cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sex differences in perceptual and cardiovascular responses to pain: the influence of a perceived ability manipulation

Abstract Abstract: Sex differences in responses to experimental pain have been widely reported, with women typically showing lower pain threshold and tolerance than men. One possible explanation for these differences is that traditional gender roles may lead to sex differences in perceived ability to tolerate pain. To address this possibility, the present study evaluated the influence of a sex-related perceived ability manipulation on pain tolerance and cardiovascular responses to ischemic pain assessed via the submaximal effort tourniquet procedure. A sample of 68 young adults (35 women, 33 men) were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 perceived ability conditions, which depicted either women (FEM condition) or men (MASC condition) as more able to tolerate the painful task. The results indicated that men had higher pain tolerance than women. Although there was no overall effect of the experimental condition, only men in the FEM condition had higher tolerance than women. Also, men had greater blood pressure reactivity than women, and further analysis showed that women in the MASC condition had the lowest systolic blood pressure reactivity. Cardiovascular reactivity and motivation to tolerate the pain were positively correlated with pain tolerance only among men in the FEM condition. These findings indicate that the perceived ability manipulation produced only modest effects on pain tolerance and cardiovascular reactivity, but the relationship of cardiovascular and subjective responses to pain tolerance differed across conditions. These findings suggest that perceived ability may contribute to perceptual and cardiovascular responses to pain in a complex fashion, and further research to explicate these relationships is needed. [copy ] 2002 by the American Pain Society
Risk factors for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

Background Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) represents a significant burden on the healthcare system and is associated with poor outcomes in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients. Data are limited evaluating recurrence rates and risk factors for recurrence in HSCT patients. Methods HSCT patients who developed CDI between January 2010 and December 2012 were divided into 2 groups: non-recurrent CDI (nrCDI) and recurrent CDI (rCDI). Risk factors for rCDI were compared between groups. Rate of recurrence in HSCT patients was compared to that in other hospitalized patients. Results CDI was diagnosed in 95 of 711 HSCT patients (22 rCDI and 73 nrCDI). Recurrence rates were similar in HSCT patients compared with other hospitalized patients (23.2% vs. 22.9%, P > 0.99). Patients in the rCDI group developed the index case of CDI significantly earlier than the nrCDI group (3.5 days vs. 7.0 days after transplant, P = 0.05). On univariate analysis, patients with rCDI were more likely to have prior history of CDI and neutropenia at the time of the index CDI case. Neutropenia at the time of the index CDI case was the only independent predictor of rCDI (78.8 vs. 34.8%, P = 0.006) on multivariate analysis. Conclusions The rate of rCDI was similar between HSCT and other hospitalized patients, and the majority of patients developed the index case of CDI within a week of transplantation. Neutropenia at the index CDI case may be associated with increased rates of rCDI.
Superior Vena Cava Thrombosis Secondary To Peritoneal Venous Shunting H. Jane Bussey, M.D., Webster S. Lowder, M.D., and Fred J. Wolma, M.D., Faca Galveston, Texas

Peritoneal venous shunts are effec tive in providing lasting relief to pa tients with medically intractable as cites. Nutrition and renal function im prove. Reported complications are var ied. As far as we know, the complication of superior vena cava obstruction re ported here has not been reported be fore. Response to conservative therapy resulted in amelioration of edema of the upper trunk and face.
Collagenous crystalloids in myoepithelial carcinoma: report of a case and review of the literature.

Since the first report of “tyrosine crystals” in a parotid mixed tumor by Bullock in 1953, authors have described several types of crystalloids in association with mixed tumor and related neoplastic and nonneoplastic entities. The principal classes of these include tyrosine-rich crystalloids, collagenous crystalloids, and one class variously referred to as tyrosine-rich crystals, nontyrosine crystalloids, and amylase crystalloids. We report a myoepithelial carcinoma of minor salivary gland origin containing numerous collagenous crystalloids. To our knowledge, this represents the first report of collagenous crystalloids in a case of myoepithelial carcinoma. In addition, we searched our institution’s files for cases of pure myoepithelial tumors. No crystalloids of any form were identified in 27 myoepitheliomas and 15 myoepithelial carcinomas. We review the literature on salivary-related crystalloids, and we propose the term oncocyte/cyst-associated crystalloids to encompass the aforementioned third class of crystalloid. Given distinct morphologic and histochemical properties and given relatively limited disease associations, we conclude that in the appropriate clinical context, the identification of these crystalloids can be diagnostically useful.
Intermediate length neuropsychological screening of impairment among psychoactive substance-abusing patients: A comparison of two batteries

