cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
That instrument is lousy! In search of agreement when using instrumental variables estimation in substance use research

The primary statistical challenge that must be addressed when using cross-sectional data to estimate the consequences of consuming addictive substances is the likely endogeneity of substance use. While economists are in agreement on the need to consider potential endogeneity bias and the value of instrumental variables estimation, the selection of credible instruments is a topic of heated debate in the field. Rather than attempt to resolve this debate, our paper highlights the diversity of judgments about what constitutes appropriate instruments for substance use based on a comprehensive review of the economics literature since 1990. We then offer recommendations related to the selection of reliable instruments in future studies.
Process optimization using a kinetic model for the ultraviolet radiation-hydrogen peroxide decomposition of natural and synthetic organic compounds in groundwater

Abstract This paper discusses the application of ultraviolet radiation-hydrogen peroxide (UV-HP) process as an advanced oxidation process (AOP) in the treatment of source waters containing natural organic matter (NOM) and contaminated with a synthetic organic chemical (SOC) exemplified by alachlor, an acetanilide pesticide. Alachlor was chosen as the model compound owing to its hydrophobicity and propensity to complex with NOM, besides its classification as an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC). The study examines the general principles, free-radical chemistry and reaction mechanisms of the UV-HP process from a kinetic modeling standpoint, and provides a systematic approach combining experimental data acquisition with modeling techniques for evaluating the influence of NOM and other free-radical scavengers such as the carbonate species on the contaminant degradation efficiency. The study proposes a kinetic model for predicting and/or simulating the UV-HP decomposition of alachlor in the presence of NOM and other free-radical scavengers under different water quality and operating conditions. The model incorporates additional and descriptive features such as pH decrease during oxidation (due to mineralization of NOM and SOC), and uses UV absorbance at 310 nm (UVA310) as a surrogate parameter for NOM, accounting for changes in NOM structural composition attributable to hydroxyl radical attack and direct photolysis. The experimental data provide model validation and verification for alachlor degradation kinetics for NOM-free and NOM-containing waters. Although the model slightly overestimates the UV-HP process reaction rates for water containing NOM at low pH, it provides insight into the complex free-radical reactions, mechanisms and kinetics for process optimization toward economical and efficient decontamination.
Responses to converting enzyme and renin inhibition. Role of angiotensin II in humans.

We compared the renal vascular responses to angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition and renin inhibition to assess the influence of angiotensin II (Ang II). We examined the renal and endocrine responses to the renin inhibitor enalkiren, to captopril, and to placebo in nine healthy and nine hypertensive men on a 10-mmol sodium diet. Ang II was infused to assess effects of the agents on renal and adrenal responsiveness to Ang II. Plasma Ang II concentration was suppressed similarly with enalkiren and captopril--an identical level of blockade was achieved. Although renal plasma flow was stable during placebo, a substantial rise was seen with both enalkiren (+133 +/- 26 mL/min per 1.73 m2) and captopril (+99.4 +/- 22.6). There was remarkable intrasubject concordance between the renal plasma flow responses to renin inhibition and converting enzyme inhibition (r = .90, P < .004). The vasodilator response to both agents correlated inversely with the fall in renal plasma flow induced by Ang II alone (r = -.66, P < .05). Both agents significantly enhanced the renal vascular response to Ang II (P = .01), and, furthermore, the renal vasodilator response to captopril predicted the potentiation of the renal plasma flow response to Ang II after either agent (enalkiren: r = .91, P < .001; captopril: r = .56, P < .05). Concordance of the maximal renal plasma flow response to the two agents appeared in the hypertensive men as well. Our results indicate that the acute renal response to captopril largely reflects a reduction in Ang II formation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Preliminary results on Bridgman grown CdZnTe detector crystals assisted by ampoule rotation

Different rotation profiles were applied to the ampoule during Vertical Bridgman (VB) growth of Cd0.9Zn0.1Te (CZT) for enhancing compositional homogeneity, minimizing radial and axial segregation and stabilizing growth interface. The radial Zinc (Zn) segregation was significantly minimized. Improvements in the axial Zn segregation were also noticeable. The modifications in interface shapes during the growth were prominent from the photoluminescence (PL) studies. Improved grain structure was observed with growths containing lower (0.5 wt. %) initial excess Te; however with higher amount of initial excess Te (7.5 wt. %) high resistivity ingots with improved carrier properties were grown consistently but with lower single crystal yield. With more intense rotations, resistivity values within the ingot varied by an order of magnitude showing non uniformity in distribution of dopants.
Role of inducible nitric oxide synthase in postoperative intestinal smooth muscle dysfunction in rodents

