cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Raman spectroscopic evidence for a disulfide bridge in calf γII crystallin

Abstract Laser Raman spectroscopy has been applied to native and dithiothreitol-treated bovine cortical γII crystallin to examine the state of the thiol groups and the presence of a putative disulfide bridge. The data reveal significant differences in two key spectral regions. In the thiol stretching region (2500–2600 cm−1), the dithiothreitol-reduced form shows a 25% increase in the integrated Raman signal as compared to the native form. The magnitude of this increase corresponds to the presence of 1 mol of disulfide/mol of γII as determined both by the Raman data and the previous biochemical analysis from this laboratory. In the disulfide stretching region (500–540 cm−1), the native form shows a line near 511 cm−1 which is absent in the reduced form. Both native and reduced forms show a triple-banded thiol signal with one or more distinct shoulders, suggesting at least three and perhaps five different environments for the cysteine residues. The difference spectrum, obtained by a 1:1 computer subtraction of the native from the reduced form, indicates that the increase in thiol signal is centered around 2572 cm−1. In every other spectral region, both native and reduced γII forms are closely similar. These results strongly support the biochemical data reported earlier and indicate that the reduction of the single disulfide bridge is accompanied by minimal changes in secondary structure in solution.
A Prudent Approach to Control of Cholesterol Levels

Concern about serum cholesterol has become a national preoccupation. Recently, this pernicious substance has received even greater attention after announcement of the recommendations of the National Cholesterol Education Program. 1 This initiative represents the culmination of four decades of epidemiologic research that has demonstrated a nearly monotonic relationship between elevations of the serum cholesterol level and risk of atherosclerotic heart disease. Until recently, however, it was uncertain whether lowering of the serum cholesterol level would also lower cardiac risk. The results of the Lipid Research Clinics Coronary Primary Prevention Trial (LRC-CPPT) now confirm that in men with substantial elevations of plasma cholesterol levels, dietary and drug intervention can indeed reduce coronary morbidity and mortality. 2 The LRC-CPPT data, viewed as the linchpin in the cholesterol-coronary chain of evidence, have served as the catalyst for the National Cholesterol Education Program. The recommendations advise frequent screening of most adults and treatment of
Binding and degradation of human 125I-HDL by rat adrenocortical cells

In order to learn more about the mechanism by which high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is taken up by the adrenal cortex, binding and degradation of human 125I-HDL by suspensions of intact rat adrenal cortical cells have been examined. Cellular accumulation of 125I-HDL was found to occur in two phases. Our results indicate that the initial phase of association results from reversible binding of 125I-HDL to a specific saturable set of membrane binding sites. Binding site affinity appears equal for both rat and human HDL while affinity for human LDL is approximately one order of magnitude less on the basis of apoprotein weight. In addition, isolated rat adrenal cortical cells were found to degrade human 125I-HDL at a rapid rate. Degradation, like binding, can be prevented by addition of excess unlabeled HDL suggesting that binding and degradation are linked. Thus, one mechanism that could account for adrenal uptake of HDL cholesterol is endocytosis, initiated by lipoprotein binding to the HDL specific membrane binding site.
Formation of Metallic Nanoclusters in SiC by MeV Ion Implantation

We present the results of our investigation of producing nanoclusters of gold, silver, copper and tin in 6H-SiC. This is accomplished by implanting 1.0 MeV Au, 2.0 MeV Ag, 2.0 MeV Cu, and 160 keV Sn into the Si face of SiC at room or elevated temperature followed by annealing at various temperatures. Using optical absorption spectrophotometry, we determined the location of the absorption band for each metal nanocluster in SiC. Elevated temperature implantation reduces optical absorption due to ion implantation induced defects. Using the Mie theory, we determined the index of refraction in the implanted volume.
Mitochondrial targeting of radioprotectants using peptidyl conjugates

Ionizing radiation activates a mitochondrial nitric oxide synthase, leading to inhibition of the respiratory chain, generation of excess superoxide, peroxynitrite production and nitrosative damage. We have measured the radioprotective effects of a nitric oxide synthase antagonist (AMT) versus a free radical scavenger (4-amino-TEMPO) using electrochemical detection of nitric oxide and peroxynitrite. To enhance their efficacy, we have conjugated these compounds to peptides and peptide isosteres—derived from the antibiotic gramicidin S—that target the mitochondria. The targeting ability of these peptidyl conjugates was measured using quantitative mass spectrometry.
Inoculation of Entomogenous Nematodes, Neoaplectana and Heterorhabditis and Their Associated Bacteria, Xenorhabdus spp., into Chicks and Mice

Live cells of Xenorhabdus nematophilus and X. luminescens were inoculated subcutaneously into 9-day-old White Leghorn chicks and adult Swiss albino mice and intracerebrally into suckling mice. Infective-stage juveniles of Neoaplectana carpocapsae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora were inoculated subcutaneously into adult Swiss albino mice. No disease symptoms or mortality appeared in any of the experimental animals during the course of the experiment.
Domestic Institutions and Wartime Casualties

