cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
McPAT-Monolithic: An Area/Power/Timing Architecture Modeling Framework for 3-D Hybrid Monolithic Multicore Systems

Three-dimensional integrated circuits (3-D ICs) have the potential to push Moore’s law further by accommodating more transistors per unit footprint area along with a reduction in power consumption, interconnect length, and the number of repeaters. Monolithic 3-D integration is particularly promising in this regard as it offers a very high connectivity between vertical transistor layers owing to its nanoscale monolithic intertier vias. Monolithic integration can be realized at block-, gate-, and transistor-level granularity. A hybrid monolithic (HM) design aims to further optimize area, power, and performance of the chip by combining different monolithic styles. In this article, we introduce McPAT-monolithic, a framework for modeling HM multicore architectures. We use the OpenSPARC T2 processor as a case study to compare different monolithic implementation styles and explore the benefits of HM design. Our simulations show that, under the same timing constraint, an HM design offers 47.2% reduction in footprint area and 5.3% in power consumption compared to a 2-D design at the cost of slightly higher on-chip temperature.
Antony R. Orme's Ireland (1970)

Antony R. “Tony” Orme passed away on 30 May 2020. Professor Orme was one of the US’ most distinguished geomorphologists and physical geographers. This Classics Revisited piece honors the memory of ...
The incidence and risk factors of osteoarthritis following osteochondritis dissecans of the knees: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The current systematic review and meta-analysis aim to pool together the incidence and risk factors of osteoarthritis following osteochondritis dissecans of the knee. The systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. A search was conducted using PubMed and Cochrane Library with the keywords being “knee” and “osteochondritis dissecans” or “osteochondral lesion”. All original human studies that reported the incidence or risk factors of osteoarthritis following osteochondritis dissecans of the knee were included. Nine studies with 496 patients were included. The incidence of osteoarthritis following osteochondritis dissecans is 0.39 (95% CI 0.19–0.59). Patients with a body mass index greater than 25 kg/m2 had a significantly increased risk of osteoarthritis. Fragment excision had an increased relative risk of 1.89 (95% CI 1.19–3.01) of osteoarthritis as compared to fragment preservation. Significant heterogeneity was identified when comparing between juvenile and adult osteochondritis dissecans. The size of the lesions moderated the between-study heterogeneity with regards to the incidence of osteoarthritis, with the relative risk of osteoarthritis in lesions bigger than 4 cm2 being 2.29 (95% CI 1.24–4.23). No other risk factors, including gender of the patient, location of osteochondritis dissecans, stability of osteochondritis dissecans, and surgical versus non-surgical management were significant risk factors. Significant risk factors for osteoarthritis were increased body mass index and fragment excision. Probable but inconclusive risk factors were the age of the patients and the size of the osteochondritis dissecans. The gender of the patient, location of osteochondritis dissecans, the stability of osteochondritis dissecans, and surgical versus non-surgical management of osteochondritis dissecans when appropriate were not significant risk factors.
The disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on women relative to men: A conservation of resources perspective

COVID-19 has had a disproportionate impact on women relative to men While more men than women are dying of COVID-19 (Centers for Disease Control, 2020a), there is a general consensus that the lasting economic and health effects will negatively affect women as opposed to men (Azcona et al, 2020) In this article, I examine the effects of COVID-19 on women from a Conservation of Resources Theory (Hobfoll, 1989) perspective Herein, I show that women were already in a resource loss position relative to men prior to COVID-19 by examining various types of object, personal characteristic, condition, and energy resources Then, I draw from multiple datasets and reports to show that COVID-19 has put women in an even greater resource loss position relative to men and caution against the resource loss spiral that is occurring as a result, placing progress towards gender equality in jeopardy for years to come © 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
A Framework of Asset-Accumulation Stages and Strategies

Based on a study with 298 low-income participants, we propose that asset accumulation occurs in 3 stages. In the first stage (reallocation), current resource inflows exceed current outflows. To do this, people reallocate resources from consumption or leisure. In the second stage (conversion), people may convert resources from liquid to illiquid forms. In the third stage (maintenance), people resist temptations to dissave. We theorize that people adopt psychological and behavioral strategies to achieve these objectives. Putting psychological and behavioral strategies together with the stages of reallocation, conversion, and maintenance results in 6 strategy groups. We provide real-world examples of each strategy group and discuss implications for encouraging account ownership among the unbanked, improving asset-accumulation programs, and improving financial education.
Mast cell proliferation in the cerebrospinal fluid after intraventricular administration of anti-B7H3 immunotherapy.

