cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Age-related structural and functional changes in the breast: multimodality correlation with digital mammography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography.

Preliminary results generated from digital mammography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography demonstrate concordant findings of decreasing glandular tissue and decreasing metabolic activity with increasing age. These results are presented in the context of a detailed literature review summarizing age-related changes in the breast, both from the histologic/physiologic and the imaging perspectives. We also discuss potential applications of this approach and emphasize the importance of new advanced imaging technologies to offer high levels of quantitative precision for tissue characterization for research and clinical purposes.
The Medical College Admission Test — Toward a New Balance

A sixth version of the MCAT will be ready in 2015, featuring revised science and verbal sections, plus a new section on behavioral and social sciences that aims to assess applicants' readiness to learn about “behavioral, social, and cultural determinants of health.”
Terahertz energy confinement in finite-width parallel-plate waveguides

We experimentally investigate the terahertz energy confinement in finite-width parallel-plate waveguides. Although there is some apparent energy confinement parallel to the plates due to the narrowing of the width, this does not result in actual energy conservation, when the plate separation is as large as 1 cm. However, these findings indicate that by reducing the plate separation, it may be possible to achieve real energy confinement along with energy conservation in these waveguides.
Numerical Simulation of the Development of AMEX Tropical Cyclone Irma

Abstract High resolution observational data from the Australian Monsoon Experiment have been used to verify simulations of the development of tropical cyclone Irma. From a small amplitude, prehurricane cloud cluster, the FSU high resolution regional prediction model quite skillfully simulates the temporal and spatial structure changes during development. The results are, however, sensitive to the initial windfield and somewhat sensitive to both the initial moisture field and the imposed boundary conditions. Temporal changes in the symmetric and asymmetric structure of the observed and simulated disturbances are compared. Apart from other well-documented necessary conditions, changes in the storm's vertical structure, and the development of horizontal asymmetries appear to be crucial features of the simulated development. The associated physical processes are discussed. Deficiencies in the simulation are lack of diurnal modulation of the vertical motion field, larger than diagnosed values of vertical motio...
Probes for Narcotic Receptor-Mediated Phenomena. 25.1 Synthesis and Evaluation of N-Alkyl-Substituted (α-Piperazinylbenzyl)benzamides as Novel, Highly Selective δ Opioid Receptor Agonists

A series of N-alkyl- and N,N-dialkyl-4-[α-{(2S,5R)-4-allyl-2,5-dimethyl-1-piperazinyl}benzyl]benzamides were synthesized and evaluated for binding affinities at μ, δ, and κ opioid receptor subtypes. Several compounds (2e,f,h,i,m) strongly bound to the δ receptor with IC50 values in the nanomolar range. On the other hand, the binding affinities of these compounds for the μ and κ receptors were in the micromolar or greater range indicating excellent δ opioid receptor subtype selectivities. In this series, two important structure−activity relationships were found for the δ receptor binding affinity. First, the spatial orientation of the α-benzylic position influenced the affinities with the αR derivatives 2a−n generally showing more than 10-fold greater affinity than the αS derivatives 3a−n. Second, the binding affinities were strongly influenced by the number of alkyl substituents on the amide nitrogen. N-Monoalkylbenzamide derivatives 2b−d showed lower affinity than N,N-dialkylbenzamide derivatives 2e−n, a...
Synthesis and Patterning of Polymer Matrix Nanocomposites Using Femtosecond Laser-assisted Processing

We describe a scalable synthesis process for the production and patterning of polymer matrix nanocomposites (PMNCs) using femtosecond laser irradiation to target specific functional behaviors. A modified, in situ chemical vapor deposition (CVD), nanoinfusion process was used to nucleate and grow nanoparticles in the bulk of an optically transparent polytetrafluoroethylene-co-hexafluoropropylene (FEP) polymer matrix. Metallic nanoparticles synthesized with this process can have a strong optical absorption at their surface plasmon resonance (SPR) frequency and we have utilized this property to selectively irradiate and pattern nanocomposites via femtosecond, photothermal heating. If the nanoparticle environment includes species used for chemical vapor deposition, the heat causes a localized decomposition of the precursor species in the immediate vicinity of the nanoparticle leading to a variety of core-shell nanostructures. Using this processing scheme, we have grown shells of tungsten oxide around silver nanoparticles within the polymer matrix resulting in a 40 nm red shift in the SPR of the silver nanoparticles in regions of the material exposed to femtosecond laser pulses. This process has also been adapted to polymers containing tungsten oxide nanoparticles so that the photocatalytic behavior of the particles could be used to the decompose precursor species in the immediate vicinity of the irradiated nanoparticles. These results demonstrate that, by using optical masks and laser processing, it is possible to synthesize nanocomposites with a high degree of control over the location, composition, size, and distribution of nanoparticles within a polymer matrix resulting in patterned materials with tailored electrical, optical, and photocatalytic properties.
Can all cause readmission policy improve quality or lower expenditures? A historical perspective on current initiatives.

