cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Staying true to mission.

I am probably not the only reader who responded with defensiveness and irritation to the strident tone of Giovanni Fava's commentary. Nevertheless, when my higher cortical functions returned, I found myself in substantial agreement with his concerns. We face a wave of public mistrust that has not yet crested. In truth, ethical breeches have occurred. The integrity of psychiatry and all of medicine requires that we take bold, earnest, prompt steps to remedy this.
Beyond Achievement Motivation: The Generality of Attribution Theory

Achievement strivings have been the focus of convenience of the attributional approach advanced in this book. The conception illustrated in Figure 6–4 grew as an alternative to Atkinson’s theory of achievement motivation, and achievement- related contexts provided the research sites for many of the supporting empirical investigations. But a theory must have range or generality if it is to have lasting significance and influence. In this chapter I explore the breadth of the conception, examining a variety of phenomena that the theory is able to address.
Synthesis and photophysical characterization of bacteriochlorins equipped with integral swallowtail substituents

Bacteriochlorins such as bacteriochlorophyll a absorb strongly in the near-infrared spectral region and are potentially useful in a variety of photochemical fields. De novo syntheses of bacteriochlorins entail self-condensation of a dihydrodipyrrin-acetal (containing one pyrrole and one pyrroline joined via a methylidene bridge) either via a heavily studied Eastern–Western (E–W) route or a recently reported Northern–Southern (N–S) route. The Michael addition to form the dihydrodipyrrin-acetal for the E–W approach has limited scope for the installation of substituents on the pyrroline units. By use of the N–S route, new bacteriochlorins have been prepared that bear a pair of aryl or alkyl groups, together termed a “swallowtail” substituent, at each β-pyrroline unit, a previously inaccessible design. Single-crystal X-ray structures of three intermediates were determined. Bacteriochlorins synthesized herein exhibit characteristic bacteriochlorophyll-like absorption spectra, including a Qy band in the region of 730–758 nm. The swallowtail groups have little impact on the excited-state properties of the bacteriochlorins, and the slight changes of spectral properties that are observed stem from substituent electronic effects rather than changes in structure. In summary, introduction of an integral swallowtail unit on the pyrroline ring opens new sites for tailoring molecular designs without altering the attractive photophysical features of the synthetic bacteriochlorins.
Initiation of Polymerization

The different ways of initiating the polymerization of an unsaturated monomer such as styrene or ethylene are described. Brief accounts of free radical, cationic, anionic and organometallic initiators are included. The free radical mechanism for the polymerization of styrene is treated in a little more detail, as are the so-called Ziegler/Natta catalysts for alkene polymerization.
Dysplasias: Cortical Freeze Lesion

Cortical freeze lesion (FL) allows in vitro studies of cortical hyperexcitability and in vivo investigation of spontaneous seizures in a rodent model of developmental cortical malformation (DCM). The FL model most closely resembles the human disorders polymicrogyria and focal cortical dysplasia. It is induced via focal freezing of the cortical surface perinatally (postnatal day 0–1) or embryonically. FL induces focal cell death, astrocyte reactivity and proliferation, heterogeneous anatomical reorganization of cortical structure, in vitro hyperexcitability, and in vivo seizure (seizure are seen only in the embryonic FL model). The model has a temporally stereotyped progression from insult to hyperexcitability, allowing mechanistic studies of molecular pathologies that may contribute to circuit dysfunction and epileptogenesis. In this chapter, we will introduce the FL model, its relevancy to human disease, and point out variations in the protocol currently in use. We will also discuss the pathological phenotypes—both in vivo and in vitro—that occur in the FL model and outline its value as a tool to study epilepsy.
4.34 Sol–Gel Processed Oxide Controlled Release Materials

In this chapter, we focus extensively on sol–gel processed silica to illustrate the benefits and to elucidate the structure–property-processing relationships of sol–gel oxides as controlled release system. We discuss the general sol–gel process and the biocompatibility of the sol–gel oxides. As a control release system, the release kinetics of the incorporated molecules is discussed. Following the discussion regarding the effect of physical and chemical processing parameters of sol–gel derived oxides on drug release kinetics, we review the applications potential of these materials in the controlled release arena. In a last section, we also summarize the various applications that are being pursued with sol–gel oxides as controlled release system for pharmaceutics and biological molecules.
Effect of Ionic Liquid Composition on Colloid Thruster Emission and Thrust Performance

Experiments to explore the effect of the molecular structure of ionic liquid propellants on the emission mode from a colloid thruster are reported. The colloid thruster is an electrospray device th...
Software Validation and Pre-Implementation Issues

During the past few years, increasing attention has been focused on the development of automated tools and systematic techniques for software validation. The benefits of automated tools and systematic techniques include better product quality, and increased productivity and job satisfaction for the user. This paper surveys recent developments in software validation, with a view toward the relationship between validation tools and techniques and the pre-implementation phases of software development.
Stability of hand force production. I. Hand level control variables and multifinger synergies