Military leaders, policymakers, and academics have long debated the relative merits of volunteer versus conscript armies. They also have studied the possible effects of eroding resolve among mass publics in democratic states during wartime. In this paper, we use battlefield casualty data from the population of interstate wars to compare theories of property takings and domestic institutions. We find conscription, like other non-market-based property takings, to be a wasteful means of mobilizing military manpower. Volunteer armies suffer far fewer casualties than their conscripted counterparts. We also find that this effect compounds when interacted with regime type. Volunteer democratic armies suffer especially few casualties. Finally, we find that democratic societies are willing to bear the costs of large-scale commitments to maintaining state sovereignty and survival when targeted by authoritarian states, at times in the face of certain defeat.
Finite-size scaling study of the vortex-free three-dimensional XY model.

Monte Carlo simulations have been used to study a version of the XY model without vortex loops for J/T=0 on simple cubic and face-centered-cubic lattices. Finite-size scaling of data from L\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}L\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}L lattices with L up to 32 is used to obtain values for the order parameter \ensuremath{\Vert}M\ensuremath{\Vert} and a 1/L finite-size correction on each lattice. The order-parameter susceptibility is found to be diverging as ${\mathit{L}}^{0.8}$. We then study the crossover from three-dimensional to one-dimensional behavior on L\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}W\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}W simple cubic lattices, with W=4 and 8, and L up to 1024.
The relationship between drug user stigma and depression among inner-city drug users in Baltimore, MD.

There is growing awareness of the role of stigma and discrimination in HIV prevention, testing, and medical care. Yet, few studies have examined the stigma associated with using illicit drugs. In the present study, we examined the relationship between social network characteristics, drug user stigma, and depression. Study participants were comprised of 340 individuals who reported cocaine, crack, and/or heroin use in the prior 6 months and were involved in an HIV prevention study. They were recruited through street outreach, referrals, and word of mouth in inner-city Baltimore, MD, USA. The stigma scale was comprised of eight items, such as “how much do you feel ashamed of using drugs?” Depression was assessed with the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, using cutoffs of 16 and 20 or greater. In the bivariate analyses, gender, homelessness in the past 6 months, drug user stigma, larger size of drug network, and current use of heroin, cocaine, and crack were all significantly associated with high levels of depression, whereas in the multivariate analyses, only drug user stigma remained significantly associated with depression. The results of this study suggest that drug treatment providers and other professionals who provide services to drug users should consider developing trainings to address drug user stigma. These programs should focus on the attitudes and behaviors of health and service providers toward drug users, among drug users themselves, and among family members and others who provide social support to drug users.
Diurnal variations of aerosol trace element concentrations as determined by nondestructive neutron activation analysis

Diurnal concentration variations of 20 trace elements in surface air have been studied over a 34-h period in a rural area. Twenty-five millimetre polystyrene air filter samples were taken each 90 min and analyzed by nondestructive neutron activation analysis using Ge(Li) gamma-spectrometry and computer assisted data handling. Basic diurnal patterns are related to meterological variables but variations from element to element are ascribed to differences in particle size distributions as determined by an Andersen Cascade Impactor. The behavior and particle size distribution of some elements suggested local sources.
Some constructions for balanced incomplete block designs with nested rows and columns

SUMMARY A method of construction of balanced incomplete block designs with nested rows and columns is developed using difference techniques, from which many infinite series of designs are obtained.
On global domination critical graphs

A dominating set of a graph G=(V,E) is a subset [email protected]?V such that every vertex not in S is adjacent to at least one vertex of S. The domination number of G is the cardinality of a smallest dominating set. The global domination number, @c"g(G), is the cardinality of a smallest set S that is simultaneously a dominating set of both G and its complement [email protected]?. Graphs for which @c"g(G-e)>@c"g(G) for all edges [email protected]?E are characterized, as are graphs for which @c"g(G-e)<@c"g(G) for all edges [email protected]?E whenever [email protected]? is disconnected. Progress is reported in the latter case when [email protected]? is connected.
Estrogen replacement modulates resistance artery smooth muscle and endothelial alpha2-adrenoceptor reactivity.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of estrogen replacement on ovariectomized rats on the reactivity to α2-adrenoceptor activation, and to analyze the role of the endothelium in modulating this response. Third order branches of the superior mesenteric artery from ovariectomized untreated (OvX) and estrogen-replaced (E2) Sprague-Dawley rats were cannulated and pressurized to 50 mmHg. Under relaxed conditions (0.1 mM papaverine), there were no differences in lumen diameter. Intact vessels from E2 rats were unresponsive to clonidine (0.01-10 μM); incubation in indomethacin (1 μM), a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, produced intermediate constriction that was significantly augmented by L-NNA (0.3 mM), a NO synthase inhibitor, or by endothelial denudation. Conversely, intact vessels from OvX animals constricted to clonidine in a concentration-dependent manner. This effect was significantly diminished by endothelial removal or indomethacin, but was not affected by L-NNA. Yohimbine (1 μM), an α2 recep...
Sleep disorders and anxiety as symptom profiles of sympathoadrenal system hyperactivity in major depression

