cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are sleep studies appropriately done in the home

For many years the greatest barrier to the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was recognizing the disease. That obstacle is now fading as more physicians of all types are aware of the high prevalence of OSA and the consequences of untreated OSA. Sleep-laboratory polysomnography has long been considered the accepted standard for OSA diagnosis and has become a lucrative practice. This, unfortunately, has led to a concentration on diagnosis rather than on management of OSA. Although several brands of portable polysomnograph have been approved for home polysomnography, obstacles to reimbursement (primarily from government, but also from private payers) have prevented widespread home polysomnography. Over the last 2 decades many scientific studies have supported a strong correlation between the findings from home polysomnography and sleep-laboratory polysomnography. However, limited data are available from good outcomes-oriented studies, so controversy surrounds home polysomnography in the diagnosis of OSA. We review the evidence and debate whether sleep studies are appropriately done in the home.
Bank Born of Revelation: The Kirtland Safety Society Anti-Banking Company

On January 2, 1837, in Kirtland, Ohio, a bank which was founded upon divine revelation, which had no charter, whose officers were not bankers, and whose capital base was narrow, opened its doors for business. These, characteristics probably did not differentiate the bank too much from the hundreds of other such institutions begun in this period. But the circumstances attending the founding of the Kirtland Safety Society Bank, or more accurately, the Kirtland Safety Society Anti-Banking Company, and the record of its operations are sufficiently different from the run-of-the-mill wildcat bank to justify a closer look at the colorful history of this institution.
Amorphization and nanostructure synthesis in Al alloys

The recent innovations in metallic glasses have led to new alloy classes that may be vitrified and a re-examination of the commonly used criteria for glass formation and stability. In one case large, bulk volumes may be slowly cooled to the glassy state that signifies a nucleation-controlled synthesis. The other important case is represented by Al and Fe based marginal glass formers that have been synthesized under growth controlled kinetic conditions mainly by rapid solidification processes. With marginal glass forming alloys the termination of the amorphous state upon heating is often characterized by a primary crystallization reaction that yields a high number density in the range of 1021–1022 m−3 of Al nanocrystals (15–20 nm in diameter) dispersed within a residual amorphous matrix. At the same time the results from alternate synthesis strategies involving intense cold rolling reveal that the primary crystallization reaction can be bypassed during deformation alloying of elemental multilayers or enhanced during deformation bonding of amorphous ribbons. The kinetics analysis of the crystallization behavior provides insight into the origin of the dispersed nanocrystal and amorphous matrix microstructures, the important influence of heterogeneous catalysts and an effective assessment of the overall stability that are essential for microstructure control.
The “water-ida”: A simple means to separate duodenal from gallbladder activity on cholescintigraphic studies

In some 99mTc-iminodiacetic acid studies, separation of the gallbladder from the duodenum can be difficult, despite multiple views. When faced with this problem, we have had the patient ingest 250 cc of tap water. This ingestion clears the duodenum of activity and has allowed us to see the residual activity in the gallbladder. This “waterida” view may be a useful addition in difficult to interpret hepatobiliary studies.
A Continuous-Current Generator for High Voltage

Of all electro-dynamic machines, the direct-current machine probably is the best understood. It was the first machine to be commercially utilized and it is an interesting matter from an engineering standpoint to follow the evolution which this type of machine has passed through. The first great improvement to be incorporated in this type of machine was the application of commutating poles. As is the case in any radical development, engineering opinion was much divided as to the usefulness of such a construction. At first it was held that commutating poles were only useful where the service was severe, as, for example, in adjustable speed motors covering a large speed range. Today, however, it is well realized that commutating poles are advantageous in all kinds of direct-current machines, except in very small machines of fractional horse power output. It is well understood in the art that commutating poles alone do not offer a perfect solution of the direct-current problem, since there exists in such machines troublesome flux distortions. Many attempts have been made to overcome this by aid of distributed windings, and in this paper is described a form of such windings, which have given excellent results both from an operating and an economical standpoint. This distributed winding consists of two parts, one of which may be considered a counterpart of the armature, and is called a compensating winding. This winding opposes the armature reaction in every point around the circumference and effectively prevents any distortion of the flux. There is also a second winding for supplying the excitation and as is described in the paper, this winding is also distributed. By aid of such field windings, it is possible to meet very extreme conditions of service, for example, as is met with in high-voltage machines. In the machine that is described, the voltage between bars runs up to about 100 volts, or nearly four times the conventional value; nevertheless, the commutation is perfect. Machines rated 15 kw. have been built successfully up to 15,000 volts. One of the mechanical difficulties in building high-voltage, direct-current machines lies in the building of the commutator. A novel type of commutator is described in the paper. This commutator construction provides simple means for holding the segments together, and at the same time secures high insulation qualities.
Weight-bearing physical activity among girls and mothers: Relationships to girls' weight status