Two intermediate-length neuropsychological test batteries—the Brain Age Quotient-T Scored (BAQ-T) and the Neuropsychological Screening Battery (NSB)—were used to evaluate the cognitive functioning of substance-abusing patients. Patients entering residential treatment for substance abuse (n = 30) performed significantly worse on both batteries compared to demographically similar participants from a nonclinical control group (n = 30). Both batteries categorized over one third of the substance-abusing patients as cognitively impaired; the chance-corrected agreement (kappa) of the BAQ-T and NSB in classifying participants as either cognitively impaired or intact was satisfactory. The comparative merits and limitations of each battery are discussed.
International students in transition: Changes in access to U.S. higher education

This chapter presents the changes in recent international student enrollment in American higher education and examines policy issues affecting international students' access to colleges and universities. Implications for student services are discussed.
Efficacy and safety of ciprofloxacin for prophylaxis of polyomavirus BK virus-associated hemorrhagic cystitis in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients

Polyoma virus BK–induced hemorrhagic cystitis is an important cause of morbidity after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Fluoroquinolones have been shown in vitro to inhibit BK viral replication by direct inhibition of the BK-encoded DNA gyrase. We hypothesized that extended prophylaxis with ciprofloxacin may decrease the incidence of severe (grades 3 and 4) BK virus–associated hemorrhagic cystitis (sBKHC) after HSCT. We retrospectively collected patient and transplant data, as well as incidence of sBKHC, for all consecutive patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT between June 2006 and August 2010 at our institution. Prophylaxis for sBKHC with ciprofloxacin 500 mg orally twice daily from day 0 until day 60 had been instituted in March 2009, delimiting a group receiving ciprofloxacin prophylaxis (CP) or no prophylaxis (NP). We compared the cumulative incidence of sBKHC in CP and NP, including death in absence of sBKHC as a competing risk. Ninety-two consecutive patients were included in the analysis, 44 in CP and 48 in NP. Median age of patients was 50 years (range: 19-70), and 47% received a myeloablative conditioning regimen. The cumulative incidence of sBKHC was significantly reduced in CP (2.6% versus 20.9%, P = .01). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that assignment to CP and concomitant acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) were the only factors independently associated with the occurrence of sBKHC. Patients in CP did not experience a higher risk of Clostridium difficile diarrhea and were less likely to develop episodes of bacteremia. Ciprofloxacin prophylaxis appears safe and effective in reducing the incidence of severe BKHC after allogeneic HSCT.
Trajectory evolution in the multi-body problem with applications in the Saturnian system

Abstract Recent discoveries by the Cassini spacecraft have generated interest in future missions to further explore the moons of Saturn as well as other small bodies in the solar system. Incorporating multi-body dynamics into the preliminary design can aid the design process and potentially reduce the cost of maneuvers that are required to achieve certain objectives. The focus in this investigation is the development and application of additional design tools to facilitate preliminary trajectory design in a multi-body environment where the gravitational influence of both primaries is quite significant. Within the context of the circular restricted 3-body problem, then, the evolution of trajectories in the vicinity of the smaller primary (P 2 ) that are strongly influenced by the distant larger primary (P 1 ) is investigated. By parameterizing the orbits in terms of radius and periapse orientation relative to the P 1 –P 2 line, the short- and long-term behaviors of the trajectories are predictable. Initial conditions that yield a trajectory with a particular set of desired characteristics are easily selected from periapsis Poincare maps for both short- and long-term orbits. Analysis in the Sun–Saturn and Saturn–Titan systems serves as the basis for examples of mission design applications.
Institution and airpower: The making of the French air force

(1995). Institution and airpower: The making of the French air force. Journal of Strategic Studies: Vol. 18, Air Power Theory and Practice, pp. 36-67.
Segmentation and visualization of tissues surrounding the airway in children via MRI

Continuing with our previous work of the segmentation and delineation of upper airway, the purpose of this work is to segment and delineate soft tissue organs surrounding the upper airway, such as adenoid, tonsils, fat pads and tongue, with the further goal of studying the relationship among the architectures of these structures, for understanding upper airway disorders in children. We use two MRI protocols, Axial T2 (used for adenoid, tonsil, and fat pads) and sagittal T1 (for tongue), to gather information about different aspects of the tissues. MR images are first corrected for background intensity variation and then the intensities are standardized. All segmentations are achieved via fuzzy connectedness algorithms with only limited operator interaction. A smooth 3D rendition of the upper airway and its surrounding tissues is displayed. The system has been tested utilizing 20 patient data sets. The tests indicate a 95% or better precision and accuracy for segmentation. The mean time taken per study is about 15 minutes including operator interaction time and processing time for all operations. This method provides a robust and fast means of assessing sizes, shapes, and the architecture of the tissues surrounding the upper airway, as well as providing data sets suitable for use in modeling studies of airflow and mechanics.
Incentive compensation as an injurious condition of work: A study of labelling