We extended the idea of hierarchical control with referent spatial coordinates for the effectors and explored two types of synergies stabilizing multifinger force production tasks. We observed syne...
With and without the tracks: how railroad access impacts gas price elasticity

ABSTRACTSince 2011, gas prices have fallen 43%, raising the question of how different communities adjust their vehicle miles travelled. Data from the National Household Travel Survey’s EPA fuel economy database and the Energy Information Administration database are used to measure consumers’ elasticity to changes in gas prices. We find no significant difference between the price elasticity of individuals in cities with rail access and those without. Furthermore, we are able to rule out an elasticity in those with rail that is greater than 0.61, suggesting that rail access does not make consumer demand elastic.
The actin filament twist changes abruptly at boundaries between bare and cofilin-decorated segments.

Cofilin/ADF proteins are actin-remodeling proteins, essential for actin disassembly in various cellular processes, including cell division, intracellular transport, and motility. Cofilins bind actin filaments cooperatively and sever them preferentially at boundaries between bare and cofilin-decorated (cofilactin) segments. The cooperative binding to actin has been proposed to originate from conformational changes that propagate allosterically from clusters of bound cofilin to bare actin segments. Estimates of the lengths over which these cooperative conformational changes propagate vary dramatically, ranging from 2 to >100 subunits. Here, we present a general, structure-based method for detecting from cryo-EM micrographs small variations in filament geometry (i.e. twist) with single-subunit precision. How these variations correlate with regulatory protein occupancy reveals how far allosteric, conformational changes propagate along filaments. We used this method to determine the effects of cofilin on the actin filament twist. Our results indicate that cofilin-induced changes in filament twist propagate only 1–2 subunits from the boundary into the bare actin segment, independently of the boundary polarity (i.e. irrespective of whether or not the bare actin segment flanks the pointed or barbed-end side of the boundary) and the pyrene fluorophore labeling of actin. These observations indicate that the filament twist changes abruptly at boundaries between bare and cofilin-decorated segments, thereby constraining mechanistic models of cooperative actin filament interactions and severing by cofilin. The methods presented here extend the capability of cryo-EM to analyze biologically relevant deviations from helical symmetry in actin as well as other classes of linear polymers.
Lung cancer mortality and exposure to synthetic metalworking fluid and biocides: controlling for the healthy worker survivor effect.

Objectives Synthetic metalworking fluids (MWFs), widely used to cool and lubricate industrial machining and grinding operations, have been linked with increased risk of several cancers. Estimates of their relation with lung cancer, however, are inconsistent. Controlling for the healthy worker survivor effect, we examined the relations between lung cancer mortality and exposure to synthetic MWF, as well as to biocides added to water-based fluids to control microbial growth, in a cohort of autoworkers. Biocides served as a marker for endotoxin, which has reported antitumour effects, and were hypothesised to be the reason prior studies found reduced lung cancer risk associated with exposure to synthetic fluids. Methods Using the parametric g-formula, we estimated risk ratios (RRs) comparing cumulative lung cancer mortality under no intervention with what would have occurred under hypothetical interventions reducing exposure to zero (ie, a ban) separately for two exposures: synthetic fluids and biocides. We also specified an intervention on synthetic MWF and biocides simultaneously to estimate joint effects. Results Under a synthetic MWF ban, we observed decreased lung cancer mortality risk at age 86, RR=0.96 (0.91–1.01), but when we also intervened to ban biocides, the RR increased to 1.03 (0.95–1.11). A biocide-only ban increased lung cancer mortality (RR=1.07 (1.00–1.16)), with slightly larger RR in younger ages. Conclusions Findings suggest a modest positive association for synthetic MWF with lung cancer mortality, contrary to the negative associations reported in earlier studies. Biocide exposure, however, was inversely associated with risk of lung cancer mortality.
Antecedent Pausing as a Direct Instruction Tactic for Adolescents with Severe Behavioral Disorders

The lecture is the primary method of instructional presentation in secondary schools. Unfortunately, many students with short attention spans, low frustration tolerance, limited impulse control, and other behavioral disorders find difficulty acquiring and maintaining information delivered via the lecture format. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an instructional pause procedure on the English grammar performance of 8th and 9th grade students with severe behavioral disorders. Specifically, the author investigated whether instruction incorporating a modification of Rowe's Pause Procedure resulted in correct identification of verbs on English worksheets. The results show at least moderate increases in verb identification in 7 of the 8 students participating in the procedure. Additionally, evidence of response generalization (mixed verb production) shows a statistically significant difference following verb identification training.
Quine: Logic and Philosophy

Willard Van Orman Quine was born in Akron, Ohio, on June 25, 1908. His father, Robert Quine, worked for at the Williams Fourdry and Machine Shop, but in 1917 he left the Williams Company to start his own business – the Akron Equipment Company. He made a success of his new business – sufficiently so that he and it survived the Great Depression. Unlike her husband, Harriet Quine had gone to college, and taught in the Akron elementary schools. Robert and Harriet Quine had two sons – Robert Jr. and then Willard.
[Autoimmune-associated MHC class II molecules].

