condition number indicating the upper bound on this sensitivity, is calculated based on stoichiometry alone. The actual sensitivity is dependent on both the flux measurements and the error in flux measurements, as well as the stoichiometry. If approximate physiologic ranges of fluxes are known a realistic sensitivity can be computed. The exact sensitivity cannot be calculated since the experimental error is usually unknown. The most probable value of the actual sensitivity for a given selection of measured fluxes is estimated by selecting a large number of representative error vectors and calculating the actual sensitivity for each of these. A frequency distribution of actual sensitivities is thus obtained giving a representative range of actual sensitivities for a particular experimental situation.
Toward a Market-Based Lean Startup Product Design Method for the Developing World

The question of how to effectively design products for consumers in the developing world has been widely debated. Several methodologies have been developed to address this issue focusing on human centered and community centered methods, but few methods are rooted in market-centered approaches. Recent advances in market-centered design from lean startup methodologies hold promise for the development of new methods that allow effective product design for consumers in the developing world. This paper contributes a method from which consumer level products can be designed to effectively supply the under-served markets of the developing world with innovative and sustainable solutions. Utilizing an iterative method based on three fundamental hypotheses, the Lean Design for Developing World Method (LDW) seeks to provide products that are economically viable, have strong market growth potential, and have a net positive impact on the customers and their communities.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Calculation of generatorovervoltage

Following the sudden loss of load by an alternator speed and terminal voltage tend to increase rapidly. In the following article, a method is outlined for predetermining such overvoltage, with especial reference to waterwheel generators. Test results which have been obtained on an actual machine prove that the curve of overvoltage which may be calculated by this method closely follows that secured in practise.
Technology and self-regulation: The case of alarm clock use

A study of 417 undergraduate students examined a hypothesized correlation between use of alarm clocks to awaken and self-regulatory skills. As predicted, use of awakening aids (alarm clocks, household members) was negatively correlated with self-regulation measures, while self-awakening was positively correlated with self-regulation. Also as predicted, alarm clock use had larger negative correlations with self-regulation than did being awakened by a household member. The findings suggest that people with poorer self-regulation skills are more likely to rely on technological aids to perform daily tasks.
On the Validity of RateMyProfessors.com

The purpose of this study was to address some of the most common questions and concerns regarding RateMy Professors.com (RMP). Data from 5 different universities and 1,167 faculty members showed that (a) the ratings are not dominated by griping, (b) the summary evaluation correlates highly with summary evaluations from an official university evaluation, (c) substantive relations are generally the same when only a single rating has been provided, (d) the relation between RMP Easiness and RMP Quality is partially explained by the fact that learning is associated with perceived easiness, and (e) the substantive findings generalize to business faculty in different universities. The author discusses the possible value of RMP without endorsing its unlimited use for administrative purposes.
Modeling the properties of unbacked thin films

Thin films are used as coatings and filters on solid substrates in optics, condensed-matter physics, and many other fields. Ballistic-aggregation simulations have served well to explain the properties of such films and to suggest methods for their improvement. Thin films are also widely used without backings, as self-supporting structures. We have used simulations to advantage in the modeling of such components. To explain some of their properties, 3-D modeling is essential and a simple modeling program is adequate. Our studies using both 2-D and 3-D methods explain qualitatively the tendency of such films to curl, the directional character of that curling, the differing x-ray reflectance from the two sides of such a film, and the variation of mechanical and other properties upon position in a large film.
Precise Determination of the Cooper-Pair Mass

