cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exit from equilibrium in coordination games under probit choice

Abstract We consider a model of stochastic evolution under the probit choice rule. In the small noise double limit, where first the noise level in agents' decisions is taken to zero, and then the population size to infinity, escape from and transitions between equilibria can be described in terms of solutions to continuous optimal control problems. We use results from optimal control theory to solve the exit cost problem. This is used to determine the most likely exit paths from the initial basin of attraction and also to assess the expected time until the evolutionary process leaves the basin of attraction of a stable equilibrium in a class of three-strategy coordination games.
Learning-based load control to support resilient networked microgrid operations

Networked and interconnected microgrids can improve resilience of critical end-use loads during extreme events. However, the frequency deviations in microgrids during transient events are significantly larger than those typically seen in bulk transmission systems. The larger frequency deviations can cause a loss of inverter-connected assets, resulting in a loss of power to critical end-use loads. Grid Friendly ApplianceTM (GFA) controllers can mitigate the transient event effects by engaging end-use loads. This paper presents a method to select set-points for end-use loads equipped with GFA controllers, while minimizing the interruptions to end-use customers. An online (i.e. real-time), device-level algorithm adjusts individual GFA controller frequency setpoints based on the operational characteristics of each end-use load and on the changing grid dynamic characteristics to selectively engage the load for mitigating the switching transients. The adaptive gradient-descent-based algorithm does not require control or coordination amongst end-use devices for adapting frequency set-points. The method is validated using dynamic simulations on a modified version of the IEEE 123-node test system with three microgrids using the GridLAB-DTM simulation environment. The improved dynamic stability achieved through the engagement of GFAs support the switching operations necessary for networked microgrid operations.
Mid- and Late-Life Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Global Brain Amyloid Burden: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC)-PET Study.

Background Physical activity (PA) may slow the development of dementia by reducing the accumulation of amyloid. Objective We tested the hypothesis that higher levels of leisure-time PA in mid- or late-life were associated with lower brain amyloid burden in late-life among 326 non-demented participants from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study of brain florbetapir positron emission tomography (ARIC-PET) ancillary. Methods Self-reported PA was quantified using a past-year recall, interviewer-administered questionnaire in mid-life (1987-1989, aged 45-64 years) and late-life (2011-2013, aged 67-89 years). Continuous PA estimates were classified as 1) any leisure-time PA participation (yes/no); 2) meeting the 2018 United States' PA guidelines (yes/no); and 3) per 1 standard deviation (SD) higher metabolic equivalent of task (MET) minutes per week (MET·min·wk-1). A brain magnetic resonance imaging scan with Florbetapir PET was performed in late-life. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) of elevated amyloid burden, defined as a global cortical standardized uptake value ratio (>1.2), compared to no elevated amyloid burden were estimated according to PA measures. Results Among the 326 participants (mean age: 76 years, 42% male, 41% Black), 52% had elevated brain amyloid burden. Mid-life leisure-time PA did not show a statistically significant lower odds of elevated late-life amyloid burden (OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.43-1.18). A 1 SD (970 MET. min. wk-1) higher PA level in mid-life was also not significantly associated withelevated amyloid burden (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.69-1.15). Similar estimates were observed for meeting versus not meeting PA guidelines in both mid- and late-life. Conclusion Self-reported higher mid- and late-life leisure-time PA were not significantly associated with lower amyloid burden. Data show a trend of an association, which is, however, imprecise, suggesting replication in larger studies.
A 10-year evaluation of projects in a doctor of nursing practice programme

Aims and objectives The role of professional doctorates is receiving increased attention internationally. As part of building the rigour and scholarship of these programmes, we assessed projects undertaken as part of a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programme at Johns Hopkins University. Recommendations for programme development in professional doctorates are provided. Background Past research has described the methodologic limitations and dissemination of DNP projects. However, few studies have provided recommendations for strengthening these projects and alternative strategies for achieving scale in larger student cohorts. Design A descriptive study reported in accordance with STROBE guidelines. Methods From 2009-2018, 191 final DNP project reports were obtained from the DNP programme administrator. Essential project characteristics from the papers were extracted, including use of theoretical framework, design, setting, sample and dissemination through publication. To determine whether the results of the projects had been published, the title and student's name were searched in Google Scholar and Google. Results Of the 191 projects, 83% focused on adults and 61% were conducted in the hospital setting. Sample sizes ranged from 7 to 24,702. Eighty per cent of the projects employed a pretest/post-test design, including both single and independent groups. The projects spanned six overarching themes, including process improvement, clinician development, patient safety, patient outcome improvement, access to care and workplace environment. Twenty-one per cent of the project findings were published in scholarly journals. Conclusions Conducting a critical review of DNP projects has been useful in refining a strategy shifting from incremental to transformative changes in advanced practice. Relevance to clinical practice Programme evaluation is critical in order to sufficiently prepare nurses in advanced nursing practice to influence healthcare outcomes at the individual or population level.
Partially-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations of turbulent flow past a square cylinder: Comparative assessment of statistics and coherent structures at different resolutions