Abstract Recently, it has been reported that major depression is accompanied by an increased sympathoadrenal system (SAS) activity. In order to study the psychopathological correlates of SAS activity in depression, the authors measured the 24 h urinary excretion of catecholamines (CA), i.e., noradrenaline (NE), adrenaline (E), dopamine (DA) and the NE/E metabolite 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) in 80 unipolar depressed subjects. The excretion of these indices of SAS activity have been studied in relation to the depressive items of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III (SCID) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). There were significant positive correlations between the SCID item sleep disorders and the HDRS item middle insomia, on the one hand, and NE, E and DA excretion, on the other. The MHPG excretion in 24 h urine was significantly and negatively related to somatic anxiety and hypochondriasis. It is suggested that these intertwined relationships between increased CA turnover, sleep discontinuity and anxiety may reflect the occurence of a hyperarousal state in some major depressives that may be regarded as a coping response to various putative noxious stimuli.
Comparison of postpartum quality of life between patients with repeat cesarean delivery and vaginal birth after cesarean

TIENTS WITH REPEAT CESAREAN DELIVERY AND VAGINAL BIRTH AFTER CESAREAN SUSAN GERBER, LISA SHARP, CHERYL O’TOOLE, Northwestern University Medical School, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chicago, IL Northwestern University Medical School, Family Medicine, Chicago, IL OBJECTIVE: To determine whether an association exists between route of delivery and postpartum quality of life (QOL) in women with a prior cesarean delivery. STUDY DESIGN: Sixty women with one prior cesarean delivery and no prior vaginal deliveries were recruited from outpatient settings during the third trimester of a subsequent pregnancy. Telephone interviews were performed at the time of recruitment, and then at 4 weeks and 3 months post partum. Maternal quality of life was assessed using the Postpartum Quality of Life Scale (PPQOL), a 1-10 QOL self-report scale (SRS), the Short Form-36 (SF-36), and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for all subjects. Postpartum interviewers were blinded as to the route of delivery. Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between route of delivery and postpartum QOL. RESULTS: Fifty-onewomenwere interviewed at 4 weeks post partum. Thirtyfive women underwent repeat cesarean delivery (69%) and 16 (31%) had a vaginal birth after cesarean. Thirty-six of these women were also interviewed at 3 months post partum. Twenty-three of these women had a repeat cesarean delivery (64%). Linear regression analysis was performed, controlling for maternal age, race, income, insurance status, marital status, baseline QOL, interval since the prior delivery, and neonatal disposition. Repeat cesarean delivery was associated with higher QOL scores on both the PPQOL and the SRS at 4 weeks and at 3 months post partum (P < 0.05). Repeat cesarean delivery was also associated with higher scores on theMental Health subscale of the SF-36 at 4 weeks (P < 0.01) and 3 months (P < 0.05), and with lower scores (lower risk of depression) on the EPDS at 4 weeks (P < 0.05) and 3 months (P = 0.07). CONCLUSION: In women with one prior cesarean delivery and no prior vaginal deliveries, repeat cesarean section is associated with superior maternal QOL in the first 3 months post partum.
P02.70. Feasibility and effect of chair massage offered to nurses during working hours on stress related symptoms: a pilot study

Methods Single arm study performed between 10/15/2010 and 12/ 24/2010 at an academic medical center. A mass e-mail was sent to all nurses working in an inpatient psychiatric and an outpatient pain rehabilitation unit. The first 40 respondents were enrolled; two were excluded due to missing enrollment data. A 15 minute chair massage once a week for 10 weeks was provided by one of three Certified Massage Therapists available 3 days a week. Instruments used included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14), Smith Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Linear Analogue Scale Assessment (LASA) scale. Mean and standard deviations of PSS-14, SAS and LASA scores at baseline and at 10 weeks were calculated and analyzed with the paired t-test. Any p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Case 28: Thoracic Incisional Injury

A 28 year old, 80 kg 5 ft 10 in., male arrives in the emergency room by ambulance. He has been in a fight and has received a single 30 cm machete injury to his right chest. The incision extends from the right of the sternum at the level of T-6 towards the midaxillary line. His vital signs are stable – HR 100 bpm, BP 120/79, RR 30/min. You examine him carefully and discover no other injuries. He has no past medical history of note. You find him fully conscious but complaining of pain. His Hct is 28%. An IV is started and an intercostal chest drain inserted. The latter is seen to be working great, but a great deal of white-pink froth is also noted in the underwater seal bottle. The patient is taken to the operating room for exploration of the chest. The thoracic surgeon tells you there is no need for a double-lumen tube.
Individual Homelessness: Entries, Exits, and Policy

