cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transfer-function matrix realization using Taylor series expansion about a general point a

A procedure for the realization of a transfer function matrix by expanding it about a point a is proposed. The procedure is based on the well-known method by Ho and Kalman and its modification by Bruni et al. The procedure is illustrated with the help of an example.
Structural investigation of Th6Mn23D16 by neutron diffraction

Abstract The compound Th 6 Mn 23 D 16 was studied at 295 K by neutron diffraction profile refinement methods. The pressure isotherm of Th 6 Mn 23 D x was measured at 295 K and exhibits a plateau between x = 17 and x = 24. The site occupancies and atomic positions were determined and are compared with results for Y 6 Mn 23 D x . In both the thorium and yttrium deutendes some of the deuterium atoms are located in the tetrahedral f sites of space group Fm 3 m . However, the octahedral a site, which is fully occupied in the yttrium compound, is virtually empty in the thorium compound. The remaining deuterium atoms occupy the trigonal i site in Th 6 Mn 23 D 16 , and not the tetrahedral j site as in Y 6 Mn 23 D 18 . Low temperature scans (4 K) of Th 6 Mn 23 D 16 revealed that the compound undergoes a crystallographic phase change from f.c.c. symmetry to orthorhombic symmetry.
Recurrent coarctation of the aorta in infancy and childhood.

Coarctation of the aorta sometimes recurs following initially successful surgery in infancy. This complication is not limited to the infant age group, but has also been described in adults. The exact incidence of restenosis is not known, and its pathogenesis is still obscure. This study describes recurrent coarctation in 9 of 25 patients who had surgical repair of coarctation in early infancy, an incidence of 36 per cent. An explanation for the recurrence is postulated on the basis of our findings.
Annulate lamellae in an undifferentiated mouse marrow cell

Annulate lamellae have been observed in undifferentiated cells in the marrow of mice treated with urethan. They were not found in any recognizable hematopoietic element in either urethan- or saline-injected controls. The possibility has been raised that this cytoplasmic organelle is confined to the most primitive marrow cell and may be an identifying feature of 'stem cells'.
The role of test anxiety in absolute and relative metacomprehension accuracy

Test anxiety reduces test performance and decreases students’ confidence. We examined the relationship of prediction and posttest confidence judgements for self and others with multiple choice and essay test performance. High test-anxious participants (as measured by the Test Anxiety Scale) had poorer test performance on both multiple choice and essay tests than did low test-anxious participants, and high test-anxious participants gave lower judgements for themselves but not for others. Absolute metacomprehension accuracy as measured by the difference between confidence and performance showed a large degree of overconfidence on essay tests and much less overconfidence on multiple choice tests, but this effect did not interact with test anxiety. However, relative metacomprehension accuracy, as measured by intrasubject correlations between judgements and performance across texts, was higher for high text-anxious participants than for low test-anxious participants. Test anxiety may serve as a cue for how wel...
Immunological titration of rat liver glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from animals fed high and low carbohydrate diets

Abstract Recent work (Hizi and Yagil [1974] Eur. J. Biochem. 45 : 211–221, and Kelly et. al. [1975] Fed. Proc. 34 : 881) suggests that the marked increase in rat liver glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity which is observed upon feeding an animal a high carbohydrate diet does not involve an increase in the total amount of enzyme present. In contrast, the data presented herein involving immunological titrations of rat liver glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase indicates that the increase in enzyme activity resulting from feeding a high carbohydrate diet does involve an increase in the total amount of enzyme present.
Loss of Stk11/Lkb1 Expression in Pancreatic and Biliary Neoplasms

We have documented previously somatic mutations of STK11/LKB11, the gene responsible for Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), in a small proportion of sporadic pancreatic adenocarcinomas, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), and biliary adenocarcinomas. In this report, we characterize the expression of Stk11, the protein product of the STK11 gene, in a larger series of pancreatic and biliary neoplasms. First, the specificity of the Stk11 antibody was established in 23 neoplasms (22 IPMNs and 1 biliary adenocarcinoma) with known STK11 gene status. Complete absence of labeling was seen in the neoplastic cells of 3 of the 3 (100%) cases with previously documented biallelic inactivation of the STK11 gene, whereas 16 of the 20 (80%) IPMNs, presumably with at least one wild-type STK11 gene, retained Stk11 expression in the neoplastic cells. The marked decrease or absence of Stk11 expression in four neoplasms with wild-type STK11 suggests that additional mechanisms may account for the lack of Stk11 expression. Subsequently, to further evaluate Stk11 expression in pancreatic and biliary neoplasms, tissue microarrays (TMAs) were constructed from a series of nearly 100 ductal adenocarcinomas and biliary neoplasms. Stk11 expression was lost in 4 of the 56 (7%) pancreatic adenocarcinomas and 1 of the 38 (2.6%) biliary cancers by immunohistochemistry; the absence of labeling was confirmed by repeated immunohistochemical labeling of complete tissue sections for the same cases. Thus, Stk11 expression is abrogated in a small proportion of pancreatic and biliary neoplasms. The inactivation of Stk11 in 27% (6/22) of IPMNs versus 7% (4/56) of pancreatic adenocarcinomas suggests genetic disparities in the pathogenesis of these closely related neoplasms. Immunohistochemical analysis for Stk11 expression may be a valid surrogate for genetic analysis of STK11 gene mutations in cancers.
Peripheral β-Adrenoreceptors and Stress-Induced Hypercholesterolemia in Rats