Scale-resolving simulations of the turbulent wake behind a square cylinder are performed at Re = 22 000 using the partially averaged Navier–Stokes (PANS) k-ω closure model at different degrees of resolution (cut-off scales) corresponding to the unresolved-to-total kinetic energy ratio fk ∈ [0.10, 0.50]. The two principle objectives of the study are to (i) establish the degree of resolution required for an accurate computation of different quantities of interest ranging from flow statistics to coherent structures and (ii) develop a protocol for a quantitative assessment and comparison of the large-scale coherent structures simulated at different degrees of resolution. Straightforward use of proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) to assess and compare large-scale coherence at different resolution levels can prove difficult as small-scale features can affect the POD mode shape and amplitude. To overcome this difficulty, two methods of quantifying coherent structures in the wake are proposed. These methods are based upon the incorporation of Fourier and Chebyshev decompositions with spectral proper orthogonal decomposition, respectively. We examine the first-mode energy spectra and the corresponding streamwise mode shapes using the results generated from PANS simulations at different degrees of resolution. It is demonstrated that increasingly finer resolutions are needed for integral quantities, one-point statistics, frequency spectra, and coherent structures, in that order. The underlying physics is explicated.
Rapid antigen and molecular tests had varied sensitivity and ≥97% specificity for detecting SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SOURCE CITATION: Dinnes J, Deeks JJ, Adriano A, et al. Rapid, point-of-care antigen and molecular-based tests for diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;8:CD013705. 32845525.
Microwave-assisted flow systems in the green production of fine chemicals

Abstract Microwave-assisted flow chemistry is one of the most important contributors to scale-up efforts in microwave synthesis. Recent advances in this field are reviewed in this chapter. The account begins with a brief description of microwave-assisted flow systems followed by a broad range of applications. Although the major group of applications fall into the realm of organic synthesis, several other fields, such as the preparation of nanoparticles, materials, the use of bio-based feedstock, and environmental applications are also reviewed.
Probabilistic vehicle weight estimation using physics-constrained generative adversarial network

Abstract Traffic information plays an important role in the design and management of civil transportation infrastructure. Bridge weigh‐in‐motion (BWIM) provides an effective tool for traffic inform...
Baton Rouge SLAM! An Obituary for Summer 2016

This performance script created from a critical performance ethnography focuses on how Eclectic Truth Poetry Slam in Baton Rouge, LA, responded to a crisis-filled summer 2016. Summer 2016: politica...
Diagonal cubic forms and the large sieve.

Let $F(\boldsymbol{x})$ be a diagonal integer-coefficient cubic form in $m\in\{4,5,6\}$ variables. Excluding rational lines if $m=4$, we bound the number of integral solutions $\boldsymbol{x}\in[-X,X]^m$ to $F(\boldsymbol{x})=0$ by $O_{F,\epsilon}(X^{3m/4 - 3/2 + \epsilon})$, conditionally on an "optimal large sieve inequality" (in a specific range of parameters) for "approximate Hasse-Weil $L$-functions" of smooth hyperplane sections $F(\boldsymbol{x})=\boldsymbol{c}\cdot\boldsymbol{x}=0$ as $\boldsymbol{c}\in\mathbb{Z}^m$ varies in natural boxes. When $m$ is even, these results were previously established conditionally under Hooley's Hypothesis HW. Our $\ell^2$ large sieve approach requires that certain bad factors be roughly $1$ on average in $\ell^2$, while the $\ell^\infty$ Hypothesis HW approach only required the bound in $\ell^1$. Furthermore, the large sieve only accepts uniform vectors; yet our "initially given" vectors are only approximately uniform over $\boldsymbol{c}$, due to variation in bad factors and in the archimedean component. Nonetheless, after some bookkeeping, partial summation, and Cauchy, the large sieve will still apply. In an appendix, we suggest a framework for non-diagonal cubics, up to Hessian issues.
Pediatric cardiomyopathy and the PCM Genes study: A summary with insights on genetic testing, variant interpretation, race and ethnicity

Abstract Background The Pediatric Cardiomyopathy Genes study was developed to identify the genetic contributors to pediatric cardiomyopathy and identify genotype-phenotype correlations. Performed by 14 sites in North America as part of research by the Pediatric Cardiomyopathy Registry, the study completed exome sequencing on 528 children with primary dilated, hypertrophic, restrictive, or mixed cardiomyopathies, including left ventricular noncompaction. Aim of review The goal of this review is to summarize recent findings of the PCM Genes studies on clinical genetic testing practices and the genetic architecture of pediatric cardiomyopathy. Identified barriers to clinical implementation of genetic evaluation and testing are examined. The contribution of race, ethnicity and ancestry to cardiomyopathy phenotype, onset, and outcome in the pediatric population is reviewed. Key scientific concepts of review Evaluation of clinical genetic testing practices of sites participating in the PCM Genes study identified that increased standardization and comprehensiveness in approach would increase genetic diagnoses by at least 20%. Multiple barriers to genetic testing and evaluation exist and these should be further evaluated in conjunction with reducing practice variation. The concept of bioinformatic interpretation of genetic variation and its role in classification of pathogenesis and disease-association is reviewed. In addition to the expected differences in the yield of genetic testing by cardiomyopathy phenotype or family history, the PCM Genes study identified differences based on ancestry. Improving our understanding of how race and ethnicity correlate with the likelihood of obtaining positive genetic testing results in established genes and identifying ancestry-specific genetic causes are research priorities.
Chapter 1 A Flow Cytometric Technique for Detection of DNA Repair in Mammalian Cells

