cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonoperative management of bile leaks following liver transplantation.

The biliary anastomosis has been called the Achilles heel' of liver transplantation (RABKIN JM, ORLOFF SL, REED MH. Transplantation 1998: 65 [2]: 193; DAVIDSON BR, RAI R, KURZAWINSKI TR. Br J Surg 1999: 86 [4]: 447). Biliary complications after liver transplantation reportedly occur at an incidence of 20-30%, 10-15% as bile leaks. The management of bile leaks, especially early bile leaks, is controversial. In the present study, we report our experience with the management of bile leaks after liver transplantation. In this retrospective study, we reviewed 85 liver transplants over a 3-yr period. In 79, the biliary anastomosis was choledochocholedochostomy (CDCD) over a small-caliber T-tube, while choledochojejunostomy (CDJ) was used in 7. Over a mean follow up period of 13.5 months (median 10 months), 10 patients (12%) experienced a clinically significant bile leak within the first 3 months after liver transplantation. The early leaks, occurring within 1 month of transplant, were successfully managed by observation (DAVIDSON BR, RAI R, KURZAWINSKI TR. Br J Surg 1999: 86 [4]: 447) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and the placement of a biliary stent for a duration of 6-12 wk (RANDALL HB, WACHS ME, SOMBERG KA. Transplantation 1996: 61 [2]: 258). One of these resulted from accidental dislodgement of the T-tube on postoperative day 1; one resulted from necrosis at the CDCD anastomosis and required CDJ; the remaining four resulted from leaks along the T-tube track. One of the late leaks occurred following the planned removal of the T-tube at 3 months after liver transplantation; the other two were leaks along the T-tube track. All were successfully treated by ERCP and stent placement, though in one case, ERCP was initially unsuccessful because of the inability to advance a guidewire, necessitating a fluoroscopically aided guide wire placement during a mini laparotomy. ERCP was then successfully performed with the placement of a stent. Tab. Conclusions: Our experience indicates that most bile leaks after liver transplantation, including early leaks, can be successfully managed non-operatively. Most will require intervention, but ERCP and stent placement are usually sufficient.
Event-by-event fluctuations of particle ratios in central Pb + Pb collisions at 20-158 A GeV

In the vicinity of the QCD phase transition, critical fluctuations have been predicted to lead to non-statistical fluctuations of particle ratios, depending on the nature of the phase transition. Recent results of the NA49 energy scan programme show a sharp maximum of the ratio of K+ to π+ yields in central Pb+Pb collisions at beam energies of 20–30 A GeV. This observation has been interpreted as an indication of a phase transition at low SPS energies. We present first results on event-by-event fluctuations of the kaon to pion and proton to pion ratios at beam energies close to this maximum.
A Detailed Social Accounting Matrix for the USA, 1988

This paper presents the methodology used to construct a highly disaggregated social accounting matrix (SAM) of the USA which integrates data on interindustry flows, value added, imports and final demand for 487 production sectors into a consistent framework. The table was assembled from a variety of government data sources and updates 1982 input–output accounts and other information to 1988. The paper documents the data and techniques used to assemble and update these accounts for those who wish to construct large-scale SAMs.
Sediment characteristics in iceberg dominated fjords, Kangerlussuaq region, East Greenland

Abstract Sediment cores from three East Greenland fjords contain sediment lithofacies and depositional processes in an iceberg dominated glacial marine setting. Three major lithofacies, diamicton, fine-grained mud, and sand, are deposited by two processes, sediment rain-out and sediment gravity flows. The sediments in Kangerlussuaq Fjord are predominately fine-grained muds deposited by rain-out from icebergs and glacier meltwater, with sediment gravity flows acting as secondary agents of deposition. Miki Fjord records rain-out of fine-grained muds from a river plume emanating from a proglacial delta at the fjord head. Alternating units of diamicton and fine-grained mud in Nansen Fjord are deposited by sediment rain-out from icebergs; particle size is governed by the oceanographic conditions in the fjord at the time of deposition. Despite their proximity to each other, each fjord is distinguished by a distinct sedimentological signature: Kangerlussuaq Fjord has low total organic carbon contact, Miki Fjord has high mass magnetic susceptibility, and Nansen Fjord has high amounts of ice-rafted debris. Comparison of the East Greenland iceberg dominated and Alaska glacial meltwater dominated environments indicates few major differences between sediments deposited in these two settings. This similarity raises doubt as to how well glacial marine sedimentary sequences can be used to interpret and reconstruct differences between glacial marine environments in the past without knowledge of sediment accumulation rates, environmental conditions at the time of sediment deposition, and comparable sedimentological data between studies.
uPy: A Ubiquitous CG Python API with Biological-Modeling Applications

The uPy Python extension module provides a uniform abstraction of the APIs of several 3D computer graphics programs (called hosts), including Blender, Maya, Cinema 4D, and DejaVu. A plug-in written with uPy can run in all uPy-supported hosts. Using uPy, researchers have created complex plug-ins for molecular and cellular modeling and visualization. uPy can simplify programming for many types of projects (not solely science applications) intended for multihost distribution. It's available at http://upy.scripps.edu. The first featured Web extra is a video that shows interactive analysis of a calcium dynamics simulation. YouTube URL: http://youtu.be/wvs-nWE6ypo. The second featured Web extra is a video that shows rotation of the HIV virus. YouTube URL: http://youtu.be/vEOybMaRoKc.
Effects of humic acids from vermicomposts on plant growth