Abstract: All-cause readmission to inpatient care is of wide policy interest inthe United States and a number of other countries (Centers for Medicare andMedicaid Services, in the United Kingdom by the National Centre for HealthOutcomes Development, and in Australia by the Australian Institute of Healthand Welfare). Contemporary policy efforts, including high powered incentivesembedded in the current US Hospital Readmission Reduction Program, andthe organizationally complex interventions derived in anticipation of thispolicy, have been touted based on potential cost savings. Strong incentives andresulting interventions may not enjoy the support of a strong theoretical modelor the empirical research base that are typical of strong incentive schemes.We examine the historical broad literature on the issue, lay out a ‘full’conceptual organizational model of patient transitions as they relate to thehospital, and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of previous and proposedpolicies. We use this to set out a research and policy agenda on this criticalissue rather than attempt to conduct a comprehensive structured literaturereview. We assert that researchers and policy makers should consider morefundamental societal issues related to health, social support and health literacyif progress is going to be made in reducing readmissions.Received 26 June 2013; revised 26 June 2013; accepted 23 July 2013
Magnetic field gradient effects on magnetic fluid stabilization

Abstract The penetrating finger instability which develops when a less viscous fluid pushes a more viscous fluid can be stabilized through the use of a magnetizable fluid in the presence of a magnetic field tangential to the interface. A uniform magnetic field only stabilizes suitably short waves travelling along the field lines. Transverse waves of all wavelengths and orientations are also stabilized if the tangential magnetic field is non-uniform with field decreasing in the direction away from the magnetically permeable fluid. Confirming experiments are described using laboratory sandpacks.
Molecular equilibria and condensation in a solar nebula and cool stellar atmospheres

Abstract A theoretical study is made of the molecular equilibria present in a gas cloud with cosmic elemental abundances, temperatures of 2000°K or 1700°K, and total pressures of approximately 1 atm and 5 × 10 −4 atm, with special consideration of the formation of a condensed phase. From some 150 species considered, Al 2 O 3 , W, ZrO 2 , and MgAl 2 O 4 are found to be condensed at 2000°K at a total pressure of 1 atm. Decreasing the temperature or increasing the pressure condenses more species, which in general are of complex structure. It is shown that in the atmospheres of cool stars polyatomic molecules and possibly condensed species play an important role. The calculated equilibria should be useful for spectral studies, and the order and type of condensates should prove helpful in the future in cosmochemical problems.
Advanced submicron I-line wafer steppers

Abstract Submicron optical lithography is achieved with an advanced 5X I-line wafer stepper. Production design rules to 0.7 microns are achieved by combining very good optical performance with large depth of focus and overlay to better than 0.15 microns. By using simple extensions to standard resist processing halfmicron resolution is achieved with good depth of focus over the entire image field.
Entanglement detection using majorization uncertainty bounds

Entanglement-detection criteria are developed within the framework of the majorization formulation of uncertainty. The primary results are two theorems asserting linear and nonlinear separability criteria based on majorization relations, the violation of which would imply entanglement. Corollaries to these theorems yield infinite sets of scalar entanglement-detection criteria based on quasientropic measures of disorder. Examples are analyzed to probe the efficacy of the derived criteria in detecting the entanglement of bipartite Werner states. Characteristics of the majorization relation as a comparator of disorder uniquely suited to information-theoretical applications are emphasized throughout.
Secondary school outcome following a junior high school behavioral program

A 4-year controlled follow-up study was performed to evaluate the secondary school outcome of three cohorts of multisuspended students who participated in a junior high school behavioral intervention program. After departing from the program, the students entered high school in significantly greater numbers than did the control population. Furthermore, conduct and attendance data from the 10th grade favored program youth. Nonetheless, the program and the control groups had a comparable rate of 11th and 12th grade enrollment and a similar rate of high school graduation.
Ultrashort pulsed laser ablation and stripping of freeze-dried dermis

Plasma-mediated laser ablation and dissection of freeze-dried human dermis using an ultrashort pulsed laser of pulse width 900 fs and wavelength 1,552 nm were investigated. The surface ablation line width and depth in relation to irradiation fluence and pulse overlap rate were characterized and measured by scanning electron microscopy. The ablation threshold fluence for freeze-dried dermis was determined as 8.32 J/cm2 and the incubation factor subject to pulse train irradiation was found to be 0.54. Histological examination showed no thermal damage with single line ablation. Even with multiline ablation, thermal damage was insignificant and the lateral damage zone was generally within 10 µm with 100 continuously repeated line scans. Ultrashort pulsed laser ablation of the interior of dry dermal tissue was shown to strip thin dermal slices with different thicknesses ranging from 20 to 40 µm.
Effect of Elastomer Crystallization on Tests for Freeze Resistance