The ratio $\frac{h}{{m}^{\ensuremath{'}}}$ of Panck's constant to the observable Cooper-pair mass ($\ensuremath{\sim}2{m}_{e}$) is determined directly using a rotating superconducting ring by measuring the London moment flux $(\frac{2{m}^{\ensuremath{'}}c}{{e}^{*}})\ensuremath{\omega}S$, where $S$ is the area bounded by the ring, in units of the flux quantum ($\frac{\mathrm{hc}}{{e}^{*}}$). The flux in the ring is zero for a set of rotation frequencies which are equally spaced by $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\nu}$, and $\frac{h}{{m}^{\ensuremath{'}}}=2S\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\nu}$. We have measured $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\nu}$ and $S$ with a precision of 5 ppm and an accuracy of 21 ppm. Our result for niobium, ${(\frac{{m}^{\ensuremath{'}}}{2{m}_{e}})}_{\mathrm{Nb}}=1.000084(21)$, disagrees with theoretical predictions of 0.999 992.
The discovery of natalizumab, a potent therapeutic for multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the major inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. There is strong evidence that an immune response in the brain is a critical component of the disease. In 1992, in a collaboration between academia and biotechnology, my colleagues and I showed that α4 integrin was the critical molecule involved in the homing of immune cells into the inflamed brain. Was it sheer luck that these results led to the development of a drug for MS?
Balance Sheet Effects, Growth, and Crises

This paper addresses two questions: are currency crises predicted by increases in a central bank’s external and contingent liabilities relative to assets, and do these “balance sheet effects” generate persistent output losses following a crisis? I find empirical evidence that the answer to both questions is yes. I use data on stocks of gross external assets and liabilities for 167 countries over 1973–2003, in an unbalanced panel probit regression to obtain robust estimates of the probability and determinants of a post-crisis recession. Several single and simultaneous equation specifications support the idea that the output cost of a currency crisis depends on its transmission mechanism. Specifically, a recession is likely to be severe if it is preceded by a crisis that works its way through the financial sector. In addition, the results show that measures of contingent liabilities, capital flight, and lack of financial depth are significant predictors of costly crises.
Geostreaming in cloud

In recent years, geospatial databases have been commercialized and widely exposed to mass users. Current exponential growth in data generation and querying rates for these data highlights the importance of efficient techniques for streaming. Traditional database technology, which operates on persistent and less dynamic data objects does not meet the requirements for efficient geospatial data streaming. Geostreaming, the intersection of data stream processing and geospatial querying, is an ongoing research focus in this area. In this paper, we describe why cloud is the most appropriate infrastructure in which to support geospatial stream data processing. First, we argue that cloud best fits the requirements of a large-scale geostreaming application. Second, we propose ElaStream, a general cloud-based streaming infrastructure that enables huge parallelism by means of the divide, conquer, and combine paradigm. Third, we examine key related work in the data streaming and (geo)spatial database fields, and describe the challenges ahead to build scalable cloud-based geostreaming applications.
Ir gene-controlled response to haptenated hen ovomucoid: isotypic specificity and dominant nonresponsiveness.

Abstract We have examined the isotypic pattern of the response of mice to the Ir gene-controlled antigen, dinitrophenyl-ovomucoid (DNP-OM). H-2k mice are high responders (HR); H-2b,d mice are low responders (LR). The isotype patterns of HR and LR strains differ both quantitatively and qualitatively. In the primary response to doses of 20–100 Mg DNP-OM, HR strains produce IgM and IgG antibodies, whereas LR strains produce only IgM. Background genes modify the kinetics of the IgGl primary response in HR strains, but no background was found which allowed an IgG response in a LR strain. In secondary responses, priming with 0.2 μg DNP-OM increases secondary responses in HR strains, and decreases them in LR strains. Control of this response maps to I-A, and is not altered by the bm12 I-Ab mutation. The LR phenotype is dominant in (HR × LR)F1 mice.
β-N-methylamino-l-alanine enhances neurotoxicity through multiple mechanisms