Abstract Homelessness is part of the lives of many people. But almost no one is homeless for all or most of his or her life. The median shelter homeless spell is well under a month, and even “chronic homelessness” officially entails spells of a year or so. I model homelessness as part of people’s lives in a dynamic stochastic framework in continuous time. I can explain many empirical regularities with a parsimonious model: for instance, why the last addresses of homeless people are concentrated in a few low-rent neighborhoods, why homeless entries are hard to predict, why recidivism is common and past homelessness is a good predictor of future homelessness, why some groups recidivate more often than others, why the hazard rate for shelter exit is single-peaked, why effective homelessness prevention programs do not alter the average length of homeless spells. I also examine policy. The optimal homelessness prevention program is Pigouvian and starkly simple. With an optimal prevention program in place, optimal shelter quality maximizes a simple and intuitive expression, and insurance programs always raise social welfare. Most of the previous economics literature about homelessness has been static, but most literature about homelessness outside economics has been dynamic. This paper tries to bring the two strands of literature closer together.
mTOR regulates phagosome and entotic vacuole fission

Macroendocytic vacuoles formed by phagocytosis, or the live-cell engulfment program entosis, undergo sequential steps of maturation, leading to the fusion of lysosomes that digest internalized cargo. After cargo digestion, nutrients must be exported to the cytosol, and vacuole membranes must be processed by mechanisms that remain poorly defined. Here we find that phagosomes and entotic vacuoles undergo a late maturation step characterized by fission, which redistributes vacuolar contents into lysosomal networks. Vacuole fission is regulated by the serine/threonine protein kinase mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), which localizes to vacuole membranes surrounding engulfed cells. Degrading engulfed cells supply engulfing cells with amino acids that are used in translation, and rescue cell survival and mTORC1 activity in starved macrophages and tumor cells. These data identify a late stage of phagocytosis and entosis that involves processing of large vacuoles by mTOR-regulated membrane fission.
Task Scheduling with Self-Suspensions in Soft Real-Time Multiprocessor Systems

In work on multiprocessor real-time systems, task scheduling with self-suspensions is a relatively unexplored topic. In this paper, soft real-time sporadic task systems are considered that include self-suspending tasks. Conditions are presented for guaranteeing bounded deadline tardiness in such systems under global EDF or FIFO multiprocessor scheduling. These conditions enable many soft real-time task systems with self-suspending tasks to be scheduled with little or no utilization loss.
High dynamic range CMOS filter

Summary form only given. Implementation of high dynamic range on-chip 70 MHz gm-C (transconductor-capacitor) filter for a UMTS (WCDMA) superheterodyne receiver is described. The filter is designed in National Semiconductor's 0.18 micron standard CMOS process. Chebyshev approximation is used to implement a 6th order filter in active gm-C. Positive feedback is used to realize a large quality factor (Q). This filter provides blocker attenuation with dynamic range (DR) of 42 dB and with power consumption of 21.78 mW.
Constant-current versus constant-voltage VCM drive analysis

A voice-coil-motor (VCM)-driven actuator is analyzed for both constant-current and constant-voltage drive operation. Through the use of dimensional analysis, the solutions to the two drive methods are directly compared. This allows for quick evaluation of an actuator design. The analysis compares the actuator performance parameters, including seek time, switching time, and maximum angular velocity. The relationship between constant-current and constant-voltage drive is shown to depend on the value of a dimensionless parameter. For actuators with low values of this parameter ( >
QoS-aware RWA algorithms for path-protected DWDM networks

We investigate novel RWA algorithms in the context of all-optical networks with various path protection schemes. Our algorithms exhibit low blocking probabilities and are less computationally intensive than previously proposed algorithms.
Novel method for genomic analysis of PKD1 and PKD2 mutations in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

Genetic testing of PKD1 and PKD2 is useful for diagnosis and prognosis of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), particularly in asymptomatic individuals or those without a family history. PKD1 testing is complicated by the large transcript size, complexity of the gene region, and the extent of gene variations. A molecular assay was developed using Transgenomic's SURVEYOR Nuclease and WAVE Nucleic Acid High Sensitivity Fragment Analysis System to screen for PKD1 and PKD2 variants, followed by sequencing of variant gene segments, thereby reducing the sequencing reactions by 80%. This method was compared to complete DNA sequencing performed by a reference laboratory for 25 ADPKD patients from 22 families. The pathogenic potential of gene variations of unknown significance was examined by evolutionary comparison, effects of amino acid substitutions on protein structure, and effects of splice-site alterations. A total of 90 variations were identified, including all 82 reported by the reference laboratory (100% sensitivity). A total of 76 variations (84.4%) were in PKD1 and 14 (15.6%) in PKD2. Definite pathogenic mutations (seven nonsense, four truncation, and three splicing defects) were detected in 64% (14/22) of families. The remaining 76 variants included 26 missense, 33 silent, and 17 intronic changes. Two heterozygous nonsense mutations were incorrectly determined by the reference laboratory as homozygous. “Probably pathogenic” mutations were identified in an additional five families (overall detection rate 86%). In conclusion, the SURVEYOR nuclease method was comparable to direct sequencing for detecting ADPKD mutations, achieving high sensitivity with lower cost, providing an important tool for genetic analysis of complex genes. Hum Mutat 0, 1–10, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Faceting, dislocation network structure, and various scales of heterogeneity in a YBa2Cu3O7−δ low-angle [001] tilt boundary