Der MHC (major histocompatibility complex) umfast eine umfangreiche genetische Region, die auserordentlich polymorphe MHC-Molekule kodiert. Diese sind befahigt, Proteinantigene derart zu binden, das sie von T-Lymphozyten via T-Zell-Rezeptoren (TCR) spezifisch erkannt werden konnen. Diese Interaktionen zwischen den MHC-Peptid-Komplexen und TCR spielen eine wichtige Rolle in der Elaborierung des sog. T-Zell-Repertoires und der (erworbenen) Immunantwort gemeinhin. Unter den mit Autoaggressionskrankheiten assoziierten MHC-Molekulen dominieren Allele der Klasse II (e.g. HLA-DQ, HLA-DR). Die Pathophysiologie dieser inzwischen gut bekannten Assoziationen ist weitgehend unklar geblieben. Um die Bedeutung bestimmter MHC-Klasse-II-Molekule fur die Pathogenese assoziierter Autoaggressionskrankheiten zu untersuchen, wurden unlangst in vivo Modelsysteme geschaffen, in denen humane MHC-Klasse-II-Molekule in transgenen Mausen exprimiert werden. Es ist zu erwarten, das diese MHC-transgenen Mause Einblicke in die Relevanz und Rolle implizierter MHC-Klasse-II-Molekule in der Pathogenese spezifischer Autoaggressionskrankheiten gewahren werden.
Correct Delaunay Triangulation in the Presence of Inexact Inputs and Arithmetic

The construction of the Delaunay triangulation depends on the correct determination of whether or not a fourth point is inside the circle determined by three other points. By modeling the data points as disks and examining the associated mutual tangent circles, we show how to construct an incircle test that is reliable and sharp, one that is not corrupted by round-off error, one that can deal with inexact input data, avoids rational and big integer arithmetic, and brings geometry to the forefront instead of error analysis or arithmetic.
Cocconeis cascadensis, a new monoraphid diatom from mountain streams in Northern California, USA

A new diatom species, Cocconeis cascadensis, is reported from streams in the Southern Cascade Mountain Range in California (USA). Light and scanning electron microscopy reveals morphological novelties related to the structure of the areolae on the sternum valve, which are surrounded externally by crater-like depressions, as well as apically elongated bumps in the submarginal hyaline area of the raphe valve. The valve morphology of the coarsely striated taxa, Cocconeis placentula var. lineata, C. pseudolineata and C. neodiminuta from the studied streams, and C. disculus from freshwaters in Europe, is presented for comparison. The newly described species possesses a unique combination of morphological features, representing an intermediary between the more complex valve ultrastructure of marine Cocconeis taxa and the freshwater members of the C. placentula species complex, with simple slit-like areolae. Cocconeis cascadensis inhabits cold-water mountain streams with low conductivity, low nutrients and low d...
Plant tissue culture media and practices: an overview

This review presents an overview of the culture media and practices used in plant tissue culture and developmental biology. The compositions of the most commonly used basal media, especially Murashige and Skoog (MS) and modified MS (MMS), Gamborg’s B5 medium and B5 modifications, Woody Plant Medium (WPM), and Driver and Kuniyuki Woody plant medium (DKW) are discussed, along with typical basal medium manipulations to elicit and support various developmental responses. The most commonly used plant growth regulators and their applications to promote various developmental responses are examined, along with a presentation of the classical phytohormone developmental models for organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis. Elaborated developmental models for both organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis, with emphasis on discrete developmental steps, occasional need for multiple manipulations in culture to achieve a single developmental step, and identification of responsive tissue types in mixed cultures are explored. It is hoped that the information presented here will lead to a deeper understanding of basic tissue culture responses and will assist the reader in the decision-making process by identifying appropriate media and culture conditions for a particular species or application, or by providing a suitable starting point, should further customization be required.
Delivery of bupivacaine from UHMWPE and its implications for managing pain after joint arthroplasty

