cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An in situ interstitial water sampler for use in unconsolidated sediments

Abstract A sampler which filters and encapsulates pore water in situ from unconsolidated sediments has been constructed. The collected sample is sealed against gas loss and atmospheric contamination. The precision of the technique appears to be ±1% or less for sampled dissolved gases.
In utero efficacy of cystic fibrosis gene therapy: difficult studies, positive or negative.

In the first decade after the discovery of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), there was great expectation that delivery of CFTR with robust viral vector systems might result in clinical efficacy for CF patients in the relatively short term. This view was fueled by numerous demonstrations of robust gene expression in the lungs of a wide range of animal systems, including rodents, rabbits, and nonhuman primates.1,2 The most commonly used vector system, recombinant adenovirus (rAd), demonstrated the highest efficiency and most rapid rate of onset of expression in these early reporter gene studies.
Intravenous chemotherapy filter: initial design and in-vitro proof-of-concept of a novel device for high-dose chemotherapy delivery during transarterial chemoembolization

Purpose Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) increases tumoral chemotherapy dose while minimizing systemic toxicity. Nonetheless, up to 50% of injected doxorubicin (Dox) passes directly through hepatic tumors into the systemic circulation. To further increase tumor dose and limit systemic exposure, we propose to develop a novel chemotherapy filter catheter device that would be positioned transiently during TACE in the draining vein of the target organ to bind Dox that has passed through the tumor before it enters the systemic circulation. Materials and Methods The device would be guided to the desired vein via an internal jugular approach and be deployed like a windsock. Based on chemical properties, 15 activated carbons and 7 resins were obtained to test drug binding capacity and kinetics via a phantom flow model constructed to simulate TACE. 50 mg Dox in 1L PBS (with Ca2+/Mg2+) was warmed to 37°C. Selected adsorbent material with volume equal to a cone in the renal or hepatic vein (2.5 ml) was placed in the circuit segment, simulating device deployment within the vein. Dox concentrations were measured until equilibrium via UV spectrophotometry. Given interest in rapid high capacity drug binding, we propose a metric, the TACE Factor (TF), defined as total mg Dox bound during initial 10 minutes per ml of adsorbent. A goal TF is >10 given a 2.5 ml constraint and aim to bind half the administered Dox (25 mg). Prototype devices were constructed. Results A hydrophilic strong-acid ion-exchange resin performed well with a TF of 9 (20 min equilibrium). Testing of activated carbon suffered from poor kinetics (270 min equilibrium) and a TF of 2.2, although good equilibrium capacity (50 mg Dox / g carbon). Conclusion Proof-of-concept and feasibility of a novel intravenous chemotherapy filter device was successfully demonstrated in-vitro with significant Dox binding in a physiologic TACE flow model. Binding performance in such a model was characterized for carbons/resins, which has not been described before. Based on these results, the physical-chemical properties of the above materials will be optimized to develop even more efficient carbons/resins prior to in vivo device validation. Table 1
Coevolutionary Chase in Two-species Systems with Applications to Mimicry

We study a general dynamical model describing coevolution of two haploid populations with two alleles at a single locus under weak linear symmetric frequency-dependent selection. A novel and more realistic element of our modeling approach is that both species are allowed to evolve. We analyse conditions for "evolutionary chase" between two phenotypically similar species in which one species evolves to decrease its resemblance with the other species while this other species evolves to increase its resemblance with the first species. We apply our results to a series of simple population genetics models describing classical Mullerian and Batesian mimicries as well as intermediate cases. We show that one of the most important factors influencing the plausibility of non-equilibrium dynamics in systems of mimicry is the relationship between the strength of between-species and within-species interactions. This indicates that this relationship should be the focus of both experimental and theoretical work. Our results suggest that systematic studies of frequencies of different mimicry morphs through time may be very useful.
An Examination of the Association of Distress Intolerance and Emotion Regulation with Avoidance

Distress intolerance is an important motivator of maladaptive avoidance-based coping strategies. The selection of such avoidance behaviors is also influenced by one’s access to alternative emotion regulatory strategies. However, little research has examined the relative contributions of these vulnerability factors to avoidance. This study examined whether distress intolerance and access to emotion regulation strategies were uniquely (additively or interactively) associated with self-reported avoidance. Two samples—an unselected sample (n = 300) and a clinical sample (n = 100)—comprised of patients seeking treatment for unipolar mood and/or anxiety disorders were administered measures of distress intolerance, emotion regulation, and avoidance. Results of linear regression analyses indicated that distress intolerance and access to emotion regulation strategies were uniquely and additively associated with avoidance. Implications for the prevention and treatment of psychological disorders are discussed.
Effect of Support Material on the Development of Microbial Fixed Films Converting Acetic Acid to Methane