The interactions between earthworms and microorganisms can produce significant quantities of plant growth hormones and humic acids which act as plant regulators. Experiments were designed to evaluate the effects of humic acids extracted from vermicompost and compare them with the action of commercial humic acid in combination with a commercial plant growth hormone, indole acetic acid (IAA) which is a commonly found in vermicomposts. In the first experiments, humic acids were extracted from cattle, food and paper waste vermicomposts. They were applied to a plant growth medium, Metro-Mix360 (MM360), at rates of 0, 250 or 500 mg humates kg −1 dry wt. of MM360, to marigold, pepper, and strawberry plants in the greenhouse. Substitution of humates ranging from 250 to 1000 mg kg −1 MM360 increased the growth of marigold and pepper roots, and increased the growth of roots and numbers of fruits of strawberries significantly. In other experiments, humic acids extracted from food waste vermicomposts were applied at a rate of 500 mg kg −1 dry wt. of MM360, singly or in combination with IAA at a rate of 10 −5 μM, to pepper seedlings. This experiment was designed to compare the differences in effects between the most effective dosage rate of humic acid from food waste, a phytohormone (IAA), and a commercial source of humic acid. The numbers of pepper flowers and fruits increased significantly in response to treatment with humic acid, IAA and a combination of humic acid and IAA. Peppers treated with humic acids extracted from food waste vermicomposts produced significantly more fruits and flowers than those treated with commercially-produced humic acids.
In vitro and in vivo transformation in rat tracheal epithelial cells exposed to diesel emission particles and related compounds

The rat tracheal epithelial (RTE) cell transformation assay was performed to determine the transforming activity of diesel emission particles (DEPs) and two related compounds, 1-nitropyrene (1-NP) and dibenzo(a,i)pyrene (DBP). RTE cells were treated with these agents in vitro and in vivo. Transformed cells from foci induced by these agents were passaged over 20 times to establish immortal cell lines. Results show that (1) DEPs- and 1-NP-induced cell transformation only with the in vivo exposure (30–75 mg/kg bw DEPs and 15–60 mg/kg bw 1-NP); (2) positive dose-related responses to DBP were found with both in vitro (0.05–0.50 μg/ml) and in vivo (7.5–30 mg/kg bw) exposures; (3) the fraction of transformed foci becoming cell lines was in the order of 1-NP(25/48)>DBP(8/28)>DEPs(0/30). These results indicate that (1) DEPs, 1-NP and DBP are capable of transforming rat tracheal epithelial cells, however, the transforming activity of DEPs and 1-NP may be dependent on metabolic activation, and (2) transformed cells induced by DEPs have a very low probability, if any, of becoming cell lines.
Becoming Criminal: Transversal Performance and Cultural Dissidence in Early Modern England. By Bryan Reynolds. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 2002; pp. 195. $41.95 cloth; Theatrical Convention and Audience Response in Early Modern Drama. By Jeremy Lopez. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2003; pp. 216. $60 cloth.

Bryan Reynolds's fascinating book, Becoming Criminal , contributes to the growing scholarly work that examines relations among early modern literature, theatre, and legalism. Reynolds identifies a distinct late sixteenth-century criminal culture that operated according to its own aesthetic, ideology, language, and lifestyle. This culture's proximity to state official culture was a crucial part of its own identity and also of its power to undermine and dissent from that official cultural identity. “Self-defined by the criminal conduct and dissident thought” of its members, and “officially defined by and against the dominant preconceptions of English cultural normality,” this culture “constituted a subnation that illegitimately occupied material and conceptual space within the English nation” (1). In this view, it sought not to destroy the dominant system but to feed off of it, possessing in itself a paradoxical coherence and chosen way of life that “transverses” official culture: that lies athwart of it, crosses into it, and is fetishized by it.
Infrared kinetic spectroscopy of C2H and C2D

Color center laser kinetic spectroscopy has been used to investigate the spectrum of C2H and C2D. For C2D four 2∑+←2∑+ “hot” bands originating from the (0,0,1) X 2∑+ level and one new 2Π←2∑+ band originating from the ground vibronic level have been observed in the region 3350 to 3750 cm−1 and are analyzed. The focus of interest for C2H is the observation and assignment of the CH stretching fundamental. In this search, three 2∑+←2∑+ bands originating from the ground vibronic level have been observed in the region 3250 to 3600 cm−1 and are analyzed. However, with 13C substitution to 13C13CH, no bands were found with an isotopic shift from the three 12C2H bands as small as is expected (ca. 20 cm−1) for the CH stretch.
A discrepancy between two modes of haptic length perception.