Total joint replacement is a widely used and successful surgical approach. Approximately 7 million US adults are currently living with a hip or knee replacement. However, the surgical procedures for total joint replacement are associated with significant postoperative pain, and current strategies do not adequately address this pain, which leads to patient dissatisfaction, reduced mobility, and increased risk of opioid addiction. We hypothesized that the ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) bearing surfaces used in total joint prosthetics could provide sustained release of the local anesthetic bupivacaine to provide relief from joint pain for an extended period of time after surgery. In this paper, we describe the production of bupivacaine-loaded UHMWPE (BPE) and measure the in vitro bupivacaine release kinetics of BPE. We found that bupivacaine could be released from BPE at clinically relevant rates for up to several days and that BPE possesses antibacterial effects. Therefore, bupivacaine-loaded UHMWPE is a promising material for joint replacement prostheses, and future studies will evaluate its safety and efficacy in in vivo models. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Total joint replacement is associated with significant pain and risk of infection. In our paper, we introduce bupivacaine-loaded ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (BPE), which releases bupivacaine, a pain-treating drug, at doses comparable to currently used doses. Additionally, BPE inhibits the growth of infection-causing bacteria. Therefore, BPE may be able to reduce both postsurgical pain and risk of infection, potentially treating two of the most prominent complications associated with total joint replacement. To our knowledge, this is the first development of a material that can address both complications, and devices incorporating BPE would represent a significant advancement in joint arthroplasty prosthetics. More generally, the incorporation of therapeutic agents into ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene could impact many orthopedic procedures owing to its ubiquity.
Demographic and psychosocial factors associated with limited health literacy in a community-based sample of older Black Americans

Abstract Objectives Individuals with limited health literacy often experience suboptimal health outcomes. This study examined the frequency of limited health literacy and demographic and psychosocial factors associated with limited health literacy in a sample of older Black Americans. Methods Participants (n = 330) enrolled in a community-based intervention to promote colorectal cancer (CRC) screening completed baseline surveys assessing health literacy with the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine, Revised (REALM-R) test, CRC awareness, cancer fatalism, Preventive Health Model (PHM) constructs, and demographics. Results Approximately 52% of participants had limited health literacy, the REALM-R score was 5.4 (SD = 2.7). Univariable correlates of limited health literacy were gender, employment, income, prior screening, cancer fatalism, CRC awareness, and PHM constructs (religious beliefs, salience/coherence, perceived susceptibility). Multivariable correlates of limited health literacy were male gender (OR = 2.3, CI = 1.4–3.8), unable to work (OR = 2.8, CI = 1.3–6.1), lower household income (OR = 3.0, CI = 1.6, 5.5), and higher PHM religious beliefs (OR = 1.1, CI = 1.0–1.2). Conclusion Limited health literacy was associated with multiple complex factors. Interventions should incorporate patient health literacy and low-literacy materials that can be delivered through multiple channels. Practice implications Future studies are needed to understand the role of health literacy in an individual’s health behavior and the provision of effective healthcare.
Closing the Wearable Gap-Part II: Sensor Orientation and Placement for Foot and Ankle Joint Kinematic Measurements

The linearity of soft robotic sensors (SRS) was recently validated for movement angle assessment using a rigid body structure that accurately depicted critical movements of the foot-ankle complex. The purpose of this study was to continue the validation of SRS for joint angle movement capture on 10 participants (five male and five female) performing ankle movements in a non-weight bearing, high-seated, sitting position. The four basic ankle movements-plantar flexion (PF), dorsiflexion (DF), inversion (INV), and eversion (EVR)-were assessed individually in order to select good placement and orientation configurations (POCs) for four SRS positioned to capture each movement type. PF, INV, and EVR each had three POCs identified based on bony landmarks of the foot and ankle while the DF location was only tested for one POC. Each participant wore a specialized compression sock where the SRS could be consistently tested from all POCs for each participant. The movement data collected from each sensor was then compared against 3D motion capture data. R-squared and root-mean-squared error averages were used to assess relative and absolute measures of fit to motion capture output. Participant robustness, opposing movements, and gender were also used to identify good SRS POC placement for foot-ankle movement capture.
A Mixed Methods Study of K-12 Influences on College Participation for Students with Disabilities.

This study investigated K–12 experiences individuals with disabilities perceived as influencing their transition to and participation in postsecondary education. Using a convergent transformative m...
A 35-Year-Old Woman with Whole Body Pain: Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a disease that can significantly impact the quality of life of numerous patients. Patients present with widespread pain in addition to associated symptoms such as sleep disturbances, cognitive dysfunction, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. The disease is more prevalent among women. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, symptoms can be decreased with the appropriate treatment plan. Treatment involves a stepwise approach including patient education, medications, and physical and psychological therapies. Patients who adhere to their treatment plans have the best chance of successful recovery.
Analyses of hemodialysis arteriovenous fistula geometric configuration and its associations with maturation and reintervention.