A study of the development of methanogenic fixed films on pieces of polyvinyl chloride plastic, etched glass and baked clay showed that support material markedly affected the rate of attachment and growth of bacteria converting acetic acid to methane. Film development, as indicated by the rate of acetate conversion to methane and carbon dioxide, was threefold faster on fired clay than on either PVC plastic or etched glass. Scanning electron micrographs showed that the film of bacteria attached to clay was thick and uniform, while the film attached to PVC plastic was thin although still uniform. Attachment to etched glass was spotty. The characteristics of clay which made it a superior support appeared to be its rough, porous surface which offered attachment sites to the micro-organisms and the presence of minerals in the clay, particularly iron which is known to stimulate methanogenesis and growth.
Investigation of a Friction-Induced Source of Excitation in Disc Brake Systems

Friction-induced vibration of a two-degrees-of-freedom mass-spring system interacting with a decelerating rigid strip is considered. The friction law is approximated by an analytic function to facilitate the numerical integration, whereas the truncated Taylor expansion of this function gives good qualitative results. It was shown that after a quasi-harmonic transient period, accompanied by viscous energy dissipation, a relatively short period of intensive stick-slip vibration occurs, with its out-of-phase component generating a series of micro-impacts on the strip. It was further shown that, because of the impulsive character of such kind of loading, its Fourier spectrum is sufficiently rich. Based on the simplified ‘normal form’ equations, it was shown that the out-of-phase vibration mode of the block system absorbs more energy from the decelerating strip if the corresponding natural frequencies satisfy the resonance condition. The out-of-phase stick-slip vibration of the blocks creates an impulsive bending moment applied to the strip, and therefore can be considered as a possible source of flexural vibration. In particular, the results are applied to explanation of squeal generation in automotive disc brakes, although the technique can be extended on other ‘squealing systems’ including geophysical fault (earthquake) models.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Symmetrized Percent Change for Treatment Comparisons

Treatment effects are commonly analyzed by relating post-treatment (F) measurements with corresponding baseline (B) measurements. As effect measures, absolute difference (D) and percent change (PC) are used more than symmetrized percent change (SPC). However, all these measures alter the dependency structure with B and their distributions can differ from B and F. To examine their interpretability and relative performance, we considered simulations under independence and additive and multiplicative correlation structures for parametric and nonparametric analyses. Under independence, nonparametric analysis on F had the greatest power. Elsewhere, simple ANOVA on SPC had power equal to or greater than alternative analysis methods.
An Integrated View of Marketing Myopia

Examines the concept of marketing myopia, its different explanations and types. Organizes the four types of marketing myopia into a classification scheme, suggesting a new perspective which can produce innovative marketing strategies. Recommends five steps towards becoming an innovative firm: a generic firm/industry view, other‐industry monitoring, benchmarking, recruitment of marketers, and a flexible approach to problems.
Seafloor sites could stably store centuries' worth of carbon emissions

If the world does not make a concerted effort to actively remove carbon dioxide (CO2 ) from the atmosphere, we will be locked into 10,000 years of elevated temperatures. The implementation of a large-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) program, however, could stave off the bulk of this warming.
Neurodevelopment of Children Under 3 Years of Age With Smith-Magenis Syndrome

Systematic data regarding early neurodevelopmental functioning in Smith-Magenis syndrome are limited. Eleven children with Smith-Magenis syndrome less than 3 years of age (mean, 19 months; range, 5-34 months) received prospective multidisciplinary assessments using standardized measures. The total sample scored in the moderately to severely delayed range in cognitive functioning, expressive language, and motor skills and exhibited generalized hypotonia, oral-motor abnormalities, and middle ear dysfunction. Socialization skills were average, and significantly higher than daily living, communication, and motor abilities, which were below average. Mean behavior ratings were in the nonautistic range. According to exploratory analyses, the toddler subgroup scored significantly lower than the infant subgroup in cognition, expressive language, and adaptive behavior, suggesting that the toddlers were more delayed than the infants relative to their respective peers. Infants aged approximately 1 year or younger exhibited cognitive, language, and motor skills that ranged from average to delayed, but with age-appropriate social skills and minimal maladaptive behaviors. At ages 2 to 3 years, the toddlers consistently exhibited cognitive, expressive language, adaptive behavior, and motor delays and mildly to moderately autistic behaviors. Combining age groups in studies may mask developmental and behavioral differences. Increased knowledge of these early neurodevelopmental characteristics should facilitate diagnosis and appropriate intervention.
Raf-1 Kinase Inhibitory Protein (RKIP)-mediates Ethanol-induced Sensitization of Secretagogue Signaling in Pancreatic Acinar Cells

Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with most cases of chronic pancreatitis, a progressive necrotizing inflammatory disease that can result in pancreatic insufficiency due to acinar atrophy and fibrosis and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. At a cellular level acute alcohol exposure can sensitize pancreatic acinar cells to secretagogue stimulation, resulting in dysregulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and premature digestive enzyme activation; however, the molecular mechanisms by which ethanol exerts these toxic effects have remained undefined. In this study we identify Raf-1 kinase inhibitory protein as an essential mediator of ethanol-induced sensitization of cholecystokinin- and carbachol-regulated Ca2+ signaling in pancreatic acinar cells. We show that exposure of rodent acinar cells to ethanol induces protein kinase C-dependent Raf-1 kinase inhibitory protein phosphorylation, sensitization of cholecystokinin-stimulated Ca2+ signaling, and potentiation of both basal and cholecystokinin-stimulated extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation. Furthermore, we show that either suppression of Raf-1 kinase inhibitory protein expression using short hairpin RNA or gene ablation prevented the sensitizing effects of ethanol on cholecystokinin- and carbachol-stimulated Ca2+ signaling and intracellular chymotrypsin activation in pancreatic acinar cells, suggesting that the modulation of Raf-1 inhibitory protein expression may have future therapeutic utility in the prevention or treatment of alcohol-associated pancreatitis.
Feedback Effects in Intrinsic/Extrinsic Reward Paradigms

This study examines the effects of redundant feedback on intrinsic motivation to perform a task. Specifically it examines the effect of performancefeedback where there is task closure sufficient to indicate success orfailure to the individualperforming the task. Suchfeedback is characteristic of many intrinsiclextrinsic reward paradigms. The results indicate that redundant task performance feedback may not yield positive effects on attitudinal measures of intrinsic motivation. Such effects appear to be assumed in the literature.
Effects of perfusate leucine concentration on the metabolism of valine by the isolated rat hindquarter.

Abstract Rates of oxidation of valine and release of α-ketoisovaleric acid by hindquarters from rats fed a 9% casein diet were measured at intervals over 90 minutes. The hindquarters were perfused with medium containing between 0.03 and 10 mmol/L l -leucine; concentrations of valine and isoleucine were kept constant at 0.2 and 0.1 mmol/L, respectively. The rate of oxidation of [1- 14 C]valine increased two to threefold when the perfusate contained 0.8 or 1.0 mmol/L leucine but was depressed by 50% when the leucine concentration was 10 mmol/L. The rate of release of α-ketoisovaleric acid from the hindquarter was affected little by perfusate leucine concentrations up to 1.0 mmol/L, but release was depressed when perfusate leucine concentration was increased to 10 mmol/L. The rate of release of α-ketoisocaproic acid increased with increasing perfusate leucine concentration, as did intracellular α-ketoisocaproic acid and leucine concentrations. These results indicate that valine oxidation by the isolated perfused hindquarter is stimulated by a high perfusate leucine concentration (1.0 mmol/L), suggesting that this response contributes to the depressed plasma and tissue valine pools of rats fed a high-leucine diet. An excessively high concentration of leucine (10 mmol/L) suppresses valine oxidation, presumably by competing with valine for transmination or transport.
Classification of projection images of crystalline arrays of the mitochondrial, voltage-dependent anion-selective channel embedded in aurothioglucose

Low-dose electron microscopic images have been recorded from membrane crystals of the mitochondrial, voltage-dependent anion-selective channel, embedded in aurothioglucose. There is considerable variation in the high-resolution detail present in correlation averages computed from these images. Correspondence analysis reveals three classes of "control" averages, with main components of variation involving projected size of the pores and density modulations around the pores and in the corners of the unit cells away from the pores. Pretreatments that affect the functional state of the channel also affect the array averages. In particular, there appears to be a general correlation between the expected effector-induced state (i.e., open and closed) and the projected diameter of the channel lumens in the crystalline arrays.
Tomographic subvolume alignment and subvolume classification applied to myosin V and SIV envelope spikes

Electron tomography is a technique for three-dimensional reconstruction, that is widely used for imaging macromolecules, macromolecular assemblies or whole cells. Combined with cryo-electron microscopy, it is capable of visualizing structural detail in a state close to in vivo conditions in the cell. In electron tomography, micrographs are taken while tilting the specimen to different angles about a fixed axis. Due to mechanical constraints, the angular tilt range is limited. As a consequence, the reconstruction of a 3D image is missing data, which for a single axis tilt series is called the "missing wedge", a region in reciprocal space where Fourier coefficients cannot be obtained experimentally. Tomographic data is analyzed by extracting subvolumes from the raw tomograms, by alignment of the extracted subvolumes, multivariate data analysis, classification, and class-averaging, which results in an increased signal-to-noise ratio and substantial data reduction. Subvolume analysis is a valuable tool to discriminate heterogeneous populations of macromolecules, or conformations of a macromolecule or macromolecular assembly as well as to characterize interactions between macromolecules. However, this analysis is hampered by the lack of data in the original tomograms caused by the missing wedge. Here, we report enhancements of our subvolume processing protocols in which the problem of the missing data in reciprocal space is addressed by using constrained correlation and weighted averaging in reciprocal space. These procedures are applied to the analysis of myosin V and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) envelope spikes. We also investigate the effect of the missing wedge on image classification and establish limits of reliability by model calculations with generated phantoms.
Recrystallization as a controlling process in the wear of some f.c.c. metals

Detailed examination of copper specimens after sliding against 440 C steel in liquid methane at speeds up to 25 m/s and loads of up to 2 kg showed the metal comprising the wear surface to possess a fine cell recrystallized structure. Wear proceeded by the plastic shearing of metal in this near surface region without the occurrence of visible metal transfer. A dynamic balance between the intense shear process at the surface and the nucleation of recrystallized grains was proposed to account for the behavior of the metal at the wear surface. Sliding wear experiments were also conducted on Ag, Cu-10% Al, Cu-10% Sn, Ni and Al. It was found that low wear and the absence of heavy metal transfer were associated with those metals observed to undergo recrystallization nucleation without prior recovery.
Effect of thyroid hormones and high carbohydrate feeding on gene expression in rat epididymal adipose tissue.