Three experiments were conducted examining the contribution of β-adrenergic receptors to stress-induced cholesterol increases. Rats were exposed to 3 90-min sessions of inescapable tailshock, or left undisturbed in their home cage. Propranolol, a nonselective β-blocker, attenuated the stress-induced cholesterol increase when administered prior to the daily shock session. Atenolol, a β-1 specific antagonist, also attenuated the stress-induced cholesterol increase. Butoxamine, a β-2 specific antagonist, had no effect on the stress-induced cholesterol increases. Results are discussed in terms of catecholamine-stimulated free fatty acid (FFA) release as a potential mechanism for producing stress-induced hypercholesterolemia.
Heats of Formation of Organic Compounds by a Simple Calculation

Heats (enthalpies) of formation of organic compounds are obtained by adding a constant for a functional group to the heat of formation of its hydrocarbon precursor obtained by counting hydrogens, as previously described. A single molecule is used to obtain the contribution of each functional group. Unlike all other empirical schemes, no global fitting is used. The calculation is done with pencil and paper or a hand calculator. The accuracy of the results is demonstrated by their agreement with more than 360 species of experimentally known heats of formation with a mean average deviation of 0.75 kcal mol−1, very nearly equal to the mean experimental uncertainty. Alcohols, hydroperoxides, ethers, amines, ketones, aldehydes, carboxylic acids, esters, chlorides, phenols, anilines, aryl ethers, nitriles, amides, and alkyl radicals are used as examples of the method. This success allows the calculation of experimentally unknown heats of formation. The method is limited to compounds that are not subject to strai...
Changes in services for students with learning disabilities in U.S. and Canadian medical schools, 1991 to 1997.

PURPOSE To determine the changes between 1991 and 1997 in the admission policies of and services offered by U.S. and Canadian medical schools to students with learning disabilities. METHOD Between June 1 and August 31, 1997, the author surveyed 144 medical schools in the United States and Canada regarding their services and programs for learning-disabled medical students. The questionnaire was the same one as used in a 1991 study. RESULTS Of the medical schools contacted, 106 responded (one Canadian school sent a letter but did not complete the questionnaire). Ninety-four of 96 U.S. schools and seven of the remaining nine Canadian schools said that they accept students with learning disabilities. All of the respondents that accept such students claimed to make some academic accommodations. Most indicated that they would administer non-standard (e.g., untimed) licensing examinations, and many reported that their affiliated postgraduate medical training programs would also make appropriate accommodations for students with learning disabilities. CONCLUSION When compared with the results from the 1991 survey, the new data suggest that medical schools have improved their services for learning-disabled students in response to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The in vivo sensitivity of ATPases to DDT, DDE, and physical immobilization in American cockroaches

Abstract American cockroaches injected with sublethal doses of DDT (0.75 μg/roach) at 5-day intervals showed a 40% reduction in oligomycin-sensitive Mg 2+ ATPase from muscle homogenates, and a 23% reduction of Na + -K + ATPase from nerve cords. Thus, the maximum effect measured occurred with the same enzyme and tissue as determined from in vitro studies. The metabolite, DDE, used at 15 μg per roach, gave no significant change in activity of the ATPase system following injection. In contrast, high single doses of DDT (7.5 μg/roach) and 100 μg DDE and dicofol per roach caused over 30% increase in oligomycin-sensitive Mg 2+ ATPase of muscle and a 10–15% increase in Na + -K + ATPase of nerve cords measured 24 and 48 hr later. While a similar response was observed for Mg 2+ ATPase activities in cockroaches that were immobilized, the increase in enzyme activities were much greater than that caused by the pesticides.
Quantitative analysis demonstrates most transcription factors require only simple models of specificity

Quantitative analysis demonstrates most transcription factors require only simple models of specificity
Some Habitats of a Marine Amœba

IN a letter to NATURE (NO. 2300, vol. xcii.) I described a common habitat of a marine Amœba, and in view of the subsequent discussion of this matter in letters to NATURE it will be of interest to record some further observations bearing on that discussion.
In vivo and in vitro characterization of antalarmin, a nonpeptide corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptor antagonist: suppression of pituitary ACTH release and peripheral inflammation

Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) secreted from the hypothalamus is the major regulator of pituitary ACTH release and consequent glucocorticoid secretion. CRH secreted in the periphery also acts as a proinflammatory modulator. CRH receptors (CRH-R1, R2alpha, R2beta) exhibit a specific tissue distribution. Antalarmin, a novel pyrrolopyrimidine compound, displaced 12SI-oCRH binding in rat pituitary, frontal cortex and cerebellum, but not heart, consistent with antagonism at the CRHR1 receptor. In vivo antalarmnin (20 mg/kg body wt.) significantly inhibited CRH-stimulated ACTH release and carageenin-induced subcutaneous inflammation in rats. Antalarmin, or its analogs, hold therapeutic promise in disorders with putative CRH hypersecretion, such as melancholic depression and inflammatory disorders.
Implications of Rough Dielectric Surfaces on Charging-Adjusted Actuation of RF-MEMS