Omburtamab is a B7H3-specific murine monoclonal antibody. B7H3 (CD 276) is a member of the B7 family of immune checkpoint co-inhibitory receptors overexpressed on many human malignancies. Radioimmunotherapy with 124I- or 131I-omburtamab administered in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), intraperitoneal or intratumoral cavity is currently under investigation for the treatment of CNS malignancies. The immunologic effects of anti-B7H3 therapy are not fully elucidated. A 6-year-old male was diagnosed with metastates of neuroblastoma to the received intraventricular 131I-omburtamab on an IRB-approved protocol. A treatment cycle consisted of a 2 mCi dosimetry dose and a 50 mCi treatment dose. Dosimetry by serial imaging, pharmacokinetics and safety were investigated. Clinical status, magnetic resonance imaging, CSF cell count and cytology were evaluated pre- and post-131I-omburtamab at 5 and 26 weeks. The patient did well with cycle 1. Three hours after the dosimetry dose of cycle 2, he developed a fever (39 °C), chills and headache. Blood and CSF samples were sent for culture. CSF was notable for nucleated cell pleocytosis with profound mast cell proliferation consistent with chemical meningitis. He was treated with supportive care; symptoms resolved over 48 h. Further therapy with 131I-omburtamab was electively discontinued. CSF cell count 5 weeks later demonstrated resolution of CSF pleocytosis. Local–regional administration of intraventricular 131I-omburtamab targeting B7H3 can result in a profound nucleated CSF pleocytosis with mastocytosis consistent with an acute allergic reaction.
Targeting Histone Modifications in Bone and Lung Metastatic Cancers.

Breast cancer frequently metastasizes to the bone and lung, but the ability to treat metastatic tumor cells remains a pressing clinical challenge. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone acetyltransferases (HATs) have emerged as promising targets since these enzymes are aberrantly expressed in numerous cancers and regulate the expression of genes that drive tumorigenesis and metastasis. This review focuses on the abnormal expression of histone-modifying enzymes in cancers that have a high tropism for the bone and lung and explores the clinical use of histone deacetylase inhibitors for the treatment and prevention of metastasis to these sites. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that the role for HDACs is highly dependent on tumor type and stage of disease progression. HDAC inhibitors can induce apoptosis, senescence, cell differentiation, and tumor dormancy genes and inhibit angiogenesis, making these promising therapeutics for the treatment of metastatic disease. HDAC inhibitors are already FDA approved for hematologic malignancies and are in clinical trials with standard-of-care chemotherapies and targeted agents for several solid tumors, including cases of metastatic disease. However, these drugs can negatively impact bone homeostasis. Although HDAC inhibitors are not currently administered for the treatment of bone and lung metastatic disease, preclinical studies have shown that these drugs can reduce distant metastasis by targeting molecular factors and signaling pathways that drive tumor cell dissemination to these sites. Thus, HDAC inhibitors in combination with bone protective therapies may be beneficial in the treatment of bone metastatic cancers.
Response of Concrete Elements Subjected to Impact by Fragments with Varying Aspect Ratios

AbstractConcrete specimens of varying compressive strengths were subjected to impact from fragments with relatively common width-to-thickness, or aspect, ratios. The influence of material character...
Persistent Genital Arousal and Major Depressive Disorder in an Adolescent Male: Case Report and Discussion

Persistent genital arousal disorder [PGAD] is a distressing physiologic arousal condition with no psychologic etiology. We highlight identification and treatment of PGAD and associated mental comorbidities in a 15-year-old male who presented to Pediatric Urology with PGAD with pain, and resultant depression and suicidal ideation. After failure of conservative pharmacologic management, MRI of the lumbosacral spine demonstrated an L5-S1 annular tear and herniation of the nucleus pulposus. The patient underwent transforaminal steroid injection with reduction in symptoms, and eventually lumbar discectomy with near complete resolution of symptoms. Management of this condition should include a focus on the mental health component.
Understanding Human Trafficking Laws and Liability

A resource for Arkansas judges and attorneys, this article provides an overview of the liability human traffickers face under federal and state law, discusses recent human trafficking litigation in Arkansas, and offers practice tips for attorneys whose practice may intersect with human trafficking.
Brachytherapy in children, adolescents, and young adults: An underutilized modality in the United States?

Background Brachytherapy (BT) delivers highly conformal radiation and spares surrounding tissues, which may limit late effects in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult (AYA) patients. We aimed to characterize trends in BT use for this population in the United States, focusing on patients with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). Methods The National Cancer Database was queried to identify patients ≤ 21 who were treated for solid tumor malignancies in the United States from 2004 to 2016. We obtained disease, treatment, and outcome data for patients treated with BT, in particular for RMS. Results 99 506 pediatric and AYA patients met study inclusion. Of these, 22 586 (23%) received radiation therapy (external beam radiation therapy [EBRT] and/or BT) and 240 (0.2%) received BT. Among patients treated with BT, 139 (58%) underwent surgery and 58 (24%) received EBRT. A total of 3836 patients were treated for RMS during this period. Of these, 2531 (66%) received any radiation and 37 (1%) received BT (EBRT + BT in 3, BT in 34). Of patients treated with BT for RMS, 28 (76%) underwent surgery + BT. Survival data were available for 31 patients treated with BT for RMS. With a median follow-up of 63 months, overall survival was 100% for patients with RMS of a favorable site treated with BT. Conclusions BT is rarely used to treat pediatric and AYA patients in the United States. Patients treated with BT for RMS experienced favorable survival, suggesting that this approach may not compromise oncologic outcomes and warrants further study as a therapeutic option in pediatric and AYA patients, specifically in RMS.
Tangible versus intangible factors of location