Abstract At subzero temperatures cured elastomers become stiff and may or may not become brittle. As stiffness increases, elasticity decreases and stress at any given elongation increases. Brittleness occurs when the elastomer reaches an inelastic state. Both time and temperature of exposure are important factors which affect these changes in properties. Under any given testing methods, the degree of stiffness and conditions of brittleness are intrinsic properties of the elastomers and their compounds. Summaries of these factors have been given by Liska and Graves and Davis. Crystallization, which explains some of the results to be described, has been known for a long time to occur in rubber. Factors influencing the crystallization of rubber were investigated by Bekkedahl. He concludes that the crystals formed during the freezing or the stretching of rubber are identical. It is believed that this is true for crystallizable elastomers. Carothers and coworkers and later Sebrell and Dinsmore reported that th...
The Determination of Curd Tension by the Use of Hydrochloric Acid-Pepsin Coagulant

Summary 1.Excess calcium chloride as is present in the coagulant suggested by Hill which contains calcium chloride and pepsin retards coagulation and hence produces a subnormal curd tension. 2.Evidence indicates that a coagulant of 0.45 gram of pepsin per 100 cc. of 0.4 per cent hydrochloric acid produces a truer picture of the curd character simulating the gastric conditions than one which contains calcium chloride. 3.Boiling for one minute softens the curd of all milks, but not to the same degree of softness. The curd tension of the calcium chloride coagulant of boiled Jersey milk revealed only a slight softening, but did show a marked drop by the acid coagulant. 4.The effects of the various treatments of the milks in terms of percentage increase or decrease of the curd tensions were almost alike for the three kinds of raw whole milks when tested by the acid coagulant. 5.On the other hand, the calcium chloride coagulant on the same milks produced effects of a more divergent percentage increase or decrease in curd tension readings.
Evaluating UML Class Diagram Layout based on Architectural Importance

The paper presents and assesses a layout scheme for UML class diagrams that takes into account the architectural importance of a class in terms of its stereotype (e.g., boundary, control, entity). The design and running of a user study is described. The results of the study supports the hypothesis that layout based on architectural importance is more helpful in class diagram comprehension compared to layouts focusing primarily on aesthetics and/or abstract graph guidelines
Bombesin and platelet-derived growth factor induce association of endogenous focal adhesion kinase with Src in intact Swiss 3T3 cells.

Stimulation of quiescent Swiss 3T3 cells with bombesin induces a rapid increase in the formation of complexes between focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Src family members, which can be extracted with a buffer containing Triton, deoxycholate, and SDS but not with a buffer containing Triton alone. An increase in complex formation between FAK and Src in response to bombesin could be detected within 1 min, reached a maximum after 10 min, and declined toward base-line levels after 60 min of bombesin treatment. Bradykinin, endothelin, and lysophosphatidic acid also stimulated FAK-Src complex formation. Bombesin stimulated FAK/Src association through a Ca2+ and phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase-independent pathway that requires the integrity of the actin filament network and is partly dependent on functional protein kinase C. Treatment with the selective Src kinase inhibitor PP-2 inhibited both FAK activation and phosphorylation of FAK at Tyr577 induced by bombesin in intact cells. Platelet-derived growth factor at low concentrations (1–10 ng/ml) also induced FAK-Src complex formation via a pathway that depended on the integrity of the actin cytoskeleton and phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase. Thus, G protein-coupled receptor agonists and platelet-derived growth factor promote complex formation between endogenous FAK and Src in attached cells through different signal transduction pathways.
A retrospective of the hake stocks off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the United States: Uncertainties and challenges facing assessment and management in a complex environment

Abstract Hake stocks off the northeast and northwest coasts of the United States and Canada have been commercially exploited since the early 1950s and have been major contributors to the historic world-wide hake catches. During the last two decades annual U.S. hake catches have averaged approximately 300,000 tonnes with the dominant share coming from the coastal Pacific hake ( Merluccius productus ) stock. Pacific hake occurs over the continental shelf with a number of localized sub populations found in coastal inland waters of Washington State and the Province of British Columbia. In the northwest Atlantic two sympatric species occur, the commercially sought coastal silver hake ( Merluccius bilinearis ) and the offshore hake ( Merluccius albidus ), which is generally distributed in deeper waters. As with many of the 12 world-wide species of hakes in the genus Merluccius , the U.S. hake species share common attributes in their biology, ecology and population dynamics which may be dictated by the production cycles and circulation patterns characteristic of northerly ecosystems. For instance, both species exhibit a migration pattern centered on spawning in one region followed by feeding in another, both are fast swimming ambush predators that take advantage of high euphausid production as young but transition to a piscivorous diet with age, and both are known to exhibit highly variable, density-dependent related life history characteristics as population regulatory mechanisms. However, these species can be contrasted in many different ways related to specific adaptations within the unique ecosystems in which they live, the diverse and changing fisheries targeting them, and the complexity of stock assessment tools and management structures that have emerged in an attempt to provide a sound scientific basis for setting catch limits. This paper takes a retrospective and contemporary look at these two species, comparing and contrasting our current state of knowledge, highlighting uncertainties and identifying the complex challenges facing assessment and management.
Distinguishing constitutional and acquired nonclonal aneuploidy