This study investigated the possibility that systematic differences exist between the perceptions resulting from the use of two different heptic modes to know the same object. In each of three experiments 24 male and female college students chose visual comparison stimuli to match the length of haptically presented standard stimuli. In each experiment significantly smaller visual matches were made when the length of the haptic standard was perceived by holding it between the thumb and index finger than when the haptic standard was perceived by stroking it from end to end with the index finger. Experiment 1 established a significant difference (p less than .05) using a horizontal visual comparison. Experiment 2 replicated this effect (p less than .001) using vertical visual comparisons. Experiment 3 again replicated the effect (p less than .001) with visual comparisons and ruled out the possibility that the effect was due to the orientation of the haptic stimuli.
The Health Status of American Indian and Alaska Native Males

Objectives. This study summarizes current health status information relating to American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) males compared with that of AI/ANfemales. Methods. I analyzed published data from the Indian Health Service for 1994 through 1996 to determine sex differences in morbidity and mortality rates and use of health care facilities. Results. AI/AN males’ death rates exceed those of AI/AN females for every age up to 75 years and for 6 of the 8 leading causes of death. Accidents, suicide, and homicide are epidemic among AI/AN males. Paradoxically, AI/AN males contribute only 37.9% of outpatient visits, versus 62.1% for females, and only 47% of hospitalizations excluding childbirth. Conclusions. AI/AN males suffer inordinately from a combination of increased burden of illness and lack of utilization of health care services. Programs targeted to anomie, loss of traditional male roles, and violence and alcoholism are among the most urgently needed.
A comparison of alternative joint vendor-purchaser lot-sizing models

Abstract This paper provides a comparative analysis of two sets of alternative joint lot-sizing models for the general one-vendor, many-nonidentical-purchasers case. Specifically, the basic joint economic lot size (irJELS) and individually responsible and rational decision (IRDD) models, and the simultaneous setup cost and order cost reduction versions are explored. Models for the latter situation are derived by the use of classical optimization techniques. A numerical example is presented which provides the basis for comparison of the models with the results of independent optimization (IO). For the basic models the previously reported advantages of IRRD are refuted. In the simultaneous investment case both the vendor and the purchasers realize significant savings over IO when the JELS policy is followed. This is not true for IRRD. This suggests that when an environment of co-operation between the parties has been established the JELS is a superior policy.
Intraoperative 2-dimensional echocardiography: Ejection of microbubbles from the left ventricle after cardiac surgery

Although the presence of entrapped air in the left ventricle at surgery has long been a concern, its prevalence and clinical significance are unknown. Two-dimensional echocardiography provides a unique means for observing intracardiac microbubbles intraoperatively. Accordingly, intraoperative 2-dimensional echocardiograms obtained in 79 patients immediately after cardiopulmonary bypass were examined for the presence of microbubbles. Left ventricular microbubbles were detected in 14% of coronary artery bypass operations (n = 22), 50% of multiple valve replacements (n = 8), 67% of single valve replacements (n = 58), and 100% of atrial septal defect closures (n = 4), left atrial myxoma resections (n = 2), and mitral commissurotomies (n = 2). Microbubbles were not observed in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass with valve replacement (n = 4) or with removal of left ventricular aneurysm (n = 1). Continuous ejection of microbubbles from the left ventricle was frequently noted for extended periods of time and, although no patient in this study showed evidence of gross neurologic dysfunction, the possibility of subclinical organ damage exists. We conclude that 2-dimensional echocardiography is useful for detection of intracardiac microbubbles and therefore may be instrumental in their elimination.
Truth and Fiction in A. I. Sulakadzev’s Chronograph of the Marriages of Tsar Ivan Vasil’evich

Few sources have exerted more influence on the biography of Ivan IV (Ivan the Terrible) than the so-called Chronograph of the Marriages of Tsar Ivan Vasil’evich, but the source has not to date been properly studied, except to note that it is a likely forgery of the notorious bibliophile and manuscript forger Alexander Ivanovich Sulakadzev. This article offers the first dedicated treatment of the Chronograph’s contents, comparing the information in it about the number, identity, and biographies of Ivan’s wives with what we know about them from other, unquestionably authentic sources of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The article provides ample proof that the Chronograph is a forgery, but also isolates and discusses some of the unique pieces of information in it, including the names of some of Ivan’s brides and the dates of his marriages – parsing out fact from likely fiction. It also discusses the possible sources for the information in the Chronograph, including links to the Istoriia gosudarstva Rossiiskogo [The History of the Russian State] by Nikolai M. Karazmin. The article’s conclusions will be of interest to biographers of Ivan IV, women’s historians, textual scholars, and specialists on the history of Russian literary culture in the sixteenth through nineteenth centuries.
Characteristics of Diurnal and Seasonal Cycles in Global Monsoon Systems