We have determined the messenger RNA activity profiles of epididymal fat in euthyroid, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid rats as well as in animals fed a high carbohydrate fat-free (lipogenic) diet. Radioautographs of two-dimensional gels of the in vitro translational products of RNA were quantitated by computer-assisted videodensitometry and analyzed by multivariate statistics. Of the 250 spots observed, each presumably representing the translational product of a separate messenger RNA, 21 were responsive to changes in hormonal state. Eighteen increased and two decreased at some stage in the transition from the hypothyroid to the hyperthyroid state. One spot changed in a biphasic manner. Eight products responded to the lipogenic diet, six increasing and two decreasing. Six of these eight spots responded in a similar fashion to thyroid hormone administration. As previously shown for liver, there appears to be a substantial overlap between the genomic response to carbohydrate and thyroid hormone administration...
The Use of Mirrors during an Assembly Task: A Study of Ergonomics and Productivity

Assembly jobs often require sustained, awkward neck and/or shoulder postures. It has been shown in previous studies that these postures increase musculoskeletal discomfort and can impact long-term productivity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ergonomic interventions designed to eliminate these awkward postures. Subjects used a cordless screwdriver to drive screws into a pre-tapped aluminum block, simulating a simple assembly task. Four distinct assembly postures were tested: standard industry (in-line screwdriver, work at elbow height, no visual aid), pistol grip (pistol grip screwdriver, work at shoulder height, no visual aid), mirror (in-line screwdriver, work at elbow height, single mirror visual aid) and periscope (in-line screwdriver, work at elbow height, two mirror visual aids). Each was performed for fifteen minutes. Muscular activity, discomfort, postural deviation from neutral, productivity, and operator subjective assessment were recorded to determine the effects of the ...
Lack of mitochondrial toxicity in CEM cells treated with carbovir

Abstract Carbovir (CBV) is a guanine nucleoside analog with potent in vitro anti-HIV activity. A prodrug of CBV is currently being evaluated in clinical trials as a potential agent for the treatment of AIDS. The ability of CBV to inhibit mitochondrial DNA synthesis in intact CEM cells was evaluated in the present study, because most of the currently available anti-HIV nucleoside analogs have significant toxicities that result from their inhibition of mitochondrial DNA synthesis. No delayed cytotoxicity was observed in CEM cells treated with 50 μM CBV for 4 weeks. In addition, CBV at concentrations as high as 1 mM did not cause a decline in mitochondrial DNA levels and only minimally increased the concentration of lactic acid in the medium. In contrast to these results with CBV, treatment of CEM cells with 0.5 μM 2′,3′-dideoxycytidine resulted in delayed cytotoxicity, a decrease in mitochondrial DNA content and increases in lactic acid levels in the medium. These results indicated that treatment of CEM cells with CBV did not result in the inhibition of mitochondrial DNA synthesis and suggested that treatment of AIDS patients with CBV, or a prodrug of CBV, would not result in some of the toxicities seen with the other anti-HIV nucleoside analogs.
Radiofrequency tissue ablation: effect of hepatic blood flow occlusion on thermal injuries produced in cirrhotic livers.

Background: Radiofrequency thermal ablation has been used as a treatment for several types of hepatic malignancies. Many of these lesions exist in the presence of cirrhosis. Limitations exist to the size of the ablations and, subsequently, the efficacy of treatment. Hepatic vascular inflow occlusion has been advocated as an adjunctive measure to increase the efficacy of the ablation. We present a model in the human cirrhotic liver that demonstrates the advantage of blood flow occlusion during radiofrequency ablation. Methods: Five patients with advanced endstage liver disease scheduled to have orthotopic liver transplantation were enrolled in this study. After laparotomy and before hepatectomy, radiofrequency ablation was performed without and with hepatic blood flow occlusion. After hepatectomy, the liver was sectioned, the area of ablation was measured in three dimensions, and the volume of ablation calculated. Results: Three of the patients had had previously placed transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. The mean volume of the ablation without blood flow occlusion was 22.5 ± 7.4 cm3 and that with blood flow occlusion was 48.4 ± 24.0 cm3 (P = .05). Conclusions: Ablation area is increased significantly with hepatic blood flow occlusion in the human cirrhotic liver. This result may have application in the treatment of larger (>3 cm) hepatic malignancies.
Effect of weathering cycle and manufacturing method on performance of wood flour and high-density polyethylene composites†‡