This chapter illustrates tangible and intangible factors of plant location. Tangible factors of location have a direct cost that can be computed. Intangible factors of location have an indirect cost that is not easily ascertained. Services, such as fire protection, schools, housing, churches, etc., that a community provides, can be the final factor in the decision of an industry to locate in a particular area. Recreational and housing facilities play an important role among the intangibles of location. The general appearance of a community may boost, or destroy, its chances of obtaining an industry. The characteristics of the people, or traditional habits, have been known to halt a plant location. The traceable loss of industry due to discourtesy and disregard of confidence is small, but actual loss of industry due to these causes is believed to be large. Concessions, such as land, tax remission, etc., are often looked upon more as an indicator of the willingness of a town to cooperate, than as a cash incentive. This is particularly true in the case of large, well-known firms that normally expect to pay their own way. The lack of knowledge on the part of the community representative with respect to the assets and liabilities of a community has often ended the discussion on sites.
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian dietary patterns and nutrient profile differentials between the sexes and Blacks and Whites (130.7)

Background: Dietary patterns are of great interest as they reflect choices of food combinations over time and may contribute to the development or prevention of disease. Objective: To compare nutri...
The Continuities of German History: Nation, Religion, and Race Across the Long Nineteenth Century

1. The vanishing point of German history 2. The mirror turn lamp: senses of the nation before nationalism 3. On catastrophic religious violence and the national belonging: the Thirty Years' War and the massacre of Jews in social memory 4. From play to act: anti-Semitic violence in German and European history during the long nineteenth century 5. Eliminationist racism 6. Afterword: where the Sonderweg debate left us.
Any as Inherently Modal

The primary theoretical focus of this paper is on Free Choice uses of any, in particular on two phenomena that have remained largely unstudied. One involves the ability of any phrases to occur in affirmative episodic statements when aided by suitable noun modifiers. The other involves the difference between modals of necessity and possibility with respect to licensing of any. The central thesis advanced here is that FC any is a universal determiner whose domain of quantification is not a set of particular individuals but the set of possible individuals of the relevant kind. In a theory of genericity utilizing situations, an any phrase can be seen as having a universal quantifier binding the situation variable of the common noun. This inherent genericity is argued to be at the heart of the intuition that any statements support counterfactual inferences and do not involve existential commitments. A conflict in presuppositions is shown to account for the incompatibility of unmodified any phrases in affirmative episodic statements and the crucial role played by modification in ameliorating this clash is explicated. In the case of modals of necessity, the interaction between the universal force of any and the particular modal base is shown to be crucial. In view of these facts it is argued that FC any is not directly licensed by modal or generic operators as generally assumed but that its felicitous use is sensitive to the pragmatics of epistemic modality. Turning to its polarity sensitive uses, language internal as well as crosslinguistic evidence is presented to distinguish it from FC any in having the existential quantificational force typical of indefinites. The paper concludes by suggesting that the common tie between them is that they both occur in statements that apply to a class of entities, rather than to particular members of the class.
Relationship Between Microbiota of the Colonic Mucosa vs Feces and Symptoms, Colonic Transit, and Methane Production in Female Patients With Chronic Constipation

Background & Aims In fecal samples from patients with chronic constipation, the microbiota differs from that of healthy subjects. However, the profiles of fecal microbiota only partially replicate those of the mucosal microbiota. It is not clear whether these differences are caused by variations in diet or colonic transit, or are associated with methane production (measured by breath tests). We compared the colonic mucosal and fecal microbiota in patients with chronic constipation and in healthy subjects to investigate the relationships between microbiota and other parameters. Methods Sigmoid colonic mucosal and fecal microbiota samples were collected from 25 healthy women (controls) and 25 women with chronic constipation and evaluated by 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing (average, 49,186 reads/sample). We assessed associations between microbiota (overall composition and operational taxonomic units) and demographic variables, diet, constipation status, colonic transit, and methane production (measured in breath samples after oral lactulose intake). Results Fourteen patients with chronic constipation had slow colonic transit. The profile of the colonic mucosal microbiota differed between constipated patients and controls ( P P Bacteroidetes were more abundant in the colonic mucosal microbiota of patients with constipation. The profile of the fecal microbiota was associated with colonic transit before adjusting for constipation, age, body mass index, and diet; genera from Firmicutes ( Faecalibacterium , Lactococcus , and Roseburia ) correlated with faster colonic transit. Methane production was associated with the composition of the fecal microbiota, but not with constipation or colonic transit. Conclusions After adjusting for diet and colonic transit, the profile of the microbiota in the colonic mucosa could discriminate patients with constipation from healthy individuals. The profile of the fecal microbiota was associated with colonic transit and methane production (measured in breath), but not constipation.
A versatile approach for modeling and simulating the tacticity of polymers