Abstract Objective An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred vascular access for chronic hemodialysis; however, the rates of AVF maturation failure and reintervention remain high. We investigated the AVF geometric parameters and their associations with AVF physiologic maturation and reintervention in a prospective multicenter study. Methods From 2011 to 2016, patients undergoing vein end-to-artery side upper extremity AVF creation surgery were recruited. Contrast-free dark blood and phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were performed using 3.0T scanners to obtain the AVF lumen geometry and flow rates, respectively, at postoperative day 1, week 6, and month 6. The arteriovenous anastomosis angle, nonplanarity, and tortuosity of the fistula were calculated according to the lumen centerlines. AVFs were considered physiologically matured if, using the week 6 MRI data, the flow rate was ≥500 mL/min and the minimum vein lumen diameter was ≥5 mm. The associations of these geometric parameters with AVF maturation and reintervention due to perianastomotic and mid-vein stenosis within 1 year were assessed. Results A total of 111 patients had a usable day 1 MRI scan, with most having upper arm AVFs (n = 73). Compared with the forearm AVFs, upper arm AVFs had greater anastomosis angles (P Conclusions In our study, upper arm fistulas had a larger anastomosis angle, were more nonplanar, and had more tortuous veins than forearm fistulas. For upper arm fistulas, a larger nonplanarity angle is associated with a lower rate of reintervention within 1 year. Once confirmed, vascular surgeons could consider increasing the nonplanarity angle by incorporating a tension-free gentle curvature in the proximal segment of the mobilized vein to reduce reinterventions when creating an upper arm fistula.
Semi-Dispersing Billiards with an Infinite Cusp I

Let be a sufficiently smooth convex function, vanishing at infinity. Consider the planar domain Q delimited by the positive x-semiaxis, the positive y-semiaxis, and the graph of f. Under certain conditions on f, we prove that the billiard flow in Q has a hyperbolic structure and, for some examples, that it is also ergodic. This is done using the cross section corresponding to collisions with the dispersing part of the boundary. The relevant invariant measure for this Poincare section is infinite, whence the need to surpass the existing results, designed for finite-measure dynamical systems.
Perspectives on spatial representation of urban heat vulnerability

Abstract Extreme heat, the deadliest summer weather-related hazard in the USA, is projected to increase in intensity, duration, frequency, and magnitude, especially in urban areas that account for 80% of the population. Spatial visualization and representation are crucial in establishing the hotspots of vulnerability to the heat hazard. However, despite the progress in the science of vulnerability, there lacks a systematic and consistent conceptual framework. The quantification of variables is unchecked, resulting in subjective decisions regarding the weighting of variables, selection of indicators, and the suitability of the proxies. Moreover, contradicting approaches generate disparate outputs such as; inductive versus deductive, area-based versus population-based, and raster versus vector designs. The qualitative approach, meant to provide supplementary data, is often ignored. This review provides a perspective of the lacunae in the existing literature and builds on these gaps to derive a conceptual framework towards harmonizing theoretical and statistical relationships. The framework is anchored on the longitudinal study approach as the socioeconomic, biophysical, and geodemographic dimensions have an inherent temporal variance. The review calls for a precise and accurate depiction of heat vulnerability in urban areas to inform targeted adaptation and mitigation measures and the long term projection of coupled systems behavior.
#ModernBaartmans: Black Women’s Reimagining of Saartjie Baartman:

The purpose of this study is to understand Black women’s recollection and representation of Saartjie Baartman in comparison to their own body image, while also aligning their interpretation of Baar...
Cyclescapes of the Unequal City: Bicycle Infrastructure and Uneven Development: John Stehlin (2019). Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press. 328 pages. $27 (paperback)

On top of a decades-long equity turn in planning, thought, and practice, the heightened movement for Black Lives urges planners to confront how metropolitan areas act to reinforce White supremacy a...
A spatiotemporal model of polarity and spatial gradient establishment in caulobacter crescentus

Bacterial cells have sophisticated intracellular organization of proteins in space and time, which allows for stress response, signal transduction, cell differentiation and morphogenesis. The mechanisms of spatial localization and their contributions to cell development and adaptability are not fully understood. In this work, we use the bacterial model organism, Caulobacter cescentus, to investigate the establishment of polarity and asymmetry. We apply a reaction-diffusion model to simulating the spatiotemporal dynamics of scaffolding proteins PodJ and PopZ, which account for the formation of distinct poles in C. crescentus. Additionally, we use this mathematical model to investigate the nonuniform distribution of key kinase DivJ and phosphatase PleC and figure out their contributions to the spatial gradient of response regulators DivK and CtrA.
Design and synthesis of 3,3′-triazolyl biisoquinoline N,N’-dioxides via Hiyama cross-coupling of 4-trimethylsilyl-1,2,3-triazoles

Abstract A new strategy to effectively lock the conformation of substituents at the 3,3′-positions of axial-chiral biisoquinoline N,N’-dioxides was developed based on the strong dipole–dipole interaction between 1,2,3-triazole and pyridine N-oxide rings. The crystal structure and the DFT calculations of 3,3′-bis(1-benzyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-yl)-1,1′-biisoquinoline N,N’-dioxide (3a) provided strong support for this strategy. Furthermore, we successfully demonstrated that readily available 4-trimethylsilyl-1,2,3-triazoles are viable nucleophiles for Hiyama cross-coupling.
LONG-TERM SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF LOMITAPIDE IN PATIENTS WITH HOMOZYGOUS FAMILIAL HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA: FIVE-YEAR DATA FROM THE LOMITAPIDE OBSERVATIONAL WORLDWIDE EVALUATION REGISTRY (LOWER)