A recursive causal model is presented in which individual and work factors are hypothesized to be predictive of workers' labelling an incentive compensation program as potentially injurious to their well-being. The individual factors include the dispositional variable, negative affectivity, and financial needs and resources. The work factors consist of prior incentive compensation, experienced job insecurity, and experienced control. The model was tested using questionnaire responses of 165 managers and professionals. While it was found that the overall model did not fit the data that well, negative affectivity was found to be positively associated and experienced control negatively associated with the incentive compensation program being labelled negatively. The somewhat surprising finding that financial needs and resources were not found to be significantly associated with labelling is discussed. The importance of disposition and experienced control for the labelling of potentially threatening or harmful job conditions as well as some hypothesized antecedents of control also are discussed.
The investigation of the behavior of a long period grating sensor with a copper sensitive coating fabricated by layer-by-layer electrostatic adsorption.

Abstract Sensors based on changes of refractive index in response to sorption of an analyte on the coating or film of a long period grating fiber (LPG) fiber have recently been reported. In most prior work the coating or film swelled during interaction with the analyte. The swelling mechanism produced a kinetic response that slowed both the sensor's time for steady-state measurement and the reversibility of the sensor. Here, the analytical utility of fabricating these nanometer thin films using the layer-by-layer (LBL) electrostatic assembly method is evaluated using CuII as the test analyte and Cibacron Blue as the reagent immobilized in the LBL assembly; a generation-4 poly(amidoamine) dendrimer served as the spacer in the assembly. Detection of 1.3 mg CuII L−1 was observed when six bilayers comprised the coating. The stable response was achieved with 0.6 mg L−1 in less than 1 min. When 0.1 M HCl was used as the rinsing solution, this LPG sensor was reversible and the signal to similar concentrations of CuII reproducible.
The excited states of cycloporane. MCD spectrum, and CD spectrum of an optically active derivative☆

Abstract The MCD spectrum of gas phase cyclopropane and the CD spectrum of trans 1,2-dimethyl cyclopropane were measured in the spectral region 210–140 nm. The absorption spectra are also reported. Comparison of CD and absorption spectra of dimethyl cyclopropane and consideration of the anisotropy factors g = Δe/e as a guide to the assignment of magnetic dipole allowed transitions led to the ordering of the states of the first excited configuration as A′ 1 , A′ 2 , E′ in order of increasing energy. The magnetic moments of the two observed allowed excited states of cyclopropane were determined from the MCD spectrum. LCAO MO level calculations of the MCD parameters A 1 / D 0 for the lowest three excited E′ states were carried out and the results were used to discuss the assignment of the allowed transitions. It is concluded that configuration interaction is of considerable importance in the low energy excited states of cyclopropane.
Anglo-American Catullus since the Mid-Twentieth Century

While Catullus was not unknown to major poets of the early twentieth century in England and the United States, a conspicuous resurgence of interest in his life and works marked the second half of the century. Explicit translations of his bawdiest poems are paralleled by poems expressing a sense of identification with the poet, who is treated as a confidant in matters of poetry and love. Recent novelists have produced three kinds of fiction revolving around Catullus: postfigurative works in which the poet’s life provides the model for plot and character in works set in the modern world; political fictions about Catullus’s age, in which the poet, while not the central figure, plays a significant role; and fictionalized biographies in which the tantalizing facts of his life are imaginatively fleshed out. Poets and novelists alike are intrigued by Catullus’s frankness in sexual matters and by his critical view of his own society-aspects that specifically appeal to the late twentieth century.
Reversible contractile : dysfunction in reversible experimental cardiac allograft rejection : alterations in the β-receptor-stimulated adenylylcyclase pathway

Abstract Alterations in the β-adrenergic receptor adenylylcyclase (AC) pathway are well known in heart failure. Previous studies by our group have demonstrated impaired function of the AC pathway and contractile reserve when stimulated with isoproterenol (ISO) or forskolin (F) in cardiac allografts with moderate or severe rejection. To determine if recovery of the AC pathway occurs when rejection is reversed, we used a rat heterotopic heart transplant model. Lewis (L) rats received either isografts or Lewis-Brown Norway (LBN) allografts (ALLO). The hearts were explanted on Day 4 and reimplanted into a recipient syngeneic with the original donor (L to L, LBN to LBN). Grafts were harvested 2 days later and analyzed. Receptor-mediated modulation of AC activity was investigated using ISO, F, and the metabolic inhibitor of AC, R-N 6 (2-phenylisopropyl)-adenosine (R-PIA). ISO- and F-mediated stimulation of AC were significantly impaired in ALLO. CARB and R-PIA remained unchanged. Reimplanted hearts had no histologic evidence of rejection and had normal cAMP production in response to ISO and F. In conclusion, AC alterations are concordant with histologic changes in this reversible model of heart failure. Such alterations may be a component in the contractile dysfunction associated with rejection.
A Genome Scan for Linkage With Aortic Root Diameter in Hypertensive African Americans and Whites in the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network (HyperGEN) Study