Valind et al. report a significant finding, that constitutional aneuploidy itself does not lead to cancer-like chromosomal instability (CIN) (1). This observation, however, may not fully support the conclusion that aneuploidy does not directly lead to chromosomal instability. There is a significant difference between constitutional aneuploidy and the acquired aneuploidy in cancer, especially when that aneuploidy is nonclonal.
Adequacy of nutritional support in pediatric blood and marrow transplantation.

The use of nutrition support has become standard practice in blood and marrow transplantation, but what remains unclear is whether patients receive adequate nutrition supplementation during this time. This study is a retrospective audit of the nutritional supplementation of 34 pediatric patients admitted to a pediatric oncology unit for a blood and marrow transplantation. All patients received parenteral nutrition (PN) as their standard nutritional therapy with an average of 79 ± 10.6% of their estimated requirements given over the transplant period. The glucose/amino acid infusion was inadequate on 40% of PN days mainly because of fluid overload causing a reduction in infusion rates. The lipid infusion was inadequate on 60% of PN days mainly because of stoppages when drugs and/or blood were infused. The mean percentage weight change on discharge was +0.3 ± 4.7%. This had a large range of between −9.9% and +7.9% of body weight and did not seem to be related to adequacy of nutrition during transplant. This...
On the demand for information

Abstract Most previous research on the economics of information has been based on the expected utility hypothesis and Bayesian learning. Yet there is experimental evidence that decision makers do not always maximize expected utility and that human learning is not always consistent with Bayes' rule. Using a two-period model, this paper examines the valuation of information as well as the demanf for information in the broader context of a state preference approach under an ordinal representation of preferences. In particular, it is not assumed that the decision maker is Bayesian, nor that he behaves in a way consistent with the expected utility hypothesis. In this general framework, the value of information is defined and analysed. Also, under active learning, the optimal allocation of information gathering activities is discussed. Behavioural properties of the demand for information are derived making use of a compensation function. Implications of the results for measuring the value of information and for the economic analysis of learning activities are discussed.
A conceptual model for evaluating the financial impact of supply chain management technology investments

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the literature concerning supply chain management technology (SCMT) and financial performance, and to present a model for evaluating the financial performance benefits of investments in supply chain management technologies. The literature review and the associated model also lead to a discussion of opportunities for future research in the area.Design/methodology/approach – To develop the model, a comprehensive review of the literature investigating the financial performance benefits of SCMT and other closely‐related information technologies, such as inter‐organizational systems, was performed. Findings from the reviewed studies were assimilated and used as the basis for the proposed model and for recommended avenues of future research.Findings – The literature reviewed suggested that financial performance improvements from SCMT investments are derived from improvements in knowledge‐intensive capabilities, which lead to improvements in operational capabiliti...
Regulation of hexose transport in cultured bovine retinal microvessel endothelium by insulin.

In microvessel endothelium obtained from young calf retinas, insulin stimulated the uptake of 2-deoxy- d -glucose in a dose-dependent manner. The maximal level of glucose uptake (50–100% over basal values) was observed at 1 ng ml −1 insulin. The effects of insulin on glucose uptake were time-dependent, with optimum stimulation of glucose transport observed after 90 min of insulin treatment. The effects of insulin were prevented by 15 min pretreatment with 2 μg ml −1 cycloheximide or by 2 μg ml −1 actinomycin D, suggesting a role for new protein synthesis in the actions of insulin on glucose transport in this cell type. These results demonstrate that cultured retinal microvessel endothelial cells exhibit an insulin-sensitive glucose transport system.
Occurrence and toxicity of the cyanobacterium Gloeotrichia echinulata in low-nutrient lakes in the northeastern United States

To date, most research on cyanobacterial blooms has focused on high-nutrient, not low-nutrient lakes. We investigated reports of the cyanobacterium Gloeotrichia echinulata in lakes with low concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus across the northeastern United States by surveying selected oligotrophic and mesotrophic lakes during four summers. G. echinulata is a large (1–3 mm diameter) colonial cyanobacterium that may have substantial effects on low-nutrient lakes used for drinking water and recreation because it can produce the toxin microcystin-LR. We found G. echinulata in the water column of 27 out of 37 lakes we sampled in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. G. echinulata densities were typically low (<5 colonies L−1), but occasionally at surface scum-producing levels (up to 250 colonies L−1). G. echinulata colonies from the survey lakes exhibited detectable microcystin-LR concentrations ranging from 58 to 7,148 ng microcystin-LR g−1 dry weight colonies. If G. echinulata densities increase to bloom levels observed in eutrophic systems, our data suggest that the microcystin-LR concentrations attributable to G. echinulata may reach levels known to influence aquatic organisms and pose human health risks.
A randomized controlled pilot study of outcomes of strict allowance of fluid therapy in hyponatremic heart failure (SALT-HF).