We are introducing a versatile computerized approach to model and simulate polymer tacticities using seven single-stage statistical models. The theory behind the models, e.g., Bovey’s versus Price’s, Bernoullian, 1st or 2nd order Markovian, enantiomeric types, and combinations thereof is explained. One of the models, "E-B gen", which can be used to produce four types of enantiomorphically controlled tacticities, and the pentad distribution for the model "E-M1" are reported here for the first time. The relations of chain-end controlled models to binary copolymerizations are discussed in detail, and equations for the conversion of tacticity based probabilities to reactivity ratios to obtain related n-ad distributions are presented. The models were applied to 20 polymers with exemplary tacticities found in the literature. A related software program (“Polytact”) based on Microsoft’s Excel has been designed to calculate all relevant characteristics of the polymer tacticity and to present them in graphical form in a user-friendly manner. The program can be used to produce graphs of the triad, pentad and sequence length distributions and a simulation of 50 monomer repeat units in the polymer for each of the seven models. One of the main intended uses of the program is to compare the computed n-ad distributions to those of experimental polymers obtained from NMR spectroscopy and to gain insight into the polymerization mechanisms.
Next Generation Infrared Sensors: Enhanced Pixel Functionality Using Nanoscale Physics

This presentation will be focused on the fabrication of focal plane arrays using two material systems which are emerging as promising technologies for mid infrared sensors. These are (1) InAs/InGaAs self assembled quantum dots in well (DWELL) detectors (2) InAs/(In,Ga)Sb strain layer superlattices (SLS) detectors.The growth issues (group V exchange and the interface chemistry) and the structural and optical characterization techniques will be discussed.
Recent progress in inertial confinement fusion at livermore

Abstract Progress since the last Heavy-Ion Fusion Symposium has moved us much closer to demonstrating the scientific and technological requirements for inertial
An ion-channeling study of irradiation-induced amorphization of YBa2Cu3O7−x

Abstract We previously employed Brillouin scattering to demonstrate that the irradiation-induced crystalline-to-amorphous (c-a) transformation in several intermetallic compounds was preceded by a large ( > 50%) decrease in shear elastic constant, indicative of an elastic instability. In situ electron diffraction revealed that the elastic softening was caused by static atom displacements. Here we report the results of an ion-channeling study designed to examine whether parallel changes occur during ion irradiation of single crystals of YBa2Cu3O7−x. The (static plus thermal) atomic displacements introduced during 1.5 MeV 4He irradiation at a temperature of 100 K were determined from [001] axial channeling scans taken after several irradiation increments between 0 and 0.04 dpa. It was possible to obtain reliable channeling information at quite low doses, as low as 0.0004 dpa, because of the excellent minimum yields (χmin
Pharmacological Management of Neonatal Opioid Abstinence Syndrome

Substance abuse in women of childbearing age is a global public health problem. The most common drugs of abuse are cocaine, diamorphine (heroin) and alcohol. Fetal drug exposure can be identified by maternal history (which is not always reliable), maternal and infant urine toxicology screening, and meconium and infant and maternal hair analysis.
Density Functional and MP2 Calculations of Spin Densities of Oxidized 3-Methyl Indole. Models for Tryptophan Radicals.

Ab initio calculations have been carried out on 3-methylindole, and the cation and neutral radicals of 3-methylindole, using density functional theory (DFT), the Becke3−Lee−Yang−Parr functional, and the 6-31G*, 6-31+G*, 3-21G*, and TZ2P basis sets. Optimized geometries, vibrational frequencies, and for the radicals, atomic spin densites are calculated. The latter are compared to experimental spin densities recently determined for the tryptophan-191 radical of compound ES of the enzyme cytochrome-c-peroxidase. The DFT spin densities for the cation radical of 3-methylindole are in excellent agreement with the data for the tryptophan-191 radical, which supports the conclusion that the tryptophan radical is a cation radical. The results are compared to calculations using second-order Moller−Plesset theory (MP2) and the 6-31G** basis set. The MP2 spin densities are in significantly worse agreement with the experimental spin densities.
Incoherent Method of Optical Interference Cancellation for Radio-Frequency Communications

In this paper, we describe a system for cancelling radio-frequency (RF) interference using optical techniques. Specifically, we attempt to receive a weak RF signal-which we assume to be of the order of microwatts-in the presence of high-power local RF interference. This local interference is a signal whose power is of the order of 100 W and is generated in close proximity to the receiver. We wish to emphasize that the nature of the interfering signal is completely known to us in practice, since we are generating it for communications purposes. This knowledge of the interfering signal will prove to be useful in our attempts to cancel it, as will be shown. We refer to this technique as optical interference cancellation, or opto-cancellation. We have demonstrated that this opto-cancellation system can cancel a simple sinusoid at 3 GHz, as well as broadband interference of approximately 100-MHz bandwidth centered at 3 GHz. We have also demonstrated cancellation of sinusoids and broadband signals at other center frequencies as well. In the case of sinusoidal signals, we have demonstrated optical cancellation over 70 dB; and in the case of the ~ 100-MHz signal, we have demonstrated optical cancellation over 30 dB.
Factors predictive of mathematics achievement in kindergarten, first and third grades: An opportunity–propensity analysis