The grain boundary topography and grain boundary dislocation network structure of a 6° [001] bicrystal of YBa2Cu3O7−δ were studied using diffraction-contrast transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Saw-tooth-shaped arrays of facets composed of facets with lengths of a few tens of nanometers were observed in each of two widely separated sections of the boundary. The facet planes were {110}, {310}, and {221}. Further subfaceting of the (130) facets into a smaller-scale (a few nanometers) saw-tooth configuration of (010) and (110) facets produced a hierarchy of facets in at least one boundary section. The dislocation content observed in each type of facet agreed well with Frank's formula. However, the dislocations within individual facets frequently were inhomogeneously distributed, contrasting the picture of evenly spaced dislocations that is derived for boundaries of infinite extent. Certain types of dislocations repeatedly were grouped near the facet centers and ends. Well-separated partial dislocations frequently were observed near the facet midsections, but not near the facet junctions. Extended (∼30 nm) strain contrast was observed at all of the facet junctions formed by facets with dimensions on the order of tens of nanometers. This long-range strain may be due to the finite extent of the individual facets. These results all suggest that structural inhomogeneities occur on various length scales ranging from macroscopic to just a few nanometers. Such structural heterogeneity is consistent with the electrical heterogeneity that is indicated for many YBa2Cu3O7−δ grain boundaries.
Dietary restriction" effects on radial maze learning and lipofuscin pigment deposition in the hippocampus and frontal cortex

Previous studies have shown increased life span and decreased lipofuscin deposition in brain structures when both premature and young adult animals are calorically restricted of an otherwise nutritionally adequate diet. Three-months-old C57BL/6 mice were subjected to 12 months of caloric restriction (2 g/day), and subsequently exposed to a radial maze learning paradigm. Mice in the diet restriction group showed faster learning and higher asymptotic performance on the radial maze task, as well as lower lipofuscin deposition in the neurons of hippocampus and frontal cortex relative to control mice fed ad libitum. The results suggest that dietary restriction has effects on radial maze learning, and this improved behavioral performance was associated with significant reduction in lipofuscin pigment deposition in the neurons of hippocampus and frontal cortex.
Question Utilization in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy: A Recursive Frame Analysis of Insoo Kim Berg's Solution Talk

Recursive frame analysis (RFA) was used to conduct a single case investigation of Insoo Kim Berg’s question utilization talk in a solutionfocused brief therapy (SFBT) session. Due to the lack of process research that explores how SFBT questions facilitate change, the author investigated how Berg’s solution language influenced a client to respond in session. The purpose of this case study was to explore how SFBT questions served as interventions to facilitate change. The research question for this study was twofold: (a) how does Berg’s language influence conversation and (b) how is the client influenced by Berg’s questions in a therapeutic context? The findings suggest that Berg’s questions serve as interventions for change as noted by patterns in the therapeutic conversation. Key Words: SolutionFocused Brief Therapy, Recursive Frame Analysis, Couple Therapy, Question Utilization, Qualitative Research
Cell-free fetal DNA testing for fetal aneuploidy and beyond: clinical integration challenges in the US context

The recent release of new, non-invasive prenatal tests for fetal aneuploidy using cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) has been hailed as a revolution in prenatal testing and has triggered significant commercial interest in the field. Ongoing research portends the arrival of a wide range of cffDNA tests. However, it is not yet clear how these tests will be integrated into well-established prenatal testing strategies in the USA, as the timing of such testing and the degree to which new non-invasive tests will supplement or replace existing screening and diagnostic tools remain uncertain. We argue that there is an urgent need for policy-makers, regulators and professional societies to provide guidance on the most efficient and ethical manner for such tests to be introduced into clinical practice in the USA.
Uncovering European Union Immigration Legislation: Policy Dynamics and Outcomes

The member states of the European Union (EU) have recently experimented with constructing a common immigration policy. This gives rise to an important and fascinating question: what happens to immigration policy once it is no longer made in national capitals? Have national governments been able to retain ultimate control over the field of EU immigration policy? Or do we see slippage towards supranational power, with the Commission, Parliament, and Court of Justice expanding their influence? If EU institutions have gained power, do they use this power to defend the rights and freedoms of immigrants against restrictionist national governments? Using participant interviews (listed in Appendix I) and documentary analysis, I analyse negotiations over three EU immigration laws: the directives on family reunification, long-term residence, and economic migration. I assess whether national preferences are implemented in these directives, or whether supranational institutions have moved policy away from national preferences, potentially expanding immigrant rights and freedoms.
A Temporal Geometric Analysis of Eroding Marsh Shorelines: Can Fractal Dimensions be Related to Process?