Actuation voltage shifts due to dielectric charging is a leading reliability concern in Radio-Frequency Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (RF-MEMS) capacitive switches. The inability to correlate dielectric surface roughness to charge accumulation makes predictive design difficult. We apply a sophisticated dielectric charging model on representative surfaces based on Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) data, and show that there are significant, but predictable actuation voltage shifts due to surface roughness. The results suggest that surface roughness should be considered for accurate lifetime predictions, and simple metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitors may serve as a useful test structure for this phenomenon.
The Tevatron BO Low Beta System

A low beta insertion has been installed at the BO straight section of the Tevatron, the location of the Collider Detector Facility. The focus is achieved with four superconducting quadrupole doublets. The engineering design and performance of this system exclusive of beam behavior will be described including the magnets and their power supply, quench protection and cryogenic subsystems.
Encouraging children's early writing efforts

A study of preschool classroom teachers reveal insights into the nature of children's writing efforts and how teachers can best foster those abilities.
THE OXIDATION OF D-ALANINE BY CELL MEMBRANES OF PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA.

Abstract 1. 1. Cell membranes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa prepared by lysozyme (EC 3.2.1.17) treatment of whole cells were found to contain an enzyme which catalyzes the oxidation of D -alanine. Enzyme activity was assayed either by following the uptake of oxygen or the reduction of 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol in the presence of membranes and D -alanine. The level of enzyme activity was raised by growth on DL -alanine or DL -valine as opposed to growth on glucose. When assayed by the dye reduction method, the pH optimum was found to occur at pH 7.6. The Michaelis constant for alanine was determined to be 5.4·10 −3 M. 2. 2. Evidence for the participation of the cytochrome system during alanine oxidation was indicated by (a) cyanide sensitivity of oxygen uptake (b) failure to detect hydrogen peroxide production by catalase EC 1.11.1.6 free membranes (c) the stoichiometry of oxygen uptake versus pyruvate production from alanine which demonstrated that 1 mole pyruvate was produced per atom of oxygen taken up and (d) appearance of reduced cytochrome bands when cell membranes were incubated with D -alanine. 3. 3. The chemical composition of isolated cell membranes was found to consist largely of protein, about 60% of the membrane dry weight, and lipid, about 35% of the membrane dry weight. Traces of carbohydrate and ribonucleic acid were also found.
Savannah’s story: negotiating the challenge of reporting suspected child abuse

Routine, school decision making is not typically controversial; however, there are decisions that have lasting impact for the principal and the student(s). The issue of reporting a suspected case of child sexual abuse is one of those issues. The thought of family members sexually abusing a child is traumatising and, therefore, difficult to accept as a reality. Consequently, the natural instinct is to dismiss gut feelings and search for logical reasons to negate the evidence presented when considering such an incident. It is no wonder educators second-guess themselves when deciding whether or not to report.
A low-cost, MR-compatible olfactometer

We present a design for an olfactometer, suitable for fMRI experiments, that can be constructed at extremely low cost. The olfactometer presents odors directly to the nose via a nasal cannula at unobtrusively low flow velocities, with no large assemblies required on or near the subject’s face. The olfactometer can be controlled manually, or by computer via a serial interface. A validation study verified that the olfactometer reliably presents odors to test subjects. Errors and response latency times decreased with increased flow rate in an orderly manner, as expected.
Acoustic VTI modeling with a time-space domain dispersion-relation-based finite-difference scheme

The finite-difference (FD) method is widely used in numerical modeling of wave equations. Conventional FD stencils for space derivatives are usually designed in the space domain. When they are used to solve wave equations, it is difficult to satisfy the dispersion relations exactly. We have designed a spatial FD stencil based on a time-space domain dispersion relation to simulate wave propagation in an acoustic vertically transversely isotropic (VTI) medium. Two-dimensional dispersion analysis and numerical modeling demonstrate that this stencil has greater precision than one used in a conventional FD, when the same number of grid points is used in the calculation of the spatial derivatives. Thus, the spatial FD stencil based on time-space domain dispersion relation can be used to replace a conventional one such that we can achieve greater accuracy with almost no increase in computational cost.
An ESD-protected, 2.45/5.25-GHz dual-band CMOS LNA with series LC loads and a 0.5-V supply

An ESD-protected, CMOS, dual-band 2.45/5.25-GHz LNA was designed, fabricated, and characterized. Operation in two bands is enabled by a dual-band input matching network and separate series LC load resonators for each operating frequency. At 2.45 GHz, the measured voltage gain and IIP/sub 3/ are 13.9 dB and +2.9 dBm, respectively. At 5.25 GHz, the measured voltage gain and IIP/sub 3/ are 8.7 dB and +3.2 dBm, respectively. The LNA consumes 2.5 mW from a 0.5-V supply. The ESD protection level of the LNA is over 9 kV (human body model).
Conformal, Macroscopic Crystalline Nanoparticle Sheets Assembled with DNA