Background Aortic root dilation is a prominent feature in several cardiovascular diseases. This study seeks to identify genomic regions linked to variation in the aortic root diameter (ARD) in hypertensive African American and white individuals. Methods We performed a genome scan for ARD in the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network Study, one of four networks in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Family Blood Pressure Program (FBPP). Data were collected from 1129 African American siblings from 504 hypertensive sibships and 883 white siblings from 374 hypertensive sibships. Standardized residual values of ARD were calculated using linear regression, adjusting for effects of age, age 2 , and field center (ie, minimally adjusted model), separately in groups composed by sex and ethnicity. The ARD was additionally adjusted for height, weight, diastolic BP, and systolic BP in a fully adjusted model. Multipoint linkage analysis was performed using the GENEHUNTER2 variance components method. Results Suggestive evidence for linkage was found on chromosome 5 at 85 cM in African Americans, with a maximal log of the odds (LOD) score of 2.07. Suggestive evidence for linkage was found on chromosome 1 at 157 cM in whites, with a maximal LOD score of 2.40. Conclusions Our findings suggest that genes present on chromosomes 1 and 5 might influence inter-individual variation in aortic root diameter.
Use of Plant Proteins in Catfish Feeds: Replacement of Soybean Meal with Cottonseed Meal and Replacement of Fish Meal with Soybean Meal and Cottonseed Meal

Plant protein sources were evaluated in 32% protein grow-out feeds for channel catfish (initial weight: 180 g/fish) stocked at high densities (24,700 fish/ha) in 0.04 ha earthen ponds. Each of the eight practical-type feeds was assigned for five replicate ponds. The fish were fed to satiation once daily for 170 d. Specifically, cottonseed meal and cottonseed meal plus supplemental lysine were evaluated as replacements for soybean meal. Soybean meal, a combination of soybean meal and cottonseed meal, or a combination of soybean meal and cottonseed meal plus supplemental lysine were evaluated as a substitute for animal protein sources. Based on weight pin, feed conversion ratio, body composition, percentage visceral fat, and dressed yield, the data indicated that cottonseed meal plus lysine can be used as a total substitute for soybean meal in catfish feeds. However, it is not recommended that more than 30% cottonseed meal be used in catfish feeds until additional data are available on the effects of gossypol on reproduction in catfish. Also, data indicated that plant proteins can be used as a total replacement for animal protein without detrimental effects. Reduced weight gain was observed in fish fed a feed that contained 68% of the established available lysine requirement. However, fish fed feeds estimated to contain only 76 or 82% of the available lysine requirement did not show reduced weight gain. This suggests that lysine may be more highly available from cottonseed meal than previously estimated, or that natural food organisms in the pond contributed nutrients including lysine, or that fish were able to consume enough of the marginally deficient feeds to meet their requirement for lysine. This study was conducted with large catfish fed a 32% protein feed to satiation once daily. If smaller fish, a lower protein fed, or a restricted feeding regimen had been used, the results may have been different.
White-light moire phase-measuring interferometry

Moire is a common technique for contouring large scale features on diffuse surfaces. Typically, this is accomplished by projecting a high-frequency line grating onto the object and viewing its image through another high-frequency line grating. The resultant pattern, produced by aliasing between the two gratings, shows lines of surface contour. The surface height between these contour lines is determined by triangulation between the illumination and observation beams. Although moire is really a geometric ray technique, it is typically referred to as interferometry because its contour patterns resemble interferograms; Moire contouring can be classified as either shadow or projection moire. Shadow moire uses the same grating for both illumination and observation, while projection moire uses separated gratings. Another surface contouring technique is projected fringe. This approach is similar to moire in that it projects a line grating and uses triangulation to measure surface height, however, there is no second grating or aliasing. Rather, the projected pattern is.viewed directly. Although it is not really moire (because it does not use aliasing with a second grating), projected fringe is typically considered a moire technique. This paper has four parts. First, it reviews the theory behind moire contouring. Second, it outlines how to phase modulate a moire 'interferogram'. Third, it discusses practical considerations associated with performing moire contouring such as projection and observation geometry, imaging, and illumination. And fourth, it presents two examples of objects that were contoured using a white-light moire phase-measuring interferometer.
Relapse Prevention Strategies for the Treatment of Cocaine Abuse

A variety of promising pharmacotherapies, psychotherapies, and other treatments for cocaine abuse have recently been developed, many of which may facilitate the initiation of abstinence in cocaine abusers. This paper describes specific interventions and therapeutic strategies used in the treatment of cocaine abuse, adapted from Marlatt's theory of relapse prevention. These strategies extend Marlatt's primarily psychoeducational approach to address the unique difficulties presented in the treatment of cocaine abuse, which may include wide variations in patients' severity of abuse, available psychosocial resources, and coexistent psychopathology. This approach attempts to integrate relapse prevention techniques into a psychotherapeutic, rather than a purely psychoeducational approach, in order to enhance its effectiveness with cocaine abusers.
Stress-induced interfacial failure in filled polymer melts