Abstract Background Currently, fluid restriction recommendations in heart failure (HF) are based on expert opinion. After implementing a 1,000-mL/d fluid restriction for 60 days after discharge, outcomes were examined. Methods and Results In a randomized controlled design, hyponatremic patients (serum sodium ≤137 mg/dL) received usual care (UC; n = 26) or 1,000 mL/d fluid restriction (n = 20) at discharge. Quality of life (QoL), thirst, difficulty following fluid recommendations, adherence to fluid restriction, HF emergency care, HF rehospitalization, and all-cause death were examined. Mean age was 62.8 ± 12.8 years; 46% were white. There were no differences by group in baseline demographics, comorbidities, and QoL, except that more UC patients had New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III/IV status ( P = .019). Median [interquartile range] QoL scores were better in the 1,000 mL/d group for symptom burden (83.3 [68.8–91.7] vs 50 [29.2–79.2]; P = .018), total symptoms (77.1 [58.1–91.7] vs 54.2 [30.2–73.9]; P = .022), overall QoL summary (72.6 [52.2–86.3] vs 51.0 [37.7–68.5]; P = .038), and clinical QoL summary (75.5 [57.8–92.9] vs 59.1 [35.7–77.3]; P = .039). There were no group differences in thirst, difficulty adhering to fluid recommendations, adherence to fluid restriction, or health care consumption. Conclusions The 1,000 mL/d fluid restriction led to improved QoL at 60 days after discharge. Future research in a larger more heterogeneous sample is needed.
Development of a Quantitative Model for Enzyme-Catalyzed, Time-Dependent Changes in Protein Composition of Cheddar Cheese During Storage

Abstract To determine changes in protein composition in long-term storage of cheese, two types of cheese, traditional Cheddar and stirred curd Cheddar, were studied. The degradation of caseins in both cheeses during the process of ripening was evaluated by SDS-PAGE and densitometry. Relationships between the method of cheese manufacture and the effects of freezing and thawing of cheese at selected ages were studied. During the storage of cheese in the coolers, the ripening process continued, and as the age of the cheese increased, there were partial breakdowns of caseins into fragmentary products and peptides. Nonlinear regression analysis was used to model the time-dependent changes in casein components. From these analyses, "half-lives" for casein changes could be calculated. Notably, α s1 -casein disappears with a half-life of 2 wk; half-life of β -casein is 37 wk. Neither young nor aged Cheddar cheese was affected by differences in freezing temperatures, nor were there differences between samples collected before and after freezing, nor were there significant differences between the stirred curd and traditional Cheddars.
Sociotechnical Settlement and Mediation in a System of Technical Societies: A Relational History of the IEEE Computer Society and ACM, circa 1967-1977

The IEEE Computer Society has long occupied a unique position between its parent organization (the IEEE, formerly IRE and AIEE) and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). In this paper I examine how this position was maintained from about 1967 to 1977. More specifically, I show how various structures and processes of sociotechnical settlement and mediation created stability in this system of technical societies, even in the midst of rapid technological and institutional change. I develop this case by presenting evidence from three technical areas, namely microprogramming, computer architecture, and software engineering. My analysis is based on extensive archival research, and draws theory and method from the history of technology and science and
Toward the School as Sanctuary Concept in Multicultural Urban Education: Implications for Small High School Reform

This article describes the school as sanctuary concept through the voices of students enrolled in a small urban high school that curricularly privileges the linguistic, cultural, and sociopolitical realities of its communities. Moreover, this particular school was founded by students and teachers over 30 years ago as a direct response to pedagogically and psychologically colonizing large comprehensive high schools in a major urban school district. According to students, a school becomes a sanctuary when there are four essential components in place. These sanctuary-like attributes include multiple definitions of caring relations between students and their teachers, the importance of a familial-like school environment, the necessity of psychologically and physically safe school spaces, and allowing students a forum in which they are encouraged to affirm their racial/ethnic pride. Implications for forwarding this concept within a larger discourse around urban school reform are discussed.
An introduction to the multistage cube family of interconnection networks

The interconnection network in large-scale parallel/distributed supercomputer systems is a crucial component. Three networks are overviewed here. Multistage cube networks represent an important family of networks, which includes the omega, n-cube, multistage shuffle-exchange, delta, baseline, SW-banyan, and Generalized Cube. This family has been used or proposed for use in such systems as staran, pasm, Ultracomputer, the BBN Butterfly, the IBM RP3, and data-flow machines. The multistage cube topology, distributed routing control, and ability to be partitioned into independent subnetworks are examined. The Extra Stage Cube (ESC), a single-fault-tolerant multistage cube network, is described. The structure, control, and partitionability of the ESC, and how it functions when multiple faults occur, are presented. The Dynamic Redundancy (DR) network, a fault-tolerant multistage cube network that supports the incorporation of spare processors for fault tolerance, is discussed. Its structure, control, and partitionability into single-fault-tolerant subnetworks are explained.
Treatment of multiple facial syringomas with the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser

Background. Syringomas are benign tumors of eccrine origin most commonly found in the periorbital area. Previously reported treatments for syringomas include excision, electrodesiccation and curettage, dermabrasion, and carbon dioxide (CO2) laser resurfacing. The ideal treatment of syringomas should be destruction of the tumor with minimal scarring and no recurrence. Objective. The objective is to present a treatment method for multiple syringomas without scarring or recurrence. Method. Ten patients with multiple periorbital syringomas were treated with a high energy, scanned carbon dioxide laser. Settings of 5 watts, 0.2 second scan time, and 3mm spot size were used. Two passes were performed, but some lesions required four passes. In some cases the entire lower periorbital area was treated. Results were evaluated clinically by both physicians and patients over a span of 1 to 24 months. Results. Elimination of the syringomas was successful in all patients. Each patient remains free of recurrence 1 to 24 months after therapy. Prolonged erythema was the most common side effect, but no scarring was seen. Four out of the ten patients required repeat spot treatments. Conclusion. The CO2 laser is a dependable, safe, and nonscarring method for the treatment of periorbital syringomas.
Integrating Software Lifecycle Process Standards with Security Engineering

Since the advent and astronomical rise of the Internet and E-business, organizations must secure their computer systems or risk malicious attacks. While there have been several software lifecycle process standards (SLPS) for both military and industrial software development, their activities and deliverables are not yet integrated with security engineering (SE) activities. This lack of integration has created conflicts among the system development stakeholders (e.g. system acquirers and developers) during secure information systems development projects. This paper proposes an integration model that interweaves all the process activities and deliverables of SLPS with SE activities, taking IEEE/EIA 12207 as an example of SLPS. This model provides practical guidelines for the development of secure information systems while informing stakeholders how SLPS is related to the SE activities.
Mapping QTL for resistance to eyespot of wheat in Aegilops longissima

Eyespot is an economically important disease of wheat caused by the soilborne fungi Oculimacula yallundae and O. acuformis. These pathogens infect and colonize the stem base, which results in lodging of diseased plants and reduced grain yield. Disease resistant cultivars are the most desirable control method, but resistance genes are limited in the wheat gene pool. Some accessions of the wheat wild relative Aegilops longissima are resistant to eyespot, but nothing is known about the genetic control of resistance. A recombinant inbred line population was developed from the cross PI 542196 (R) × PI 330486 (S) to map the resistance genes and better understand resistance in Ae. longissima. A genetic linkage map of the Sl genome was constructed with 169 wheat microsatellite markers covering 1261.3 cM in 7 groups. F5 lines (189) were tested for reaction to O. yallundae and four QTL were detected in chromosomes 1Sl, 3Sl, 5Sl, and 7Sl. These QTL explained 44 % of the total phenotypic variation in reaction to eyespot based on GUS scores and 63 % for visual disease ratings. These results demonstrate that genetic control of O. yallundae resistance in Ae. longissima is polygenic. This is the first report of multiple QTL conferring resistance to eyespot in Ae. longissima. Markers cfd6, wmc597, wmc415, and cfd2 are tightly linked to Q.Pch.wsu-1S l , Q.Pch.wsu-3S l , Q.Pch.wsu-5S l , and Q.Pch.wsu-7S l , respectively. These markers may be useful in marker-assisted selection for transferring resistance genes to wheat to increase the effectiveness of resistance and broaden the genetic diversity of eyespot resistance.
Organization theory and supply chain management: An evolving research perspective

Abstract The supply chain is the central organizing unit in today's global industries. We describe how supply chains have evolved over the last three decades, arguing that their organizational history can be divided into three periods. In the first period, the primary focus was on how to make operations throughout the supply chain more efficient. In the second period, the focus shifted from efficiency to effectiveness as leading firms began to incorporate the ideas and expertise of their suppliers and partners into the management of the supply chain. In the current period, some firms are beginning to explore how supply chains can be extended across industries in addition to operating efficiently and effectively within industries.
Logistic Regression Analysis of Twin Data: Estimation of Parameters of the Multifactorial Liability-Threshold Model