In this paper, we characterize the climatological diurnal cycles over monsoon land and ocean regions, and seasonal cycles for six major monsoon systems around the world, from observations and outputs of the NASA Seasonal-to-Interannual Prediction Project (NSIPP) general circulation model outputs. Over monsoon land regions, the diurnal cycle has a pronounced late afternoon peak in rainfall and over the oceans a much weak diurnal signal with an early morning peak. The NSIPP model produces a daily peak in rainfall about 2–3 hours earlier than observed, possibly attributed to a cumulus parameterization which does not include cloud life cycle effects, and which lack detailed treatment of boundary layer processes. The seasonal cycles of all monsoon rain systems are controlled by an ITCZ and a subtropical and/or extratropical component due to the presence of contiguous large continental land mass. Strong climatological intraseasonal oscillations (CISO) are found in the monsoon systems of South Asia and East Asia, Australia, and South America, and to a lesser degree for West Africa and Mexico/North America. The NSIPP model captures the slow component seasonal component reasonably well, but the CISO’s are not well simulated. Analysis with reference to a new monsoon index shows that the major monsoon systems can be classified into three major groups (M1–3) according to the relative strength of continental vs. oceanic controls. East Asian and South Asian monsoons belong to a group (M1), where the continental influence is stronger than that from the ITCZ. The North America and South America monsoons show similar characteristics with the ITCZ influence slight stronger than continental influence (M2). The West Africa and Australia monsoons are found to be essentially ITCZ-monsoon systems (M3), with strong oceanic control, and limited poleward excursion of the monsoon rainbelt. We also find a clear trend associated with an increase in continentality for M3 monsoons, i.e., the West African and the Australian monsoons in the last two decades. We speculate that the former is linked to the partially recovery of the Sahel drought since the 1980’s.
Matrix crack interaction in a fiber-reinforced brittle matrix composite

Abstract Multiple cracking in a fiber-reinforced brittle matrix composite under longitudinal tensile loading is investigated within the framework of linear elastic fracture mechanics. A perfect bond is assumed at the interface. Stress intensity factors are presented for different ratios of shear moduli, crack spacings and fiber volume fractions. Stress fields are given for a brittle matrix fiber-reinforced composite, calcium aluminosilicate glass ceramic reinforced with silicon carbide fibers (SiC/CAS). The stress fields are used to predict damage mechanisms in the composite. It is shown that crack interaction effects are significant for crack spacings that are observed in composites with good bonding at the fiber-matrix interface.
Relating tradable credits for biodiversity to sustainability criteria in a dynamic landscape

Tradable biodiversity credit systems provide flexible means to resolve conflicts between development and conservation land-use options for habitats occupied by threatened or endangered species. We describe an approach to incorporate the influence of habitat fragmentation into the conservation value of tradable credits. Habitat fragmentation decreases gene flow, increases rates of genetic drift and inbreeding, and increases probabilities of patch extinction. Importantly, tradable credit systems will change the level of fragmentation over time for small and/or declining populations. We apply landscape equivalency analysis (LEA), a generalizable, landscape-scale accounting system that assigns conservation value to habitat patches based on patch contributions to abundance and genetic variance at landscape scales. By evaluating habitat trades using two models that vary the relationship between dispersal behaviors and landscape patterns, we show that LEA provides a novel method for limiting access to habitat at the landscape-scale, recognizing that the appropriate amount of migration needed to supplement patch recruitment and to offset drift and inbreeding will vary as landscape pattern changes over time. We also found that decisions based on probabilities of persistence alone would ignore changes in migration, genetic drift, and patch extinction that result from habitat trades. The general principle of LEA is that habitat patches traded should make at least equivalent contributions to rates of recruitment and migration estimated at a landscape scale. Traditional approaches for assessing the “take” and “jeopardy” standards under the Endangered Species Act based on changes in abundance and probability of persistence may be inadequate to prevent trades that increase fragmentation.
Discrete subregions of the rat midbrain periaqueductal gray project to nucleus ambiguus and the periambigual region

We investigated the organization of projections from the rat midbrain periaqueductal gray to nucleus ambiguus and the periambigual region using retrograde and anterograde tract tracing techniques. Retrograde tracing results revealed that neurons that project to nucleus ambiguus arise from three discrete, longitudinally organized columns of neurons located in the supraoculomotor central gray, lateral and ventrolateral periaqueductal gray. Anterograde tracing studies demonstrated that projections from these three columns of periaqueductal gray neurons terminate with topographic specificity in nucleus ambiguus and the periambigual region. Double-labelling studies demonstrated that periaqueductal gray neurons terminate in close contiguity to cholinergic neurons in the compact, semicompact, loose and external formations of nucleus ambiguus. The present results suggest that projections from periaqueductal gray to nucleus ambiguus may mediate, in part, certain cardiovascular adjustments and vocalizations produced by stimulation of periaqueductal gray.
The nature of gene evolution on the mammalian Y chromosome: lessons from Sry

With the exception of a small region, heteromorphic sex chromosomes of mammals do not undergo recombination in male meiosis. As a result, the majority of the Y chromosome is clonally transmitted through paternal lineages. Numerous phenomena, including the Hill-Robertson effect, Muller's ratchet, genetic hitch-hiking, and male-driven molecular evolution, are associated with the special transmission properties of the Y chromosome, and can potentially explain the tempo and pattern of gene evolution on the mammalian Y. We explore these phenomena in light of comparative data from the Y-linked sex-determining locus, Sry. Sry exhibits rapid amino acid divergence between species and little to no variation within species. We find no evidence for directional selection acting on this locus. The pattern of evolution between species is consistent with the Hill-Robertson effect and Muller's ratchet. Lack of variation in Sry within species may reflect genetic hitch-hiking, however, we cannot exclude the confounding effects of small effective population size of Y chromosomes. We find no support for male-driven molecular evolution for Sry in Old World mice and rats. However, a more appropriate test of this hypothesis would be to compare the evolution of Sry to the X-linked Sox3 gene in these same species. Clearly, more comparative studies of Sry and other Y-linked loci are needed to characterize the effects of Y chromosome transmission on the evolution of Y-linked sequences.
Effects of oil shale mineral composition on char combustion reactions