We study a dynamic interfacial slip phenomenon in filled polymer melts. When a poly(dimethyl siloxane) melt of weight average molecular weight Mw = 93 700 is mixed with glass beads of diameter up to 45 μm, the sample shows some evidence of breakdown of interfacial adhesion between the glass beads and the PDMS matrix at a level of oscillatory stress under which the pure PDMS melt exhibits no decay. The decay of viscoelastic properties with time is essentially independent of the amplitude of shear strain as long as the magnitude of the oscillating stress is sufficiently high. It is suggested that much higher local stress than the apparent applied stress may be generated between the narrowly spaced beads. The interfacial slip was observable because it was measured against a natural length scale d in the filled polymer melts which is the filler size or the inter-filler distance and is much smaller than the dimensions of the flow cell. The decay under high stress and healing of interfacial adhesion upon a large reduction in stress may be related to the de-bonding and reformation of hydrogen bonds between the PDMS chains and the glass bead surfaces.
Apparent pH independence of charge in forest organic surface soil horizons

Conventional wisdom states that the source of negative charge in organic soil horizons is pH dependent and, therefore, acidification will decrease charge and the ability to retain nutrient cations. Using a variety of methods, we found that the native cation exchange capacity (CEC) of northeastern US forest soils varied with the amount of soil carbon (about 0.5 cmol per %C), independent of field pH. However, individual soil samples exhibited dramatic charge variability if the pH was adjusted during CEC measurement, as much as 20 cmolc kg− per pH unit change. These last two statements appear to be mutually exclusive. Extrapolating from pH-adjusted samples, the point of zero “base” cation capacity was consistently about 1.5 pH units below the native pH. We hypothesize the amount of charge is at a steady state with humification and decomposition processes. Response of soils to long-term acidification may be much different than that of short-term laboratory adjustments.
Gender Representation and Humanoid Robots Designed for Domestic Use

Humanoid robots’ appearance and behavior provide social cues about their purpose and abilities. However, little is known about how a robot’s gender representation will affect users in everyday home use scenarios. This paper presents the results of a study exploring people’s expectations of humanoid robots, or androids, designed for home use. Results of this study demonstrated participants’ willingness to attribute human roles and tasks to an android, although they did not indicate an overall preference for the robot as a social actor. In addition, following the viewing of video stimulus featuring human-robot interactions, robot gender issues surfaced during open-ended interviews.
Dissolved carbon and nitrogen losses from forests of the Oregon Cascades over a successional gradient

Ecologists have long used stream water chemistry records to infer hillslope processes, although a great deal of biogeochemical processing of soil water is known to occur both downslope and in-stream. We report the effects of forest succession on C and N export in the west central Cascades of Oregon, a region of low anthropogenic N input. In a previous study, watersheds with forests of differing ages showed a number of significant differences in stream nutrient export. This study was intended to establish whether differences in stream chemistry were due to variation in N retention by forests of different ages, and thus we measured C and N in lysimeter water draining 12 forest plots, which were categorized into four different stages of successional development. Mean total dissolved nitrogen (TDN) concentrations in deep soil solutions were 2.5 times higher than stream water TDN observed in the previous study, suggesting that denitrification and/or N uptake occurred in the streams or the riparian zone. Although there was a trend for highest soil solution N concentrations in the second youngest (stem exclusion) stage, this trend was significant only for NH4-N. We previously found that streamwater NO3-N concentrations averaged 46% of TDN export and was significantly higher in the young than in the older watersheds, however, soil solution NO3-N concentration averaged 2% of TDN concentration and did not vary with succession. Although NH4-N concentrations were very low (~5 μg L−1) in stream water, NH4-N in lysimeter samples averaged 35% of TDN. While stream water dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) concentrations averaged 30% of TDN concentrations, soil solution DON concentrations averaged 64% of TDN concentration; neither varied with succession. Even with sharp differences in both forest floor and mineral soil C:N ratios and C contents among plots, no measure of N export from the forest stands was significantly related to forest floor or mineral soil characteristics. This is most likely because forest floor C:N ratios all greatly exceeded the reported low C:N ratios required to allow significant N leakage. Taken together, these results suggest that riparian dynamics, in-stream processing, or perhaps even the presence of near-stream alders significantly alter concentrations of all N species between the soil solution and stream water.
WSPLS — A new approach towards mixture modeling and accelerated product development