Abstract Over the past 20 years, fractal geometry has gained acceptance as a valid quantitative method for describing complex geomorphic patterns in nature. One goal of geomorphology is to relate geologic processes to the development and evolution of landforms. The processes (factors) that shape a landform might produce a characteristic geometry that can be interpreted through fractal analysis. The geometry of a shoreline is often cited as an example of a fractal pattern. Previous studies on shoreline geometries have used relatively small-scale maps and aerial photographs, and have not studied the changing geometry of a shoreline over time. This study, in contrast, examines the fractal geometry of six wave-dominated marsh shorelines in Rehoboth Bay, Delaware, at a relatively large scale, and investigates how these geometries change over time. The results help to understand the relation between geomorphic features and processes. An automated box-counting method was used to calculate fractal D values for ea...
Mixing Methods for Full-Strength Results Two Welfare Studies

This article discusses the practical application of mixed quantitative and qualitative designs. Mixed methods designs can be especially powerful in illuminating policy solutions and directions for social action, thus supporting the social justice goals of social work and other helping professions. However, the decision to combine methods must be appropriate for the study, elevating the integrity and strength of the results. This article uses two studies of U.S. welfare policy to describe the decisions researchers made during the design, implementation, and combined statistical and interpretive analyses of the two research projects.
Special Cases in Acute Heart Failure Syndromes: Atrial Fibrillation and Wide Complex Tachycardia

Hospitalization for acute heart failure syndromes (AHFS) results in substantial in-hospital and postdischarge morbidity and mortality. Management of AHFS presents significant challenges, given the heterogeneity of the patient population and the differing etiologies underlying why patients present with acute decompensation. Arrhythmias in the setting of AHFS, such as atrial fibrillation and wide complex tachycardia, present additional challenges. Compounding this challenge is the paucity of evidence on which to base early management. General principles for the management of atrial fibrillation and wide complex tachycardia in the setting of emergency department AHFS are discussed.
Performance of Symbol Combining with Constellation Change in Multihop Relay

This paper describes cooperative relay methods in multihop relay network. Relay symbol combination (RSC) is a method whereby a mobile station (MS) combines a direct signal from a base station (BS) with a signal received from a relay station (RS) under time diversity. Relay symbol combination with constellation change (RSCCC) is a method to improve performances of RSC with an additional procedure of constellation change in the relaying process. The simulation results show that these two techniques are effective in a relay system, but the performance gain largely depends on the positions of RS and MS relative to the BS.
Statistics of low grazing angle radar sea scatter for moderate and fully developed ocean waves

Results are reported of two deep ocean radar sea scatter experiments using calibrated marine navigation radars. The first experiment featured a continuous wind direction over a four-day period, satisfying time and fetch requirements for a fully developed sea. The second experiment experienced changing winds, which was expected to produce random seas. Radar cross section samples from a 60 degrees sector centered about the maximum clutter direction were assembled into cumulative distributions for several range bins, corresponding to different grazing angles between 1 degrees and 8 degrees . These distributions are bimodal for moderate to strong winds and were fitted by two Weibull distributions. The Weibull fit to the highest amplitudes was associated with discrete scatters, while that fitting the lower amplitudes was identified with distributed roughness. Models for scattering mechanisms are inferred from the results. >
Differential gain in bulk and quantum well diode lasers

Differential gain (g/sup '/) of bulk and single-quantum-well (SQW) lasers was determined from threshold current density and differential quantum efficiency measurements. The threshold measurement technique was used to show that g/sup '/ is a function of cavity length (L) in SQW lasers and independent of L in bulk lasers. It was found that g/sup '/ of long SQW lasers (1000 mu m) is about 7*10/sup -16/ cm/sup 2/, approximately two times that of bulk lasers. At short cavity lengths (250 mu m), g/sup '/ is about the same for both laser types. >
Physical modeling of the power VDMOST for computer-aided design of integrated circuit

This paper presents a methodology for physical modeling of the vertical double-diffused MOS transistor (VDMOST) for power-integrated-circuit (PIC) design. The circuit model comprises the regional models derived from basic semiconductor equations. The unique features of the VDMOST such as quasi-saturation, nonlinear inter-electrode capacitances, reverse-recovery current, and temperature dependencies are accurately modeled based on device simulations. The composite model is implemented in Saber and SPICE2G.6 source code. It is verified against steady-state and capacitance-voltage measurements on test devices. A parameter extraction routine is developed, and a system that links ICCAP and Saber is set up that performs measurement, simulation, and parameter extraction. The application of the described model in computer-aided design (CAD) is demonstrated for several power-electronic circuits.
Understory plant communities and the functional distinction between savanna trees, forest trees, and pines