Abstract Background & Aims: We have shown that intestinal manipulation leads to a significant inhibition of circular muscle contraction. We hypothesized that the inflammatory mediator inducible nitric oxide (NO) plays a role in surgically induced ileus. Methods: Rats and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) knockout and wild-type mice underwent a simple intestinal manipulation. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to detect and localize iNOS expression. Nitrite and NO production were measured in muscularis cultures. Spontaneous and bethanechol-stimulated jejunal circular muscle contractions were measured in an organ bath. Results: Intestinal manipulation resulted in significant iNOS messenger RNA induction in mucosa and muscularis. Immunohistochemistry localized iNOS in phagocytes within the muscularis. Nitrite and NO production increased 59.8-fold 24 hours after manipulation. L-n 6 -(1-iminoethyl) lysine (L-NIL) inhibited this response. In control rats, selective iNOS inhibition did not increase spontaneous muscle activity, but after manipulation L-NIL significantly improved spontaneous activity. iNOS knockout mice showed a significant 81% decrease in neutrophil infiltration into the muscularis after intestinal manipulation compared with wild-types. Contractile activity was normal in knockout mice after intestinal manipulation. Conclusions: These results show that leukocyte-derived inducible NO inhibits gastrointestinal motility after manipulation and plays an essential role in the initiation of intestinal inflammation. GASTROENTEROLOGY 2000;118:316-327
Seeing Deb Margolin: Ontological Vandalism and Radical Amazement

Playwright and performer Deb Margolin's contributions to contemporary American theatre over the course of her now 25-plus year career have been eclectic. In the 1980s and early '90s she performed with Peggy Shaw and Lois Weaver as the feminist performance troupe Split Britches, for which Margolin did much of the writing, based on the trio's improvisations and experiments. In the interstices of her work with Split Britches, Margolin built her own career as a solo performer and playwright. In her autobiographical Index to Idioms, premiered in 2005, and in conversation with Jill Dolan, Margolin addresses her process, politics, and pleasures in performance and playwrighting.
What project strategy really is: The fundamental building block in strategic project management

Strategic project management is gradually becoming a popular and growing trend within the discipline of project management. The general idea is that project management teams must learn how to deal ...
The modeling of batch and continuous emulsion polymerization reactors. Part II: Comparison with experimental data from continuous stirred tank reactors

A detailed model for emulsion polymerization is compared with extensive data from continuous stirred tank reactors. Model predictions are compared with both steady-state and dynamic data, for polymerization of styrene, methyl methacrylate, and vinyl acetate. Good agreement between model and experiment is achieved with one set of parameters and without any data fitting. The results show that the model is capable of predicting all of the experimentally observed phenomena including steady-state multiplicity, sustained oscillations, ignition and extinction dynamics, and overshoot during start-up.
Churches Unusual: Worship and Broad-Based Organizing in Two Brooklyn Congregations

AbstractThe following is an ethnographical study of two ‘churches unusual’ in Brooklyn, New York, USA: ‘unusual’ because all are members of a local citizen’s organization. East Brooklyn Congregations (EBC) is itself an affiliate of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), a broad-based organizing network grounded in the idea that the most potent power is found in community relationships. The ethnography presented here of two EBC member institutions—Hope Christian Center and St Paul Community Baptist Church—moves back and forth between each congregation’s worship and participation in the citizens’ organization to which it belongs. In juxtaposing their religious practice and organizing, this article explores the relationship between them, asking how religious identities are changed in the organizing process.
Stag Hunts and Committee Work: Cooperation and the Mutualistic Paradigm

Contemporary philosophers and psychologists seek the roots of ethically sound forms of behavior, including altruism and a sense of fairness, in the basic structure of cooperative action. I argue that recent work on cooperation in both philosophy and psychology has been hampered by what I call “the mutualistic paradigm.” The mutualistic paradigm treats one kind of cooperative situation—what I call a “mutualistic situation”—as paradigmatic of cooperation in general. In mutualistic situations, such as the primeval stag hunt described by Brian Skyrms, every partner in a cooperative action has to do his part in order for the action as a whole to succeed. But many familiar cooperative situations—for example, serving on an academic committee—do not have this structure. Contemporary philosophers and psychologists are right that thinking about cooperation can shed light on how and why ethically sound behavior happens in human beings. But the deep connections between ethics and cooperation only come into view once we have a richer conception of our capacities for cooperation than the mutualistic paradigm provides.
Excimer Lasers In Medicine

Excimer lasers emit light energy, short optical pulses at ultraviolet wavelengths, that results in a unique laser tissue interaction. This has led to an increasing number of studies into medical applications of these lasers in fields such as ophthalmology, urology, cardiology and neurology.
Social studies teachers׳ interactions with second generation web-based educative curriculum

Abstract This paper advances a continuing line of research investigating the potential of web-based educative curriculum materials (ECMs) to facilitate teachers׳ development of professional teaching knowledge (PTK). Our ECMs consisted of online lesson plans scaffolded with embedded digital resources to promote teacher understanding of a particular wise-practice pedagogy: problem-based historical inquiry (PBHI). Our research question was: Can a 2nd generation of web-based ECMs encourage social studies teachers׳ development of PTK for PBHI? Participants reacted positively to several educative scaffolds, especially videocases of experts modeling historical thinking. Evidence suggested that multiple experiences with planning and implementing instruction with our ECMs helped teachers recognize value in some of the materials׳ underpinning concepts (e.g., scaffolding and inquiry-based instruction). However, planning instruction individually, the novelty of planning resources enhanced with digital resources, and certain contextual features of schooling such as inadequate focused time for planning seemed to frustrate the ECMs potential to promote teacher-learning. Here we suggest that ECMs function less effectively as stand-alone supports; however, employed in more formal contexts that feature collaboration, they may be able to provide valuable support for teachers׳ professional development.
Adenylate cyclase activity in normal and leukemic human leukocytes as determined by a radioimmunoassay for cyclic AMP.