Abstract A new method is presented to model mixture data which simultaneously regresses the fractions of the materials used in a series of blends, and the matrix of the physical properties of the materials used in such blends to the properties measured from the resulting blend. The Weighted Scores Projection to Latent Structures (WSPLS) method combines the fractions of the used materials and their physical properties by first transforming the physical properties with a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) model and then estimating a matrix of weighted average scores using the fractions of the materials used and the corresponding scores for each material from the PCA models. This matrix of weighted scores is the regressor in the PLS model against the measured properties of the mixture. The new method is contrasted with other alternatives and shown to provide robust models with strong predictive components across all latent variables. A data set from blends of pharmaceutical powders is used to illustrate the features of the method proposed.
Tunneling time through heterojunction double barrier diodes

Abstract The quantum mechanical tunneling time through a heterojunction double barrier diode (DBD) is calculated for all incident electron energies (on-resonance and off-resonance). The well-known result of Eisenbud and Wigner is used, and simple analytical results are obtained. The longest time delay occurs at the on-resonance incident energy due to the electron bouncing back-and-forth in the well region of a DBD. In addition to the exact result for the transmission coefficient and time delay, a Breit-Wigner resonant form is also used to model tunneling amplitude in the neighborhood of a resonance. The tunneling time delay consideration indicates that the ultimate device response of DBDs utilizing GaAs  AlGaAs alloy system is in the sub-picosecond or picosecond regime.
Skewed attacks, stability, and host suppression

It is well known that the model equilibrium in the Nicholson-Bailey framework for parasitoid-host interactions can be stabilized if there is variation in the risk of parasitism among individual hosts. We show that the shape of the distribution of risk among hosts is crucial in determining stability. Stability for all values of the reproduction rate R of the host requires the distribution to be skewed, with a modal risk of zero. As a consequence, a distribution of risk with nonzero mode but otherwise sufficiently high variability will not stabilize the host-parasitoid equilibrium for certain values of R. We also develop a new, simple, and general criterion for stability, according to which the host-parasitoid equilibrium is stable if and only if the adult host equilibrium density increases as host reproductive rate R increases. This reinforces previous results that skewed risk of the type needed for stability reduces parasitoid efficiency and hence the parasitoid's ability to suppress the host. Finally, we identify appropriate measures that can be made in the field to relate skew in risk of parasitism to stability.
1.6 μm Emission from InAs Quantum Dots grown on a GaAs Substrate using an AlGaAsSb Metamorphic Buffer

We report 1.6 μm emission from InAs QDs (QDs) grown on a GaAs substrate. The ensemble is grown on a graded digital alloy (DA), which increases the matrix lattice constant from 5.65 A to 5.77 A. The reduced lattice mismatch between the InAs and matrix material produces larger QDs and thereby allows longer wavelength emission compared to standard growth techniques. The resulting QD density ranges from 2×1010 to 8×1010/cm2 with QD dimensions of 5nm x 30nm measured using atomic force microscopy (AFM). According to x-ray diffraction (XRD) data and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the metamorphic buffer is unstrained with low defect density.
3C-SiC modulator for high-speed integrated photonics

We propose a compact 3C-SiC electro-optic modulator for high-speed Si-based integrated optoelectronics operating at 1.55-µm-wavelength. The device is based on an optical microresonator using sub-micron size high-index-contrast SiC waveguides on a SiC-SiO2-Si [SiC-on-Insulator (SICOI)] platform. Three different electrode configurations are analyzed. Switching times on the order of tens of ps are predicted by using low bias voltages.
This Is Tom Jones: Volume One, Rock ‘n’ Roll Legends

Paul Brownstein (Producer) and Tom Jones (Executive Producer), 2007 Time Life M19269digi, three-DVD box set Extra Cheese, as the fanzine Bad Trip used to say—but I like my cheese. This Is Tom Jones...
PITK, a PP1 targeting subunit that modulates the phosphorylation of the transcriptional regulator hnRNP K

Abstract Protein phosphatase-1 (PP1), through interactions with substrate targeting subunits, plays critical roles in the regulation of numerous cellular processes. Herein, we describe a newly identified regulatory subunit (PITK; P hosphatase I nteractor T argeting K protein) that specifically targets the catalytic subunit of PP1 to nuclear foci to selectively bind and dephosphorylate the transcriptional regulator heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K) at a regulatory S284 site. Additionally, PITK is phosphorylated in vivo at S1013 and S1017, residues that flank or reside within the PP1C-binding motif, and this phosphorylation negatively regulates the binding of the phosphatase to PITK. A mutant variant, S1013,1017A-PITK, when expressed in intact cells, exhibited an increase in native PP1 binding and elicited a more profound dephosphorylation of hnRNPK at S284. A global analysis of transcription by Affymetrix microarray revealed that the expression of PITK resulted in the altered expression of 47 genes, including a marked induction of MEK5 (> 14-fold, p
Reduction of 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine to 3′-amino-3′-deoxythymidine in human liver microsomes and its relationship to cytochrome P450