Abstract The idea that the environmental toxin β- N -methylamino- l -alanine (BMAA) is involved in neurodegenerative diseases on Guam has risen and fallen over the years. The theory has gained greater interest with recent reports that BMAA is biomagnified, is widely distributed around the planet, and is present in the brains of Alzheimer's patients in Canada. We provide two important new findings. First, we show that BMAA at concentrations as low as 10 μM can potentiate neuronal injury induced by other insults. This is the first evidence that BMAA at concentrations below the mM range can enhance death of cortical neurons and illustrates potential synergistic effects of environmental toxins with underlying neurological conditions. Second, we show that the mechanism of BMAA toxicity is threefold: it is an agonist for NMDA and mGluR5 receptors, and induces oxidative stress. The results provide further support for the hypothesis that BMAA plays a role in neurodegenerative diseases.
Scalable progress verification in credit-based flow-control systems

Formal verification of liveness properties of practical communication fabrics are generally intractable with present day verification tools. We focus on a particular type of liveness called ‘progress’ which is a form of deadlock freedom. An end-to-end progress property is broken down into localized safety assertions, which are more easily provable, and lead to a formal proof of progress. Our target systems are credit-based flow-control networks. We present case studies of this type and experimental results of progress verification of large networks using a bit-level formal verifier.
Diagnostic verification of hydrometeorological and hydrologic ensembles

This paper presents a strategy for diagnostic verification of hydrologic ensembles, based on the selection of summary verification metrics (which could be extended to more detailed metrics) and the analysis of the relative contribution of the different sources of error. Such diagnostic verification could be conducted with the Ensemble Verification System (EVS) and is illustrated with a verification case study of experimental precipitation and streamflow ensemble reforecasts over a 24-year period. The EVS is proposed as a flexible and modular tool for the HEPEX verification test-bed to evaluate existing and emerging verification methods that are appropriate for hydrologic applications. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ramifications of Landau's inequality

The problem of determining the best constant κ in the inequality ‖y′‖≦K ‖y‖ ‖y″‖ is discussed in the context of the classical Lp spaces, 1 ≦ p ≦ ∞.
On the saturation theorem for the Cesaro means of Fourier series

f(x) ~1 ao + ~ Ak(X), Ak(X) = akcoskx +bksinkx, k=l ak and b k are its Fourier coefficients. Its conjugate series is defined by oo f'(x)~ ~ Bk(x ), Bk(x) = aksinkx-bkcoskx. �9 k=l
Predicting metabolic control in diabetes: A pilot study using meta-analysis to estimate a linear model

The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of using data from replicated descriptive studies to test a four-variable model designed to explain metabolic control in diabetes. Predictors of metabolic control selected for this analysis were knowledge; health beliefs (and the subscales of barriers, commitment, cues, expectancies, impact on lifestyle, support, and susceptibility); and compliance/adherence. A total of 17 studies, published between 1982 and 1991, were located that met inclusion criteria. Findings indicated that health beliefs have direct and indirect effects on diabetes metabolic control, depending on the individual health belief subscale analyzed. For example, commitment to the benefits of therapy was found to have a statistically significant direct effect on metabolic control; barriers had a statistically significant indirect effect through compliance. The effects of knowledge were consistent throughout the five path models explored. An inverse direct effect was noted on metabolic control and a positive indirect effect was noted on metabolic control through compliance.
LOW-WATER STREAM CROSSINGS: THE IOWA EXPERIENCE

Replacement of old, unsafe bridges on low-volume roads is an increasing concern in rural America. Counties and local jurisdictions with inadequate bridges on secondary roads are faced with large capital expenditures for replacement structures or possible road closings. Low-water stream crossings (LWSCs) can provide a low-cost and reasonably safe alternative. Three types of LWSC are unvented fords, vented fords, and low-water bridges. A study was conducted to develop design guidelines for all three types of LWSC. Although the study focused on Iowa, the results are thought to be applicable to a wider geographic region. The salient features of this design process, including site selection, selection of most effective LWSC type, and geometric and material selection design, are described for the three types of structures. Although potential legal liability associated with LWSCs is a concern, the Iowa experience indicates that, with adequate warning signs, accidents and subsequent tort claims may actually be less with LWSCs than with deficient and obsolete bridges. On the basis of this history, it appears that potential liability from the use of prudently designed LWSCs is not a high risk. However, each state and local agency should thoroughly study code and local ordinance restrictions when considering LWSC options.
Recombinant DNA strategies in genetic neurological diseases