Six powdered oil shales with differing mineral compositions were retorted and the resulting chars were subjected to isothermal combustion kinetic studies using TGA techniques. Base line combustion rates were first determined for each sample to evaluate mineral effects. Thermal decarbonation and water extraction of soluble minerals removed catalytically important species, and the subsequent combustion results are compared in terms of intrinsic first order kinetic expressions. In each case the char combustion rate was found to be first order with respect to both the char remaining and to the oxygen partial pressure. This was also true for a Devonian shale, Michigan Antrim, once the char combustion rate was successfully separated from the combustion rate of sulphur bearing minerals. Intrinsic western spent shale char combustion rate constants were found to vary from 1.2 × 10−3 to 1.5 × 10−4 kPa−1 s−1 at 700 K. The saline zone shales were the most reactive, and shales low in mineral carbonates the least reactive. Shales high in Group Ia and IIa metal carbonates combusted up to six times faster when these minerals were present as oxides. The combustion rate of Devonian shale char was slower by a factor of ten than that of the slowest western shale char. This was attributed to the virtual lack of catalytic minerals and is evidence that iron oxide is not a significant char oxidation catalyst.
BLENDED LEARNING: UNDERSTANDING THE MIDDLE GROUND BETWEEN TRADITIONAL CLASSROOM AND FULLY ONLINE INSTRUCTION

Blended learning is any combined use of electronic learning tools that supplement but do not replace face-to-face learning. This article is about how two researchers are trying to comfortably and logically place blended learning somewhere in the middle of two extremes—traditional classroom at one end and fully online distance learning at the other end. Twenty-two faculty and 38 students at the State University of New York Institute of Technology (SUNYIT) responded to a survey on perceptions held about blended learning. Responses from faculty revealed enrollment as a major factor in the increased use of this course design; quality of assignments and course grades that are as good or better; and courses that are producing improved writing and discussions. While the design is easy to use, faculty reported more work on their part and some loss of traditional classroom dynamics. Students reported flexibility, convenience, and independence as advantages, along with confusion, reduced social interaction, and mor...
Intertemporally Dependent Preferences and the Volatility of Consumption and Wealth

In this article we construct a model in which a consumer’s utility depends on the consumption history We describe a general equilibrium framework similar to Cox, Ingersoll, and Ross (1985a). A simple example is then solved in closedform in this general equilibrium setting to rationalize the observed stickiness of the consumption series relative to the fluctuations in stock market wealth. The sample paths of consumption generated from this model imply lower variability in consumption growth rates compared to those generated by models with separable utilizations. We then present a partial equilibrium model similar to Merton (1969, 1971) and extend Merton’s results on optimal consumption and portfolio rules to accommodate nonseparability in preferences. Asset pricing implications of our framework are briefly explored.
Writing a teaching philosophy: an evidence-based approach.

Full-time faculty members seeking promotion or tenure are not the only people asked to write a teaching philosophy. Growing numbers of newly hired or junior faculty members and postgraduate year 1 or year 2 pharmacy residents are asked to prepare one as part of interview, employment, or residency
Tunneling, relaxation of spin-polarized quasiparticles, and spin-charge separation in superconductors.

The nonequilibrium spin imbalance created when electrons tunnel from a ferromagnet to a superconductor is calculated. Since the charge current in a superconductor is carried by the condensate within a penetration length of the surface and the spin current, which is carried by quasiparticles, can exist in the bulk, one may be able to directly demonstrate spin-charge separation in a superconductor using spin injection techniques. After estimating the spin-relaxation rates due to magnetic impurity and spin-orbit scattering, an explicit experimental geometry for demonstration of spin-charge separation is discussed.
Corrosion of Lead, Tin, and Their Alloys

Abstract The corrosion resistance of lead, tin, and their alloys was measured in water and mildly acidic electrolytes using electrochemical techniques with foil samples of varying Pb-Sn alloy compo...
Energy Efficient Memory Authentication Mechanism in Embedded Systems

The pervasiveness of modern day embedded systems has led to the storing of huge amount of sensitive information in them. These embedded devices have to often operate under insecure environments and hence are susceptible to software and physical attacks. Hence security becomes a prime concern in embedded systems. Although a lot of hardware cryptographic techniques have been proposed to provide high levels of security, they are hampered by the trade-offs created by the energy constraints in embedded systems. In this paper, we propose an Energy Efficient Memory Integrity Verification Mechanism that can adaptively tune a Memory Integrity Verification Module( MIV) to a Sensor Module(SM). This drastically reduces the energy overheads imposed on an embedded system as compared to the conventional security mechanisms. The simulation results help us conclude that the average energy saved in our mechanism ranges from 88% to 99%. This is much higher as compared to the results achieved in baseline simulations with traditional memory integrity verification techniques.
The relationship between maternal weight for height and term birth weight in teens and adult women