Publisher Summary The central premise of flow cytometric technique assumes that DNA damage arising from most chemical mutagens induces excision repair. This repair mechanism displaces numerous nucleotides adjacent to the sites of these DNA lesions in the process, requiring their eventual resynthesis. This restoration of these excised domains is the specific facet of the DNA repair process exploited by this assay. Cultures of diploid human fibroblasts (IMR-90 cells), rat hepatocytes, and rat kidney tubules have been exposed in vitro to a variety of mutagenic agents and pulsed with BrdUrd. In vivo DNA repair studies have also been performed with nuclei extracted from a heterogeneous population of renal cortical cells. After fixation in ethanol, cellular DNA is partially denatured by a combination of mild acid treatment and brief heat treatment in a low ionic solution, followed by sequential immunochemical staining of incorporated bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd) and counterstaining remaining native DNA with propidium iodide (PI). Flow cytometric analysis of these dual-stained samples includes the construction of linear bivariate histograms to simultaneously detect low-level green fluorescence and the more abundant red fluorescence.
Conical theta pinch plasma for deposition of thin polymer films

A conical theta pinch coil has been used to deposit a thin film of polymer onto a potassium bromide (KBr) substrate using a monomer gas of C/sub 2/H/sub 2/ (acetylene). The plasma source consisted of a one turn conical theta pinch coil wrapped around a 10-cm ID Pyrex vacuum vessel. The coil was energized by a 1.9- mu F capacitor charged to 20 kV (stored energy approximately=380 J). The damped sinusoidal current had a frequency of 230 kHz and a peak amplitude of 55 kA. The duration of light emission from the plasma was about 30 mu s. After 80 discharges, the polymer film was analyzed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer. The FTIR spectrum showed that there were carbon-to-hydrogen bonds and carbon-to-carbon double bonds in the deposited film. The SEM measurements indicate that the film was about 10000 AA thick, showing that the conical theta pinch plasma was depositing a polymer film at the rate of 125 AA per discharge. >
CURY, Augusto Jorge. Pais brilhantes professores fascinantes. Em busca da Educação para a Vida

Este livro e indicado a todos aqueles que desejam entender melhor nao somente sobre educacao, como tambem, sobre relacoes sociais solidas e verdadeiras. Formar criancas e adolescentes felizes, autonomos e humanos e um grande desafio. Nunca houve tanta necessidade de educar as pessoas para a vida como ha nos dias de hoje. Vivemos em uma sociedade fria e materialista, na qual se torna sempre mais urgente cultivar a emocao e expandir a inteligencia dos jovens.
Managing an Emergency Preparedness Program

The preceding chapter explored many technical aspects of chemical process safety and some safety management systems that form the foundation of a comprehensive emergency preparedness program. Clearly, the first step in preparing for emergencies is to identify and mitigate the conditions that might cause them. This process starts early in the design phase of a chemical facility, and continues throughout its life. The objective is to prevent emergencies by eliminating hazards wherever possible.
RGB-D object pose estimation in unstructured environments

We present an object pose estimation approach exploiting both geometric depth and photometric color information available from an RGB-D sensor. In contrast to various efforts relying on object segmentation with a known background structure, our approach does not depend on the segmentation and thus exhibits superior performance in unstructured environments. Inspired by a voting-based approach employing an oriented point pair feature, we present a voting-based approach which further incorporates color information from the RGB-D sensor and which exploits parallel power of the modern parallel computing architecture. The proposed approach is extensively evaluated with three state-of-the-art approaches on both synthetic and real datasets, and our approach outperforms the other approaches in terms of both computation time and accuracy. A point pair feature describing both geometric shape and photometric color and its application to a voting-based 6-DOF object pose estimation.Parallel algorithms significantly accelerating the voting process on modern GPU architectures.Effective in unstructured scenes in which the prevailing segmentation-based approaches may not be applicable.
Listening with Two Ears

Why do people have two ears? We can, after all, make sense of sounds quite well with a single ear. One task, however, requires input from both organs: pinpointing the exact direction from which a sound, such as the cry of a baby or the growl of a dog, is emanating. In a process called binaural fusion, the brain compares information received from each ear and then translates the differences into a unified perception of a single sound issuing from a specific region of space.
Lean Premixed Combustion of Methane and Hydrogen-Enriched Methane Using Porous Inert Media

This paper presents an experimental investigation on lean premixed combustion of methane and hydrogen-enriched methane. The combustion was stabilized on the surface of a porous inert media made of silicon-carbide coated carbon core with 4 pores per centimeter. Experiments were conducted using commercial grade methane (99% purity) and a mixture of 70% methane and 30% hydrogen, by volume. Measurements of NOx and CO emissions were taken for a range of airflow rates and adiabatic flame temperatures. The combustor turndown ratio was varied by a factor of 6. Emission characteristics were compared for a given adiabatic flame temperature, representing energy input to the combustor. Results show lower CO emissions and extended lean blow off limit when hydrogen was added to the methane fuel.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
On Drawin's Formula for Ionization in Atom-Atom Collisions.