The application of recombinant DNA techniques applied to the study of genetic neurological diseases will play a major role in the practice of neurology in upcoming years. Strategies are now available to develop useful and relatively simple biochemical diagnostic tests for heterozygous individuals with diseases inherited as autosomal dominant traits. In addition, molecular genetic methods will lead to the delineation of the genomic mutations responsible for these diseases. This review will update the current status of research in several neurological genetic diseases including myotonic muscular dystrophy, Huntington's disease, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (X-linked). An introduction and overview of the methodology is provided. Specific research strategies including random screening of libraries, chromosome walking, messenger RNA selection, and messenger RNA translation are described. These strategies are designed to provide heterozygote identification, prenatal diagnosis and gestational management, the development of rational therapies, and the understanding of the molecular basis of disease expression.
Hydrogen-Bonding Cavities about Metal Ions: A Redox Pair of Coordinatively Unsaturated Paramagnetic Co–OH Complexes

Nature uses hydrogen bonds to regulate a variety of metal-based reactions. These effects are emulated in the stabilization of trigonal-bipyramidal, paramagnetic Co-OH complexes such as the mono- or dianionic redox-active complex 1 by use of a new hydrogen-bonding ligand.
New developments on estimating satellite interfrequency bias for SVN49

In order to estimating satellite interfrequency bias Tgd for the anomalously behaving SVN49, a modified JPL GIM software suite is presented. This research assumed that the single-frequency user will not need to perform any modification in the receiver software and will not need any detailed knowledge of the satellite anomaly using the code observable. We performed a point positioning analysis and investigated the range residuals for SVN49. It was discovered that the new satellite bias estimate resulted in near zero mean residuals with the shape of P2-P1 and L1-L2 observables being consistent with shapes from other satellites. Also, computed is a 10-day average of the estimated satellite interfrequency bias Tgd, which turned out to be ?19.13 ns.
Unified Theory of Spectral Line Broadening in Gases

A quantum-mechanical unified theory of foreign-gas pressure broadening of atomic lines which includes the impact and statistical theories and duration-of-collision effects is developed. The model consists of an absorber atom with two internal states $u$ (upper) and $l$ (lower) interacting with a structureless perturber gas via two spherical pairwise additive potentials ${V}_{u}(\mathcal{r})$ and ${V}_{l}(\mathcal{r})$, e.g., a simple model of an alkali-atom line perturbed by a rare gas. The dipolemoment correlation function is analyzed in the time domain using Liouville (tetradic) techniques. The correlation function reduces exactly to a two-body form $\ensuremath{\varphi}(t)$ containing the proper thermal weight factors. Detailed balance is obeyed and no $|\frac{\ensuremath{\hbar}(\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{-}{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0})}{\mathrm{kT}}|l1$ restriction is required. The impact theory follows from a long-time analysis of $\ensuremath{\varphi}(t)$. Sum rules or spectral moments are used to study short-time behavior revealing conventional statistical-theory effects (including satellite bands) and the important duration-of-collision effects which link the statistical and impact regimes. The sum rules are expressed as quadratures involving potential functions and the quantum-mechanical radial distribution function. Unified methods for calculating the total line shapes are suggested: (1) Pad\'e approximants (ratios of polynomials) can be used to interpolate from the known short-time behavior to the known long-time beahvior; this requires the least computational effort; (2) exact results for this model may be obtained numerically from the overlap integrals of radial wave functions (Franck-Condon factors) for the two potentials ${V}_{u}$ and ${V}_{l}$; (3) classical phase (trajectory) expressions are given which are reasonable approximations in both the impact and statistical limits. A number of related topics are discussed including diabatic effects, collision-induced absorption, non-Lorentzian wings of molecular vibration-rotation bands, and the Condon approximation for the dipole-moment transition strength vs $\mathcal{r}$. The use of line shapes to probe atomic interactions, especially in excited states, is emphasized and the suggestion made that experiments be done over as wide a temperature range as possible with the measured line shapes in computer-readable form. The entire line-shape problem is described as the study of the spectrum of an atom-perturber "quasimolecule" (with primarily unbound states).
Interaction of multiwalled carbon nanotubes with supported lipid bilayers and vesicles as model biological membranes.

