cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Uncorrected Refractive Error and Distance Visual Acuity in Children Aged 6 to 14 Years.

Significance This study presents the relationship between distance visual acuity and a range of uncorrected refractive errors, a complex association that is fundamental to clinical eye care and the identification of children needing refractive correction. Purpose This study aimed to analyze data from the Collaborative Longitudinal Evaluation of Ethnicity and Refractive Error Study to describe the relationship between distance uncorrected refractive error and visual acuity in children. Methods Subjects were 2212 children (51.2% female) 6 to 14 years of age (mean ± standard deviation, 10.2 ± 2.1 years) participating in the Collaborative Longitudinal Evaluation of Ethnicity and Refractive Error Study between 2000 and 2010. Uncorrected distance visual acuity was measured using a high-contrast projected logMAR chart. Cycloplegic refractive error was measured using the Grand Seiko WR-5100K autorefractor. The ability of logMAR acuity to detect various categories of refractive error was examined using receiver operating characteristic curves. Results Isoacuity curves show that increasing myopic spherical refractive errors, increasing astigmatic refractive errors, or a combination of both reduces distance visual acuity. Visual acuity was reduced by approximately 0.5 minutes of MAR per 0.30 to 0.40 D of spherical refractive error and by approximately 0.5 minutes of MAR per 0.60 to 0.90 D of astigmatism. Higher uncorrected hyperopic refractive error had little effect on distance visual acuity. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis suggests that a logMAR distance acuity of 0.20 to 0.32 provides the best balance between sensitivity and specificity for detecting refractive errors other than hyperopia. Distance acuity alone was ineffective for detecting hyperopic refractive errors. Conclusions Higher myopic and/or astigmatic refractive errors were associated with predictable reductions in uncorrected distance visual acuity. The reduction in acuity per diopter of cylindrical error was about half that for spherical myopic error. Although distance acuity may be a useful adjunct to the detection of myopic spherocylindrical refractive errors, accommodation presumably prevents acuity from assisting in the detection of hyperopia. Alternate procedures need to be used to detect hyperopia.
Using a Comprehensive Third-Party Exam for ABET Student Outcome Assessment

In anticipation of an ABET accreditation visit, our computer science department contracted with an independent external testing organization to perform an assessment of our students' proficiency in computer science. We used this external assessment to supplement our own internal assessment and have continued using since our site visit. In this paper, we talk about the comprehensive test, how it was administered, the steps we took to validate the results of the external assessment, and how we integrated the results into our ABET self-study report. We also explore insights we gained from the testing about our program and our students, as well as some of the limitations of the test.
Photo-labeling neurons in the Drosophila brain

Summary Many genetically encoded tools, including large collections of GAL4 transgenic lines, can be used to visualize neurons of the Drosophila melanogaster brain. However, identifying transgenic lines that are expressed sparsely enough to label individual neurons, or groups of neurons that innervate a particular brain region, remains technically challenging. Here, we provide a detailed procedure in which we used broadly expressed transgenic lines and two-photon microscopy to photo-label neurons with specificity, thereby permitting their morphological characterization. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Li et al. (2020) .
A qualitative study of health information-seeking behavior on the Internet among information technology professionals.

BACKGROUND: The motivation to seek health information on the Internet for individuals has been varied. The purpose of this paper was to explore the perspectives and experiences about online health information seeking in information technology (IT) professionals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative case study research design was employed to examine the behavior of 15 IT professionals from a state organization in the East Coast of the United States of America. Convenience sampling was used to identify the setting, and purposeful sampling was used to select the participants. A survey questionnaire was used as a recruitment tool, and in-depth individual interviews with standardized semi-structured questions were used to collect data. RESULTS: Findings illustrated that the Internet was the first source of reference for wellness and prevention information to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and to alleviate and prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). The themes that emerged from the study were that the IT professionals searched the Internet for information to self-educate about medical conditions, to maintain fitness, communicate with health-care professionals, decide their treatment options, and to make lifestyle modifications such as ergonomic adjustment of their workstation, postural adjustments, and changing negative health behaviors. CONCLUSION: The results of this study provide practical implications for organizations and health professionals in providing health education to prevent WMSDs as participants sought health information online to take actions and collaborate with their health-care professionals and actively contributed to their medical health decisions. This underscores a valuable opportunity for health-care providers and public health officials to become more proactive by providing their patients with quality health information outside their office through the Internet by referring them to credible website sources.
Firm Resources of Small and Micro Fashion Enterprises in West Virginia and Appalachian Region

SMEs and microbusinesses create jobs that foster skill development and often employ local residents who are disadvantaged or excluded from traditional labor markets. The majority of these jobs offer wages at or above the federal minimum wage while providing employees with valuable skills and job stability. The role of SMEs and microbusiness in community, regional, and national development is profound. However, we do not know much as to how does these fashion SMEs and microbusinesses are competing with big-box retailers. We also know little as to what resources have these fashion SMEs and microbusinesses developed that make them competitive. A qualitative semi-structured interview of business owners and managers was conducted to understand the firm resources of small and micro enterprises in WV. Unique firm identity, community identity, and location were found to be some of the key resources of the small businesses in WV and the Appalachian Region.
Receipt of Guideline-Concordant Care Does Not Explain Breast Cancer Mortality Disparities by Race in Metropolitan Atlanta.