Although savanna trees and forest trees are thought to represent distinct functional groups with different effects on ecosystem processes, few empirical studies have examined these effects. In particular, it remains unclear if savanna and forest trees differ in their ability to coexist with understory plants, which comprise the majority of plant diversity in most savannas. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) and data from 157 sites across three locations in the southeastern United States to understand the effects of broadleaf savanna trees, broadleaf forest trees, and pine trees on savanna understory plant communities. After accounting for underlying gradients in fire frequency and soil moisture, abundances (i.e., basal area and stem density) of forest trees and pines, but not savanna trees, were negatively correlated with the cover and density (i.e., local-scale species richness) of C4 graminoid species, a defining savanna understory functional group that is linked to ecosystem flammability. In analyses of the full understory community, abundances of trees from all functional groups were negatively correlated with species density and cover. For both the C4 and full communities, fire frequency promoted understory plants directly, and indirectly by limiting forest tree abundance. There was little indirect influence of fire on the understory mediated through savanna trees and pines, which are more fire tolerant than forest trees. We conclude that tree functional identity is an important factor that influences overstory tree relationships with savanna understory plant communities. In particular, distinct relationships between trees and C4 graminoids have implications for grass-tree coexistence and vegetation-fire feedbacks that maintain savanna environments and their associated understory plant diversity.
Effects of excluding bottom-disturbing mobile fishing gear on abundance and biomass of groundfishes in the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, USA

The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (southern Gulf of Maine, northwest Atlantic) is partially overlapped by the Western Gulf of Maine Closure Area (WGMCA). This is a region in which mobile, bottom-disturbing fishing gear has been banned by the New England Fishery Management Council to facilitate the rebuilding of depleted groundfish populations. We as- sessed the effects and effectiveness of the WGMCA on groundfish assemblages using habitat-stratified (gravel, sand, mixed ben- thic habitats) sampling by means of a commercial trawler, inside and outside of the WGMCA. Sampling occurred over three month-long sampling periods in 2004-2005, two during the spring seasons and one during the fall season. A total of 18 species were analyzed for protection effects. After controlling for substratum, location and sampling season, eight groundfish species ex- hibited higher mean proportional abundance inside than outside the WGMCA while two were proportionally more abundant on average outside of the closure. Four species had higher mean proportional biomasses on average inside the closure and three out- side. We conclude that the WGMCA may be achieving its goal of rebuilding abundance and biomass for some commercially tar- geted groundfishes but not all. This study, six to seven years post-closure establishment, reveals fine-scale spatial and taxonomic complexity which will require a very different monitoring protocol than the one currently in place if adaptive management is to be successful in the region (Current Zoology 56 (1): 134-143, 2010).
Charge Hopping Dynamics along a Disordered Chain in Quantum Environments: Comparative Study of Different Rate Kernels.

This work presents a computational study of charge hopping dynamics along a one-dimensional chain with Gaussian site energy disorder and linearly coupled quantum bath. Time-dependent square displacements are calculated directly from numerical solutions of Pauli master equations, for five different rate kernels: exact Fermi golden rule (FGR) rate expression, stationary phase interpolation (SPI) approximation, semiclassical (SC) approximation, classical Marcus rate expression, and Miller-Abrahams expression. All results demonstrate diffusive behavior in the steady state limit. The results based on the FGR rate expression show that the charge transport in the quantum bath can be much more sensitive to the disorder than the prediction from the classical Marcus expression. While the SPI approximation captures this general trend reasonably well, the SC approximation tends to be unreliable at both quantitative and qualitative levels and becomes even worse than the classical Marcus expression under certain condit...
Small Schools, Rules and Evaluations

Students in small schools are often confronted with problems which are technically unrelated to the formal socialization goals of the institution. Behind the “kidglove” treatment which many small schools engage in, lies the tendency for “total person evaluation” which often proves stifling and frustrating for students who fail to conform. The “home away from home” character of small schools may be intolerable for students who wish to establish or to maintain some measure of autonomy. Student officers often function as cadres for school administrations. The system possesses attributes which press toward encroachment upon student privacy. Subjective, “personalized” evaluation by administrators may be as punitive to some students as it is charitable to others. From one theoretical perspective, the “goody-goods” are as deviant as the “wild ones.” Specific structural changes in small school systems might increase the correlation between ability and receiving a degree.
Presence of Family Members in the Operating Room: Is This Really Helpful?