The influence of solution chemistry on the kinetics and reversibility of the deposition of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) on model biological membranes was investigated using a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). Supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) comprised of zwitterionic 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glyero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC), as well as DOPC vesicles, were used as model cell membranes. Under neutral pH conditions, the deposition kinetics of MWNTs on SLBs increased with increasing electrolyte (NaCl and CaCl2) concentrations. In the presence of NaCl, favorable deposition was not achieved even at a concentration of 1 M, which is attributed to the presence of strong repulsive hydration forces due to the highly hydrophilic headgroups of SLBs. Conversely, favorable deposition was observed at CaCl2 concentrations above 0.5 mM when the charge of SLBs was reversed from negative to positive through the binding of Ca2+ cations to the exposed phosphate headgroups. Favorable nanotube depositi...
Simple application of using residuals from catch-curve regressions to assess year-class strength in fish

Residuals associated with catch-curve regressions can represent variable recruitment in fish populations. Catch curves are used to estimate steady-state mortality and assume relatively constant recruitment, but this assumption is rarely met. I documented the presence of abundant year classes of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), from earlier sampling and these dominant year classes persisted over time in two reservoirs. I expanded simple linear catch-curve regressions that used age (in years) as an independent regressor to multiple regression models each of which incorporated an additional independent environmental variable (ENVIR) that was measured when fish were age 0. The age term in the regression was proportionally weighted to the sample size at each age which deflated the influence of older and rarer fish in the analysis. This generalized regression equation: loge (NUMBER) = b0 − b1 (AGE) ± b2 (ENVIR); explained variable abundance-at-age (NUMBER) and the environmental term was related to the formation of weak and strong year classes after accounting for the effects of age. Typically, age will explain the majority (r2 ≥ 0.5) of the variation in abundance-at-age. For two largemouth bass populations, environmental hydraulic variables were significant (P < 0.10) terms in this equation and explained an additional 12 and 16% of the variation in number after accounting for the variation explained by age. For data collected in one population 2 yrs after the initial analysis, the same strong and weak year classes persisted, residuals from these catch curves were correlated (r = 0.86, P < 0.05, N = 6), and the influence of hydrology on year class formation was duplicated. This approach can provide savings in labor and funds as abundance of young fish or recruitment indices do not have to be measured each year.
Microcomputer applications and their initial effects on a nonprofit organization: a case study

Findings from an exploratory case study describe microcomputer applications developed during the first year after introduction in a local office of a state social services department. The ten applications produced by a single person working less than quarter time had impacts on the structure and operations of the organization. In regard to performance of its information handling, the microcomputer improved the efficiency, but not the quality of the system. This suggests that user developed microcomputer applications are not the best method of approaching information systems development. For those who must proceed in this manner because of limited resources, however, there are some impressive, but limited, gains.
Molecular barcodes detect redundancy and contamination in hairpin-bisulfite PCR.

PCR amplification of limited amounts of DNA template carries an increased risk of product redundancy and contamination. We use molecular barcoding to label each genomic DNA template with an individual sequence tag prior to PCR amplification. In addition, we include molecular ‘batch-stamps’ that effectively label each genomic template with a sample ID and analysis date. This highly sensitive method identifies redundant and contaminant sequences and serves as a reliable method for positive identification of desired sequences; we can therefore capture accurately the genomic template diversity in the sample analyzed. Although our application described here involves the use of hairpin-bisulfite PCR for amplification of double-stranded DNA, the method can readily be adapted to single-strand PCR. Useful applications will include analyses of limited template DNA for biomedical, ancient DNA and forensic purposes.
Serial transverse enteroplasty allows children with short bowel to wean from parenteral nutrition.