We extend the DeFries-Fulker regression model for the analysis of quantitative twin data to cover binary traits and genetic dominance. In the proposed logistic regression model, the cotwin's trait status,C, is the response variable, while the proband's trait status,P, is a predictor variable coded ask (affected) and 0 (unaffected). Additive genetic effects are modeled by the predictor variablePR, which equalsP for monozygotic (MZ) andP/2 for dizygotic (DZ) twins; and dominant genetic effects, byPD, which equalsP for MZ andP/4 for DZ twins. By setting an appropriate scale forP (i.e., the value ofk), the regression coefficients ofP, PR, andPD are estimates of the proportions of variance in liability due to common family environment, additive genetic effects, and dominant genetic effects, respectively, for a multifactorial liability-threshold model. This model was applied to data on lifetime depression from the Virginia Twin Registry and produced results similar to those from structural equation modeling.
Residual strength analyses of stiffened and unstiffened panels. Part II: wide panels

Abstract This paper highlights the results from fracture analyses conducted on the FAA/NASA wide panels (with and without stiffeners) using structural analysis of general shells code and the critical crack-tip-opening angle (CTOA) fracture criterion. The critical CTOA and plane-strain core height values, calibrated from a fit to the experimental load-against-crack-extension results from a series of unstiffened panels (76–1016 mm wide) tests with anti-buckling guides (Part I of this paper), were used in the analyses of wide stiffened and unstiffened panels. As discussed in Part I of this paper, high constraint around the crack front like plane strain has been accounted for by using the “plane-strain core” option in all analyses. By accounting for high constraint around crack front, it was possible for the critical CTOA fracture criterion to predict wide panel failures from small laboratory tests. As followed in Part I of this paper, rivet flexibility and stiffener failures in the analyses of wide panels were based on methods and criteria like that currently used in the industry. Analyses were able to predict stable crack growth and residual strength of both stiffened and unstiffened panels with various amounts of multiple-site damage within ±10% of the test results. Finally, it has been demonstrated that, it is possible to predict the residual strength of wide stiffened and unstiffened panels with critical CTOA calibrated from small laboratory coupons.
Browser-based applications: positive transference or interference?

Applications that run on top of web browsers dominate the Internet today. Given the many similarities among these applications' features, positive transference from one to another is often seen as an important source of ease-of-use for such applications. This paper examines the many differences in the way similar features are implemented in different browser-based applications, analyzing the way these inconsistencies can lead to negative transference (interference) that degrades rather than enhances usability.
A pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic model of nitroglycerin (NTG) effects on cerebral blood flow (CBF) and mean velocity (MV)

Background GTN has been widely used in clinical medicine, as well as in a variety of experimental headache models. To date, no studies modeling GTN concentration against brain blood flow have been published. In this study, we comodeled GTN concentrations against two pharmacodynamic (PD) effects: CBF and middle cerebral artery (MCA) MV in a GTN induced headache model. Methods Healthy volunteers received intravenous GTN at 0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 mcg/kg/min in a stepped infusion. Arterial GTN concentrations were measured by GC-EC. CBF was measured by H215O PET and MV with transcranial Doppler. A Hill-type PD model was fit to the measurements of CBF and MV using maximum likelihood (ADAPT II). Model discrimination was by Akaike's Information Criterion (ADAPT II). Results Estimated parameters are listed in the following (see Table) Conclusions Our findings represent the first report of modeling of arterial concentrations of GTN against CBF and MV. This may provide a useful tool for assessing the effect of anti-migraine medications on brain blood flow using the GTN headache model. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2005) 77, P89–P89; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2004.12.231 Table 1. N = 9 Mean S.D. (CLt: total serum clearance; E0: baseline effect; fEmax: maximal change of PD parameters following GTN; R/L: right and left MCV). Models of GTN pharmacokinetics r2= 0.847) and PD effects were adequately fitted (r2CBF= 0.792; r2TCD= 0.706). CLt (L/min) 0.949 1.2 CBF (mL/min/100 kg) Eo 49.2 5.6 fEmax 0.329 0.20 MV of MCA (cm/sec) Eo (R/L) 74.0/72.0 11/12 fEmax(R/L) −0.172/−0.172 0.055/0.050
The Relationship Between Child and Parental Social Competence

Abstract This study focused on the social-participation behavior of parents as a potential influence on the development of socially competent behavior in their kindergarten children. We hypothesized that parental social participation with friends and in community activities would provide a salient model for observational learning. Forty-two families with kindergarten children participated in the study. Interviews with parents detailed their social contacts in specific time periods just prior to the interview. The assessment of social competency of the children included measures of social behavior, popularity, and social cognitive ability. Correlational analysis showed a more consistent modeling pattern of satisfying social participation for mothers as compared to fathers. Social participation with friends by mothers and fathers and social participation in the community for mothers were consistently predictive of the children's social competency.
Rich's an Atlas of the Difficult World, 2 and 7

(1999). Rich's an Atlas of the Difficult World, 2 and 7. The Explicator: Vol. 57, No. 2, pp. 120-123.
Searching for the signal of competition in plant-mediated interactions among coexisting gall insects on broad-leaved paperbark