Abstract Adenylate cyclase in human leukocytes is a labile enzyme easily damaged during rupture. Homogenization in a glass homogenizer in the presence of 0.25 M sucrose preceded by swelling in the slightly hypotonic media retained the cyclase activity. Other conditions such as sonication or homogenization in the absence of sucrose resulted in a variable loss of activity. The cyclase activity was determined by a radioimmunoassay which, with some modifications, proved more sensitive than the labelled ATP assay method. Adenylate cyclase from lymphocytes of patients with chronic lymphatic leukemia exhibited an altered response to prostaglandins E 1 , E 2 and F 2α when compared with cyclase from normal human lymphocytes.
Abscess volume and ultrasound characteristics of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection.

BackgroundSkin abscesses may vary in volume and inflammation based on organism, although this has not been evaluated using emergency ultrasonography (EUS).ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to examine the utility of EUS in discerning skin abscess volume and inflammation by infecting organism.M
Divergent Cretaceous paleomagnetic pole position for the Southern California Batholith, U.S.A.

Paleomagnetic measurements on 18 stable sites in plutonic rocks from the Cretaceous Southern California Batholith yield an average direction of magnetization of 3.0°, 49.5° (declination, inclination) and a mean paleomagnetic pole of 85.5°N, 22.5°E (latitude, longitude). All sites are of Normal polarity. The mean direction of magnetization for the Batholith diverges from the expected Cretaceous direction by some 26° in declination and 11.5° in inclination. This divergence can be accounted for by reference to the mechanics of transform faulting between the North American and Pacific plates.
Self-Disclosure Reciprocity among Preadolescents

Self-disclosure reciprocity was investigated in third -and sixth-grade boys and girls. Results indicated that preadolescents hearing intimate disclosure input spent more time disclosing intimately than did preadolescents hearing nonintimate disclosure input. Girls spent significantly more time than boys in intimate disclosure and total disclosure at both grade levels.
The Elastic Behavior of Partially-Sintered Materials

A simple model is presented for the elastic behavior of a powder compact that has undergone small amounts of sintering. The analysis shows that the elastic constants are sensitive to small changes in the interparticle contact areas. The elastic constants are also shown to be dependent on factors relating to the structure of the powder compact, such as the particle coordination number. It is concluded that such elastic constant measurements are a valuable tool in studying adhesion within compacts, the mechanisms involved in the initial stages of sintering and the characterization of powders.
Effect of transmission delay on the rate of convergence of a class of nonlinear contractive dynamical systems

We investigate the qualitative properties of a general class of contractive dynamical systems with time delay by using a unified analysis approach for any p-contraction with p /spl isin/ [1,/spl infin/]. It is proved that the delayed contractive dynamical system is always globally exponentially stable no matter how large the time delay is, while the rate of convergence of the delayed system is reduced as the time delay increases. A lower bound on the rate of convergence of the delayed contractive dynamical system is obtained, which is the unique positive solution of a nonlinear equation with three parameters, namely, the time delay, the time constant and the p-contraction constant in the system. We show that the previously established results in the literature about the global asymptotic or exponential stability independent of delay for Hopfield-type neural networks can actually be deduced by recasting the network model into the general framework of contractive dynamical systems with some p-contraction (p /spl isin/ [1,/spl infin/]) under the given delay-independent stability conditions. Numerical simulation examples are also presented to illustrate the obtained theoretical results.
Seeing is Believing, Looks are Deceiving: What does One See in Images of Drugs and Drug Use(rs)?

Images of drugs and drug use(rs) convey meaning, feelings, and beliefs, and what is being seen is often believed. Images can also deceive in content, meaning, and belief. Drug use(r) researchers, who use images as data, must be cautious in interpreting what is being conveyed and why. As technological advances continue to shape the creation, modification, storage, and analysis of images, researchers must be ever more vigilant about what they are seeing and believing.
Assessing Family Context

Why is assessing a child’s family context important in the clinical assessment of children’s emotional and behavioral functioning?
Effects of Odd-Even Side Chain Length of Alkyl-Substituted Diphenylbithiophenes on First Monolayer Thin Film Packing Structure