A novel method for preparing conformal silica-embedded crystalline nanoparticle sheets via DNA programmable assembly provides independent control over nanoparticle size, nanoparticle spacing, and film thickness. The conformal materials retain the nanoparticle crystallinity and spacing after being transferred to flat or highly curved substrates even after being subjected to various mechanical, physical, and chemical stimuli.
International Relations as a Social Science: Rigor and Relevance

Progress in the study of international politics depends on systematic, rigorous theory and empirical testing. International Relations is most useful when scholars can identify with some confidence the causal forces that drive foreign policy and international interactions, not when they use their detailed empirical knowledge to offer opinions, however intelligent and well informed. Deterrence theory, the democratic peace research program, and the political economy of trade policy demonstrate the importance of both theory and empirical research in enhancing the understanding of international relations. The bargaining theory of war and open economy politics are the current frontiers of research on international relations and promise even greater understanding in the future.
Thermal decomposition of poly(vinyl chloride)

Poly(vinyl chloride), polymerized with the use of γ-radiation, benzoyl peroxide, and 2,2′-azobis(isobutyroitrile) as initiators, was thermally decomposed in vacuo. The gaseous decomposition products as analyzed by mass spectrometry consist primarily of hydrogen chloride for decomposition temperatures below approximately 300°C. At temperatures approximating 400°C., various hYdrocarbons are evolved along with the hydrogen chloride. Energetic considerations are discussed and the activition energy is determined. A free radical mechanism for the dehydrochlorination reaction that appears consistent with the reaction rate data for a three-halves-order reaction is postulated.
Evidence that microRNAs are associated with translating messenger RNAs in human cells

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding the 3' untranslated regions of target mRNAs. We examined the subcellular distribution of three miRNAs in exponentially growing HeLa cells and found that the vast majority are associated with mRNAs in polysomes. Several lines of evidence indicate that most of these mRNAs, including a known miRNA-regulated target (KRAS mRNA), are actively being translated.
Hemodynamic, Functional, and Clinical Responses to Pulmonary Artery Denervation in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension of Different Causes Phase II Results From the Pulmonary Artery Denervation-1 Study

Background—The mechanisms underlying pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are multifactorial. The efficacy of pulmonary artery denervation (PADN) for idiopathic PAH treatment has been evaluated. T...
Wind tunnel evaluation of a rotating-element large-particle sampler

A large-particle sampler was tested in an environmental wind tunnel to characterize the efficiency as a function of particle size and type (solid or liquid). The sampler, which had been developed by another organization, has two slotted-cylinder collection elements which are rotated through air at a tangential speed of 39 m/s. Data from wind tunnel tests show the efficiency of liquid droplet collection to increase with particle size to approximately 50% at 25 μm and then decrease with a further increase in particle size. It is suggested that the air flow patterns created by the sampler produce this anomalous behavior. Results of tests with solid particles show higher efficiencies than are obtained with liquid droplets of the same size. It appears that solid particles, which rebound from collection sites other than a slot, can subsequently enter the slots. Supporting data were obtained on the performance of a single slotted cylinder that was fixed in the discharge region of a small free-jet tunnel. Those r...
The human REV1 gene codes for a DNA template-dependent dCMP transferase

DNA is frequently damaged by various physical and chemical agents. DNA damage can lead to mutations during replication. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the damage-induced mutagenesis pathway requires the Rev1 protein. We have isolated a human cDNA homologous to the yeast REV1 gene. The human REV1 cDNA consists of 4255 bp and codes for a protein of 1251 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular weight of 138 248 Da. The human REV1 gene is localized between 2q11.1 and 2q11.2. We show that the human REV1 protein is a dCMP transferase that specifically inserts a dCMP residue opposite a DNA template G. In addition, the human REV1 transferase is able to efficiently and specifically insert a dCMP opposite a DNA template apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) site or a uracil residue. These results suggest that the REV1 transferase may play a critical role during mutagenic translesion DNA synthesis bypassing a template AP site in human cells. Consistent with its role as a fundamental mutagenic protein, the REV1 gene is ubiquitously expressed in various human tissues.
A real-time digital speech processing system for an auditory prosthesis

A fully programmable digital speech-processing system for multichannel electrical stimulation of the cochlea is described. The system consists of laboratory testing station as well as a battery-powered portable processing unit, both of which use the Texas Instrument 320C25 signal processing chip. The laboratory station uses a Microvax II equipped with the TI signal-processing chip on a custom-built coprocessing board to combine the capability of real-time speech analysis and coding with the ability for real-time adaptation of processing algorithms to individual cochlear implant patients. The portable speech processor is a low-power (0.8-W) unit designed to run algorithms that were tested and customized with the laboratory station. An example application of the system is discussed. >
Advanced dielectric grating technology for high-energy petawatt lasers