Drawin's semiclassical formula for ionization in collisions of neutral atoms or molecules is examined. Both, from an analysis of its derivation and from a comparison with additional experimental data, it appears that considerable errors can be expected in general applications of this formula.
Scanning and Surface Alignment Considerations in Chemical Imaging with Desorption Electrospray Mass Spectrometry

The effects of surface scanning mode (raster vs unidirectional scanning) and the constancy of spray tip-to-surface and atmospheric sampling interface capillary-to-surface distances on chemical image quality using desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry were investigated. Unidirectional scanning was found to provide a spatially and a quantitatively more precise chemical image of the surface as compared to raster scanning. Maintaining constant spray tip-to-surface and atmospheric sampling interface capillary-to-surface distances during an imaging experiment was found to also be critical. An automation process was implemented using a custom image analysis software (HandsFree Surface Analysis) to keep these distances constant during the surface sampling experiment. Improved chemical image quality afforded through this software control was illustrated by imaging printed objects on normal copy paper.
Intermolecular Disulfide Linkages Are Not Required for Transthyretin Amyloid Fibril Formation in Vitro

Abstract The role of intermolecular disulfide linkages in transthyretin (TFR) amyloid fibril formation was investigated by comparing wild type TTR to Cys-10-Ala TTR which is incapable of disulfide formation. The Cys-10-Ala variant exhibits quaternary structural stability equal to the wild type protein under acidic denaturing conditions. Both Cys-10-Ala and wild type TTR were converted into amyloid fibrils by partial acid denaturation. There was no evidence of intermolecular disulfide formation in the case of wild type amyloid fibrils. These results are inconsistent with a recently proposed model stressing the importance of intermolecular disulfide linkages in TTR amyloid fibril formation, but are consistent with a model relying on noncovalent quaternary contacts made possible through an acid-mediated conformational change.
T-cell function in newborn mice and humans

Neonates mount poor immune responses, and it has been assumed that neonatal T cells differ qualitatively from adult T cells. Here, Becky Adkins discusses this issue in the light of recent data indicating that T cells in neonates are developmentally mature in their capacity to mount protective Th1-type and cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses.
Temperature-Dependence of Isometric Tension and Cross-Bridge Kinetics of Cardiac Muscle Fibers Reconstituted with a Tropomyosin Internal Deletion Mutant

The effect of temperature on isometric tension and cross-bridge kinetics was studied with a tropomyosin (Tm) internal deletion mutant AS-Δ23Tm (Ala-Ser-Tm Δ(47–123)) in bovine cardiac muscle fibers by using the thin filament extraction and reconstitution technique. The results are compared with those from actin reconstituted alone, cardiac muscle-derived control acetyl-Tm, and recombinant control AS-Tm. In all four reconstituted muscle groups, isometric tension and stiffness increased linearly with temperature in the range 5–40°C for fibers activated in the presence of saturating ATP and Ca2+. The slopes of the temperature-tension plots of the two controls were very similar, whereas the slope derived from fibers with actin alone had ∼40% the control value, and the slope from mutant Tm had ∼36% the control value. Sinusoidal analysis was performed to study the temperature dependence of cross-bridge kinetics. All three exponential processes A, B, and C were identified in the high temperature range (30–40°C); only processes B and C were identified in the mid-temperature range (15–25°C), and only process C was identified in the low temperature range (5–10°C). At a given temperature, similar apparent rate constants (2πa, 2πb, 2πc) were observed in all four muscle groups, whereas their magnitudes were markedly less in the order of AS-Δ23Tm < Actin < AS-Tm ≈ Acetyl-Tm groups. Our observations are consistent with the hypothesis that Tm enhances hydrophobic and stereospecific interactions (positive allosteric effect) between actin and myosin, but Δ23Tm decreases these interactions (negative allosteric effect). Our observations further indicate that tension/cross-bridge is increased by Tm, but is diminished by Δ23Tm. We conclude that Tm affects the conformation of actin so as to increase the area of hydrophobic interaction between actin and myosin molecules.
Wayne Morse: A Political Biography

The career of Wayne Morse, Oregon's maverick senator (1944-68), offers insights on political issues that shaped the twentieth century and continue to echo in the twenty-first. Best known for being one of two senators to oppose the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution that initiated U.S. military intervention in Vietnam, Morse also maintained outspoken, principled stances on McCarthyism, labor rights, civil rights, equal access to education, the death penalty, and the importance of the checks and balances written into the Constitution. Morse could be eccentric and contradictory, but he was consistent in his readiness to speak against prevailing opinion and party politics in support of his personal convictions. Drawing on archival research, oral histories, and interviews with scores of Morse's contemporaries, Mason Drukman captures the vitality of a man who became dean of the University of Oregon Law School at age thirty-two, was involved in labor struggles of the 1930s and 1940s, and became the member of Congress most responsible for improving American education during the years of the New Frontier and the Great Society. In a balanced account and with lucid prose, Drukman offers a critical look at several decades of U.S. politics.
Role of MRI in prevention of metatarsal stress fractures in collegiate basketball players.