A 3-year-old boy presents to the ambulatory surgery unit of a large city hospital for a bilateral tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy for mild sleep apnea and snoring. He was born full term with no other medical history. While discussing the anesthetic plan for inhalational induction using a mask, the child’s mother interrupts and states that she heard from friends of hers that she would be able to stay with her child while he went to sleep. The child seems uncomfortable with your presence and clings to his mother’s leg. You feel that it would be appropriate for the mother to accompany her child to the operating room given the child’s clear discomfort with strangers; however, your supervising anesthesiologist, who comes from an institution that never allows parents in the operating room, does not agree.
Model-based control design for a battery/ultracapacitor DC-DC converter system

For battery and ultracapacitor hybrid energy storage systems, the design and control of the DC-DC converter is an important stage of the system design process. The design approach for a model-based controller for a half-bridge DC-DC converter is presented with experimental results from a scaled test configuration. The contribution of this paper lies in presenting a well-behaved discrete-time system model, a controller tuning methodology, and an effective technique to address the nonlinear system response caused by discontinuous conduction. The results show that the controller bandwidth and command tracking that is achieved with the proposed techniques meet application requirements, and that reduced design effort is required for the presented tuning methodology, combined with helpful physical insights. The presented approach can also be generalized to other DC-DC converter systems.
The Cognitive Sciences of Cyber-Security: A Framework for Advancing Socio-Cyber Systems

Traditionally, cyber security has been positioned and developed primarily from a computational-technology perspective. Unfortunately, this has been rather short-sighted as it provided solutions that fail to consider many human-related, cognitive, and social factors that underlie solutions of significance. While there have been substantial contributions from technology development that help the overall problem, a more comprehensive and effective approach is now needed that: (a) explores cognitive sciences and collaborative systems as a substantial basis to reify discovery and prediction, (b) produces incisive research results that inform the design of cyber tools and interfaces for active use, and (c) establishes new understanding of cyber situation awareness wherein the distributed cognitive activities of users, dynamic and changing roles of the threat and the environment, collaborative teamwork, and the promise of innovative cognitive technologies are intertwined and realized. This chapter outlines the perspective of social-cyber systems, a transdisciplinary approach designed to enhance information protection, reduce errors and uncertainty, take advantage of teamwork, and facilitate insightful understanding of what awareness and collective induction means for cyber defense and security. The Living Laboratory Framework is used to describe our approach and to implement specific aspects of social-cyber system research that inform dimensions of awareness and induction. Cognitive explorations underlying cyber situation awareness are presented that involve entwining theoretical foundations, models and simulation, and problem formulation - with - ethnographies of practice, knowledge elicitation, design storyboarding and technology prototyping. Integration of these important elements provides the basis of expanding individual cognitive processing into collaborative teamwork and collective induction that afford the goals of obtaining readiness and resilience in social-cyber systems. Finally, the chapter looks towards what future requirements will be necessary to sustain efficacy in protecting valuable resources and services.
Guidelines and Standards for Undergraduate Kinesiology

(1980). Guidelines and Standards for Undergraduate Kinesiology. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 51, No. 2, pp. 19-21.
Determination of electroosmotic and electrophoretic mobility of DNA and dyes in low ionic strength solutions.

Nanocoding, a genome analysis platform, relies on very low ionic strength conditions to elongate DNA molecules up to 1.06 (fully stretched DNA = 1). Understanding how electroosmotic and electrophoretic forces vary, as ionic strength decreases, will enable better Nanocoding devices, or other genome analysis platforms, to be developed. Using gel electrophoresis to determine overall mobility (includes contributions from electrophoretic and electroosmotic forces) in different ionic strength conditions, linear DNA molecules [pUC19 (2.7 kb), pBR322 (4.4 kb), ΦX174 (5.4 kb), and PSNAPf-H2B (6.2 kb)] were analyzed in varying gel concentrations (1.50%, 1.25%, 1.00%, 0.75%, and 0.50%). Additionally, buffer concentration (Tris-EDTA, TE) was varied to determine free solution mobility at different ionic strength solutions. As ionic strength decreased from 13.8 mM to 7.3 mM, overall mobility increased. As TE buffer decreased (< 7.3 mM), overall mobility drastically decreased as ionic strength decreased. Rhodamine B dye was utilized to determine the electroosmotic mobility. As the ionic strength decreased, electroosmotic mobility increased. The experimental electrophoretic mobility was compared to theoretical considerations for electrophoretic mobility (Pitts and Debye-Huckel-Onsager). Electroosmotic forces decreased the overall mobility of DNA molecules and bromophenol blue migration in a gel matrix as ionic strength decreased. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
Cannabinoid induced changes in eicosanoid synthesis by mouse peritoneal cells.

Peritoneal cells, which consist mainly of macrophages, have been extensively studied with regard to their ability to synthesize eicosanoids in response is not entirely understood, however, it has been suggested that it may have a role in macrophage function in the immune system. For some time we have utilized mouse peritoneal cells as a model system in which to study cannabinoid effects on the release of arachidonic acid and its subsequent conversion to certain eicosanoids (1).