We describe the design, fabrication, and test of large-area multilayer dielectric gratings for high-energy petawatt lasers. 80/spl times/40-cm/sup 2/, 1780-mm/sup -1/ gratings have been fabricated, exhibiting high diffraction efficiency and >4 J/cm/sup 2/, 10-ps damage thresholds on witness samples.
Nutrients in streams during baseflow in selected environmental settings of the Potomac River Basin

: A regional assessment of water quality in small streams was conducted within four areas of distinct physiography and lithology in the upper Potomac River Basin. The Potomac River is a major tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, and this study provides new insight on the relationships between nutrient concentrations in small streams and watershed characteristics within this river basin. Nutrient concentrations were compared to land-use data including categories for agriculture (cropland and pasture), urban areas, and forests. Among agricultural areas, streams draining areas of intense row cropping typically contained higher nitrate concentrations than did those draining pastures. Streams draining forested areas typically had the lowest nutrient concentrations. Streams in areas underlain by carbonate bedrock were more likely to contain elevated concentrations of inorganic nitrogen and potassium than did streams in areas underlain by fractured siliciclastic or crystalline rocks, and we suggest that this is a physical phenomenon related to high hydraulic conductivities in carbonate ground-water systems. The median nitrate concentrations were highest in the Great Valley portion of the Valley and Ridge physiographic province, particularly in watersheds that have both carbonate bedrock and intensive row cropping. Values of nitrate in these streams ranged up to 8.99 mg/L as nitrogen. The soluble phosphorus concentrations during baseflow were generally low in all sub-units, even in some settings with potential for high phosphorus inputs such as urban areas with municipal point sources or agricultural areas. The mobility of phosphorus in these environments may be hindered by adsorption and geochemical reactions.
A Symposium on the New Fight for Fluorides: Part I: The New Antifluoridationists: Who Are They and How Do They Operate?

Since Grand Rapids became the first community to adjust the fluoride content of its water supply, individuals and groups have objected to water fluoridation. Early opponents of fluoridation were often members of fringe groups or were associated with the health food movement, were chiropractors, or were Christian Scientists. Once these individuals and groups began exchanging ideas and experiences, national groups were formed for the sole purpose of fighting fluoridation. While most of these organizations lacked sufficient funding or expertise to have much impact outside of the communities where they were based, some national multi-issue organizations appeared that were well funded and that focused on antifluoridation as one of their goals. Through exploitation of society's current phobias about health and disease, these national groups have become increasingly successful in negatively influencing the public about the effectiveness, safety, and economy of community water fluoridation. Their tactics range from community actions aimed at local governmental bodies, to well-organized local referenda, to litigation in state and federal courts, to lobbying state legislatures, and the US Congress. Specific legal, community organizational, and political tactics employed by the antifluoride groups are reviewed and classified.
M-Rated Video Games and Aggressive or Problem Behavior Among Young Adolescents

This research examined the potential relationship between adolescent problem behaviors and amount of time spent with violent electronic games. Survey data were collected from 1,254 7th and 8th grade students in two states. A “dose” of exposure to Mature-rated games was calculated using Entertainment Software Rating Board ratings of titles children reported playing “a lot in the past six months,” and average days per week of video game play. Analyses were conducted using simultaneous logistic regression for binary outcome variables, and simultaneous multiple linear regression for continuous outcome variables, controlling for a series of potential confounders. M-rated game dose predicted greater risk for bullying (p < .01) and physical fights (p < .001), but not for delinquent behaviors or being a victim of bullies. When analyzed separately, these associations became weaker for boys and stronger for girls.
The Validity and Reliability of the Teacher Knowledge and Skills Survey for Positive Behavior Support

In this study, the authors evaluated the empirical properties of the 33-item Teacher Knowledge and Skills Survey (TKSS) 2.0 for positive behavioral support (PBS) in schools. Through an examination ...
The effect of degenerative arthritis and prosthetic arthroplasty on shoulder proprioception

The effect of glenohumeral arthritis and subsequent total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) on shoulder proprioception has not been evaluated previously. A prospective analysis of 20 consecutive patients with unilateral advanced glenohumeral arthritis who underwent TSA was undertaken. Shoulder proprioception testing for passive position sense and detection of motion was performed 1 week before surgery and 6 months after TSA. The presence of glenohumeral arthritis had a significant effect on position sense for all 3 planes tested (flexion, abduction, and external rotation). There were significant differences (P < .05) compared with the uninvolved shoulder and with a group of 20 age- and gender-matched subjects without a history of shoulder problems. Six months after TSA, position sense was significantly improved (P < .05) and was not significantly different from that in the contralateral shoulder or the comparison group. Detection of motion was also significantly worse in the arthritic group compared with that in the uninvolved contralateral side (P < .05). Six months after TSA, the sensitivity to detection of motion improved (P < .01) and was not significantly different than that in the uninvolved contralateral shoulder. In addition, the postoperative values for the involved shoulder were not significantly different than those in the age- and gender-matched comparison group. This study demonstrates a significant decrease in proprioceptive function in patients with advanced glenohumeral arthritis. After TSA, there was a marked improvement in proprioception.
Reactions of 1,4-benzoquinones with s2 reducing centers