OBJECTIVE. Metatarsal stress fractures are common and represent debilitating and potentially season-ending injuries for basketball players. Bone marrow edema is readily visualized on MRI and can be a sign of stress changes. Twenty-six asymptomatic male National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball players were imaged before the 2003-2004 season and 14 players were reimaged after the conclusion of the season with a screening study of long- and short-axis fat-suppressed T2-weighted images (TR/effective TE, 3,500/56) to identify bone marrow edema in the metatarsals.CONCLUSION. Six (12%) of 52 feet showed a signal indicating bone marrow edema in the metatarsals. MRI depicts bone marrow edema in the feet before a fracture becomes evident. Identification of this edema may reveal stress changes, allowing early treatment and prevention of debilitating stress fractures.
Free Amino Acids and Soluble Peptides of Whey Powders

Abstract The quantities of free amino acids and soluble peptides in seven whey powders were determined. Free amino acids in four acid whey powders averaged .59% (range .1 to 1.1%) and in three sweet whey powders .34% (range .1 to .64%). Combined free amino acids and soluble peptides averaged 2.96 and 2.27%. The predominating amino acids in the free amino acid pool were glutamic acid, proline, lysine, tyrosine, aspartic acid, and arginine and in the combined free amino acid-soluble peptide pool, glutamic acid, proline, threonine, aspartic acid, lysine, and serine.
Discordant Gross Radioactivity Measurements of Natural and Treated Waters

The periodic measurement of gross radioactivity is being widely used as an indicator of the satisfactory quality of community water systems with respect to radioactivity. Americium-241 apparently is being used by an increasing number of laboratories as an alternative gross alpha activity calibration standard in place of the recommended uranium. Higher alpha counting efficiencies obtained using /sup 241/Am result in gross alpha activity analysis differences of up to 100% when compared with duplicate sample analyses based on a natural uranium standard. Data presented in this report demonstrate that the use of /sup 241/Am as an alternative gross alpha calibration standard will, in effect, double the federally specified maximum contaminant level for gross dlpha activity in community water systems. Similar problems are associated with gross beta activity calibration standards but the effects are not as pronounced. Comparative counting efficiency data for /sup 137/Cs and /sup 90/Sr//sup 90/Y as gross beta activity calibration standards are given. Gross beta activity differences up to 25% may be obtained on duplicate analyses depending on the beta calibration standard used. If gross radioactivity measurements are to be useful indicators of water quality, strict adherence to standard procedures and acceptance of single calibration standards used for determiningmore » gross radioactivity concentrations in water are needed to achieve industry-wide comparabilty of results.« less
Development and Pilot Evaluation of Native CREST – a Cancer Research Experience and Student Training Program for Navajo Undergraduate Students

The Mayo Clinic Cancer Center and Dine College received funding for a 4-year collaborative P20 planning grant from the National Cancer Institute in 2006. The goal of the partnership was to increase Navajo undergraduates' interest in and commitment to biomedical coursework and careers, especially in cancer research. This paper describes the development, pilot testing, and evaluation of Native CREST (Cancer Research Experience and Student Training), a 10-week cancer research training program providing mentorship in a Mayo Clinic basic science or behavioral cancer research lab for Navajo undergraduate students. Seven Native American undergraduate students (five females, two males) were enrolled during the summers of 2008-2011. Students reported the program influenced their career goals and was valuable to their education and development. These efforts may increase the number of Native American career scientists developing and implementing cancer research, which will ultimately benefit the health of Native American people.
The Czochralski growth of optical quality bismuth silicon oxide (Bi12SiO20)

Abstract Bismuth silicon oxide (Bi 12 SiO 20 ) exhibits several unique characteristics for application to various optical devices, including the Pockels Readout Optical Memory (PROM), photorefractive read-write holographic memory, and thin film optical waveguides. These applications place stringent requirements on the optical quality of the material. A number of difficulties associated with Czochralski growth of optical quality Bi 12 SiO 20 are discussed, including photochromic effects, selective decoration, growth striations, refractive index homogeneity, and strain-induced birefringence. The photochromic decoration effect is shown to exhibit selectivity between polar antipodes as well as crystallographic orientations.
The Snow White randomizer: Simple, economical, and the fairest one of all

A convenient and practical method is presented for the generation of unbiased random sequences. The method is based on combining discrete outputs and does not require either precisely specified and unbiased input or complex procedures and equipment.
The superconductive energy gap of AuAl2

Abstract We have prepared 200 nm films of AuAl 2 . The superconductive transition determined by resistive measurements was found to vary from film to film, from 177 to 184 mK, and the transition widths varied between 6 and 15 mK. Film surfaces were oxidized by the Greiner process and Al counter electrodes were deposited in order to produce tunnel junctions. The temperature dependence of the energy gap of AuAl 2 was measured and found to agree well with BCS theory.
Augmentation mammoplasty: results of a patient survey.