Wood–plastic lumber is promoted as a low-maintenance high-durability product. When exposed to accelerated weathering, however, wood–plastic composites may experience a color change and loss in mechanical properties. Differences in weathering cycle and composite surface characteristics can affect the rate and amount of change caused by weathering. In this study, 50% wood flour filled high-density polyethylene composite samples were injection molded, extruded, or extruded and then planed to remove the manufacturing surface characteristics. Composites were exposed to two accelerated weathering cycles in a xenon arc weathering apparatus. This apparatus exposed the samples to xenon arc radiation, which is a combination of UV, visible, and IR radiation that is similar to solar radiation. Composites were exposed to radiation with or without water spray. After exposure to radiation and water spray, composites with more wood component at the surface (i.e., planed samples) experienced a larger percentage of total loss in flexural modulus of elasticity and strength after weathering compared with the other composites. Composites exposed to radiation only did not experience as much change in properties as those exposed to radiation with water spray. The results of this study demonstrate that exposing wood– plastic composites to water spray in combination with radiation is more severe than exposing wood–plastic composites to radiation only.
Academic Choice Behavior of High School Students: Economic Rationale and Empirical Evidence.

Abstract This study examines the determinants of US students’ choice of alternative programs of study in high school. An explicit theoretical framework grounded in optimizing behavior is derived. The empirical work is based on the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997. The set of variables include student and family characteristics, peer behavior, and students’ involvement in work outside the school. The estimation results confirm the theoretical predictions. They suggest that academic aptitude, pre-high school academic performance, and lifetime consumption goals as driven by peer pressure and family background are by far the most important determinants of program choice.
Amygdala Gene Expression Correlates of Social Behavior in Monkeys Experiencing Maternal Separation

Children exposed to early parental loss from death or separation carry a greater risk for developing future psychiatric illnesses, such as major depression and anxiety. Monkeys experiencing maternal separation at 1 week of age show fewer social behaviors and an increase in self-comforting behaviors (e.g., thumb sucking) over development, whereas in contrast, monkeys experiencing maternal separation at 1 month of age show increased seeking of social comfort later in life. We sought to identify neural systems that may underlie these stress-induced behavioral changes by examining changes in mRNA content in amygdala tissue collected from 1 week separated, 1 month separated, and maternally reared infants at 3 months of age. mRNA from the right medial temporal lobe, primarily the amygdala, was analyzed using Affymetrix U133A 2.0 arrays. One gene, guanylate cyclase 1 α 3 (GUCY1A3), showed differential expression between the 1 week and maternally reared groups and the 1 week and 1 month groups; these changes were confirmed by in situ hybridization. The expression of this gene was positively correlated with acute social-comforting behavior ( r = 0.923; p = 0.001) and longer-term close social behavior ( r = 0.708; p = 0.015) and negatively correlated with self-comforting behaviors ( r = −0.88; p in situ hybridization studies of GUCY1A3 in normal monkeys showed that this gene is expressed at adult levels by 1 week of age and that its expression is greater in the amygdala than all other brain areas examined. We conclude that GUCY1A3 may contribute to the altered behavioral phenotypes that are differentially displayed depending on the age at which macaque infants experience an early-life stress.
A hybrid surface-volume integral-equation method for analyzing scattering from voxel-based anatomical human models with smooth skin

An increasing number of anatomically accurate voxel-based human models, developed from medical images, are becoming available for bioelectromagnetic analysis (J. W. Massey et al, Proc. 34th Annu. Mtg. Bioelectromagn. Soc, June 2012). Because the staircased boundaries in these models limit the accuracy of the numerical analysis, smooth surface-based human models are desired. Although it is relatively simple to extract one organ/tissue from a voxel model and obtain a smoothed surface model by applying a surface construction algorithm (W. Lorensen and H. Cline, Proc. SIGGRAPH, July 1987), the resulting independently processed surfaces are in general not compatible (e.g., they can intersect) and therefore cannot be easily combined to obtain a surface-based human model. Case studies with multilayer spherical head phantoms show that a significant portion of the error in voxel-based models occurs in the outermost layer. Thus, accuracy improvements can be achieved even if only the skin of the human model is smoothed. This, however, gives rise to a different compatibility issue — matching the unstructured, triangulated mesh of the skin to the underlying voxel mesh of the body. In this article, an integral-equation approach is used to circumvent this limitation and benefit from voxel-based models with improved skin.
Are all of your educators educating

Institutions that excel are filled with educators in the curriculum and cocurriculum who believe student learning is everyone's business. Elizabeth Whitt characterizes how excellent educators in the cocurriculum do their work.
A second-order semi-implicit δf method for hybrid simulation