Objective: To assess weight-bearing physical activity (WBPA) barriers, benefits, self-efficacy, social influence, and behaviors [WBPA and physical activity (PA)] among girls and their mothers according to girls’ weight status (nonoverweight vs. overweight). Research Methods and Procedures: Participants were 9- to 11-year-old girls (n = 295) and their mothers who participated in the baseline assessment of a nutrition and PA intervention trial. Girls’ and mothers’ WBPA attitudes and mothers’ WBPA behaviors were self-reported on questionnaires. Girls’ WBPA and total PA behaviors were self-reported using a structured interview (Physical Activity Checklist Interview). Stature and weight were measured by standardized anthropometrics. Overweight status was based on BMI. Results: Compared with nonoverweight girls, overweight girls were significantly more likely to report barriers to WBPA participation and perceive social influence from family and friends to do more WBPA. They were also significantly less likely to report self-efficacy regarding WBPA and to believe that they did enough WBPA. Compared with mothers of nonoverweight girls, mothers of overweight girls were significantly more likely to report that it is difficult to persuade their daughters to do more WBPA and significantly less likely to report that WBPA was fun for their daughters. Girls’ overweight status was not associated with girls’ reports of minutes spent per week in PA or WBPA. Discussion: The present study's findings of lower WBPA self-efficacy, lack of enjoyment of WBPA, and higher perceived social influence to do WBPA among overweight girls suggest that efforts are needed to promote physical competencies and positive perceptions of PA among overweight girls.
Positron emission tomography imaging of conditional gene activation in the heart.

Abstract The Cre-loxP system has been routinely used for conditional activation and deletion of gene expression. However, the spatiotemporal manner of these events in the heart has not yet been defined by in vivo imaging. Adenovirus (1 × 109 pfu) carrying the silent positron emission tomography (PET) reporter gene, herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV1-tk), was injected into the left ventricular wall of male transgenic mice (n = 15) or FVB controls (n = 8). Transgenic mice expressed Cre recombinase driven by a cardiac-specific α-myosin heavy chain (α-MHC) promoter. Following injection of the 9-[4-fluoro-3-(hydroxymethyl)butyl]guanine ([18F]-FHBG; 137 ± 25 μCi) reporter probe, microPET imaging was used to assess the expression of HSV1-tk reporter gene in the myocardium. Two days following adenoviral injection, cardiac HSV1-tk gene activation resulted in tracer uptake of 3.20 ± 0.51%ID/g for α-MHC-Cre and 0.05 ± 0.02%ID/g for control mice (P
Relationship of Self-Concept During Late Pregnancy to Neonatal Perception and Parenting Profile

Thirty-one gravidas were studied to examine the relationship between a woman's feelings about herself during late pregnancy, her perception of her newborn, and her profile of parenting. The Tennessee Self-Concept Scale was completed during the third trimester of pregnancy, the Neonatal Perception inventory I at one-to-two days postpartum, and the Neonatal Perception Inventory II and the Michigan Screening Profile of Parenting at four-to-six weeks postpartum. When considered separately, no positive significant relationships were found between scores on these variables. However, all subjects with negative scores on both self-concept and neonatal perception had negative scores on at least two subscales of the parenting profile.
A Lumped Parameter Electromechanical Model for Describing the Nonlinear Behavior of Piezoelectric Actuators

A lumped-parameter model of a piezoeletric stack actuator has been developed to describe actuator behavior for purposes of control system analysis and design, and in particular for control applications requiring accurate position tracking performance. In addition to describing the input-output dynamic behavior, the proposed model explains aspects of nonintuitive behavioral phenomena evinced by piezoelectric actuators, such as the input-output rate-independent hysteresis and the change in mechanical stiffness that results from altering electrical load. Bond graph terminology is incorporated to facilitate the energy-based formulation of the actuator model. The authors propose a new bond graph element, the generalized Maxwell resistive capacitor, as a lumped-parameter causal representation of rate-independent hysteresis. Model formulation is validated by comparing results of numerical simulations to experimental data.
Mound Calcification After Endoscopic Treatment of Vesicoureteral Reflux With Autologous Chondrocytes—A Normal Variant of Mound Appearance?