Objective To analyze the effects of serial transverse enteroplasty (STEP) on parenteral and enteral calories in children with short bowel syndrome, and examine short- and long-term complications. Study design A retrospective analysis of prospectively-collected data from a large single center cohort of patients undergoing STEP procedure was analyzed. Baseline demographic and clinical information, operative data, and short- and long-term complications were recorded. Detailed growth and nutritional data were obtained for 6 months prior and 12 months following STEP procedure. Results Sixty-eight procedures were performed in 51 patients over a 68-month period. Median bowel length at first STEP was 51 cm with a median length gain of 54%. Repeat STEP patients had longer initial length (77 cm) and reduced length gain (20%). Operative times and blood loss were low, with few complications. Parenteral calorie requirement was stable or rising for 6 months prior to STEP, but decreased to median Conclusions STEP is shown to be safe, well tolerated, and to have definitive benefit in reducing parenteral calorie requirements over the first year following the procedure. It has an important role in achieving enteral independence in children with short bowel syndrome.
Positional discriminability in linear orderings

Subjects were taught two eight-term linear orders of the form “A taller than B taller than C ….,” They were then asked to choose the “taller” term in all possible pairwise combinations within each series, and reaction time was measured for each pair. In addition, subjects performed a further task in which they judged whether or not two terms were adjacent in the ordering. In subsequent sessions, subjects were told that the “shortest” term on one list was taller than the “tallest” term on the other, so that the two lists were merged into a single 16-term series. They were then required to choose the “taller” term for both within-groups and between-groups pairs. Subjects did not appear to use the initial groupings in performing this task, even when given training on differential categorical codes (“tall” vs. “short”) for the two sublists. Rather, subjects in all tasks appeared to represent the items as ordered positions along an internal array, so that comparison times depended largely on the differential discriminability of the item positions. In each task decisions were made more quickly if the terms being compared were near the ends of the ordering, rather than near the middle.
Models for the simple epidemic

Stochastic and deterministic models for the simple epidemic are formulated and compared. Both discrete and continuous time models are considered. The conjecture of equivalence between stochastic and deterministic models for large initial susceptible populations is shown to be of limited practical importance by a simulation study, whereas the number of initial infectives is shown to dramatically affect the convergence of the two types of models. In addition, the discrete stochastic model, which is easy to formulate and simulate, is shown to converge with its continuous counterpart as the time step becomes small.
History of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway

In 1859, Cyrus K. Holliday envisioned a railroad that would run from Kansas to the Pacific, increasing the commerce and prosperity of the nation. With farsighted investors and shrewd management, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad grew from Holliday's idea into a model of the modern, rapid, and efficient railroad. There were many growing pains. Rustlers, thieves, and desperadoes were as thick as the cattle in Kansas when the first rails were laid. When a conductor, toting a pistol, asked a grizzled prospector where he was heading, the old man replied, "Hell." "That's 65 and get off at Dodge," the weary conductor declared. Once built with rails from Wales laid on ties of oak and walnut, the railroad survived the economic and climatic hardships of the late nineteenth century, and eventually extended from Chicago to San Francisco, with over 12,000 miles of track and substantial holdings in oil fields, timber land, uranium mines, pipe lines, and real estate. "The most comprehensive account published since 1950. Written in a form that should satisfy both the scholar and the railroad buff, the book details financing, construction, growth, and management from the Santa Fe's conception by Cyrus K. Holliday in 1859, to its evolution into a giant conglomerate."--American Historical Review Keith L. Bryant, Jr., is a professor of history at the University of Akron. He has published on labor and entrepreneurial history, the Gilded Age, and the history of the South.
Development of chromatic dispersion measurement on multimode fiber using the relative time of flight measurement technique

Chromatic dispersion is important for optimizing the information carrying capacity of multimode fiber. The subtleties of implementing an accurate and precise chromatic dispersion measurement by the relative time of flight technique are described. This includes a comparison to single-mode fiber measurement and an evaluation of the launch conditions and the three-term Sellmeier fitting function. >
Land conservation policies and income distribution: who bears the burden of our environmental efforts?