A second-order accurate semi-implicit Lorentz force ions, fluid electrons δf hybrid model has been developed using a “current closure” scheme. The model assumes quasi-neutrality and is fully electromagnetic. The implicit field solver improves numerical accuracy by separating the equilibrium terms in the presence of small perturbations. The equilibrium part of the generalized Ohm’s law is solved by direct matrix inversion along the direction of gradients for every Fourier mode in the other two directions, while the nonlinear part is solved iteratively. The simulation has been benchmarked on Alfven waves, ion sound waves and whistler waves against analytical dispersion relation in a slab. In particular, the first-order and second-order schemes are compared by studying the numerical damping of whistler waves. The full evolution of the resistive tearing mode using the Harris sheet equilibrium is also investigated. The linear growth rate and mode structure are compared with the resistive MHD theory. Important tearing mode nonlinear phenomena such as the Rutherford regime and saturation are demonstrated. We also presented systematic study of Rutherford growth rates and saturation island width, which is consistent with previous MHD studies.
CCP Pharmacy Technician Credentialing Framework: Commentary

The Council on Credentialing in Pharmacy (CCP) has formulated and published a Pharmacy Technician Credentialing Framework that offers a clear and detailed plan for a uniform national system of regulating pharmacy technician registration, training, and competency assessment in the US. Based on standardizing currently available instruments, including a task analysis, model curriculum, training program accreditation, and adoption of a psychometrically sound competency examination, the framework is a proposal endorsed by a broad range of pharmacy groups and practice areas and represents a consensus model on which progressive future measures can be based if it is widely accepted and adopted.
Relation of exercise-induced physiologic S-T segment depression to R wave amplitude in normal subjects.

Abstract Exercise electrocardiography was performed in 100 asymptomatic male volunteers with a mean age of 42.6 years. The R wave and total RS amplitude and the magnitude of physiologic S-T segment depression at the J junction were quantitated for a modified bipolar CC5 lead and a vertically oriented bipolar lead (VL) using computer-averaged groups of 25 consecutive QRS complexes from each of seven stages of rest and exercise. Computer-generated X-Y plots were used to examine the correlations between the magnitude of S-T depression and the R wave and total RS amplitudes. The magnitude of S-T depression and of the R wave amplitude were unrelated at standing rest but showed increasing correlation with progressive increases in exercise heart rate (correlation coefficient = 0.425, p These data demonstrate a significant relation between the magnitude of R wave and total RS amplitudes and the magnitude of physiologic S-T segment depression in normal subjects during exercise. They suggest the need for evaluation of S-T depression corrected for R wave amplitude in an attempt to improve the diagnostic accuracy of the exercise electrocardiogram. The data also suggest that the criteria for abnormal S-T depression should take into consideration the different R wave voltages reflected by different types of recording leads.
Evaluation of the Aroma of Cooked Spiny Lobster Tail Meat by Aroma Extract Dilution Analysis

Volatile compounds were isolated from cooked spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) tail meat by vacuum simultaneous distillation-solvent extraction (V-SDE) and dynamic headspace sampling (DHS). Flavor dilution chromatograms of V-SDE and DHS extracts were similar with respect to predominant odorants. The compound 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, having a nutty, popcorn-like odor, was the most intense odorant in both types of extracts. Other potent odorants included 2,3-butanedione (creamy, buttery), 3-(methylthio)propanal (potato-like, soy sauce-like), 2-acetyl-3-methylpyrazine (burnt, popcorn-like), trimethylamine (fishy, ammonia-like), 1-octen-3-one (earthy, mushroom-like), and (Z)-4-heptenal (rancid, boiled potato-like). Two unidentified compounds described as marine, leatherlike, and lobster-like were of relatively low odor intensity.
Price and quantity competition in homogeneous duopoly markets

Abstract A noncooperative duopoly game is formulated in which the quantity player sells its entire amount (up to consumer demand) while the price player supplies residual demand; both firms transact at the same price. Depending on the ordering, two-stage subgame perfect equilibria are equivalent to simultaneous price and quantity Nash equilibria or include also the Stackelberg equilibrium. In any case, a firm prefers to be the quantity player.
The impact of teacher life changes and performance on student dropouts.

Summary This study constitutes an assessment of the relation between the number of students leaving school (dropouts) and the magnitude of teacher life changes in conjunction with selected teacher performance variables in terms of pair‐wise and multiple correlation procedures. Findings support the thesis that the selected teacher performance variables taken in conjunction with teacher life changes and the number of student dropouts are significantly associated.
Robust identification and control of batch processes

An approach is proposed for the robust identification and control of batch and semibatch processes. The batch experiments used for model identification are designed by minimizing the magnitude of the parameter uncertainties, and the effect of these uncertainties on the product quality achievable by optimal control is used as a stopping criterion for the identification procedure. The optimal control approach incorporates a quantification of the impact of both parameter and control implementation uncertainties on the performance of the optimal control policy. The approach is applied to the nucleation and growth of crystals with multiple characteristic dimensions, where the nominal parameters used in the simulation study are quantified from experimental data.
3D Topology Preserving Flows for Viewpoint-Based Cortical Unfolding