Lomitapide is a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor licensed as adjunctive therapy for adults with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). LOWER is an international, observational registry assessing the long-term safety and effectiveness of lomitapide. This analysis examines
Presenting Intolerance to Teach Tolerance

The role of formal education in the reduction of prejudice of, and intolerance toward, members of a different race, ethnicity or national origin, religion, gender, social status and sexual orientation has long been recognized by social and political psychologists. Higher education, i.e., college education, for example exposes students to diversity of political and religious beliefs and people of different national origin, race or ethnicity, which they often have not encountered in their life previously. The college campus then is an important training ground for one critical component of democratic citizenship – civic enlightenment. Tolerance – the willingness to extend civil liberties and equal opportunities to those you dislike because of their ideology, religion, ethnicity, etc. is at the very core of enlightenment. Looking at a diverse set of undergraduate students across majors enrolled in an introductory course to American Government, our research attempts to make a contribution to the study of civic education and tolerance. First, early in the semester, we assessed students‟ general understanding of tolerance and equality. Students then viewed an hour long documentary on the history of racial, ethnic and religious intolerance in the United States produced by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). In an assignment following the documentary students were asked to describe their emotional and cognitive reactions to the film; we also asked them about their previous knowledge of the described incidents of intolerance. Throughout the remainder of the semester students were asked to discuss in writing and in groups a variety of controversial political and social issues. During the last day of class we finally administered a questionnaire asking students to assess the impact of this introductory class on their tolerance toward people of different religion, race, etc. Our findings show that students – regardless of their race - have very little historic knowledge of intolerance or prejudice in the U.S., largely confined to the case of African Americans (but not Chinese Americans, Japanese Americans, Jews, etc.). A majority of students experiences strong negative emotional reactions to the video. Some white students report feelings of shame and guilt (about being white) after being confronted with the breadth of intolerance historically. We further find that while completion of the course did very little in changing students‟ self-reported political beliefs or values, a majority believes that they have become more tolerant, interestingly particularly regarding religious diversity. We conclude the paper with a discussion of the larger implications of our study.
Handling computational delay in economic model predictive control of nonlinear process systems

An implementation strategy for closed-loop stability of nonlinear systems under real-time Lyapunov-based economic model predictive control (LEMPC) with potentially unknown and time-varying delay is considered. To address closed-loop stability (in the sense of boundedness of the closed-loop state in a compact state-space set), the strategy features a triggered evaluation of the LEMPC optimization problem to compute an input trajectory over a finite-time prediction horizon in advance. At each sampling period, stability conditions must be satisfied for the precomputed LEMPC control action to be applied to the closed-loop system. If the stability conditions are not satisfied, a backup explicit stabilizing controller is applied over the sampling period. The real-time LEMPC scheme is applied to a chemical process network example to demonstrate closed-loop stability and closed-loop economic performance improvement over the economic performance achieved for operation at the economically optimal steady-state.
Fractionation of carbon isotopes: The cyanex system: A liquid-liquid chemical exchange process☆

Abstract A new chemical method of fractionating carbon isotopes is reported. The closed-cycle process is based on the exchange reaction (C2H5)2C(OH)12CN(xylene) + K13CN(aq.) ⇄ (C2H5)2C(OH)13CN(xylene) + K12CN(aq.). The single-stage isotopic separation factor is 1·035 at 20°C, with carbon-13 concentrating in the cyanohydrin species. The rate of exchange is rapid. Reflux is achieved by heating or cooling the process streams. The process solutions are chemically stable during prolonged periods of operation. Cost estimates indicate that the process (termed CYANEX, from CYANide EXchange) is more economical than any existing method for the production of high purity carbon-13 in large quantities.
Optimizing reliability testing with limited resources

In the current limited budget environment, more government entities are using commercial and commercial off-the shelf (COTS) products, which may not have the resources or documentation to ensure high quality and high reliability components. It is then up to the program to determine the quality and reliability properties (estimated failure rate, consumer's risk, environmental limitations, etc). This type of life testing can be costly and time consuming. In order to minimize the cost, the number of components required for reliability testing and the number of hours required to test must be optimized using statistical and reliability testing techniques. A step-by-step methodology using reliability testing parameters and statistical standards to optimize and define the number of components and test time required to achieve a desired confidence in reliability will be presented. This paper will discuss all aspects of a reliability and quality test plan and present the way to inform the management of those risks.
Test and evaluation of distributed information system networks