We analyze the impact of land conservation policies on income distribution using a two-sector model. We find that conservation policies can have important distributional effects through changes in rents and wages. We show how aggregate rents rise when protected areas increase despite the reduction of land availability. Simultaneously, real wages decrease in consequence of higher agricultural prices. These distributional changes also affect the efficiency of conservation policies since higher rents lead to deforestation elsewhere. Results suggest that Pareto improving compensation should also be aimed at agricultural workers.
Inhaled Nitric Oxide Increases Markers of Oxidant Stress in the Serum of Term Infants with Cardiorespiratory Failure ♦ 1767

Introduction: In several clinical trials in term infants with respiratory failure, inhaled nitric oxide (INO) has been shown to acutely increase oxygenation and significantly decrease mortality and/or need for ECMO. The long term effects of INO remain largely unknown. Both NO and its metabolites react to form cytotoxic species which may be involved in the development of chronic lung disease. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether there is increased oxidant stress in the serum of infants receiving INO when compared to normal controls and infants exposed to hyperoxia.
Synovial cyst of temporo-mandibular joint imitating a parotid tumour

Summary A previously unreported case of a synovial cyst of a temporo-mandibular joint imitating a parotid tumour is described. A surgical approach involving a total mobilization of the facial nerve is outlined.
Planning and the stability of intention: A comment

Michael Bratman's restricted two-tier approach to rationalizing the stability of intentions contrasts with an alternative view of planning, for which all of the following claims are made: (a) it shares with Bratman's restricted two-tier approach the virtue of reducing the magnitude of Smart's problem; (2) it, rather than the unrestricted two-tier approach, is what is argued for in McClennen (1990); (3) there does not appear to be anything in the central analysis that Bratman has provided of plans and intentions (both in his book,Intention, Plans, and Practical Reason, and in the article “Planning and the Stability of Intention”) that precludes his adopting this alternative approach; and (4) it is an approach that neither requires nor encourages any distinction between the standards appropriate to artificial and to human intelligence.
New Dithering Technique For Realistic Color Image Synthesis On Binary-RGB Displays

A new technique for the displaying of continuous-tone color pictures on a bi-level, tri-primary display or a display with limited numbers of colors displayable has been investigated. The significance of this technique is that it can provide pleasing and realistic images on a standard, low-cost, RGB graphic display, which is in abundant use in the personal computer community. Specific hardware has been constructed to acquire images from a video camera and generate these images on several personal computer (PC) color graphic system monitors. The time to process the digitized 24-plane, RGB image into the dithered 3-plane, RGB image is less than one second. Images have been created for several potential applications including a semiconductor failure analysis expert system.
The effects of labor market segmentation on economic resources in retirement

Abstract Longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics are used to explore the determinants of economic resource levels among recently retired workers. Three income determination models are used to examine significant predictors of economic status using a broad measure of economic well being that includes both retirement income and wealth. Findings indicate that variables used in status attainment, human capital, and labor market segmentation models explain substantial amounts of variance. Applying these models to the longitudinal data provide suggestive information about the crucial life-span characteristics and circumstances that determine economic status as workers enter retirement.
Population Extinction and Quasi-stationary Behavior in Stochastic Density-dependent Structured Models