The central prediction of competition theory is that a reciprocal struggle for resources should manifest itself among coexisting species under conditions of increasing functional similarity (e.g. similar feeding niche), density and spatio-temporal overlap. We investigated whether the signal from such a struggle was evident in a community of phytophagous gall insects on Melaleuca quinquenervia meeting these conditions. Specifically, we examined plant-mediated interactions among three species galling vegetative tips with varying degrees of temporal overlap. The abundance of early gallers (Sphaerococcus ferrugineus Froggatt and Fergusonina turneri Taylor) did not influence resource availability for the late galler (Lophodiplosis indendata Gagne), suggesting the absence of temporally separated exploitative competition. However, the abundance of S. ferrugineus was positively correlated with the abundance of L. indentata, which suggests facilitation or similar responses to the prevailing conditions. Examination of the reciprocal impacts of the late galler on early gallers paradoxically revealed that though galling by L. indentata may be reducing the resource availability for early gallers, the abundance of L. indentata was positively influenced by the abundance of early gallers (an effect that is stronger for S. ferrugineus than F. turneri) suggesting facilitation. The strong influence of site on the interactions among the different cecidogenic species indicated that any role for competition/facilitation may be spatially constrained. We explore potential processes that may be driving the patterns that we detected and also the implications for the use of these species as biological control agents for M. quinquenervia.
Spatially constrained reasoning for the determination of wildlife foraging areas

Abstract The number of migratory birds is declining mainly due to habitat destruction. To prevent further deterioration of the situation, government agencies and private sector organizations have banded together to develop protective measures. One such effort is carried out by the USDA Forest Service. The Forest Service, through a cooperative research program with Texas A&M University, is developing a systems approach in identifying suitable habitats for indicator species. As the foraging areas for an indicator species are properly identified and managed, the entire group which the indicator species represents benefits directly. The systems approach under development combines the use of the vector- and raster-based Geographic Information System (GIS) and the forest inventory database to delineate boundaries of candidate foraging areas. A pattern recognition algorithm has been developed to consider the shape constraints of a habitat. A heuristic rulebase is then used to rank the relative merit of each candidate area based on its current conditions. Preliminary results show that this approach is quite capable of consistent selection and ranking of proper indicator species foraging areas. Its performance is comparable to the human expert counter-part.
On the construction of barrier in a visibility based pursuit evasion game

This work addresses a vision-based tracking problem between a mobile observer and a target in the presence of a circular obstacle. The task of keeping the target in the observer's field-of-view is modeled as a pursuit-evasion game by assuming that the target is adversarial in nature. The objective of the observer is to maintain a line-of-sight with the target at all times. The objective of the target is to break the line-of-sight in finite amount of time. Initially, the control of the players on the barrier is computed from a slight modification of the definition of the escape set and the capture set [10]. The barrier is constructed from the boundary of the usable part of the terminal manifold using the retrogressive equation for the normals to it. For a fixed initial position of the observer, a partition of the plane into escape and capture regions for the target is obtained from the construction of the barrier. This technique is extended to provide an approximation for the escape and capture set for a polygonal obstacle. Finally, numerical construction of iso-value surfaces is presented from the optimal strategies for the players in the escape set based on our earlier work in [5].
Isolation and verification of anatoxin‐a producing clones of Anabaena flos‐aquae (Lyngb.) de Breb. from a eutrophic lake

We present a technique to isolate and confirm anatoxin-a producing clones (single trichome-isolates) of Anabaena flos-aquae (Lyngb.) de Breb. from blooms of this cyanobacterium. A single trichome is isolated from a field sample and grown in ASM medium. Single trichomes are then isolated from this culture and grown in ASM medium to produce single clone cultures. Mouse bioassay, and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) using purified anatoxin-a as reference is then used to confirm the anatoxin-a producing clones. Using this methodology, Anabaena flos-aquae samples collected during July 1991 from Hebgen Lake, Montana, were found to contain only 8.7% anatoxin-a producing clones. This minor proportion of anatoxin-a producing clones apparently accounts for the anatoxin-a produced by the entire population of A. flos-aquae. Our technique is simple and reproducible. A selected clone of A. flos-aquae that produces anatoxin-a and one that does not produce anatoxin-a were deposited in the UTEX culture collection, University of Texas at Austin.
The food product development process

The current process for developing new food products is seriously flawed. Of the 8,077 new food products (stock keeping units or SKUs) introduced to US retail markets in 1993, only about one‐quarter of them were novel – not simply line extensions. Although there are no published data on successes and failures of new food products, it is estimated that 80 to 90 per cent of them fail within one year of introduction. These are just the products that made the retail cut; consider all the products whose efforts fell short and retail introduction never took place. This means that only about 200 novel food products introduced in 1993 will make it after their first year on US retail shelves in 1994. The failure cost to the US food industry is estimated at $20 billion. This cost results from missed sales targets, lost revenues and postponed profits in addition to wasted development resources.