Purpose: Endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux has gained popularity and is frequently used as a first-line therapy. Reports of potential long-term complications from this treatment modality are lacking. We review the development of mound calcification in a cohort of patients undergoing endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux with autologous chondrocytes.Materials and Methods: All patients who underwent endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux with autologous chondrocytes at our institution were included in this study. All available renal and bladder ultrasounds, as well as any other imaging studies of the urinary tract, were reviewed by a staff radiologist (HJP) and 2 urologists (PCG, DAD) to assess for the presence of mound calcification. A variety of clinical factors were assessed, including grade and laterality of initial reflux, volume of autologous chondrocytes injected, number of injections, postoperative mound appearance and mode of presentation. Statistical comparison between g...
Spatial Analysis of Preterm Birth Demonstrates Opportunities for Targeted Intervention

To develop a specific, targeted intervention strategy for reducing preterm birth through use of geographic analysis. We utilized Hamilton County, Ohio vital records and Census data from 2003 to 2006. Spatial scanning statistics allowed determination of the prevalence of preterm birth for any geographical point. Attributable risk calculations demonstrated heterogeneity of risk factors within areas of high or low preterm birth prevalence. Three geographically separate areas with high preterm birth proportions (>16%) had differing primary risk factors for preterm birth, including short interpregnancy interval, previous preterm birth, and low prepregnancy weight, despite similarities in demographics and physical location. Primary risk factors also differed when comparing areas with high and low preterm birth proportions, with diabetes and smoking having primary associations in the lower risk areas. Each local region of high preterm birth proportion as well as those with average or low proportion displayed distinct hierarchies of attributable risk. The heterogeneous distribution of preterm birth proportion within an urban county is complex and requires location specific analysis to develop targeted interventions.
In vitro culturing of yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis) for screening biological control agents

Abstract In an effort to design a bioassay to screen for biocontrol pathogens and their toxins, procedures were developed to produce calli of yellow starthistle (YST), Centaurea solstitialis (Asteraceae), on solid and liquid media. Three Murashige and Skoog (MS) media with different hormone additives were compared for their effects on the growth of the YST calli. The most effective medium was made of MS salts supplemented with two cytokinins and a low rate of auxin. The growth of the calli slowed when cytokinins were omitted. Similar results were observed in a bioassay setup to compare the reactions of the YST calli with those of detached leaves exposed to potential toxins in the culture filtrates of test fungi. After exposure for 96 h to different concentrations of culture filtrates from three Alternaria alternata isolates, the calli exposed to 100 and 50% concentrations of the filtrates were significantly more damaged than other concentrations tested, based on a visual rating scale. No differences were observed in the damage ratings among the A. alternata isolates tested. An additional bioassay was setup to determine if calli could be used to screen pathogenic fungi. After 48 h, a distinction could be made in a visual rating between calli treated with spores of a pathogen, Phoma exigua , and a nonpathogen, Penicillium sp., confirming that YST calli can be used to screen potential pathogenic fungi against YST.
Aligning Physician and Hospital Incentives: The Approach at Hospital for Special Surgery

Healthcare administrators and physicians alike are navigating an increasingly complex and highly regulated healthcare environment. Unlike in the past, institutions now require strong collaboration among physician and administrative leaders. As providers and managers are trained and work differently, new methods are needed to provide the infrastructure and resources necessary to create, nurture, and sustain alignment between them. We describe four initiatives by administrators and physicians at Hospital for Special Surgery to work together in mutually beneficial relationships that help us achieve the highest level of patient care, satisfaction and safety. These initiatives include improving management efficiency through an orthopaedic service line structure, helping individual physicians grow their practices through the demand-office-operating room initiative of the Physicians Service Department, controlling costs through the supply effectiveness policy, and promoting teamwork in innovation through the technology transfer program.
Protein kinase C alpha-dependent signaling mediates endometrial cancer cell growth and tumorigenesis

Endometrial cancer is the most common invasive gynecologic malignancy, yet molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways underlying its etiology and pathophysiology remain poorly characterized. We sought to define a functional role for the protein kinase C (PKC) isoform, PKCalpha, in an established cell model of endometrial adenocarcinoma. Ishikawa cells depleted of PKCalpha protein grew slower, formed fewer colonies in anchorage-independent growth assays and exhibited impaired xenograft tumor formation in nude mice. Consistent with impaired growth, PKCalpha knockdown increased levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors p21(Cip1/WAF1) (p21) and p27(Kip1) (p27). Despite the absence of functional phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) protein in Ishikawa cells, PKCalpha knockdown reduced Akt phosphorylation at serine 473 and concomitantly inhibited phosphorylation of the Akt target, glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3beta). PKCalpha knockdown also resulted in decreased basal ERK phosphorylation and attenuated ERK activation following EGF stimulation. p21 and p27 expression was not increased by treatment of Ishikawa cells with ERK and Akt inhibitors, suggesting that PKCalpha regulates CDK expression independently of Akt and ERK. Immunohistochemical analysis of Grade 1 endometrioid adenocarcinoma revealed aberrant PKCalpha expression, with foci of elevated PKCalpha staining, not observed in normal endometrium. These studies demonstrate a critical role for PKCalpha signaling in endometrial tumorigenesis by regulating expression of CDK inhibitors p21 and p27 and activation of Akt and ERK-dependent proliferative pathways. Thus, targeting PKCalpha may provide novel therapeutic options in endometrial tumors.
Douglass Houghton, Michigan's First State Geologist