Density-independent and density-dependent, stochastic and deterministic, discrete-time, structured models are formulated, analysed and numerically simulated. A special case of the deterministic, density-independent, structured model is the well-known Leslie age-structured model. The stochastic, density-independent model is a multitype branching process. A review of linear, density-independent models is given first, then nonlinear, density-dependent models are discussed. In the linear, density-independent structured models, transitions between states are independent of time and state. Population extinction is determined by the dominant eigenvalue λ of the transition matrix. If λ ≤ 1, then extinction occurs with probability one in the stochastic and deterministic models. However, if λ > 1, then the deterministic model has exponential growth, but in the stochastic model there is a positive probability of extinction which depends on the fixed point of the system of probability generating functions. The linear, density-independent, stochastic model is generalized to a nonlinear, density-dependent one. The dependence on state is in terms of a weighted total population size. It is shown for small initial population sizes that the density-dependent, stochastic model can be approximated by the density-independent, stochastic model and thus, the extinction behavior exhibited by the linear model occurs in the nonlinear model. In the deterministic models there is a unique stable equilibrium. Given the population does not go extinct, it is shown that the stochastic model has a quasi-stationary distribution with mean close to the stable equilibrium, provided the population size is sufficiently large. For small values of the population size, complete extinction can be observed in the simulations. However, the persistence time increases rapidly with the population size.
Detecting steroidal effects on immediate early gene expression in the hypothalamus

Abstract Immediate early genes are rapidly and transiently expressed within neurons following stimulation. While it is likely immediate early gene products alter gene expression in neurons, the products of the Immediate early genes also serve as excellent markers for Identifying activated neurons. The immunocytochemical localization of immediate early gene products enables the analysis of changes In activation of individual neurons in the brain in response to gonadal steroids or other stimuli. The technique presented in this article outlines the strategies for using immediate early gene proteins in the fos family as markers for neuronal activity and focuses principally on the examination of one chemically identified neuron population, the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone system. Included are comparisons of the staining of brain tissue for c-fos and related antigens following use of different tissue fixatives. Because some of the c-fos antibodies also recognize other proteins in the fos family, we have presented data comparing staining patterns obtained with a number of available antisera. We also describe some of the approaches we use to analyze c-fos expression.
Dynamical gauge-symmetry breaking and left-right asymmetry in higher-dimensional theories

We examine dynamical gauge-symmetry breaking and left-right asymmetry in higher-dimensional theories by taking non-Abelian gauge theory on a manifold M/sup 2/ x S/sup 2/, where M/sup 2/ and S/sup 2/ are a two-dimensional Minkowski space and a two-sphere, respectively. It is shown that a shift in fermion zero-point energies due to the compactness of the extra-dimensional space S/sup 2/ induces dynamical gauge-symmetry breaking, provided that there exist many heavy fermions. With additional Weyl fermions incorporated in M/sup 2/ x S/sup 2/ we obtain left-right--asymmetric massless fermions in M/sup 2/. The effective Lagrangian in M/sup 2/ is given. A relationship between four-dimensional and two-dimensional anomalies is also established.
Osmium isotopes and silver as tracers of anthropogenic metals in sediments from Massachusetts and Cape Cod bays

High concentrations of osmium (Os) and silver (Ag) and low 187Os/186Os ratios in Boston sewage make these elements sensitive tracers of the influence of sewage on marine sediments in Massachusetts and Cape Cod bays. Pristine marine sediments have Ag concentrations more than 200 times lower than sewage sludge, Os concentrations 10–40 times lower, and 187OS/186Os ratios six times higher. Surface sediments from both Massachusetts and Cape Cod bays exhibit both high Ag concentrations and low 187OS/186Os ratios indicating the influence of sewage particles on marine sediments in this region extends some 70 km from the point of sewage release. In detail, the distribution of Os and Ag do not support a model of simple physical mixing of sewage particles with normal marine sediments. Deviations from the mixing model may be the result of fractionation of Os and Ag in the marine environment, and [or] independent temporal variations in the Os and Ag content of the waste stream. The results of this investigation suggest that osmium isotopes may be widely applicable as tracers of the influence of sewage on sediments in estuarine environments and that subtle variations in the isotopic composition of Os in the waste stream may help constrain the sources of Os and other metals delivered to the environment.