Many factors may contribute to the high rates of low birth weight observed in most studies of teen pregnancy. This study examined the contribution of low prepregnancy weight and low gestational weight gain, both of which are more common in teens than in adults. Records were obtained for 90 primiparous teens (less than 16 years old at conception) and 90 primiparous adult women (19-30 years old at conception) delivering at St. Luke's Hospital in New York City. Women were matched for year of delivery and clinic payment status. Mean birth weight was 264 g lower in the teen group than in the adult group. In both groups, birth weight increased with increased maternal prepregnancy weight, weight gain, and percent of standard weight for height at term. In adults, birth weight plateaued when maternal weight for height was 120% or more of standard. In teens, however, birth weight was 200-400 g lower than in the adults in all weight-for-height categories except at 140% or more of standard. Both the low birth weight rates and the portion of infants weighing less than 3000 g were much higher in the teen mothers. Thus, even if maternal weight at term is appropriate for height, teen mothers have smaller babies than adult women do.
Sex Differences in Color Preferences among An Elderly Sample

The purpose of the study was to assess differences in color preferences between the sexes. A sample of 193 retirees were asked to report their favorite colors. The pattern of frequencies for preferred color differed as a function of sex. Blue was chosen as the most preferred color by both sexes. Women preferred black and purple more than men did. Moreover, the men preferred red over pink, whereas the women preferred red and pink equally. The rank order of color preferences for this elderly group were very similar to the findings of Silver, et al. who sampled young adults in 1988.
Viscosity in lattice gas automata

Abstract Using the Green-Kubo formalism, we derive an expression, valid at any density, for the viscosity for hexagonal lattice gas automata. Estimates of an effective viscosity, valid for time scales relevant to numerical experiments, are given for the two-dimensional hexagonal lattice gas.
Synthesis of 7-substituted farnesyl diphosphate analogues.

Six farnesyl diphosphate analogues modified in the central isoprene unit have been prepared via our stereoselective vinyl triflate-mediated route to isoprenoids. The 7-allyl compound 6 is a modest inhibitor of mammalian protein-farnesyl transferase, but surprisingly the other five analogues are effective alternative substrates for this enzyme.
Optical Metrology for the 8.4m Diameter Mirror Segments for the 25m Giant Magellan Telescope

The 25-m f/0.7 primary mirror for the Giant Magellan Telescope is made of seven 8.4 m segments, which will be measured interferometrically using a 3.75-m concave mirror, a smaller spherical mirror, and computer generated hologram.
Framing, partisan predispositions, and public opinion on climate change

We investigate how different framing of climate change impacts affects public opinion on the issue. Using an experimental design, we examine the influence of frames presenting local versus global climate impacts and frames discussing projected losses versus those also discussing possible benefits of climate change, on individual perceptions of the severity of climate change, behavioral intentions to address climate change, and attitudes toward climate change policies. The results indicate that our impact frames influence public opinion, although the effects sometimes differ based on individuals’ partisan predispositions. Specifically, our study shows that local frames increase perceptions of the severity of the problem and support for local (sub-national) policy action for all subjects, as well as behavioral intentions for subjects who are Independents or Republicans. Presenting subjects with information on the potential benefits and losses of climate change weakens perceptions of problem severity for all subjects at the local and national level, decreases support for local policy action among Democrats, and has no effect on behavioral intentions. Overall, these results are consistent with policy research suggesting that perceptions of local vulnerability are an important factor in the adoption of sub-national climate change policies. The findings also imply that the effectiveness of particular climate change impact frames will vary from one state to another depending on a state's partisan leanings.
THE EFFECT OF OXYGEN ON THE INCORPORATION OF MANGANESE, IRON AND COBALT INTO HEMATOPORPHYRIN IX IN GLACIAL ACETIC ACID

Abstract The results of polarography studies for the reaction of hematoporphyrin IX with Mn(II), Fe(II) and Co(II) ion in acetic acid in the absence and the presence of oxygen are reported. The metal incorporation reaction in the presence of oxygen is quantitative for Mn and Co and incomplete for Fe. In the absence of oxygen, the Mn reaction does not proceed at all, whereas, both the Fe and Co reactions are quantitative.
Osteoclast deficiency results in disorganized matrix, reduced mineralization, and abnormal osteoblast behavior in developing bone.