In 1830, Houghton, only 20 years old and a recent graduate of New York's Rensselaer Scientific School, arrived in the Michigan Territory at the request of its territorial leaders and patrons of science.He won a reputation as a competent naturalist while serving on the Schoolcraft Expeditions along the shores of Lake Superior and to the Mississippi River in 1831 and 1832. It was at this time that he discovered the true location of the Keweenawan copper deposits and the value of the mineral lands (owned by the Chippewa Indians) west of the meridian of Marquette. This knowledge enabled him to propose that the government of the Michigan Territory relinquish to Ohio its claim to the "Toledo Strip" and in lieu receive the Chippewa lands and attain statehood in January, 1837.When Michigan became a state, Houghton was appointed Michigan's first State Geologist. Among his accomplishments, in this state largely covered by forests and glacial sediment, was not only to discover and map the basin structure of the sedi...
Social epistemology in broadcast news interviews

This article investigates how participants in broadcast news interviews display their orientations to a social distribution of knowledge regarding newsworthy events and actors. Interviewers treat the nature, grounds, and limits of interviewees' knowledge as accountable matters. The article employs single-case and quantitative analyses to show that, in and through the design of their questions, interviewers distinguish between (i) interviewees as subject-actors who are responsible for direct, first-hand knowledge of their own conduct; and (ii) interviewees as commentators who, on the basis of indirect, second-hand knowledge, are entitled to opinions about third parties' conduct. This distinction serves as a basis for the production of interviewees' responses as talk that expresses either matters of fact or points of opinion. The article examines how these aspects of question design establish relevancies for interviewees' responses and, ultimately, shape news content.
In vitro differentiation of quail neural crest cells into sensory-like neuroblasts.

Abstract This study shows that quail neural crest cells can differentiate in vitro into sensory-like neuroblasts. The putative sensory neuroblasts were large and spherical, possessing large diameter, bipolar or pseudo-unipolar, long processes that lacked multiple varicosities characteristic of autonomic neurons. They bound HNK-1, a monoclonal antibody against a cell surface epitope expressed by early neural crest cells but not by young neural tube-derived cells. Many of the sensory-like neuroblasts had substance P (SP)-like immuno-reactivity. Some exhibited histochemical carbonic anhydrase activity; carbonic anhydrase is shown in this study to stain a subpopulation of spinal sensory neurons in adult quail and embryos 9 days and older, whereas ventral root axons and neurons in sympathetic ganglia are non-reactive at all ages. Double staining indicated that unlike the multipolar neuroblasts developing in the same cultures, SP-like immunoreactive neuroblasts do not contain detectable levels of tyrosine hydroxylase or dopamine-β-hydroxylase. Finally, the neuronal nature of the cultured sensory-like neuroblasts was further documented by double labeling for antibodies against the 68 kDa neurofilament polypeptide and substance P.
Building a chain of trust: using policy and practice to enhance trustworthy clinical data discovery and sharing

Advances and significant national infrastructure investment into clinical information systems are spurring a demand for secondary use and sharing of clinical and genetic data for translational research. In this paper, we describe the need for technically leveraged policy models and governance strategies to support data sharing between a range of disparate stakeholders where trust is not easily established or maintained.
Factors Affecting the Distribution of Lactate Dehydrogenase Between Particulate and Soluble Phases of Homogenized Trout Skeletal Muscle

SUMMARY: Skeletal muscle of brown trout contained one electrophoretically distinguishable lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isozyme. In homogenates of the muscle, release of the enzyme into the soluble phase was favored by high ionic strength and high pH. DPNH solubilized the enzyme and prevented binding of soluble enzyme to particulate matter at concentrations which contributed only negligibly to the ionic strength of the suspending medium. The other compounds involved in the LDH-catalyzed reaction, DPN+, pyruvate, and lactate, were less effective. The effect of the latter two was due chiefly to their contribution to the ionic strength of the medium. Pyruvate, however, used with either DPNH or DPN+ exhibited a synergistic activity. Effective solubilization showed remarkable specificity for DPNH and TPNH. Solubilization by DPNH was also dependent on the tissue concentration of the suspending medium. The lower the tissue concentration, the more readily LDH is solubilized by DPNH. In addition to certain metabolic implications, this information may be used to define assay conditions to allow the study of the kinetics of LDH in bound and soluble forms.
Electromagnetic scattering and detection of mines near a rough air-ground interface