Because of their preferential two-dimensional layer-by-layer growth in thin films, 5,5′bis(4-alkylphenyl)-2,2′-bithiophenes (P2TPs) are model compounds for studying the effects of systematic chemical structure variations on thin-film structure and morphology, which in turn, impact the charge transport in organic field-effect transistors. For the first time, we observed, by grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXD), a strong change in molecular tilt angle in a monolayer of P2TP, depending on whether the alkyl chain on the P2TP molecules was of odd or even length. The monolayers were deposited on densely packed ultrasmooth self-assembled alkane silane modified SiO2 surfaces. Our work shows that a subtle change in molecular structure can have a significant impact on the molecular packing structure in thin film, which in turn, will have a strong impact on charge transport of organic semiconductors. This was verified by quantum-chemical calculations that predict a corresponding odd–even effect in the strength...
Pitfalls in using BMI as a selection criterion for bariatric surgery.

Purpose of reviewBecause obesity was thought to be an important independent predictor for mortality, the eligibility criteria for bariatric procedures are all indexed to some minimum level of BMI. Recent evidence suggests that BMI is a poor correlate of mortality, suggesting that BMI should not serv
Divergent kleisin subunits of cohesin specify mechanisms to tether and release meiotic chromosomes

Most plant and animal cells have a pair of each chromosome: one copy is inherited from the father, the other from the mother. When a cell divides, each daughter cell must receive a copy of all of the original cell's genetic information. To this end, the chromosomes are replicated to form so-called ‘sister chromatids’, which are then segregated equally between the two daughter cells. In contrast, sex cells such as eggs and sperm (also called gametes) have a single copy of each chromosome. When an egg and a sperm fuse to form a single cell (called a zygote), the zygote ends up with a full set of chromosomes. Gametes are formed by two successive rounds of cell division that occur after the chromosomes are replicated. The first round separates the pairs of chromosomes, and the second separates the sister chromatids to produce the gametes, each of which has half the original amount of genetic information. If something goes awry in the production of gametes, a zygote can end up with the wrong number of chromosomes. Almost one-third of human zygotes inherit an aberrant complement of chromosomes, and many of these zygotes either fail to survive or develop into offspring with birth defects and developmental disorders. To ensure that gametes receive the correct number of chromosomes, the sister chromatids remain bound together by a ring-shaped protein complex during the first cell division. Previous studies on how this protein complex—called cohesin—tethers the sister chromatids together were conducted on yeast and mammalian cells. Now, Severson and Meyer show that, in a microscopic worm called Caenorhabditis elegans, cohesin functions differently from how it functions in the simpler yeast cells. Severson and Meyer found that rather than using a single cohesin complex like in yeast, the worms use multiple cohesin complexes that have different versions of one key protein subunit. Changing this single subunit has a major impact on cohesin's function. Consequently, each complex plays a specific role in tethering and then releasing sister chromatids. One of the cohesin complexes is triggered to tether the sister chromatids when the chromosomes replicate. Unexpectedly, another complex only tethers the sisters once breaks occur in the DNA. These breaks allow sister chromatids that are produced from maternally- and paternally-derived chromosomes to cross over and swap genetic material—which increases the genetic diversity of any future offspring. After these genetic swaps occur, the cohesin complexes are then selectively removed by different mechanisms, first to release the pairs of chromosomes and then the sister chromatids. The findings of Severson and Meyer establish a new model for the mechanisms of chromosome segregation during gamete production. Further studies are now needed to determine the roles and regulation of these protein complexes in other species—including plants and mammals, which use similar cohesin complexes.
Microhabitat associations of vascular epiphytes in a wet tropical forest canopy

Summary In tropical forests, vascular epiphyte diversity increases with tree size, which could result from an increase in area, time for colonization or an increase in microhabitat heterogeneity within-tree crowns if vascular epiphyte species are specialized to particular microhabitats within the crown. The importance of microhabitats in structuring epiphyte communities has been hypothesized for more than 120 years but not yet confirmed. We tested the importance of microhabitats in structuring epiphyte communities by examining microhabitat heterogeneity and epiphyte communities within the crowns of different-sized Virola koschnyi (Myristicaceae) emergent trees in a Costa Rican tropical wet forest. We tested the degree to which epiphyte species composition was associated with environmental conditions and resources (i.e. microhabitats) using multivariate analyses and a null model that compared the observed epiphyte assemblages amongst different-sized trees and crown zones with assemblages generated randomly. This study is the first to rigorously examine the degree of microhabitat specialization in epiphyte communities. Microhabitat heterogeneity, epiphyte species richness and abundance increased with tree size. The largest trees had the highest microhabitat and epiphyte diversity and a unique inner crown microhabitat with canopy humus. The few epiphytes found on small trees were mostly bark ferns. Large trees had different epiphyte communities in different parts of the crown; the inner crown contained species not abundant in any other microhabitat (i.e. aroids, cyclanths and humus ferns), and the outer crown contained bark ferns and atmospheric bromeliads. Variation in species composition amongst tree size classes was significantly related to the mean daily maximum vapour pressure deficit and tree diameter, while variation within large tree crowns was significantly related to canopy humus cover. Microhabitat specialization of epiphyte species increased with tree size with 6% of species significantly associated with small trees and 57% significantly associated with large trees. Of the species present in large tree crowns, 23% were specialized to the unique inner crown microhabitat. Synthesis. The increase in microhabitat heterogeneity within tree crowns as trees grow contributes to changes in epiphyte community structure, which supports decades-old hypotheses of the importance of microhabitat diversity and specialization in structuring tropical epiphyte communities.
Application of Neural Networks to Stereoscopic Imaging Velocimetry