Aqueous solutions of Sn(II) and Ge(II) (in chloride media) and In(I) (in perchlorate media) react quantitatively with 1,4-benzoquinone and its 2,5-(OH)2 and 2,5-Cl2-3,6-(OH)2 derivatives, reducing the oxo-functions to 1,4-(OH)2. For Sn(II) and Ge(II), reaction is accelerated by incorporation of 2,5-(OH)2 substituents and by chloroanation of the s2 center. The most reactive reducing Sn(II) species are SnCl3− for benzoquinone and dihydroxyquinone but SnCl2(aq)x for the dichloroquinone. Reductions by Ge(II) proceed mainly through a species (probably GeCl42−) having one more chloride than the predominant form. The activated complex for the (OH)2bzq–Ge(II) reaction features two germanium centers, only one of which is involved in the reduction act. Reductions of these quinones by In(I) proceed 102–103 times as rapidly as those by Sn(II) and Ge(II) and are not accelerated by hydroxylation of the quinone ring.
Visualizing metadata for environmental datasets

Data growth in the environmental sciences has resulted in multidimensional datasets that are heterogeneous and extensive. Scientific academic research includes scalar, sensor, or vector data, which may be publically available. The datasets generated extend to local environmental groups whose trained citizens contribute to the surveillance of local habitats and ecological conditions that can potentially enhance various data analyses on a national and international level. While the abundance of environmental data is growing, tools to select, compare, and utilize the growing number of datasets generated from multiple institutions and groups are not keeping pace. This paper focuses on planning the construction of a dataset visualization that concentrates on the use of metadata to facilitate the identification, selection, and comparison of dataset information. It is presented in the visualization framework at the School of Information Sciences called VIBE (Visual Information Browsing Environment) and plans to adapt the Dublin Core Metadata Element Set as a basis for its development. In the long term, visualization may emerge not only as a primary tool for modeling environmental scientific metadata, but also as a mechanism used at the incipience of environmental scientific discovery.
U.S. Hospitality Investment in Six Potential Eastern European Markets

Political and economic liberalization in much of Eastern Europe has led to the opening of importantpotential markets for U.S. hospitality firms. These markets vary, however, in investment opportunities and climate across individual Eastern Euro pean countries. This article examines the state of U.S. hospitality investment in six major Eastern European countries. Recent developments that have led to the present economic and political climate in these countries are discussed, and the major U.S. hospitality firms doing business in these countries, country-specific investment requirements, and potential opportunities for new investment are identified. Understanding the unique characteristics of each market is critically important to U.S. hospitality managers considering expansion into the markets of Eastern Europe.
Of Mice and Children Lessons From a Kawasaki Mouse Model

Despite 50 years of research, the cause of Kawasaki disease (KD), the most common cause of acquired heart disease in children, remains a mystery. Fueled by epidemiological and clinical clues that the disease is triggered by an infectious agent that elicited a dramatic immune response in genetically susceptible children, investigators vigorously searched for the responsible agent.1 Thus far, a long list of discarded pathogens is all that remains of these attempts to find the inflammation-causing agent. Application of reverse genetics to engineer synthetic antibodies to track down a putative new virus has shown some promise, but the agent remains elusive.2 Article see p 1542 In the absence of knowledge of the etiologic agent, animal models were created that recapitulate the pathological changes observed in human tissues. KD was a prime candidate for modeling: The disease was rarely fatal, so well-preserved autopsy tissues were difficult to find; the primary target of the vasculitis, the coronary arteries, could not be biopsied in living children; and a better understanding of disease pathogenesis was needed to devise new therapeutic approaches. It was in the spirit of meeting these challenges that 2 major mouse models of KD were created. The first, created by …
Wireless Monitoring of Workpiece Material Transitions and Debris Accumulation in Micro-Electro-Discharge Machining

Wireless signals are inherently generated with each discharge in micro-electro-discharge machining (?EDM), allowing direct observation of discharge quality. While traditional methods of monitoring machining quality rely on electrical characteristics at the discharge supply terminals, the wireless method provides more accurate information because it is less affected by electrical parasitics in the supply loop and by spatial averaging. The depth location of a metal-metal interface can be distinguished in the wireless signal. This is useful for determining the stop depth in certain processes. For example, in machining through samples of stainless steel into an electroplated copper backing layer, the metal transition is identified by a 10-dBm change in wireless-signal strength for the 300-350-MHz band and a 5-dBm average change across the full 1-GHz bandwidth. As debris accumulate in the discharge gaps, shifts in the wireless spectra can also indicate spurious discharges that could damage the workpiece and tool. For example, when copper micromachining becomes debris dominated, the 800-850-MHz band drops 4 dBm in signal strength, with a 2.2-dBm average drop across the full 1-GHz bandwidth.
Light-recycling within electronic displays using deep red and near infrared photoluminescent polarizers

We report a linearly polarized luminescent solar concentrator with broad absorption across the visible, and luminescence beyond the emissive spectrum of the display. When used to replace a conventional polarizer in a luminescent display, this device recycles light absorbed by the polarizer, guiding it to the frame of the display where solar cells may be mounted.
Donor lazaroid pretreatment improves viability of livers harvested from non-heart-beating rats.