A detailed survey on aesthetic augmentation mammoplasty was sent to patients who had undergone this procedure at the Massachusetts General Hospital between July 1973 and July 1991 to determine the incidence of postoperative complications after augmentation mammoplasty, and to qualify the factors related to patient satisfaction (n = 304). Surgical records of respondents were examined. After a mean follow-up of 8.2 years, there were no patients with known breast cancer or autoimmune disease after augmentation. Five implants (2.5%) were replaced due to leakage. Other complications were rare. Overall satisfaction was high and correlated inversely with capsular contracture ratings and elapsed time. Contracture ratings increased with time for silicone implants. Gel implants in the submuscular position were softer than subglandular ones after 5 years elapsed time. Most women are satisfied after augmentation mammoplasty, despite a significant incidence of capsular contracture. The incidence of other adverse effects after augmentation is low. Augmentation mammoplasty does not appear to be an inducer of autoimmune disease or of breast cancer. Fiala TGS, Lee WPA, May JW Jr Augmentation mammoplasty: results of a patient survey.
The inhibition of oxidation and phosphorylation in beef-heart mitochondria by benzoquinones

Abstract The succinoxidase and pyruvic-oxidase activities as well as the accompanying phosphorylation were shown to be inhibitied by 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-bromo- p -benzoquinone and 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-bromo- p -benzoquinone in beef-heart mitochondria. The inhibitory effects of these quinones were reversed by addition of cysteine or glutathione. The protective action of these sulfhydryl compounds could be explained in terms of an SH-addition reaction with the 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-bromo- p -benzoquinone and 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-bromo- p -benzoquinone can serve as electron carriers and thus bypass certain endogenous carriers of the elelctron-transport chain. These benzoquinones inhibit oxidative phosphorylation by at least two mechanisms: (a) reacting with vital sulfhydryl groupings in the electron transport and phosphorylation system and (b) acting as agents which can shunt elections through a non-phosphorylating pathway.
The intersection seam between the 11A′ and 21A′ states of ozone

The intersection seam between the two lowest 1A′ states of ozone has been determined. The potential energy surfaces and the seam are calculated and discussed in perimetric coordinates which exhibit the full three-dimensional symmetry. The seam is shown to form a closed curve which crosses the C 2 v -restricted coordinate planes at six points. Three of these correspond to the previously determined intersection, the starting point of the present search. The other three correspond to highly repulsive regions on the potential energy surface where two atoms approach each other to within two-thirds of the O2 bond length. At the former three points both states have 1 A 1 symmetry, but at the latter three points one state has 1 A 1 symmetry whereas the other has 1 B 2 symmetry. Consequently, there exist three additional branches of the intersection seam between these two states. Each of these branches lies entirely in one C 2 v -restricted coordinate plane and connects to the previously discussed C s -seam at one point. The existence of a further intersection seam is established. A novel method for determining intersection points is described.
β3 integrin in cardiac fibroblast is critical for extracellular matrix accumulation during pressure overload hypertrophy in mouse.

The adhesion receptor β3 integrin regulates diverse cellular functions in various tissues. As β3 integrin has been implicated in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, we sought to explore the role of β3 integrin in cardiac fibrosis by using wild type (WT) and β3 integrin null (β3−/−) mice for in vivo pressure overload (PO) and in vitro primary cardiac fibroblast phenotypic studies. Compared to WT mice, β3−/− mice upon pressure overload hypertrophy for 4 wk by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) showed a substantially reduced accumulation of interstitial fibronectin and collagen. Moreover, pressure overloaded LV from β3−/− mice exhibited reduced levels of both fibroblast proliferation and fibroblast-specific protein-1 (FSP1) expression in early time points of PO. To test if the observed impairment of ECM accumulation in β3−/− mice was due to compromised cardiac fibroblast function, we analyzed primary cardiac fibroblasts from WT and β3−/− mice for adhesion to ECM proteins, cell spreading, proliferation, and migration in response to platelet derived growth factor-BB (PDGF, a growth factor known to promote fibrosis) stimulation. Our results showed that β3−/− cardiac fibroblasts exhibited a significant reduction in cell-matrix adhesion, cell spreading, proliferation and migration. In addition, the activation of PDGF receptor associated tyrosine kinase and non-receptor tyrosine kinase Pyk2, upon PDGF stimulation were impaired in β3−/− cells. Adenoviral expression of a dominant negative form of Pyk2 (Y402F) resulted in reduced accumulation of fibronectin. These results indicate that β3 integrin-mediated Pyk2 signaling in cardiac fibroblasts plays a critical role in PO-induced cardiac fibrosis.
The temperature of intracellular ice formation in mouse oocytes vs. the unfrozen fraction at that temperature.