As information services become increasingly ubiquitous, and are being charged for, users are demanding the ability to choose the quality of an information service based on its cost. In this environment, delivering the right information to the right user at the right time, and with appropriate quality, is the challenge. In addition, resource optimizations must be performed to the degree possible. In this paper we introduce the concept of information quality based system evaluation. The key contribution is a framework in which user/application needs for information quality can be quantified in terms of rigorously defined metrics, existing systems can be evaluated against these metrics, and the tradeoffs between information quality and its cost of provisioning can be examined. Further, this provides an approach to developing information quality aware policies and mechanisms for the system. This framework has been partially validated by applying it to the provisioning of continuous media services, i.e., audio and video, in a distributed environment. This paper presents the case study in detail. Finally, the paper outlines a research program in the area of information quality based system evaluation.
Clustered programmable-reconfigurable processors

In order to pose a successful challenge to conventional processor architectures, reconfigurable computing systems must achieve significantly better performance than conventional programmable processors by both greatly reducing the number of clock cycles required to execute a wide range of applications and achieving high clock rates when implemented in deep-submicron fabrication technologies. In this paper, we describe the architecture of Amalgam, a clustered programmable-reconfigurable processor that integrates multiple conventional processors and blocks of reconfigurable logic onto a single chip. Amalgam's distributed architecture allows implementation at high clock rates by limiting the impact of wire delay on cycle time and delivers an average of 13.7/spl times/ speedup on our benchmark applications when compared to an equivalent architecture that contains only a single programmable processor.
Self-Organizing Sensor Networks

We propose a self-organizing protocol in a sensor network. The algorithm starting from an arbitrary state establishes a reliable communication (based on the directed diffusion strategy) in the network in finite number of steps. In directed diffusion protocol [1], a request for data from a an initiator is broadcast in the network, and the positive answers from the sensors are forwarded back to the initiator.
Spatial, temporal, and hybrid decompositions for large-scale vehicle routing with time windows

This paper studies the use of decomposition techniques to quickly find high-quality solutions to large-scale vehicle routing problems with time windows. It considers an adaptive decomposition scheme which iteratively decouples a routing problem based on the current solution. Earlier work considered vehicle-based decompositions that partitions the vehicles across the subproblems. The subproblems can then be optimized independently and merged easily. This paper argues that vehicle-based decompositions, although very effective on various problem classes also have limitations. In particular, they do not accommodate temporal decompositions and may produce spatial decompositions that are not focused enough. This paper then proposes customer-based decompositions which generalize vehicle-based decouplings and allows for focused spatial and temporal decompositions. Experimental results on class R2 of the extended Solomon benchmarks demonstrates the benefits of the customer-based adaptive decomposition scheme and its spatial, temporal, and hybrid instantiations. In particular, they show that customer-based decompositions bring significant benefits over large neighborhood search in contrast to vehicle-based decompositions.
First-principles determination of the structural, vibrational and thermodynamic properties of diamond, graphite, and derivatives

The structural, dynamical, and thermodynamic properties of diamond, graphite and layered derivatives (graphene, rhombohedral graphite) are computed using a combination of density-functional theory total-energy calculations and density-functional perturbation theory lattice dynamics in the generalized gradient approximation. Overall, very good agreement is found for the structural properties and phonon dispersions, with the exception of the c/a ratio in graphite and the associated elastic constants and phonon dispersions. Both the C-33 elastic constant and the F to A phonon dispersions are brought to close agreement with available data once the experimental c/a is chosen for the calculations. The vibrational free energy and the thermal expansion, the temperature dependence of the elastic moduli and the specific heat are calculated using the quasiharmonic approximation. Graphite shows a distinctive in-plane negative thermal-expansion coefficient that reaches its lowest value around room temperature, in very good agreement with experiments. Thermal contraction in graphene is found to be three times as large; in both cases, bending acoustic modes are shown to be responsible for the contraction, in a direct manifestation of the membrane effect predicted by Lifshitz over 50 years ago. Stacking directly affects the bending modes, explaining the large numerical difference between the thermal-contraction coefficients in graphite and graphene, notwithstanding their common physical origin.
Removal of pseudo-convergence in coplanar and near-coplanar Riemann problems of ideal magnetohydrodynamics solved using finite volume schemes

Numerical schemes for ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) that are based on the standard finite volume method (FVM) exhibit pseudo-convergence in which irregular structures no longer exist only after heavy grid refinement. We describe a method for obtaining solutions for coplanar and near-coplanar cases that consist of only regular structures, independent of grid refinement. The method, referred to as Compound Wave Modification (CWM), involves removing the flux associated with non-regular structures and can be used for simulations in two- and three-dimensions because it does not require explicitly tracking an Alfven wave. For a near-coplanar case, and for grids with 213 points or less, we find root-square-mean-errors (RMSEs) that are as much as 6 times smaller. For the coplanar case, in which non-regular structures will exist at all levels of grid refinement for standard FVMs, the RMSE is as much as 25 times smaller.
Iterative correction process for optical thin film synthesis with the Fourier transform method