Background Lazaroids are potent inhibitors of lipid peroxidation. Whether the compounds can benefit the liver procured from non-heart-beating donors (NHBDs) is unknown. Methods Donor rats were pretreated with lazaroid U74006F (4.5 mg/kg) 1 hour before cardiac arrest, and transplantation was performed in the rats with donor cardiac arrest from 0 to 60,100, 120,140, and 160 minutes as lazaroid pretreated groups. The same number of liver transplantations were done in each paired control group without donor lazaroid pretreatment. Recipient survival rates, bile secretion, serum enzymes, and a lidocaine metabolism test were analyzed. Results Donor lazaroid pretreatment significantly increased recipient 3-day survival rates in groups with 60,100, and 120 minutes of warm ischemia and 7-day survival with 60 minutes of warm ischemia. Also, the pretreatment increased bile secretion and reduced serum aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase levels in the lazaroid-pretreated groups. Conclusions Donor U74006F pretreatment improves viability of livers procured from NHBDs.
Effect of emitter layer concentration on the performance of GaAs p/sup +/-i homojunction far-infrared detectors: a comparison of theory and experiment

The performance of GaAs multilayer (p/sup +/-i-p/sup +/-i-...) homojunction interfacial workfunction internal photoemission (HIWIP) far-infrared (FIR) detectors as a function of emitter layer (p/sup +/) concentration is reported. The dark current characteristics have been investigated and compared with a model which includes the space charge, tunneling, and multiple-image-force effects. The experimentally determined detector cutoff wavelength is found to be in reasonable agreement with the high density (HD) theory. The detector responsivity follows well the quantum efficiency predicted by scaling the free carrier absorption coefficient linearly with the doping concentration. All these comparisons are necessary to design and optimize GaAs HIWIP FIR detectors.
Vapor‐Phase Microprinting of Multicolor Phosphorescent Organic Light Emitting Device Arrays

Multicolor electrophosphorescent organic light-emitting diode (OLED) pixel patterning by organic vapor jet printing (OVJP) is demonstrated, showing that this technique is capable of rapidly generating high-definition full-color displays. The resolution limits, and means to achieve them are described using a combination of simulation and experimental approaches.
Cognitive radio, reconfigurable antennas, and radiobots

A true cognitive radio does not have to be limited to achieving dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS), to simply an upgraded version of Sofware Defined Radio (SDR), or even to a number-crunching machine that can perform pre-defined cross-layer optimizations. Based on this broader view, we put-forth a new vision for a futuristic cognitive radio device: We define it to be a radio device that is capable of autonomously self-managing itself and self-reconfiguring to match its RF environment, using reconfigurable antennas, while continuously self-learning from its past experience. We call our proposed autonomous cognitive radios as Radiobots: They are the radio device equivalence of robots in mechanical engineering or Autobots in children's sci-fi movies! While every Radiobot will be a cognitive radio, none of the cognitive radios found in current literature can be considered as a Radiobot.
Vapor-Liquid Equilibrium of Carbon Dioxide with Isobutane and N-Butane: Modified Leung-Griffiths Correlation and Data Evaluation

The Leung-Griffiths model as modified by Moldover and Rainwater is used to correlate high-pressure vapor-liquid equilibria of mixtures of carbon dioxide with «-butane and isobutane. Model correlations are compared against 10 independent experimental sources for these mixtures. Agreement is generally very good and comparable to mutual experimental discrepancies. The utility of the model as a data evaluation technique is demonstrated in that small suspect regions have been identified in certain data sets and the model predictions have been confirmed by subsequent measurements that agree with the model better than the earlier data.
Treponema denticola interactions with host proteins

Oral Treponema species, most notably T. denticola, are implicated in the destructive effects of human periodontal disease. Progress in the molecular analysis of interactions between T. denticola and host proteins is reviewed here, with particular emphasis on the characterization of surface-expressed and secreted proteins of T. denticola involved in interactions with host cells, extracellular matrix components, and components of the innate immune system.
Why doctors hate medical ethics.

For the past 3 years, since acquiring formal training in healthcare ethics and philosophy, I have been one of those physicians who “does” ethics. I teach medical students and residents, write articles, speak at conferences, chair an ethics committee, and informally consult with colleagues on cases where they request advice related to ethical issues in the care of patients. These activities have been a rewarding and challenging part of my practice. There has also been a fair amount of frustration. Unfortunately, both in teaching and patient care, it has been a frequent experience to finish a discussion with physicians only to be told that what I said was nice but had no bearing in the real world. In the words of a medical resident: 'You know, this ethics stuff is really a lot of crap, isn't it?'
Second-Order Switching Time Optimization for Nonlinear Time-Varying Dynamic Systems

This technical note gives a method for calculating the first and second derivatives of a cost function with respect to switching times for systems with piecewise second-differentiable dynamics. Differential equations governing the linear and bilinear operators required for calculating the derivatives are presented. Example optimizations of linear and nonlinear systems are presented as evidence for the value of second-order optimization methods. One example converges in 33 iterations using second-order methods whereas the first-order algorithm requires over 30 000 iterations.
Co-occurring tobacco use and posttraumatic stress disorder: Smoking cessation treatment implications