The formation of 3'-amino-3'-deoxythymidine (AMT) in patients receiving 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (zidovudine) and the potential role of this metabolite in zidovudine-induced toxicity was recently demonstrated by our laboratory. This study evaluated the formation of AMT versus cytochrome P450 (P450) content, cytochrome B5 (B5) content and the reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-cytochrome P450 reductase activity in human liver microsomes obtained from 24 different donors. Significant interindividual differences in total P450 content and P450 reductase activity were observed, whereas no variation was observed in B5 content. Of particular importance, metabolism of zidovudine to AMT varied widely and correlated with P450 content but not with B5 content or P450 reductase activity. The apparent values for the Michaelis-Menten constant and the maximum rate of metabolism of the reaction were 46.1 mmol/L and 3.5 nmol/min/mg microsomal protein. These large variations of AMT levels as a function of P450 suggest that major interindividual differences may be observed in the pharmacokinetics and formation of this metabolite that may affect the pharmacodynamic properties of zidovudine. Potential drug-drug interactions may occur with therapeutic agents that interact with or induce P450 (zidovudine).
Ergonomic Evaluation of Student Computer Workstations

Student computer workstations have often been overlooked by ergonomists due to their temporary nature of use. Since students usually work at these facilities for a short period of time, ergonomic issues are often overlooked. Four different labs in a university setting were observed for comparison of the actual setup with the “ideal” setup. Placement of the monitor, keyboard, CPU, mouse, and work papers were documented. Postures of students were also taken to compare with the “ideal” posture while working at a computer. Students observed rarely adjusted the setup of the workstation to fit the “ideal” standard.
Commentary: X-rays under anesthesia as an adjunct to save motion segments in AIS surgery

COMMENTARY ON Hamzaoglu A, Ozturk C, Enercan M, Alanay A. Traction X-ray under general anesthesia helps to save motion segment in treatment of Lenke type 3C and 6C curves. Spine J 2013;13:845–52 ( in this issue ).
Absolute Resonance Raman Intensity Analysis of Isopropyl Nitrate in the Condensed Phase

The first resonance Raman spectra of isopropyl nitrate (IPN) are reported. Absolute resonance Raman scattering cross-sections for IPN dissolved in cyclohexane and acetonitrile are measured at excitation wavelengths spanning the strong π−π* absorption located at ∼200 nm. Resonance enhancement is observed for seven vibrational coordinates, all involving the −ONO2 chromophore, demonstrating that the photoinduced excited-state structural evolution is dominated by structural changes localized to the −ONO2 group. The absorption and absolute resonance Raman cross-sections are modeled using the time-dependent formalism for absorption and Raman scattering. This analysis demonstrates that the photoinitiated excited-state structural-relaxation dynamics are multidimensional, and consistent with N−O bond cleavage. This observation is consistent with N−O bond dissociation being the dominant photodissociation pathway for larger (e.g., three or more carbon atoms) alkyl nitrates. Comparison of the results in cyclohexane a...
Synthesis of active controls for flutter suppression on a flight research wing

This paper describes some activities associated with the preliminary design of an active control system for flutter suppression capable of demonstrating a 20% increase in flutter velocity. Results from two control system synthesis techniques are given. One technique uses classical control theory, and the other uses an 'aerodynamic energy method' where control surface rates or displacements are minimized. Analytical methods used to synthesize the control systems and evaluate their performance are described. Some aspects of a program for flight testing the active control system are also given. This program, called DAST (Drones for Aerodynamics and Structural Testing), employs modified drone-type vehicles for flight assessments and validation testing.
Phase II Study of UFT® Plus Leucovorin in Colorectal Cancer

The activity and toxicity of UFT (Tegafur and Uracil) in a 4:1 molar concentration, plus leucovorin (LV), were evaluated in the treatment of 45 patients with advanced, bidimensionally measurable metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Initially 350 and later 300 mg/m2/day, plus 150 mg LV, as administered in divided doses every 8 h for 28 days. After two courses of treatment, responses were evaluated. The overall response rate was 42.2%, with responses observed in liver (n = 18), lung (n = 6), and bone (n = 1). Five of the 7 patients who received 350 mg/m2 UFT experienced prolonged grade 3 diarrhea, resulting in a dose reduction to 300 mg/m2; 9 patients in the 300-mg/m2 group experienced grade 3 diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, and fatigue. Minor toxic effects included oral mucositis and rash. The oral regimen of 300 mg/m2/day UFT, plus 150 mg/day LV, administered for 28 days appears to have significant activity against metastatic colorectal carcinoma. The treatment is well tolerated; neutropenia did not occur, and oral mucositis was not significant, even though both are characteristic of intravenous schedules of 5-fluorouracil plus LV. The results of this trial constitutes the basis of phase III clinical trials comparing this oral schedule with intravenous 5-FU and LV to compare clinical efficacy, impact on well-being, and cost. In addition, the current National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) adjuvant colon clinical trial (CO-6) will compare this 28-day schedule of UFT plus oral leucovorin with a weekly regimen of intravenous 5-fluorouracil plus leucovorin in the postoperative adjuvant therapy of Dukes' B and C colon cancer patients.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Minority Interest Discounts in Estate and Gift Taxation