Abstract We have previously reported [Cryobiology 51 (2005) 29–53] that intracellular ice formation (IIF) in mouse oocytes suspended in various concentrations of glycerol and ethylene glycol (EG) occurs at temperatures where the percentage of unfrozen water is about 6% and 12%, respectively, even though the IIF temperatures varied from −14 to −41 °C. However, because of the way the solutions were prepared, the concentrations of salt and glycerol or EG in that unfrozen fraction at IIF were also rather tightly grouped. The experiments reported in the present paper were designed to separate the effects of the unfrozen fraction at IIF from that of the solute concentration in the unfrozen fraction. This separation makes use of two facts. One is that the concentration of solutes in the residual liquid at a given subzero temperature is fixed regardless of their concentration in the initial unfrozen solution. However, second, the fraction unfrozen at a given temperature is dependent on the initial solute concentration. Experimentally, oocytes were suspended in solutions of glycerol/buffered saline and EG/buffered saline of varying total solute concentration with the restriction that the mass ratios of glycerol and EG to salts are held constant. The oocytes were then cooled rapidly enough (20 °C/min) to avoid significant osmotic shrinkage, and the temperature at which IIF occurred was noted. When this is done, we find, as previously that the fraction of water remaining unfrozen at the temperature of IIF remains nearly constant at 5–8% for both glycerol and EG even though the IIF temperatures vary from −14 to −50 °C. But unlike the previous results, the salt and CPA concentrations in the unfrozen fraction vary by a factor of three. The present procedure for preparing the solutions produces a potentially complicating factor; namely, the cell volumes vary substantially prior to freezing: substantially greater than isotonic in some solutions; substantially smaller in others. However, the data in toto demonstrate that cell volume is not a determining factor in the IIF temperature.
Surface roughness observation of arctic ice using low grazing angle radar

The surface roughness of Arctic ice is observed by calculating the correlation coefficient between the co-polarized and cross-polarized radar returns. The radar data is collected in the eastern Arctic by the Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Henry Larsen, which is equipped with an X-band radar capable of measuring co-polarized and cross-polarized radar return signals. The correlation coefficient is calculated locally for each pixel at the center of a two-dimensional template window. To reduce the computational cost, the two-dimensional radar image is divided to smaller sub-windows, and the local correlation coefficient is obtained for each sub-window.
A model for the electric charging process in fuel filtration

Abstract The charge generation process in fuel filtration is analyzed in terms of an electrokinetic model and theoretical results are obtained for the streaming current and potential in terms of fluid properties, bulk filter characteristics, flow conditions, and a fixed charge density which is a physicochemical property of the filter/fluid interface. Experiments in which doped n-heptane was passed through Millipore filters support the theoretical model.
Applying Research to Making Life-Affecting Judgments and Decisions

This keynote address argues that in order for baccalaureate and masters degree students to apply research to make better judgments and decisions in their life-affecting practice and in response to the information revolution, the helping professions need to redesign (from the bottom up) not overhaul (make a few changes in) the way research methods classes are taught. An alternative would perhaps be to integrate an entirely new evidence-based practice course into their curricula. Factors include the following: increasing Internet speed and access by practitioners, increasing access to bibliographic databases and full-text documents, organizations that synthesize evidence for practitioners, and new knowledge and skills for accessing and evaluating evidence specific to well-built practice questions.
Rocket Instrumentation for Reliable Upper-Atmosphere Temperature Determination

This paper describes briefly rocket-borne electronic equipment which has been developed and utilized in the determination of ambient atmospheric pressure and temperature. In the design of the equipment, emphasis has been placed on reliability of operation, and on the ability to produce data of significant accuracy. Typical resulting curves of ambient pressure and temperature are presented.
Chorion peroxidase-mediated NADH/O2 oxidoreduction cooperated by chorion malate dehydrogenase-catalyzed NADH production: a feasible pathway leading to H2O2 formation during chorion hardening in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes

Abstract A specific chorion peroxidase is present in Aedes aegypti and this enzyme is responsible for catalyzing chorion protein cross-linking through dityrosine formation during chorion hardening. Peroxidase-mediated dityrosine cross-linking requires H 2 O 2 , and this study discusses the possible involvement of the chorion peroxidase in H 2 O 2 formation by mediating NADH/O 2 oxidoreduction during chorion hardening in A. aegypti eggs. Our data show that mosquito chorion peroxidase is able to catalyze pH-dependent NADH oxidation, which is enhanced in the presence of Mn 2+ . Molecular oxygen is the electron acceptor during peroxidase-catalyzed NADH oxidation, and reduction of O 2 leads to the production of H 2 O 2 , demonstrated by the formation of dityrosine in a NADH/peroxidase reaction mixture following addition of tyrosine. An oxidoreductase capable of catalyzing malate/NAD + oxidoreduction is also present in the egg chorion of A. aegypti . The cooperative roles of chorion malate/NAD + oxidoreductase and chorion peroxidase on generating H 2 O 2 with NAD + and malate as initial substrates were demonstrated by the production of dityrosine after addition of tyrosine to a reaction mixture containing NAD + and malate in the presence of both malate dehydrogenase fractions and purified chorion peroxidase. Data suggest that chorion peroxidase-mediated NADH/O 2 oxidoreduction may contribute to the formation of the H 2 O 2 required for chorion protein cross-linking mediated by the same peroxidase, and that the chorion associated malate dehydrogenase may be responsible for the supply of NADH for the H 2 O 2 production.
Importance of Respiratory Rate as an Indicator of Respiratory Dysfunction in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Bedside measurement of respiratory frequency is commonly performed in a cursory manner and judged to be of little clinical importance. However, in a recent study of patients being weaned from mechanical ventilation, we found that tachypnea was quite accurate in predicting an unsuccessful weaning outcome. The present study was undertaken to examine the relationship between nonobtrusive measurements of respiratory frequency, using a calibrated inductive plethysmograph, and detailed measurements of pulmonary function in 11 adult patients with cystic fibrosis of varying severity. Respiratory frequency was increased in the patients with cystic fibrosis compared with a group of healthy control subjects, as was minute ventilation and mean inspiratory flow. Respiratory frequency was a sensitive predictor of respiratory dysfunction, being significantly (p
Psychological verbs and the double-dependency hypothesis

The double-dependency hypothesis (DDH, Mauner et al., 1993) holds that where two dependencies of a certain kind are present, comprehension in Broca's aphasia will be random, but that where there is only one dependency, comprehension will be intact. We tested this hypothesis by examining the performance of Broca's aphasics on sentences with psychological verbs of two different classes. One class has an argument structure in which the Experiencer role is assigned to the subject. In the other class, the Experiencer role is assigned to the object. Subject-Experiencer verbs can form verbal passives which have two relevant dependencies, whereas object-Experiencer verbs can form adjectival passives and have only one relevant dependency. Thus these sentence types make contrasting predictions relevant to the DDH. Our results clearly demonstrate that patients understand the adjectival passive psychological verbs, as predicted by the DDH. On the verbal passive psychological verbs, patients perform at chance, again consistent with DDH predictions. These results firmly buttress the DDH account. They also contradict the results of an earlier study (of verbal passive psychological verbs only), a study which we argue is plagued with problems (namely, Grodzinsky, 1995b).
DNA Polymerases at the Replication Fork in Eukaryotes

The Kunkel laboratory has recently assigned polymerase (Pol) epsilon as the leading strand polymerase. In a recent issue of Molecular Cell, they now assign Pol delta as the lagging strand polymerase.
Leadership in the reform of Malaysian universities: analysing the strategic role of the Malaysian Qualifications Agency

This paper addresses the contemporary development and reform challenges in tertiary education in Malaysia in both national and global contexts. The critical role exercised by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency in driving strategic change in higher education cultures, both in public and private universities is described and analysed. The paper examines the adoption, generation and institutionalisation of global standards of practice in teaching and learning and in other fundamental dimensions of the provision of quality education. Contending ideas, rationales and models of universities and the contributions this institution makes to educational provisions are examined. The analyses are informed by the development reforms in other sectors of government and society within the integrated framework of the nation's strategic vision of development – Vision 2020.
Strategies of reframing language policy in the liberal state: A recursive model

Political liberalism is frequently invoked in policy debates in the Western world even as Interpretation and application of the individual tenets vary. Drawing upon recent invocations of liberalism among policy leaders and groups, this article seeks to tease out some of the interpretational differences of liberalism, noting how liberalism is invoked to support radically different language policy agendas. The authors discuss the importance of understanding liberalism as a cognitive frame that shapes relations of meaning with both productive and reductive consequences especially vis-a-vis what they term “language-positive liberalism.” The authors argue that three specific strategies of political engagement emerge from such understanding. Building on the work of Stroud (2010), the authors offer a model that highlights the recursive nature of political and sociolinguistic discourses. Keywords: Political liberalism; sociolinguistics; cognitive framing; language rights; language planning; discourse; multilingualism; folk linguistics; language variety
Mejor Sola Que Mal Acompañada: Strengths and Challenges of Mexican-Origin Mothers Parenting Alone

Marriage is often viewed as central to family stability and health, and problem-saturated discourses about single parenting have failed to address the advantages of parenting alone. Heuristic methodology was used to examine the meanings and experiences of Latinas parenting alone. This study reflects the lived experiences of 20 Mexican-origin women who participated in a 1- to 2-hour, in-depth, semistructured interview. Data are presented by three exemplary portraits and five core consistencies embedded in a composite depiction. Overall, although parenting alone was challenging, it was considered beneficial and preferable, especially when the child's father's influence was problematic or detrimental to the family's well-being. Chicana feminism and an intersectionality lens is used to interpret findings. Implications for research and intervention are also discussed.