Background and Objectives PTSD and cigarette smoking frequently co-occur for reasons that are not well understood. The current behavioral and pharmacological treatments and emerging new treatment targets for smoking cessation are discussed. Methods Here we describe recent research on PTSD and smoking with an emphasis on 1) the clinical characteristics of smokers with PTSD, 2) smoking treatment trials that specifically targeted smokers with PTSD, 3) recent research on stress-response and affect regulation pathways that might link the two disorders and 4) potential ways to leverage new findings on stress response systems and affect regulation mechanisms to improve treatment outcomes for smokers with PTSD. Results Smokers with PTSD have higher rates of smoking compared to the general population and have greater difficulty quitting compared to smokers without PTSD. There have been several studies of adjunctive and integrated smoking cessation interventions for smokers with PTSD, but fewer tailored interventions that intensively target stress-response pathways or affect regulation related to both tobacco use and PTSD. Stress-response pathways and affect regulation appear to be important mechanisms involved in the development and maintenance of smoking in individuals with PTSD. Conclusions and Scientific Significance Additional research that focuses on smokers with PTSD is warranted given that successful tobacco treatment response is low and the negative health effects of each disorder can be greatly amplified. (Am J Addict 2015;XX:1–10)
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Rev Protein: A Pivotal Protein in the Viral Life Cycle

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and related lentiviruses have more complex genomes than typical retroviruses (Cullen 1991). HIV-1 expresses at least nine different genes in a temporally regulated manner (Kim et al. 1989). In addition to the gag, pol, and env genes common to all retroviruses, HIV-1 also encodes genes for tat, rev, nef, vif, vpu, and vpr (Rosenblat et al., this volume). To encode nine different genes in a small, approximately 9-kb genome, the virus employs alternative reading frames and complex patterns of RNA splicing (Gallo et al. 1988; Schwartz et al. 1990a). The HIV-1 protein Rev (regulator of expression of the virion) plays an essential role in the temporal regulation of virus gene expression during a replication cycle (Kim et al. 1989; Pomerantz et al. 1990). The genes expressed by HIV-1 can be separated into two distinct groups based on whether their expression is Rev-dependent or not (Schwartz et al. 1990b; Hammerskjold et al. 1989; Malim et al. 1989; Garrett et al. 1991). The Rev-inde-pendent or early genes encode Tat, Rev, and Nef. The Rev-dependent or late genes are important for virion production and encode the structural proteins Gag, Pol, and Env and the accessory products Vif, Vpu, and Vpr. Rev is absolutely required for HIV-1 replication. Proviruses that lack Rev function remain transcriptionally active, but fail to generate new viral particles.
Failure of the Current Anti-Corruption Strategy in Afghanistan

Corruption has come to the forefront in Afghanistan as the United States tries to balance efforts to back anticorruption strategies while maintaining a positive relationship with the Karzai government. Stalled corruption cases suggest corruption in Afghanistan is systemic and not limited to a particular governing body or official. It is clear that corruption exists in both the upper and lower echelons of Afghan society, and will continue to exist until the U.S.-backed anticorruption teams are accepted by the Afghan government. The strengthening of key institutions continues to be the recommended international model. As demonstrated in the United States, the integration and overlap of these institutions offers an effective means of combating corruption. These mechanisms, however, have been ineffective in a number of south-central Asia countries. Afghanistan’s unique history and clan structure may provide some rational for these failures. Two socioeconomic models, the principal-agent model and collective action theory, offer perspectives on how Afghanistan’s history and clan structure is inhibiting the implementation of traditional anticorruption tools. A strong clan history that loathes outsiders and rewards clan loyalties will not yield to strong U.S. anticorruption mechanisms. The Afghan drug trade offers a glimpse into the patron-client relationships that clans rely on, and demonstrates how the Taliban provide a network of resources to assist the drug mafias and transnational criminal organizations. A strong-arm approach to corruption, like that embraced by the Obama administration, will probably not succeed for a number of years. Before these regulatory mechanisms can work, the clans must be convinced of the credibility of these mechanisms.
A new family of primitive serphitoid wasps in Lebanese amber (Hymenoptera: Serphitoidea)

A new family of serphitoid wasps (Bipetiolarida: Serphitoidea) is described and figured as Archaeoserphitidae Engel, new family. The family is based on Archaeoserphites melqarti Engel, new genus and species, preserved in Early Cretaceous amber from Lebanon, and shares with Serphitidae a two-segmented, tubular petiole. Archaeoserphites have several primitive features relative to Serphitidae (e.g., reduced pterostigma, similar to many chalcidoids; a greater number of flagellomeres; a distinct malar sulcus), while simultaneously exhibiting its own derived features (e.g., angulate lower face, with clypeus downward; smaller mandibles; large pronotum; fused propleura). Diagnoses of and keys to the higher taxa of Bipetiolarida are provided, and the subfamily Microserphitinae Engel, new subfamily, is established.