Studies of the influence of the osteoclast on bone development, in particular on mineralization and the formation of the highly organized lamellar architecture of cortical bone by osteoblasts, have not been reported. We therefore examined the micro- and ultrastructure of the developing bones of osteoclast-deficient CSF-1R-nullizygous mice (Csf1r−/− mice). Introduction: Colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor (CSF-1R)-mediated signaling is critical for osteoclastogenesis. Consequently, the primary defect in osteopetrotic Csf1r−/− mice is severe osteoclast deficiency. Csf1r−/− mice therefore represent an ideal model system in which to investigate regulation by the osteoclast of osteoblast-mediated bone formation during development. Materials and Methods: Bones of developing Csf1r−/− mice and their littermate controls were subjected to X-ray analysis, histological examination by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, and a three-point bending assay to test their biomechanical strength. Bone mineralization in embryonic and postnatal bones was visualized by double staining with alcian blue and alizarin red. Bone formation by osteoblasts in these mice was also examined by double-calcein labeling and in femoral anlagen transplantation experiments. Results and Conclusions: Frequent spontaneous fractures and decreased strength parameters (ultimate load, yield load, and stiffness) in a three-point bending assay showed the biomechanical weakness of long bones in Csf1r−/− mice. Histologically, these bones have an expanded epiphyseal chondrocyte region, a poorly formed cortex with disorganized collagen fibrils, and a severely disturbed matrix structure. The mineralization of their bone matrix at secondary sites of ossification is significantly reduced. While individual osteoblasts in Csf1r−/− mice have preserved their typical ultrastructure and matrix depositing activity, the layered organization of osteoblasts on the bone-forming surface and the direction of their matrix deposition toward the bone surface have been lost, resulting in their abnormal entrapment by matrix. Moreover, we also found that (1) osteoblasts do not express CSF-1R, (2) the bone defects in Csf1r−/− embryos develop later than the development of osteoclasts in normal embryos, and (3) the transplanted Csf1r−/− femoral anlagen develop normally in the presence of wildtype osteoclasts. These results suggest that the dramatic bone defects in Csf1r−/− mice are caused by a deficiency of the osteoclast-mediated regulation of osteoblasts and that the osteoclast plays an important role in regulating osteoblastic bone formation during development, in particular, in the formation of lamellar bone.
High-order kinetic energy focusing in an end cap reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer

A reflectron is described which provides high-order kinetic energy focusing using a simple geometry that does not require a set of resistively coupled lens elements. The reflectron is implemented in an approximately 2.0 in. (overall length) mass analyzer as part of an effort to provide highly miniaturized mass spectrometers that may be utilized as field-portable instruments for environmental analysis, biological agent detection, or diagnostics.
The startle responses of blue jays to Catocala (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) prey models

Abstract Artificial moth models were presented to caged blue jays, Cyanocitta cristata , in order to investigate the effectiveness of deimatic displays in underwing ( Catocala : Noctuidae) moths. The models had flexible, patterned ‘hindwings’ which were concealed behind cardboard ‘forewings’ until the birds removed them from a presentation board. Jays which had been trained on models with grey hindwings exhibited a startle response when they were exposed to Catocala -patterned hindwings. In contrast to this, subjects trained on Catocala models did not startle to a novel grey hindwing. The startle response to Catocala patterns lasted over several days until birds habituated to the models. When the jays had habituated to one Catocala hindwing pattern, a novel Catocala pattern always elicited a startle response. Familiar Catocala hindwing patterns which appeared in an anomalous context (i.e., associated with a different forewing pattern) also evoked a startle response from these birds. Novelty, oddity, conspicuousness, and anomaly are considered as possible stimulus characteristics which trigger the startle response.
Outcomes of lung cancer surgery in HIV-positive smokers: Initial findings

RESULTS: No significant differences in preoperative comorbidities were identified between the two groups. Median length of stay was 12 days for both groups. (p 0.42) There were no differences in sepsis (p 0.47), pneumonia (p 0.19), prolonged intubation (p 0.27), anastomotic leak (p 0.56), reintubation (p 1.0), and readmission (p 0.37) between the two groups. The open group had a decreased incidence of atrial arrhythmia requiring treatment (p 0.04). Overall 30 day mortality was 2% and was similar in both groups. (p 1.0).
Working Memory, Math Performance, and Math Anxiety

The cognitive literature now shows how critically math performance depends on working memory, for any form of arithmetic and math that involves processes beyond simple memory retrieval. The psychometric literature is also very clear on the global consequences of mathematics anxiety. People who are highly math anxious avoid math: They avoid elective coursework in math, both in high school and college, they avoid college majors that emphasize math, and they avoid career paths that involve math. We go beyond these psychometric relationships to examine the cognitive consequences of math anxiety. We show how performance on a standardized math achievement test varies as a function of math anxiety, and that math anxiety compromises the functioning of working memory. High math anxiety works much like a dual task setting: Preoccupation with one’s math fears and anxieties functions like a resource-demanding secondary task. We comment on developmental and educational factors related to math and working memory, and on factors that may contribute to the development of math anxiety.
Is Kant's Rechtslehre Comprehensive?