Stereoscopic imaging velocimetry is an optical nonintrusive method for measuring three-dimensional three-component gross-field fluid flows, which is based on the image capture by two CCD sensors from different vantage points. In this approach, part of the individual particle images or equivalently data points are likely to be lost when a flow field with a highparticle density is captured by the imaging system. The data loss mostly occurs during the process of overlap decomposition of superimposed particle images and during the phase of particle tracking. In order to maximize the data point-recovery and to enhance the measurement accuracy, neural networks are implemented in the two phases of stereoscopic imaging velocimetry. For the phase of particle overlap decomposition, the Back Propagation neural network is utilized because of its ability in pattern recognition and classification. For the phase of particle tracking, the Hopfield neural network is employed to attain a globally-optimal solution in finding appropriate particle tracks. Our investigation indicates that the neural networks offer very good potential for performance enhancement and has proven to be very useful for stereoscopic imaging velocimetry.
Effects of irradiation on respiration and ethylene production of apple slices

Respiration and ethylene production rates of irradiated apple slices from four apple cultivars were measured for 72 h. Doses less than 1.2 kGy had no effect on rates of CO2 production and O2 consumption, and irradiation at doses between 1.2 and 2.4 kGy had minimal effect for all cultivars. Respiratory response of ‘Idared’, ‘Law Rome’ and ‘Empire’ slices to irradiation was curvilinear, with maximum respiration occurring in the 3–6 kGy dose range. Response of ‘Delicious’ slices was linear over the irradiation dose range (0–11 kGy) studied. Respiratory quotient increased with irradiation dose. The degree of maturity of the slices affected respiratory responses. Irradiation reduced ethylene production of all slices. These results suggest that irradiation doses of up to 2.4 kGy can be used with minimum effect on the respiratory physiology of tissues. © 2000 Society of Chemical Industry
Optimal Monetary Policy in a Financially Fragile Economy

This paper studies optimal monetary policy in an economy where …rms use external funds to …nance operational costs. It is shown that direct and indirect cost channels for monetary policy arise when …rms can default on borrowed funds. The direct cost channel calls for milder contractions in the face of in‡ationary pressures. The indirect cost channel, on the other hand, encourages policy conservatism and suggests stringent anti-in‡ationary measures. It is found that a super-inertial interest rate feedback rule can implement the globally optimal plan as the unique rational expectations equilibrium. JEL classi…cation: E52; E44; E53
Improving Climate Change Communication Starting with Environmental Educators

This study examined students' knowledge, perceptions, and capability to communicate about climate change before and after taking a graduate-level global climate change education course. The 15 stud...
A System for Web-Based Interactive Real-Time Data Visualization and Analysis

The convergence of mashup and Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) enables the enterprise to deliver composite and situational applications by integrating information across internal and external sources. In this paper, we propose an approach that takes ideas from mashup and extend it to deliver real-time interactive visual analysis application on spatial-temporal datasets over the Internet. Four aspects of the approach are discussed: temporal data mashup based on continuous queries, template driven and materialized mashup view for providing personalized services, real-time data transmission using Web Service Notification (WSN), geo-visualization mashup for visual synthesis, presentation and analysis. A prototype system has been built up for supporting hydrologic information observation and analysis, such as flood prediction, inundated area estimation, etc. Our preliminary findings will be beneficial to others to create Business Intelligence (BI) mashups for real-time visualization and business logic analysis.
The velocity structure of the crust and upper mantle under China from broad-band P and PP waveform analysis