Abstract A secondary analysis of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study – Kindergarten Sample ( N = 17,401) was conducted to determine the factors that are most strongly associated with math achievement during kindergarten, first grade, and third grade. Factors from the following three categories were considered: antecedent factors (e.g., family socio-economic status), opportunity factors (e.g., frequency of being exposed to mathematical content), and propensity factors (e.g., pre-existing mathematics skills). Structural equation modeling showed that math achievement was strongly predicted by a combination of specific propensity, opportunity, and antecedent factors. However, propensity factors were the most important determinants of achievement. The amount of variance accounted for by gender and ethnicity was substantially reduced when other factors in the antecedent, opportunity, and propensity categories were controlled. The implications of the findings for intervention are discussed.
Change in Depression as a Precursor of Cardiovascular Events

Objective: To determine the relationship between increasing depressive symptoms and cardiovascular events or mortality. Design: Cohort analytic study of data from randomized placebo-controlled double-blind clinical trial of antihypertensive therapy. Depressive symptoms were assessed semiannually with the Center for Epidemiological Studies— Depression (CES-D) scale during an average follow-up of 4.5 years. Setting: Ambulatory patients in 16 clinical centers of the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program. Patients: Generally healthy men and women aged 60 years or older randomized to active antihypertensive drug therapy or placebo who were 79% white and 53% women and had follow-up CES-D scores and no outcome events during the first 6 months (N=4367). Main Outcome Measures: All-cause mortality, fatal or nonfatal stroke, or myocardial infarction. Results: Baseline depressive symptoms were not related to subsequent events; however, an increase in depression was prognostic. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses with the CES-D scale as a time-dependent variable, controlling for multiple covariates, indicated a 25% increased risk of death per 5-unit increase in the CES-D score (relative risk [RR], 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15 to 1.36). The RR for stroke or myocardial infarction was 1.18 (95% CI, 1.08 to 1.30). Increase in CES-D score was an independent predictor in both placebo and active drug groups, and it was strongest as a risk factor for stroke among women (RR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.34). Conclusions: Among elderly persons, a significant and substantial excess risk of death and stroke or myocardial infarction was associated with an increase in depressive symptoms over time, which may be a marker for subsequent major disease events and warrants the attention of physicians to such mood changes. However, further studies of causal pathways are needed before widespread screening for depression in clinical practice is to be recommended. (Arch Intern Med. 1996;156:553-561)
Private demand for public subsidies: A comment

The econometric testing of hypotheses regarding the performing and the creative arts is only just beginning. Therefore it is encouraging to note the generally favorable results reported by Withers (1979) in applying the basic Bergstrom and Goodman (BG) (1973) median voter model to state and local arts support in Australia. Using a combined time series of cross-sectional data for Australian states from 1961-62 to 1974-75, Withers was able to identify median income, an estimated tax share variable, federal outlays, and population density as important determinants of variations in Australian state and local arts expenditures. [1] This comment is directed to the application of BG's "crowding test" to determine the degree of publicness exhibited by creative and performing arts activities. It will be argued that this is not an appropriate test of the public goods nature of such arts activities, and that the speculation regarding private vs. public motives for government arts support is thereby misleading. According to the Bergstrom/Goodman analysis, individuals possess utility functions of the form
Orchard studies utilizing fluidized bed material

Abstract Fluidized bed material (FBM, a coal/limestone combustion byproduct) was used as a Ca source and lime substitute in established apple (Malus domestica Borkh) and peach (Prunus persia L.) orchards. FBM or limestone had little effect on apple tree Ca status over three growing seasons. Peach leaf Ca concentrations were significantly greater from FBM applied at three times the soil lime requirement (on a weight basis) than limestone applied at the lime requiremnt or a non‐amended control. Peach peel and flesh Ca, however, were not significantly altered. Tissue trace element concentrations (Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, B ,Al, Sr, Pb) were not affected by treatments. FBM applied at twice the lime requirement, on a weight basis, maintained soil pH at levels equivalent to agricultural limestone applied at the lime requirement during the three growing seasons in both studies. FBM was found to be a satisfactory substitute for agricultural limestone under orchard conditions and when applied at mutiples up to three times ...
Optimization of radar cross section of N-port loaded scatterers

A procedure for obtaining the reactive loads of an N -port loaded scatterer to maximize the radar cross section is given. The method involves obtaining the real port currents which maximize radiation power gain and then resonating these currents to make them the dominant characteristic mode of the body.If the scatterer is loss-free and the loads are closely spaced, a large but very frequency sensitive scattering cross section is obtained. This behavior is basically the same as that of supergain behavior in antenna theory.
Studies on the hydrolysis of bradykinin by angiotensin-converting enzyme (kininase II).

Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe, the N-terminal pentapeptide of bradykinin, is not an inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme and is not hydrolyzed by the enzyme. Arg-Pro-Pro, the N-terminal tripeptide is a relatively potent (IC50=2.3×106 M) inhibitor but its higher homolog, Gly-Arg-Met-Lys-Arg-Pro-Pro is not an inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme.
UMBILICAL BROOD PROTECTION AND SEXUAL DIMORPHISM IN THE BOREAL PACIFIC TROCHID GASTROPOD, MARGARITES VORTICIFERUS DALL

Specimens of Margarites vorticiferus Dall collected at Attu Island, Alaska, during July 1979, were found brooding eggs and young in the umbilicus. The number of developing young in each brood ranged between 471 and 3264. Each brood contained several developmental stages including uncleaved eggs, unhatched embryos, hatched pro-toconch-bearing juveniles and two distinct juvenile size classes. The umbilicus of M. vorticiferus is significantly (t-test; P < 0.001) larger in female specimens than in male specimens. Margarites vorticiferus is the largest member of the genus found at Attu and the only member known to brood its young.
Structure of the photodetachment cross section in a magnetic field: an experiment with

Photodetachment from in a magnetic field has been studied experimentally using light with energies between 14400 and . Presented here are high-resolution data which exhibit sharp magnetic field structure at thresholds and low-resolution data which show monotonically increasing cross sections. The current work is the first in any atomic or molecular system where sufficient energy resolution has been achieved to observe the shape of the cross section in a magnetic field.
Running-induced alterations in growth hormone, prolactin, triiodothyronine, and thyroxine concentrations in trained and untrained men and women.

Abstract This study examined whether gender and/or training were related to the exercise-induced changes in plasma concentrations of growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4). Twenty subjects (male and female 10-km runners; untrained males and females) ran on a treadmill for 30 win at 80% of previously determined maximum heart rate. Blood samples were taken through an indwelling catheter from an antecubital vein at −30, 0, +15, +30 min of the test and 30 min of recovery. Reded temperature rose significantly (p < .01) at +15 and +30 min with concomitant rise in GH concentration, but PRL, T3, and T4 were not affected by the exercise. We concluded that a 30-min run at 80% of maximum heart rate is associated with higher concentrations of GH but not of PRL, T3, and T4 Neither training state nor gender affected the aforementioned results.
Serious Fun: Viewing Hobbyist Activities through a Learning Lens

This paper reviews a wide range of literature applicable to understanding why and how hobbyists learn. Of particular importance appear to be theories such as situated learning and communities of practice, but insights from the cognitive sciences related to expertise, motivation, and interest also emerged as important. The boundaries between formal and informal education continue to breakdown, making the need to understand and address the needs of learners of all ages, across multiple settings and situations more important than ever. Learning is becoming increasingly ‘on-demand’, mediated by ‘colleagues’ and initiated in order to solve learner-defined needs and interests (as opposed to the historical condition of prescribed, sequential curricula defined by nameless, faceless experts). Hobbyists afford learning researchers important opportunities to build a better understanding of interest-driven, persistent, contextually relevant, lifelong learning.
Modeling the Potential Impact of a Prescription Drug Copayment Increase on the Adult Asthmatic Medicaid Population

Abstract Objectives The Commonwealth of Massachusetts increased the copayment for prescription drugs by $1.50 for Medicaid (MassHealth) beneficiaries in 2003. We sought to determine the likely health outcomes and cost shifts attributable to this copayment increase using the example of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) use among adult asthmatic Medicaid beneficiaries. Method We compared the predicted costs and health outcomes projected over a 1-year time horizon with and without the increase in copayment from the perspective of MassHealth, providers, pharmacies, and MassHealth beneficiaries by employing decision analysis simulation model. Results In a target population of 17,500 adult asthmatics, increased copayments from 50¢ to $2.00 would result in an additional 646 acute events per year, caused by increased drug nonadherence. Annual combined net savings for the state and federal governments would be $2.10 million. Projected MassHealth savings are attributable to both decreased drug utilization and lower pharmacy reimbursement rates; these more than offset the additional costs of more frequent acute exacerbations. Pharmacies would lose $1.98 million in net revenues, MassHealth beneficiaries would pay an additional $0.28 million, and providers would receive additional $0.16 million. Conclusion Over its first year of implementation, increase in the prescription drug copayment is expected to produce more frequent acute exacerbations among asthmatic MassHealth beneficiaries who use ICS and to shift the financial burden from government to other stakeholders.
An Informative Itinerary

Mitchell surveys complex-systems approaches to a wide range of biological, technological, and social phenomena.
Sperm Competition in Salmon Hatcheries: The Need to Institutionalize Genetically Benign Spawning Protocols