Time-domain scattering from a fixed target in the presence of a rough surface is considered, with application to ground penetrating radar. The time-domain scattering data are computed via a 2D finite-difference time-domain algorithm. In addition to examining the statistics of the time-domain fields scattered from such a surface, we investigate subsurface-target detection by employing a matched-filter detector. Such a detector is characterized by its receiver operating characteristics, which quantifies the probability of detection and probability of false alarm. Plane-wave incidence is considered, with emphasis on low-grazing-angle backscattering.
Work and Social Network Composition among Immigrants from Taiwan to Southern California

The social and economic conditions for the incorporation of immigrants have changed dramatically over the course of the last century. Today, an increasing number of immigrants arrive with high levels of skills and economic resources. Nevertheless, immigrants continue to be faced with the task of developing social relationships in their new environment, both with members of their ethnic group and with members of the larger society. This article investigates the influence of the workplace on the structure of social networks among affluent immigrants, the type of support (i.e. social, emotional, or instrumental) provided by relationships with co-workers, and the different strategies of men and women in establishing and maintaining social relationships. Findings are based on ethnographic research conducted in 1997 and 1998 on the social networks of affluent first generation immigrants from Taiwan to Orange County, California.
From illusions to reality: transformation of the term ‛virtual archaeology’

The appearance of computers as super-brain inspires the hope that archaeology will solve the problem of the multidimensional data presentation. Since 1970s, the international conferences on the computer application in archaeology have discussed the advantages of new technologies. During one of them in 1990, the term virtual archaeology was introduced for the first time by Paul Reilly. He discussed both possibilities: visualizing in the computer screen the total amount of data obtained from the fieldwork and using the technologies applied in the computer games production for scientific aims. The word visualization also became the keyword of the definition given 20 years later in the International Charter on Virtual Аrchaeology. However, in 2007, this interpretation was exposed to critic. Virtual archaeology aims at the application of computer technologies for the creation of high-quality images of archaeological objects as well as in assistance to the archaeological studies. Time has gone; many applied sciences introduced computer technologies, and the possibility to unify and accumulate, to analyse and to demonstrate data appeared. Today, any big scientific research of the archaeological monument supposes the application of natural sciences and computer technologies. The archaeological excavations and virtual archaeology are parts of one infinite process, and the virtual archaeology means all the newest kinds of computer technologies used for archaeological investigations, data processing, modeling, archaeological and historical reconstruction and evident representation of their results. Since the time of Paul Reilly’s definition, the meaning of the term virtual transformed from imaginary to existing in our understanding. It looks curious, but maybe very soon, instead of virtual archaeology, it will be possible to say up-today archaeology.
Comparative pharmacology of rat and porcine endothelin in rat aorta and pulmonary artery

Endothelins are potent vasoactive polypeptides produced by endothelial cells. This study compared the potency and efficacy of porcine and rat endothelin in rat aortic and pulmonary artery rings. We found that porcine endothelin was 25 to 55 times more potent than rat endothelin in both endothelium-intact and -denuded rings. Removal of the endothelium augmented and acetylcholine reduced contraction by either endothelin. We conclude that porcine endothelin is intrinsically more potent than rat endothelin and that the endothelium modulates the contraction of both endothelins.
Bureaucratic Decisions and the Composition of the Lower Courts

I delineate necessary conditions for the ideological composition of the federal courts to influence bureaucratic decisions independently of lawsuits and test for the relationship with data on the implementation of wetlands policy. Examining 18,331 decisions by the Army Corps of Engineers over whether to issue a permit for the development of wetlands between 1988 and 1996, I analyze whether these decisions were influenced by the composition of the appellate and district courts. The results indicate that judicial ideology significantly affects bureaucratic decision making. Specifically, a standard deviation increase in the liberalism of the lower courts decreases the probability that the Corps will grant a permit by 14%, which is comparable to the effects of long-recognized determinants of administrative behavior.
Characterization of complex, solid-state flow and mixing in the friction-stir welding (FSW) of aluminum alloy 6061-T6 to magnesium alloy AZ91D using color metallography

Semi-solid-cast magnesium (Mg) alloy AZ91D (3% solid fraction) was friction-stir welded (FSW) to aluminum (Al) alloy 6061-T6 in continuous non-porous welds. The resulting welds were analyzed in order to understand the solid-state mixing mechanisms that create the chaotic intercalated weld zone microstructure characterized by swirls and vortexes of dynamically recrystallized material. Severe plastic deformation in the solid-state is accommodated by the dynamic recrystallization of the mechanically mixed materials which generates a fine-grained weld zone microstructure, along with dislocation substructures and precipitates. Mg–Al weld systems are also characterized by eutectic/intermetallic regimes that are thrice as strong as the base materials, and nearly six times stronger than some of the softer recrystallized regimes abutting them. Color metallography was used to gain additional information about the varying regimes within the intercalated microstructure. The variation in coloration indicated energy differences between the various dynamically recrystallized microstructural regimes, in turn providing correlations between the general coloration of these regimes, and their nature and strength. The weld zone is strengthened by the coexistence of the hard eutectic/intermetallic weld regimes with the abutting softer dynamically recrystallized regimes across a continuous interface.
Impact of formal family planning residency training on clinical competence in uterine evacuation techniques