SUMMARY We model 45 P and PP waveforms at epicentral distances of 14" to 40", primarily sampling western and central China, to determine regionalized P-wave velocity variations for the crust and upper mantle in this region. Observed P and PP waveforms are matched by 1-D forward modelling using the reflectivity technique. Our approach is to first find a homogeneous average velocity model for China which can match the observed broad-band waveforms filtered with a long-period instrument response. This model is then used as a starting model for the matching of the broad-band waveforms to investigate the lateral velocity variations. Our preferred average model WCH has a 50 km thick crust with a velocity of 6.4 km s-', a P,, velocity of 8.15 km s-' and a low-velocity zone between 100 km and 175 km depth. It has intermediate characteristics between an active tectonic region and a stable shield, compatible with previous S-wave modelling results. Modelling of the broad-band waveforms indicates significant lateral deviations from model WCH. For the Tibetan plateau we observe larger crustal thickness (55-70 km) and P,, velocity (8.15-8.25 km sC') in combination with a low-velocity zone that varies in magnitude throughout the Tibetan region. Lower velocities than our average model may be present below 200 km depth. Our modelling indicates a thin lid of about 30-45 km under Tibet. We infer from our results and previous work that crustal shortening and thickening is the most likely process responsible for the central and northern Tibetan plateau's thick crust and high average elevation, and that the Indian plate has probably only underplated the southernmost part of the plateau. Mantle convection associated with the crustal shortening process has led to strong lateral heterogeneity in the upper mantle under Tibet. Higher P,, velocities in western Tibet might indicate that this region is presently undergoing crustal shortening. Paths traversing eastern China require a constant velocity lid of about 100 km thickness, a P,, velocity of 8.12-8.14kms-' and a crustal thickness between 27 and 35 km. A preliminary model for northern China suggests a crustal thickness between 43 and 50km, a P,, velocity of about 8.0kms-' and a 100km thick lid with a positive velocity gradient for this region.
Large-scale structure in brane-induced gravity. I. Perturbation theory

We study the growth of subhorizon perturbations in brane-induced gravity using perturbation theory. We solve for the linear evolution of perturbations taking advantage of the symmetry under gauge transformations along the extra-dimension to decouple the bulk equations in the quasistatic approximation, which we argue may be a better approximation at large scales than thought before. We then study the nonlinearities in the bulk and brane equations, concentrating on the workings of the Vainshtein mechanism by which the theory becomes general relativity (GR) at small scales. We show that at the level of the power spectrum, to a good approximation, the effect of nonlinearities in the modified gravity sector may be absorbed into a renormalization of the gravitational constant. Since the relation between the lensing potential and density perturbations is entirely unaffected by the extra physics in these theories, the modified gravity can be described in this approximation by a single function, an effective gravitational constant for nonrelativistic motion that depends on space and time. We develop a resummation scheme to calculate it, and provide predictions for the nonlinear power spectrum. At the level of the large-scale bispectrum, the leading order corrections are obtained by standard perturbation theory techniques, and show that the suppression of the brane-bending mode leads to characteristic signatures in the non-Gaussianity generated by gravity, generic to models that become GR at small scales through second-derivative interactions. We compare the predictions in this work to numerical simulations in a companion paper.
Towards concurrency refactoring for x10

In this poster, we present our vision of refactoring support for languages with a partitioned global address space memory model as embodied in the X10 programming language. We examine a novel refactoring, extract concurrent, that introduces additional concurrency within a loop by arranging for some user-selected code in the loop body to run in parallel with other iterations of the loop. We discuss the mechanisms and challenges for implementing this refactoring and how development of this refactoring provides insight for designing future refactorings.
Prolonged In Vitro Exposure of Broiler Adipocytes to Somatostatin Enhances Lipolysis and Induces Desensitization of Antilipolysis

Abstract Adipocytes isolated from abdominal fat of female broilers and maintained in primary culture were used to characterize acute and chronic effects of somatostatin (SRIF) on lipolysis and antilipolysis and to determine whether desensitization and cross-regulation phenomena are involved in the regulation of adipocyte metabolism by SRIF and glucagon. Acute exposure of adipocytes to SRIF resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of basal and glucagon-stimulated lipolysis. The potency and extent of lipolysis inhibition by SRIF were inversely related to the dose of glucagon used to stimulate lipolysis. Preincubation of adipocytes with SRIF induced a dose-response and time-dependent increase in the set-point of lipolysis. Adipocyte sensitivity to glucagon was not altered by SRIF pretreatment. In contrast, preincubation with SRIF reduced adipocyte sensitivity and maximal responsiveness to SRIF. The pattern and extent of antilipolysis attenuation were dependent on the dose and time of preincubation with SRIF as well as on the concentration of glucagon used to acutely stimulate lipolysis. In two experiments, the attenuation of antilipolysis induced by SRIF pretreatment was observed in the absence of enhanced lipolysis, whereas in one experiment enhanced lipolysis was observed in the absence of attenuated antilipolysis. These results indicated that persistent activation of antilipolysis by SRIF increased the set-point of lipolysis by sensitizing (i.e., cross-regulating) lipolysis and by desensitizing antilipolysis.
Diagnostic Screening With Incarcerated Youths Comparing the DPS and Voice DISC

In the first examination in a juvenile justice setting, associations between the DISC Predictive Scales (DPS) and the Voice Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children in identifying mental health concerns were investigated. Assessment center youth (N = 195) completed computerized versions of both instruments. Psychometric properties and logistic regression estimates for diagnostic clusters were examined, and DPS summary subscales to derive cut points for incarcerated youths were created. DPS consistently identified higher percentages of youths. At the cluster level, there was considerable concordance, with agreement higher for the same diagnostic constructs, even after statistical adjustment. Summary subscale cut points identified ≥ 82% of disordered youths. Given recommendations for universal screening in corrections, the DPS offers advantages over existing screens as a component of mental health assessment.
Estrogen receptor alpha somatic mutations Y537S and D538G confer breast cancer endocrine resistance by stabilizing the activating function-2 binding conformation