Abstract Salmon hatcheries in the Pacific Northwest historically spawned adults by combining eggs from several females and milt from several males in a single container. This mixed-milt approach leads to significant sperm competition and highly unequal genetic contributions from male spawners. Sperm competition substantially reduces the genetic effective number of breeders (Nb ) relative to the actual number of spawners (Ns ). Sperm competition in vitro can also result in undesirable artificial selection for life history traits (e.g., age or size at maturity) that are correlated phenotypically with sperm potency and fertilization success. A large number of salmon hatcheries in the Pacific Northwest, particularly those within some state agencies, continue to use mixed-milt fertilization despite documented genetic effects and potential risks. The continued use of mixed-milt fertilization may be due, in part, to insufficient genetic oversight of hatchery operations. As a general rule, salmon hatcheries shoul...
Relationships between micelle-water and octanol-water partition constants for hydrophobic organics of environmental interest

The partition constants between micelles of sodium dodecyl sulfate and water for eleven hydrophobic non-polar organics of environmental interest were correlated to their octanol-water partition constants, aqueous solubilities and total molecular surface areas. Octanol-water partition constant was found to be the best correlating parameter. Values of partition constants for micelles formed of dodecylbenzenesulfonate and hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide surfactants were also correlated to the octanol-water partition constants. A possible practical application of the Km−Kow correlation to determine the micellar-mediated transport of hydrophobic organics in ground-water is illustrated.
Differential and dynamic regulation of miR398 in response to ABA and salt stress in Populus tremula and Arabidopsis thaliana

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous small RNAs of ~22 nucleotides (nt) that play a key role in down regulation of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level in plants and animals. Various studies have identified numerous miRNAs that were either up regulated or down regulated upon stress treatment. Here, we sought to understand the temporal regulation of miRNAs in different plant species under abscisic acid (ABA) and salt (NaCl) stress. Our results showed that the regulation of miR398 in response to ABA and salt stress was more dynamic in plants than previously reported. In poplars, miR398 was first induced upon 3-4 h of ABA or salt stress. However, this induction declined after 48 h and finally accumulated again over a prolonged stress (72 h). We referred to this kind of regulation as dynamic regulation. In contrast, such dynamic regulation of miR398 under salt stress was completely absent in Arabidopsis, in which miR398 was steadily and unidirectionally suppressed. Interestingly, ABA treatment caused a deviate dynamic regulation of miR398 in Arabidopsis, showing an opposite response as compared to that in poplars. We referred to the difference in regulation between Arabidopsis and poplars as differential regulation. Furthermore, the expression of the miR398 target, copper superoxide dismutase1 (CSD1), was in reverse correlation with the miR398 level, suggesting a control of this specific target expression predominantly by miR398 under abiotic stress. Together, these data consistently show a correlated regulation between miR398 and its representative target, CSD1, by ABA and salt stresses, and raise the possibility that regulation of miRNAs in plants is twofold: a dynamic regulation within a plant species and a differential regulation between different plant species.
An Exponential Misconception

Summary This article points out an unexpected but common misconception by students dealing with the exponential distribution.
Developmental Appearance of Sodium Channel Subtypes in Rat Skeletal Muscle Cultures

22Na influx was measured in the established muscle cell line L-6 and in primary rat skeletal muscle cultures following activation of sodium channels by veratridine and sea anemone toxin II. Inhibition of the activated channels by tetrodotoxin (TTX) was analyzed with computer-assisted fits to one- or two-site binding models. In L-6 cultures, two inhibitable sodium channel populations were resolved at all ages in culture: a TTX-sensitive (K = 0.6-5.0 X 10(-8) M) and an insensitive population (Ki = 3.3-4.9 X 10(-6) M). In primary rat muscle cultures, the sensitivity of the toxin-stimulated channels to TTX changed with time in culture. In 4-day-old cultures, a single sodium channel population was detected using TTX (Ki = 2.4 X 10(-7)M). A single population was also found in 6-day-old cultures (Ki = 5.3 X 10(-7) M). By day 7 in culture, the inhibition of 22Na influx by TTX could be resolved into two components with high- and low-affinity sites for the toxin (Ki = 1.3 X 10(-9) M and 9.6 X 10(-7) M). We conclude that a single, toxin-activated sodium channel population with low affinity for TTX exists at early stages, whereas a second, high-affinity population evolves with time in primary rat muscle cultures. The expression of a high-affinity site apparently does not require ongoing neuronal involvement and may reflect an intrinsic property of the muscle cells.
Multiplication of phlebotomus fever group arboviruses in mosquitoes after intrathoracic inoculation.