Abstract Background The goal of this study was to assess the impact of formal opt-out family planning training on clinical competence in uterine evacuation. Study Design Residents who participated in newly established, routine opt-out family planning training completed surveys before and after their rotations. The surveys asked residents to report clinical experience and competence in family planning. Results One hundred ninety-six pre- and postrotation questionnaires were collected for a total response rate of 63%. After completing the rotation, residents reported higher competence in medical abortion, manual uterine aspiration, electric uterine aspiration and dilation and evacuation (p Conclusions Participation in a formal opt-out family planning rotation results in increased clinical exposure to family planning and in reported competence in pregnancy termination.
Boron isotope effect in single-crystal YNi2B2C and LuNi2B2C superconductors

Abstract The boron isotope effect in high-quality, single-crystal samples of YNi 2 B 2 C and LuNi 2 B 2 C superconductors is studied to probe the role of phonons in determining T c . Values of Δ T c = T c ( 10 B )− T c ( 11 B ) of 0.29±0.08 and 0.16±0.07 K are obtained for YNi 2 B 2 C and LuNi 2 B 2 C, respectively, corresponding to partial isotope exponents of α B =0.21±0.07 and 0.11±0.05. The values for YNi 2 B 2 C are in broad agreement with previous measurements using polycrystalline samples [D.D. Lawrie, J.P. Franck, Physica C 245 (1995) 159]. The observation of a statistically significant boron isotope effect is further evidence for a phonon mechanism of superconductivity in these compounds.
A methodology for design of a GIS-based automatic transit traveler information system

Abstract A method is presented for designing a geographic information systems (GIS)-based automatic transit traveler information system (ATTIS) in such a way that trip plans can be automatically generated based on the active transit network and real-time service schedule at the time of travel. The design method ensures the logical relationship between stops, time points, and routes by registering the transit network with the street network using dual reference systems and by linking stops, time points, and transit routes in a linear system using dynamic segmentation. The design enables the ATTIS to access the active network, with services available at the time of travel, by linking time points in the transit network with the actual service schedule. The GIS-based ATTIS provides a better and more productive means of trip planning for transit customers than the prevailing customer services that are based on paper maps, printed schedules, and manual planning. It also offers a foundation to further link with real-time traffic information to become a multimodal traveler information system.
Dynamical model of an earthquake fault with localization.

We consider the one-dimensional dynamical Burridge-Knopoff stick-slip model for an earthquake fault with spatially inhomogeneous friction. The model is self-organizing under the externally imposed constraint of a spatial irregularity of strength which is designed to simulate residual damage to the system due to earlier earthquakes. The dissipation due to seismic wave radiation is adjusted so that the system is asymptotic to elasticity at all wavelengths. The model yields a self-organizing, spatially localized sequence of seismic events constrained by the spatial fluctuations. Repetitive, localized patterns of seismicity are erratically interrupted due to dynamical breaching of friction barriers. The model simulates an earthquake phenomenology that includes (1) the usual Gutenberg-Richter power-law energy-rate distribution at low energies with a rolloff at large energies, (2) spatial localization of large events on parts of a fault system and small events in the other parts of the system, (3) an ability to radiate seismic energy to distances far from the fault, and (4) a set of fractures whose lengths are never equal to the dimensions of the lattice or that intersect a free edge.
Lipofectin-aided cell delivery of ribozyme targeted to human urokinase receptor mRNA

A 37-mer hammerhead ribozyme has been designed to efficiently cleave the 1.4 kb mRNA of the urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR). Under in vitro conditions, the chemically synthesized ribozyme cleaved uPAR mRNA and inhibited its translation in a concentration-dependent fashion. The ribozymes were 5′-[35S]thiophosphorylated and used as a model to analyze conditions for RNA delivery in a cultured human osteosarcoma cell system. Ribozymes degraded immediately in cell-conditioned medium but ribozymes complexed with lipofectin were protected from RNases for up to 22 h. Lipofectin rapidly transported ribozyme into the cell, where it accumulated almost exclusively in the cytoplasm. Thus, lipofectin dramatically enhances stability and cytoplasmic delivery of ribozymes, potentially enabling targeting of mRNA in vivo.
Estrogen-mediated protection against HIV Tat protein-induced inflammatory pathways in human vascular endothelial cells