Around one in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Hormone-based therapies – also referred to antiestrogen drugs – target a protein called estrogen receptor alpha and are effective treatments for the majority of these cancers. Unfortunately, about half of patients will develop recurrent breast cancers even though the cancer continues to produce the target of the drugs. The estrogen receptor alpha drives breast cancer in a number of ways, many of which require the receptor to be activated by binding to the hormone estrogen. When estrogen binds it causes the receptor to change shape to expose a surface where other proteins called coactivators can bind. Once a coactivator is bound, the estrogen receptor is active and signals the cancer cell to grow, divide, invade local tissues, and spread to new sites in the body. Antiestrogen drugs competitively block the binding of estrogen to the receptor and cause the receptor to take on a different shape that inhibits the binding of the coactivator. However, recent studies identified mutations at specific sites in the gene that encodes estrogen receptor alpha in a large subset of patients with breast cancers that have spread. These mutations make the receptor resistant to antiestrogen drugs, and two mutations (called Y537S and D538G) account for approximately 70% of cases. However, it was not clear how these mutations altered the activity of estrogen receptor alpha at the molecular level. Fanning, Mayne, Dharmarajan et al. now show these two most common mutations allow estrogen receptor alpha to bind to the coactivator in the absence of hormone. This unfortunately also reduces the effectiveness of one of the mostly widely administered antiestrogen therapies – a drug called tamoxifen. However, Fanning, Mayne, Dharmarajan et al. also show that the newer and more potent antiestrogens that are currently under examination in clinical trials should be highly effective at treating the cancers with the mutated versions of estrogen receptor alpha. Applying the knowledge gained from these new findings toward the development of new antiestrogens could help reverse the impact of these common mutations. If successful, these new drugs will provide life-saving treatments for many breast cancer patients.
One educator, four perspectives

Purpose – The author of this paper aims to reflect on the past 14 years of English education in the USA and the resulting effects of state standards and standards implementation on secondary English teachers. Design/methodology/approach – Controversy surrounding standards implementation often includes balancing the struggle between teacher autonomy and district-mandated curriculum. The journey described here includes four roles in education: first, an undergraduate in a teacher education program at a state university; second, a classroom teacher learning to create pacing guides based on the standards; third, a graduate student writing a dissertation about standards implementation; and, fourth, a teacher educator who works with pre-service and practicing teachers. Findings – Educators at all levels must determine how to best navigate standards to help students succeed in the classroom, and what teaching practices must endure even in the face of increased standardization. Originality/value – Lack of curricu...
Recognized and unrecognized hyperglycemia in cancer inpatients

9079 Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a recognized co-morbidity with cancers. Prevalence of DM in cancer inpatients and occurrence of acute hyperglycemic crises in cancer patients have not bee...
An economic evaluation of the market for physicians' services: shortage versus surplus.

The paper examines the existence of a shortage or surplus in the market for physicians' services over time. The assessment is carried out within a framework provided by economic theory, and three basic indicators are utilized: earnings, rates of return to education, and quantity of work. The third indicator is examined in various including vacancies, weeks of work, and hours of work. The outcomes of this assessment do not support the existence of a surplus of of physicians; rather, they are consistent with a shortage which appears to be growing.
Synthesis of micritic carbonate analogs: effect on velocity-pressure sensitivity and dissolution

Summary In this study, we investigate the effect of micrite content on the acoustic properties of well-controlled microstructures created in carbonate analogs. In particular, we examine the effect of micrite on acoustic velocities, sensitivity of velocity to pressure, and their response to dissolution upon saturation with a reactive fluid. Samples are created by mixing coarse (i.e., sand size) and very fine (i.e., micrite size) calcite grains in different amounts and then coldpressing the mixture under pressure to obtain solid, synthetic samples. Bench-top measurements of porosity, permeability and acoustic velocity were performed on the samples. Acoustic velocities were also measured as a function of confining pressure before and after the injection of CO2-rich water. Results indicate micrite content to respectively increase the magnitude of P- and S- wave velocity and decrease its sensitivity to pressure. Thus, the micro-porous micrite aggregates seem to have a stiffening effect on the rock microstructure. This is probably due the sub-round (i.e., stiff) pore structure within micrite aggregates. Furthermore, the high-surface area of micrite aggregates promotes dissolution when the rock is saturated with acidic water. Chemical analysis of Ca +2 concentration in the outlet fluid after injection shows larger dissolution in micrite-rich samples. Post-injection velocities in micrite-rich samples seem to decrease in magnitude as a result of dissolution.
β1, 6-N-Acetylglucosaminyltransferases: Enzymes Critically Involved in Oligosaccharide Branching