Twenty-two Phlebotomus fever group arboviruses were inoculated intrathoracically into male and female Aedes albopictus and Culex fatigans . Eight of the viruses (Itaporanga, Arumowot, Bujaru, Karimabad, Salehabad, Pacui, Chilibre and BeAn 100049) multiplied in 1 or both mosquito species maintained at 32°C for 10 days. Icoaraci virus was detected in mosquitoes after the 10-day incubation period but did not increase in titer. The remaining 13 agents tested did not survive following inoculation. Results of these experiments indicate that the mosquito inoculation technique is less effective for propagation of Phlebotomus fever group viruses than culture in Vero cells or newborn mice. Attempts to demonstrate vertical transmission of Itaporanga and Arumowot viruses by infected A. albopictus and C. fatigans were unsuccessful.
Time dependent deadtime and pile-up corrections for gamma ray spectroscopy

Abstract The losses of pulses in gamma spectroscopy due to the analog-to-digital (ADC) conversion process and due to pulse pile-up is a major problem in quantitative gamma ray spectroscopy. It is specially serious if the count rate varies significantly during the counting interval and if the nuclear events of interest are associated with an isotope with a half-life shorter than or comparable to the counting interval as is often the case for isotopes with half-lives of the order of 10 min or less. The count rates at which dead time losses become a problem depend upon the available equipment but, in the present work, the problem became acute at count rates in excess of 25 000 cps. A technique developed at VPI & SU is discussed in the present work which very satisfactorily corrects for both ADC and pile-up losses and is dependent upon the half-life of the decaying radioisotope.
Effect of situational features on the likelihood of addressing face needs in requests

This study asks whether the effort made to perform facework in requests can be predicted by the perceptual dimensions of influence situations identified in past research and/or by the speaker's liking for the hearer. Subjects recalled requests they had made and indicated their concerns with protecting negative face needs, positive face needs, and their own identity needs. A stepwise regression showed intimacy, speaker dominance, rights and resistance to be inversely related to negative facework, while personal benefits and liking for the hearer were both positive predictors. Speakers’ concerns over their identity were positively related to personal benefits and negatively related to resistance. Subjects made a greater effort to address the hearer's positive face needs only if they liked the hearer more.
Nickel stimulation of anaerobic digestion

Abstract An acetate-enriched methanogenic culture was assayed for nutritional stimulation by nickel in combination with other inorganic and organic nutrients, i.e. iron, cobalt, yeast extract, riboflavin and vitamin B12. Acetate was automatically maintained at 2–3 g l−1 by a pH Stat system so that substrate was not limiting. In the absence of nickel, the specific acetate utilization rates were in the range of 2–4.6 g acetate g−1 VSS day−1. In the presence of nickel, this rate was as high as 10 and when both nickel and yeast extract were supplemented this rate temporarily increased to 12–15 g acetate g−1 VSS day−1 . The maximum acetate utilization rate was observed to be 51 g l−1 day−1 as compared to 3.3 g l−1 day−1 for conventional high-rate digestion. Daily phosphate additions were required to sustain these high acetate utilization rates. An acetate utilization rate of 20–30 g l−1 day−1 was maintained for over 25 days. Microscopic examination of the culture revealed a predominance of a sarcina whenever stimulation was noted.
Elastic nonlinearity and domain wall motion in ferroelastic crystals

Abstract Nonlinear interactions between elastic waves and ferroelastic domain walls offer the possibility of setting up and electronically controlling periodic domain gratings for application as tunable diffraction gratings, acoustic wave filters and surface acoustic wave transducers. Estimates of the practicality of using this control mechanism are presented for neodymium pentaphosphate.
IPCC report cautiously warns of potentially dramatic climate change impacts

Recent regional climate changes already have affected many physical and biological systems on Earth; and projected climate changes, as well as changes in climate extremes, could have major consequences, according to a February 19 report by Working Group II of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The IPCC is a scientific body launched in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The report emphasizes that adaptation to climate change is a necessary strategy at all scales to complement mitigation efforts, and adds that while most people could be affected by climate change, “those with the least resources have the least capacity to adapt and are the most vulnerable.” Among those considered most vulnerable are many people in developing countries; the poor generally, even in developed nations; small island nations; and low-lying coastal areas.
Do alterations in vaginal dimensions after reconstructive pelvic surgeries affect the risk for dyspareunia

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether changes in vaginal dimensions after transvaginal reconstructive pelvic surgeries affect the risk for postoperative dyspareunia. Study design Charts of all sexually active patients who underwent transvaginal reconstructive pelvic surgeries in our institution between July 1998 and June 2002 with 1 year of follow-up evaluations were reviewed. Data were analyzed with the Student t , χ 2 , Pearson's correlation tests and a logistic regression model. Results Two hundred twenty-eight women aged 44 to 83 years were included. Dyspareunia increased after operation (16% vs 7%; P =.001); total vaginal length (7.6 vs 8.8 cm; P =.001) and genital hiatus (2.7 vs 3.5 cm; P =.001) dimensions significantly decreased after operation, with no predilection for any specific procedure. No correlation was found between these changes in vaginal dimensions and the risk for dyspareunia. Conclusion The prevalence of dyspareunia increases after transvaginal reconstructive pelvic surgeries. Despite a postoperative decrease in vaginal dimensions, a causal relationship between dyspareunia and changes in vaginal dimensions may not exist.