We present a variational method for unfolding of the cortex based on a user-chosen point of view as an alternative to more traditional global flattening methods, which incur more distortion around the region of interest. Our approach involves three novel contributions. The first is an energy function and its corresponding gradient flow to measure the average visibility of a region of interest of a surface with respect to a given viewpoint. The second is an additional energy function and flow designed to preserve the 3D topology of the evolving surface. The third is a method that dramatically improves the computational speed of the 3D topology preservation approach by creating a tree structure of the 3D surface and using a recursion technique. Experiments results show that the proposed approach can successfully unfold highly convoluted surfaces such as the cortex while preserving their topology during the evolution.
Adherence to Oral Montelukast and Inhaled Fluticasone in Children with Persistent Asthma

Study Objective. To evaluate adherence to oral montelukast and inhaled fluticasone in children with persistent asthma and to determine if age, monotherapy, and duration of therapy affect adherence. Design. Retrospective analysis. Setting. Pediatric pulmonary clinic. Patients. One hundred seventy-one children with asthma who required continuous treatment with a controller agent year-round and in whom montelukast and/or fluticasone had been prescribed for at least 90 days. Intervention. Montelukast monotherapy had been prescribed for 54 patients, fluticasone monotherapy for 48 patients, and combination therapy for 69 patients. Measurements and Main Results. Prescription refill histories were obtained from pharmacies identified by the parents or from Medicaid pharmacy reimbursement records. The maximum possible adherence was calculated as [(no. of doses refilled)/(no. of doses prescribed)] × 100, for a mean observation period of 203 days (range 84–365 days) for montelukast and 314 days (range 97–365 days) for fluticasone. Median adherence rates were 59% (95% confidence interval [CI] 48–65%) for montelukast and 44% (90% CI 35–50%) for fluticasone. Adherence did not significantly correlate with age, length of observation period, or whether the patient was receiving monotherapy or combination therapy. The odds ratio for very poor adherence (< 50%) was 2.0 (95% CI 1.3–3.2) for fluticasone relative to montelukast. Conclusions. Adherence to both drugs was suboptimal. However, these data indicate that our patients were likely to take montelukast more consistently than fluticasone. Whether this translates into better asthma control requires further study.
CMOS Wideband Pulse Generators for UWB Transmitter Applications

A CMOS pulse generator capable of transmitting biphase wide band gated pulses is demonstrated. The pulse generator is an essential component of a prototype fully integrated UWB transmitter. The pulse generator can be used for impulse radio with BPSK or DBPSK modulations. The measured results show that the fabricated pulse generator design outputs pulses of ~6ns in width (equivalent to a first null bandwidth of -300 MHz). A new pulse generator design is proposed that is insensitive to parasitics/mismatches to generate accurate pulses meeting the 500 MHz bandwidth requirements for UWB systems.
Synthesis and Structural Stability of Ti2GeC

Abstract In this paper we report the synthesis of a ternary-layered ceramic, Ti2GeC, a 211 Mn+1AXn compound by hot-pressing. X-ray analysis confirmed the hexagonal crystal symmetry. Using a synchrotron radiation and a diamond anvil cell, we measured the pressure dependencies of the lattice parameters. The phase is structurally stable up to the 49 GPa—the maximum experimental pressure reached. The bulk modulus of Ti2GeC calculated using the Birch-Murnaghan equation of state is 211 ± 4 GPa with K′ = 3.9 ± 0.2. Surprisingly the bulk modulus was found to be greater than both Ti2AlC and Ti2SC by 13% and 10%. Also, Ti2GeC has the highest bulk modulus among M2GeC phases where M = Ti, V, Cr.
Microtubule arrays in fucoid zygotes are sensitive to cytoplasmic pH

SUMMARY Regulation of microtubule (MT) arrays and embryo-genesis by cytoplasmic pH (pHc) was investigated in zygotes of the brown alga Pelvetia compressa (J. Agardh) De Toni. pHc was clamped to (set to) acidic values using a weak acid, propionic acid (PA), and to alkaline values using a weak base, methylamine (MA). Acidification of pHc from the normal value of 7.4–7.5 to about 7.0 caused disruption of microtubule arrays. The nucleating activity was delocalized from the centrosomes and dispersed over the nuclear envelope, the number of MTs decreased, and MTs failed to extend into the cell cortex. Alkalinization to about pH 8.0 also caused dispersal of nucleating activity, but distinct centrosomes remained. MTs coursed in various directions following MA treatment, giving the array a disorganized appearance. Two MT-dependent processes, rhizoid morphogenesis and cell division, were found to be perturbed by small changes in pHc.
Brain-stem auditory evoked responses as indicators of early brain insult.