近年、β-1,6-N-アセチルグルコサミン転移酵素群の活性が様々な動物組織や色々な細胞で検出された。これらの研究は、これらの転移酵素とそれによって合成される細胞表面糖鎖が、発生、分化及び癌化に伴って大きく変化することを明らかにした。しかしこの変化の分子的な基礎とその機能的意義を明らかにするのはこれからの課題である。ごく最近になってβ-1,6-N-アセチルグルコサミン転移酵素のcDNAがクローンされ、それを発現させることにより、これらの転移酵素系の遺伝子レベルでの発現の制御と、発現された特異的糖鎖め機能との相関が明らかにされるであろう。
Immune responses to improving welfare

The relationship between animal welfare and the immune status of an animal has a complex nature. Indeed, the intuitive notion that "increased vigilance of the immune system is by definition better" because it is expected to better keep the animal healthy, does not hold up under scrutiny. This is mostly due to the fact that the immune system consists of 2 distinct branches, the innate and the adaptive immune system. While they are intimately intertwined and synergistic in the living organism, they are profoundly different in their costs, both in terms of performance and wellbeing. In contrast to the adaptive immune system, the action of the innate immune system has a high metabolic cost as well as undesirable behavioral consequences. When a pathogen breaches the first line of defense (often a mucosal barrier), that organism's molecular signature is recognized by resident macrophages. The macrophages respond by releasing a cocktail of pro-inflammatory cytokines (including interleukin-1 and -6) that signal the brain via multiple pathways (humoral as well as neural) of the ongoing peripheral innate immune response. The behavioral response to the release of proinflammatory cytokines, known as "sickness behavior," includes nearly all the behavioral aspects that are symptomatic for clinical depression in humans. Hence, undesired innate immune activity, such as chronic inflammation, needs to be avoided by the industry. From an immunological standpoint, one of the most pressing poultry industry needs is the refinement of our current veterinary vaccine arsenal. The response to a vaccine, especially to a live attenuated vaccine, is often a combination of innate and adaptive immune activities, and the desired immunogenicity comes at the price of high reactogenicity. The morbidity, albeit limited and transient, caused by live vaccines against respiratory diseases and coccidiosis are good examples. Thankfully, the advent of various post-genomics technologies, such as DNA vaccines and vectored subunit vaccines, offer reason for optimism that substantial progress can be made towards the vaccine refinement goal in the near future.
The Effect of Lidocaine HCI Administered into Epidural Space on the Neuromuscular Blocking Action of Vecuronium

Most local anesthetics intravenously administered inhibit neuromuscular transmission or enhance the neuromuscular block of both nondepolarizing and depolarizing musde relaxants. Local anesthetics used to treat cardiac arrhythmias intraoperatively or postoperatively may, therefore, greatly augment a residual neuromuscular block. To obtain adequate balanced anesthesia and postoperative analgesia, general anesthesia with epidural anesthesia is frequently selected. In the present study we investigated the effects of lidocaine HC1 administered into epidural space on the neuromuscular blocking action of vecuronium. Eighty adult gynecological patients of ASA class I or II were studied. Patients were divided into four groups as follows ; Group I (n=20); vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg iv administered only Group II(n=20); vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg iv and lidocaine 6 mg/kg administered into epidural space Group III(n=20); vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg iv and lidocaine 8 mg/kg administered into epidural space Group IV(n=20); vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg iv and lidocaine 10 mg/kg administered into epidural space Patients of experimental groups II, III and IV were anesthetized by epidural block with 2 % lidocaine followed by general anesthesia 15 minutes later. Before induction with fentanyl(3 ug/kg), droperidol(0.04 mg/kg), thiopental sodium (5 mg/kg) and vecuronium(0.1 mg/kg) iv, neuromuscular monitoring was set by using ABM(Anesthesia and Brain activity Monitor, Datex Co, Finland) which stimulating ulnar nerve at the wrist with supramaximal stimuli at a frequency of 2 Hz and 20 seconds interval. The electromyographic response of hypothenar muscles was recorded. Following stabilization of the control twitch height, vecuronium(0.1 mg/kg) was intravenously injected, and tracheal intubation was performed when the first twitch height of the train of four twitch response(T1) was 5 % of the controL Anesthesia was maintained with O2 (2 L/min) and N2O (4 L/min). The time of onset of action (time from vecuronium iv to 0 % of T1), time of maximal twitch depression (time from loss of T1 to reappearance of T1), Recovery index (time from recovery of 25 % of T1 to 75 % of T1) and T4 ratios (ratio of the height of the fourth twitch to T1) at 25 %, 50 % and 75% of T1 were measured and compared among the groups. The results were as follows ; 1. The time of onset of action was 3.99±0.92 minutes in the control group and 2.94±0.89 minutes in the lidocaine 10 mg/kg administered group(P 0.05). These results suggest that the effect of lidocaine HC1 administered into epidural space on the neuromuscular blocking action of vecuronium showed prolonged depression and recovery time, and reduced time of the onset of action with dose larger than lidocaine 8 mg/kg.