Objective: It has been proposed that human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection-induced inflammatory environment may contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies have also demonstrated the potential role of estrogen as therapeutic agents in the prevention or treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, we assessed the hypothesis that estrogen may attenuate the HIV Tat protein-induced inflammatory pathways in human vascular endothelium. Methods: Expression of inflammatory mediators in human endothelial cells was analyzed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) also was performed to investigate the DNA-binding activities of several transcription factors, which are known to regulate expression of these inflammatory genes. Results: Acute exposure of human endothelial cells to Tat markedly induced the mRNA and protein expression of IL-1β, MCP-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin. Tat also stimulated the adherence of inflammatory cells to endothelial cell monolayers. Significant and dose-dependent increases in NF-κB DNA-binding activity were observed in human endothelial cells treated with Tat. However, Tat did not affect DNA-binding activities of AP-1, CREB, and STAT1. Pretreatment with 17β-estradiol dramatically blocked the activation of NF-κB in human endothelial cells exposed to Tat. In addition, 17β-estradiol selectively inhibited the Tat-induced expression of IL-1β. Conclusion: Our results suggest that estrogen may protect against Tat-induced inflammatory reactions in human vascular endothelium via blocking the NF-κB-mediated molecular signaling pathways. These data may contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of cardiovascular complications and development of therapeutic strategies for HIV-infected patients.
Effect of Glutamine on the Initiation and Promotion Phases of DMBA-Induced Mammary Tumor Development

BACKGROUND: Oral glutamine (GLN) has been shown to up-regulate tissue glutathione (GSH), augment natural killer (NK) cell activity, and prevent tumor growth in an implantable breast cancer model (MTF-7). We hypothesized that dietary GLN would likewise antagonize the induction or promotion of tumor formation by 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) via up-regulation of GSH or augmentation of NK activity. METHODS: At age 55 days, 81 Sprague-Dawley rats were gavaged with a one-time dose of 80 mg/kg DMBA, time 0. Rats were randomized into 3 groups (GLN+DMBA, Freamine [FA]+DMBA, water (H2O)+DMBA), pair-fed chow, and gavaged with 1.0 g/kg/day GLN or isonitrogenous amount of FA or H2O for the indicated times: PreFed (-1 to + 16 weeks), Short-Fed (-1 to + 1 weeks) and PostFed (+ 1 to +16 weeks). After 16 weeks, rats were killed and examined for mammary tumors, blood was assayed for GLN and GSH content, and spleens were assayed for NK cytotoxicity. RESULTS: Over the 4-month study period, there was no significant d...
THE PROBLEM OF THREE BODIES

Analytical and numerical results obtained during the past five years and their astronomical applications are reviewed in the area known as the general problem of three bodies. In this problem the order of magnitude of the masses of the three participating bodies are the same and their distances are arbitrary. Planetary and lunar problems, as well as the several important versions of the restricted problem of three bodies are excluded and the stellar dynamics applications are emphasized.
The Influence of Founding Team Company Affiliations on Firm Behavior

This paper's argument is that founding team composition—in particular, members' prior company affiliations—shapes new firm behaviors. Firms with founding teams whose members have worked at the same company engage in exploitation because they have shared understandings and can act quickly. Conversely, founding teams whose members have worked at many different companies have unique ideas and contacts that encourage exploration. In addition, firms whose founding teams have both common and diverse prior company affiliations have advantages that allow them to grow. The results suggest team composition is an important antecedent of exploitative and explorative behavior and firm ambidexterity.
Mineralogical control on the chlorine isotope composition of altered oceanic crust

Abstract Bulk chlorine concentrations and chlorine stable isotope compositions were determined for hydrothermally altered basalt (extrusive lavas and sheeted dikes) and gabbro samples (n = 50) from seven DSDP/ODP/IODP drill sites. These altered oceanic crust (AOC) samples span a range of crustal ages, tectonic settings, alteration type, and crustal depth. Bulk chlorine concentrations range from
Formation and manipulation of confined water wires

Pressure-induced hydration (PIH) in the zeolite natrolite leads to well-ordered one-dimensional “water wires” and “water tubes”. These structures provide urgently needed points of reference for molecular dynamics simulations and serve as models of transient and disordered biological nanowater. We show here that applying simultaneous pressure and temperature using a hydrothermal diamond anvil cell permits the intermolecular manipulation of water wires due to changes in the geometry of the host scaffolding and the enclosed hydrogen bonded water. During this process the ordered water wires formed under pressure change their direction depending on the temperature. This provides the opportunity to study the dynamics of confined water at the nanoscale by temperature and/or pressure-jump experiments. Our studies indicate that confined water responds differently to pressure and temperature than does bulk water.
A tale of two centuries: Voices of the past and present