Abstract The relationship between cranial ultrasonograms (SONOs) and brain-stem auditory evoked responses (BAERs) was evaluated in 2 independent samples of newborn infants at risk for brain injury (n = 113 and 203). Features of the BAER wave forms subjected to stepwise linear discriminant analysis formed the basis of an algorithm used to detect and follow early brain injury. Using this algorithm, information derived from BAERs reliably predicted SONO abnormalities at least 82.3% of the time in the initial study which was replicated with the second sample (77.3%). The wave I component latency (CL) and the wave III–V inter-peak latency interval (IPL) were independent of each other, and both contributed to a prediction of SONO abnormality. Possible mechanisms for these BAER results include compromise to the cochlear membrane or to the auditory nerve itself as well as prolongation of transmission in the brain-stem due to brain-stem hemorrhage, edema, or compression. Normative BAER values and non-linear regression functions for the wave I, III and V CLs, and the I–III, III–V, and I–V IPLs were calculated across age using data from 109 infants who demonstrated normal BAER patterns and had no history of SONO abnormalities. Our analyses indicate BAER techniques, where a single higher intensity is used to produce the BAER wave form, are both valid and efficient for use in the evaluation of early brain injury.
Optical properties of Titan and early Earth haze laboratory analogs in the mid-visible

Scattering and absorption of sunlight by aerosols are integral to understanding the radiative balance of any planetary atmosphere covered in a haze, such as Titan and possibly the early Earth. One key optical parameter of an aerosol is its refractive index. We have simulated both Titan and early Earth organic haze aerosols in the laboratory and measured the real and imaginary portion of their refractive index at k = 532 nm using cavity ringdown aerosol extinction spectroscopy. This novel technique allows analysis on freely-floating particles minutes after formation. For our Titan analog particles, we find a real refractive index of n = 1.35 ± 0.01 and an imaginary refractive index k = 0.023 ± 0.007, and for the early Earth analog particles we find n = 1.81 ± 0.02 and k = 0.055 ± 0.020. The Titan analog refractive index has a smaller real and similar imaginary refractive index compared to most previous laboratory measurements of Titan analog films, including values from Khare et al. (Khare, B.N., Sagan, C., Arakawa, E.T., Suits, F., Callcott, T.A., Williams, M.W. [1984]. Icarus 60, 127–137). These newly measured Titan analog values have implications for spacecraft retrievals of aerosol properties on Titan. The early Earth analog has a significantly higher real and imaginary refractive index than Titan analogs reported in the literature. These differences suggest that, for a given amount of aerosol, the early Earth analog would act as a stronger anti-greenhouse agent than the Titan analog.
Conceptual Design of a 2-Mwt (375 kwe) Nuclear-Electric Space Power System

The power system described includes a unique nuclear reactor-boiler unit operating at 1500°K that utilizes heatpipes in lieu of a conventionally pumped primary loop. An efficient heatpipe radiator rejects waste heat at 1035°K. Over-all system efficiency is 18.8% yielding a net electrical output of 375 kwe. The system specific mass is 10 kg/kwe including a generous shadow shield for unmanned pay loads.
Determination of the light response of BC-404 plastic scintillator for protons and deuterons with energies between 1 and 11 MeV

Abstract The response of BC-404 plastic scintillator is measured up to 11 MeV for protons and up to 8 MeV for deuterons using a time-of-flight spectrometer. It is shown that the response is nonlinear in this energy range and can be described very well using a four-term polynomial in energy. Earlier response curves which were extrapolated from high energy data and from interpolation of low energy data at widely separated energies are nearly linear in the low energy region. A comparison has been made between our new measured data and the existing curves.
Canadian Health Care and Its Vulnerabilities

,H TOW CANADIAN HEALTH CARE IS VIEWED IN THIS country is a reflection of the dilemmas that confront U.S. medicine. Canada's Medicare program first attracted the attention of American observers during the 1970s, when national health insurance proposals were being considered by the Congress (Marmor 1993). Following this episode, interest in Canada's system quickly subsided among all but a small coterie of health policy specialists. When health care reform regained preeminence on the American political agenda in the early 1990s, Canadian practices once again emerged as rich fodder for lessons designed to guide public policy development. As political scientist Antonia Maioni stated: "Canada's health insurance system ... [became] a useful target and a political weapon in the reform debate, alternatively used as a model of what American health reform ought to aspire to, or as an ominous warning about the problems inherent in government in a national health insurance program" (Maioni 1994, 2-3). Today the backdrop for American interest in Canada's health system is the controversy over managed care. U.S. health care has entered an unmistakably chaotic period, marked by rampant corporatism, a swelling wave of complaints against insurance gatekeepers, and increasing privatization of Medicaid and Medicare through large-scale public contracts
Networks, firms and upgrading within the blue‐jeans industry: evidence from Turkey

Abstract Since the late 1980s, industry characteristics, country-specific contingencies and international conditions have come together and turned Turkey into a major exporter of jeans. It now has a 6.5 per cent share of the world's market. In this article, I explore this transformation and point out that it has created, especially in the 1990s, significant upgrading opportunities for Turkish firms. A large number of Turkish manufacturing firms are now full-package contractors for a diversified list of brand-name jeans. Some of these manufacturers are also experimenting with functional upgrading by developing their own brands and selling them abroad. Local firms, despite their subordinate position in the value chain, can go beyond low value-added manufacturing and encroach on the core competencies of lead firms.