One of the most litigated and adjusted areas in taxation has been the determination of the minority interest discount in estate and gift taxation. Valuation disputes arise because the valuation processes for estate and gift taxation are “inherently imprecise,” and the goals of the taxpayer and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are diametrically opposed. The IRS's vigorous defense of the estate and gift tax base and the taxpayersa' attempts to pay no more tax than is their legal duty have resulted in a history of situations where the taxpayer and the IRS turn to the courts for adjudication. This paper addresses the basis for a minority interest discount, the determination whether ownership interests are in fact minority interests, and the importance of facts and law in the determination of the minority interest discount. A comprehensive analysis of estate and gift tax cases that determined minority interest discounts is used as a basis for planning ideas to maximize these discounts.
Hybrid multilevel/multigrid potential preconditioner for fast finite element modeling

A robust hybrid multilevel/multigrid potential preconditioner is introduced for the fast and robust finite-element modeling of electromagnetic structures. The proposed preconditioning process combines the advantages of the hierarchical multilevel preconditioner and the nested multigrid potential preconditioner into a novel preconditioner with superior computational versatility. Numerical experiments from the application of the new preconditioner to the finite-element analysis of microwave devices demonstrate its superior numerical convergence and efficient memory usage.
Nucleolar localization elements in U8 snoRNA differ from sequences required for rRNA processing

U8 small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) is essential for metazoan ribosomal RNA (rRNA) processing in nucleoli. The sequences and structural features in Xenopus U8 snoRNA that are required for its nucleolar localization were analyzed. Fluorescein-labeled U8 snoRNA was injected into Xenopus oocyte nuclei, and fluorescence microscopy of nucleolar preparations revealed that wild-type Xenopus U8 snoRNA localized to nucleoli, regardless of the presence or nature of the 5' cap on the injected U8 snoRNA. Nucleolar localization was observed when loops or stems in the 5' portion of U8 that are critical for U8 snoRNA function in rRNA processing were mutated. Therefore, sites of interaction in U8 snoRNA that potentially tether it to pre-rRNA are not essential for nucleolar localization of U8. Boxes C and D are known to be nucleolar localization elements (NoLEs) for U8 snoRNA and other snoRNAs of the Box C/D family. However, the spatial relationship of Box C to Box D was not crucial for U8 nucleolar localization, as demonstrated here by deletion of sequences in the two stems that separate them. These U8 mutants can localize to nucleoli and function in rRNA processing as well. The single-stranded Cup region in U8, adjacent to evolutionarily conserved Box C, functions as a NoLE in addition to Boxes C and D. Cup is unique to U8 snoRNA and may help bind putative protein(s) needed for nucleolar localization. Alternatively, Cup may help to retain U8 snoRNA within the nucleolus.
Rapid thermal processing of next generation silicon solar cells

Rapid and potentially low-cost process techniques are analysed and successfully applied towards the fabrication of high-efficiency mono-and multicrystalline Si solar cells. First, a novel dielectric passivation scheme (formed by stacking a plasma silicon nitride film on top of a rapid thermal oxide layer) is developed that serves as antireflection coating and reduces the surface recombination velocity (S{sub eff}) of the 1.3 {omega}-cm p-Si surface to approximately 10 cm/s. The essential feature of the stack passivation scheme is its ability to withstand short 700 - 850degC anneal treatments used to fire screen printed (SP) contacts, without degradation in S{sub oeff}. The stack also lowers the emitter saturation current density (J{sub oe}) of 40 and 90 {omega}/{open_square} emitters by a factor of three and 10, respectively, compared to no passivation. Next, rapid emitter formation is accomplished by diffusion under tungsten halogen lamps in both belt line and rapid thermal processing (RTP) systems (instead of in a conventional infrared furnace). Third, a combination of SP aluminium and RTP is used to form an excellent back surface field (BSF) in 2 min to achieve an effective back surface recombination velocity (S{sub eff}) of 200 cm/s on 2.3 {omega}-cm Si. Finally, the above individual processes are integrated to achieve: (1) >19% efficient solar cells with emitter and Al-BSF formed by RTP and contacts formed by vacuum evaporation and photolithography, (2) 17% efficient manufacturable cells with emitter and Al-BSF formed in a belt line furnace and contacts formed by SP. (Author)