Several errors inherent to the Fourier transform method for optical thin film synthesis, including the inaccuracy of the spectral functions Q (sigma) used in the Fourier transforms, are compensated numerically by using successive approximations. We show that the complex phase of Q (sigma) is a key parameter which can be exploited to reduce significantly the thickness of the synthesized films and to control the shape of the refractive index profiles without affecting the spectral performance. This method is compared to other well established thin film design techniques.
Oscillations of local magnetization in the semi-infinite antiferromagnet

Abstract The presence of the boundary in the semi-infinite antiferromagnetic chain is shown to produce spatial oscillations of the local magnetization. A Green function technique is used to obtain the exact from of these Friedel-type oscillations within the spin 1 2 XY model. It is shown that a non-zero external magnetic field is the necessary condition for the oscillating behavior of the local magnetization. Comparison is made with an earlier treatment of the infinite chain with a weak perturbation potential.
Business and legal case genre networks: Two case studies

Abstract The framework of genre systems ( Bazerman, 1994 , Bhatia, 2004 , Swales, 2004 ) offers an opportunity to illuminate the ways in which students enculturate into their disciplinary cultures ( Berkenkotter & Huckin, 1995 ). To explore the ways in which genre chains are constructed through engagement in specific tasks, this study investigates two international students’ development of genre systems in law and MBA programs through the examination of program syllabi and individual student engagement. The findings demonstrate key differences between the programs in expectations and genre sets, as well as illuminating the ways that individuals construct genre systems to mitigate the language challenges that they face. The findings add a thick description to the specific vs. general EAP discussion.
From a distance: implications of spontaneous self-distancing for adaptive self-reflection.

Although recent experimental work indicates that self-distancing facilitates adaptive self-reflection, it remains unclear (a) whether spontaneous self-distancing leads to similar adaptive outcomes, (b) how spontaneous self-distancing relates to avoidance, and (c) how this strategy impacts interpersonal behavior. Three studies examined these issues demonstrating that the more participants spontaneously selfdistanced while reflecting on negative memories, the less emotional (Studies 1–3) and cardiovascular (Study 2) reactivity they displayed in the short term. Spontaneous self-distancing was also associated with lower emotional reactivity and intrusive ideation over time (Study 1). The negative association between spontaneous self-distancing and emotional reactivity was mediated by how participants construed their experience (i.e., less recounting relative to reconstruing) rather than avoidance (Studies 1–2). In addition, spontaneous self-distancing was associated with more problem-solving behavior and less reciprocation of negativity during conflicts among couples in ongoing relationships (Study 3). Although spontaneous self-distancing was empirically related to trait rumination, it explained unique variance in predicting key outcomes.
Identifying Principal Risk Factors for the Initiation of Adolescent Smoking Behaviors: The Significance of Psychological Reactance

An in-school youth survey for a major state antitobacco media campaign was conducted with 1,831 students (Grades 6-12) from 70 randomly selected classrooms throughout the state. Tobacco users accounted for nearly 25% of the sample. Pretest questionnaires assessed demographic variables, tobacco use, and various other risk factors. Several predictors of adolescents' susceptibility to tobacco use, including prior experimentation with tobacco, school performance, parental smoking status, parents' level of education, parental communication, parental relationship satisfaction, best friend's smoking status, prevalence of smokers in social environment, self-perceived potential to smoke related to peer pressure, and psychological reactance, were examined using discriminant analysis and logistic regression to identify the factors most useful in classifying adolescents as either high-risk or low-risk for smoking uptake. Results corroborate findings in the prevention literature indicating that age, prior experimentat...
Preventive Medical Screening Is Not Appropriate for Many Chronic Dialysis Patients

Establishing guidelines for the appropriate preventive medical care for chronic dialysis patients requires consideration of many factors. These include the population's underlying risk factors and expected survival, the effectiveness of screening procedures in improving the duration and/or quality of life, and the potential for renal transplantation. Although many nephrologists order and direct routine cancer screening in their dialysis patients, recent studies suggest such screening is not cost effective. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients and peripheral vascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity among dialysis patients, but even less is known about the cost-effectiveness of screening for peripheral vascular and cardiovascular disease risks in ESRD patients. Despite a recently reported overall standardized cancer incidence of 1.18 in dialysis patients compared with normal populations, the shortened expected survival of dialysis patients argues against routine cancer screening in this population. Dialysis units and nephrologists should focus cancer screening on individual patients and include specific cancer risk as well as expected survival assessments and transplant candidacy in their decisions to screen a patient for cancer. Routine cancer screening of all dialysis patients is not indicated. Additional study of the benefits and cost-effectiveness of screening ESRD patients for cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease risk factors is needed.