This article compares the reported experiences of children and adolescents receiving inpatient treatment in contemporary psychiatric hospital settings with those of women institutionalized in mental hospitals from 1840 to 1945. Qualitative data include case study material from former psychiatrically hospitalized patients and archival narratives. Analysis includes matching themes from in-depth interviews with archival narratives. Nine representative experiences emerged and are presented in a typology under broader themes of structure, process, and outcome. Similarity of patient experiences over two centuries leads to questions about the meaning of advances in understanding mental illnesses in the context of attitudes, biases, and staff behavior toward patients that remains disturbingly unchanged.
Seeing power in action: The roles of deliberation, implementation, and action in inferences of power

Abstract Six experiments investigate the hypothesis that social targets who display a greater action orientation are perceived as having more power (i.e., more control, less dependence, and more influence) than less action-oriented targets. I find evidence that this inference pattern is based on the pervasive belief that individuals with more power experience less constraint and have a greater capacity to act according to their own volition. Observers infer that targets have more power and influence when they exhibit more implementation than deliberation in the process of making decisions in their personal lives (Study 1a), in a public policy context (Study 1b), and in small groups (Study 2). In an organizational context, observers infer that a target who votes for a policy to change from the status quo has more power than a target who votes not to change from the status quo (Study 3). People also infer greater intra-organizational power and higher hierarchical rank in targets who take physical action toward a personal goal than in those who do not (Studies 4–5).
Quantitative analysis of electric force microscopy: The role of sample geometry

Quantitative electric force microscopy (EFM) is usually restricted to flat samples, because vertical sample topography traditionally makes quantitative interpretation of EFM data difficult. Many important samples, including self-assembled nanostructures, possess interesting nanoscale electrical properties in addition to complex topography. Here we present techniques for analysis of EFM images of such samples, using voltage modulated EFM augmented by three-dimensional simulations. We demonstrate the effectiveness of these techniques in analyzing EFM images of self-assembled SiGe nanostructures on insulator, report measured dielectric properties, and discuss the limitations sample topography places on quantitative measurement.
The Occupational Career Revisited

Abstract The concept of occupational career was first proposed by Black in the 1970s within the occupational behavior frame of reference. This model reflected the career choice literature of the time and relied heavily on role theory, general systems theory, human development, and occupational choice. The concept of occupational career is revisited here in light of the evolving discipline of occupational science, changes in the concept of career, and changes in society. A new model is proposed for examining not only the occupational career of an individual but also the concept that every occupation has a career. The new formulation retains themes of human development, choice, and career, as well as incorporating notions of meaning, context. It replaces the notion of role with that of occupation. The feedback loop of general systems theory from the original model is expanded to a more complex structure as suggested by dynamic systems theory.
TopDOS: Aid for hard disk navigation

TopDOS can be a useful improvement to standard DOS software, providing many significant aids for navigating among hard disk files. For some novice personal computer users TopDOS may be well worth learning and using. However, users who have access to public domain utility programs will find that TopDOS adds few new facilities, no greater ease of use, and may conflict with other RAM‐resident programs.
STM: Cloning the spatial and temporal memory access behavior

Computer architects need a deep understanding of clients' workload in order to design and tune the architecture. Unfortunately, many important clients will not share their software to computer architects due to the proprietary or confidential nature of their software. One technique to mitigate this problem is producing synthetic traces (clone) that replicate the behavior of the original workloads. Unfortunately, today there is no universal cloning technique that can capture arbitrary memory access behavior of applications. Existing technique captures only temporal, but not spatial, locality. In order to study memory hierarchy organization beyond caches, such as including prefetchers and translation lookaside buffer (TLB), capturing only temporal locality is insufficient. In this paper, we propose a new memory access behavior cloning technique that captures both temporal and spatial locality. We abbreviate our scheme as Spatio-Temporal Memory (STM) cloning. We propose a new profiling method and statistics that capture stride patterns and transition probabilities. We show how the new statistics enable accurate clone generation that allow clones to be used in place of the original benchmarks for studying the L1/L2/TLB miss rates as we vary the L1 cache, L1 prefetcher, L2 cache, TLB, and page size configurations.
Computing the optic flow: The MATCH algorithm and prediction☆

Abstract Optic flow is the vector field induced on the retina by the movement of features in the external world. We address the stimulus-matching problem of approximating the optic flow with a velocity vector field inferred from hypothesized matching of features in successive “retinal snapshots.” We here present an algorithm, MATCH, for solving this problem based on the assumptions of smooth motion, (almost) rigid bodies, and nonsparse distribution of feature points on surfaces. We explore the performance of the algorithm first with simulated data and then with actual photographs, demonstrating the utility of prediction based on sequences of more than two frames.