Examinant la distinction etablie par J. Rawls entre le liberalisme politique qui est le sien et le liberalisme comprehensif qu'il attribue a Kant et a Mill, l'A. defend la these selon laquelle le liberalisme de la «Doctrine du droit», fonde sur la notion de condition juridique et sur le principe universel du droit, n'est pas comprehensif en ce sens qu'il ne presuppose ni la philosophie morale ni l'idealisme trascendantal de Kant. Dans l'article suivant intitule «Comments on Pogge: What's great about 'Recht'?», B. Ludwig reprend les elements de l'argumentation de Pogge avec lesquels il n'est pas d'accord: la restriction 'dans l'idee' de la liberte au fondement du principe du droit, la conception d'un jeu de la doctrine du droit, la definition de la personne et de la cause dans l'action humaine, le sens meme du liberalisme kantien
Effect of Surface Treatment of Hemp Fibers on the Thermal Stability of the Hemp-PLA (Poly lactic acid) Composites

This study investigates the effect of alkali treatment on the thermal degradation and thermal stability of hemp, and hemp reinforced Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) composites. The results indicate that thermal stability of the composites decreases with increase in fiber loading due to the lower thermal stability of hemp compared to PLA matrix. The alkali treated composites have shown higher thermal stability in comparison to untreated hemp-PLA composites due to the increased fiber-matrix bonding.
Effects of statins on TH1 modulating cytokines in human subjects

Background. Activation of the innate immune system by cholesterol accelerates atherosclerosis. High levels or modified forms of cholesterol stimulate release of the inflammatory cytokines IL-12 and IL-18 that synergistically stimulate T lymphocytes to produce the atherogenic cytokine interferon-γ. While activation of the innate immune system by cholesterol is well-described in animal models and human subjects with high cholesterol levels or known atherosclerotic disease, the interaction of cholesterol and lipoproteins with the innate immune system in human subjects without known atherosclerosis is less well-described. The goal of our study was to assess the TH1 modulating cytokines IL-12 p40 and IL-18, and their counter regulatory cytokines IL-18 binding protein and IL-27, to determine if their levels are linked to cholesterol levels or other factors. Methods. We performed a blinded, randomized hypothesis-generating study in human subjects without known atherosclerotic disease. We measured serum lipids, lipoprotein levels, and collected plasma samples at baseline. Subjects were randomized to two weeks of therapy with atorvastatin, pravastatin, or rosuvastatin. Lipids and cytokine levels were measured after two weeks of statin treatment. Subjects were given a four-week statin-free period. At the end of the four-week statin-free period, venous blood was sampled again to determine if serum lipids returned to within 5% of their pre-statin levels. When lipid levels returned to baseline, subjects were again treated with the next statin in the randomization scheme. IL-12, IL-18, IL-18 binding protein, and IL-27 were measured at baseline and after each statin treatment to determine effects of statin treatment on their blood levels, and identify correlations with lipids and lipoproteins. Results. Therapy with statins revealed no significant change in the levels of IL-12, IL-18, IL-18 binding protein or IL-27 levels. We found that IL-18 levels positively correlate with total cholesterol levels (r2 = 0.15, p < 0.03), but not HDL or LDL cholesterol. In contrast, IL-12 p40 levels inversely correlated with total cholesterol (r2 = −0.17, p < 0.008), HDL cholesterol (r2 = −0.22, p < 0.002), and apolipoprotein A1 (r2 = −0.21, p < 0.002). Similarly, IL-18 binding protein levels inversely correlated with apolipoprotein A1 levels (r2 = −0.13, p < 0.02). Conclusions. Our findings suggest that total cholesterol levels positively regulate IL-18, while HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein A1 may reduce IL-12 p40 and IL-18 binding protein levels. Additional studies in a larger patient population are needed to confirm these findings, and verify mechanistically whether HDL cholesterol can directly suppress IL-12 p40 and IL-18 binding protein levels in human subjects.
Si-C60-Si (111)-(7 × 7) interactions: a scanning tunneling microscopy study

Abstract Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) has been used to study the interaction of deposited silicon atoms with C 60 molecules adsorbed on Si(111)-(7 × 7) surfaces. In spite of the known strong bonding of C 60 molecules to the silicon surfaces, we find the unexpected result of lack of bonding of the deposited silicon atoms to the adsorbed C 60 molecules, at temperatures up to 600°C. The strong C 60 -substrate interaction is revealed from the excessive substrate surface strain induced by the C 60 adsorbates, which creates a variety of metastable structures on the silicon surface.
Threat and Fraud Intelligence, Las Vegas Style

This article presents the general problem domain of matching and relating identities, examines traditional approaches to the problem, and introduces identity resolution and relationship awareness. This combination offers improved accuracy, scalability, and sustainability over traditional methods
Role of surgery in children with rhabdomyosarcoma

Background Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a common soft tissue sarcoma of childhood. Historically, surgery has played a central role in the management of children with this tumor, though with surgery alone survival rates were poor. With current multimodal (surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) treatment of these patients, survival has dramatically improved and, with this improvement, there has been an evolution of the role of surgery in the management of this condition. Material and Method The contemporary published literature (English) regarding surgical aspects of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma was reviewed and evaluated. Results Multimodal therapy has improved the survival of children with RMS from 25% in 1970 to greater than 70% today. Surgical procedures for childhood RMS today are less apt to be exenterative or multilating than those employed thirty years ago. Conclusions Surgery plays a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of children with RMS. This role has evolved in the context of multimodal therapy and improved survival to an emphasis on less radical procedures with decreased morbidity. Med Pediatr Oncol 2003;41:1–6. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.