Background Racial disparities in breast cancer mortality in the United States are well documented. Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) women are more likely to die of their disease than their non-Hispanic White (NHW) counterparts. The disparity is most pronounced among women diagnosed with prognostically favorable tumors, which may result in part from variations in their receipt of guideline care. In this study, we sought to estimate the effect of guideline-concordant care (GCC) on prognosis, and to evaluate whether receipt of GCC modified racial disparities in breast cancer mortality. Patients and methods Using the Georgia Cancer Registry, we identified 2,784 NHB and 4,262 NHW women diagnosed with a stage I-III first primary breast cancer in the metropolitan Atlanta area, Georgia, between 2010 and 2014. Women were included if they received surgery and information on their breast tumor characteristics was available; all others were excluded. Receipt of recommended therapies (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy, and anti-HER2 therapy) as indicated was considered GCC. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate the impact of receiving GCC on breast cancer mortality overall and by race, with multivariable adjusted hazard ratios (HRs). Results We found that NHB and NHW women were almost equally likely to receive GCC (65% vs 63%, respectively). Failure to receive GCC was associated with an increase in the hazard of breast cancer mortality (HR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.37-2.20). However, racial disparities in breast cancer mortality persisted despite whether GCC was received (HRGCC: 2.17 [95% CI, 1.61-2.92]; HRnon-GCC: 1.81 [95% CI, 1.28-2.91] ). Conclusions Although receipt of GCC is important for breast cancer outcomes, racial disparities in breast cancer mortality did not diminish with receipt of GCC; differences in mortality between Black and White patients persisted across the strata of GCC.
Site-specific recombination of bacteriophage lambda: The change in topological linking number associated with exchange of DNA strands

The changes in supercoiling that accompany site-specific recombination have been measured. In each experiment, the substrate was a circle that contained two attachment sites oriented as an inverted repeat; recombination between the sites inverts one segment of the circle with respect to the other. Using conditions developed in the accompanying work, a measurable amount of the recombinant is in the form of unknotted, simple circles. The difference between the topological linking number of this product relative to that of the substrate can be determined directly from the change in mobility during agarose gel electrophoresis. With partially supercoiled substrates, both integrative and excisive recombination are characterized by a unique change in linking number, a relaxation of two topological turns. For excisive recombination, it has been possible to study closed circular substrates that lack supercoils. In this case, changes in linking number of both +2 and −2 are observed. These results are used to evaluate various proposals for synapsis and strand exchange in bacteriophage lambda site-specific recombination.
Signal-Driven Software Model for Mobile Devices

This chapter contains sections titled: Introduction Mobile Device Characteristics Mobile Device Reliability Model Expected Number of Failures and Failure Rate Analysis Mobile Device Testing Effectiveness Failure Type and Recovery Action Type Results Summary of Results Future Mobile Device Developments and Research References
Antagonist-occupied human progesterone receptors bound to DNA are functionally switched to transcriptional agonists by cAMP

When steroid hormone antagonists have inappropriate agonist effects, the clinical consequences are grave. Progesterone antagonists bind to two naturally occurring isoforms of human progesterone receptors (hPR), hPRB and the NH2-terminally truncated hPRA, and usually inhibit agonist-stimulated transcription. It is shown here that elevation of cAMP levels in a human breast cancer cell line leads to the functional reversal of progesterone antagonist action. While hPR occupied by the antagonists RU486 and ZK112993 are transcriptionally inactive, the antagonist-occupied receptors become strong activators of transcription in the presence of 8-Br-cAMP. However, this functional switch does not occur with the progesterone antagonist ZK98299, which, unlike RU486 and ZK112993, is unable to induce hPR binding to DNA. This suggests that the 8-Br-cAMP-induced transcriptional reversal requires that the antagonist-occupied receptors be bound to DNA. Even with agonist-occupied hPR, addition of 8-Br-cAMP results in a synergistic increase in transcriptional activity. When hPRA alone are transiently expressed in COS-1 cells, transcription of a reporter gene is stimulated by the agonist R5020 and by 8-Br-cAMP and is synergistic when both are present; but the 8-Br-cAMP-dependent component of transcription proceeds in the absence of hPRA, in the absence of the progesterone response element, and in the presence of a DNA-binding domain mutant of hPRA that cannot bind to the progesterone response element. Additionally, under the intracellular conditions in which 8-Br-cAMP activates antagonist-hPR complexes, there is no protein kinase A-mediated phosphorylation of the receptors. We discuss a model in which a gene that is independently transcribed by cAMP-responsive factors and by hPR can be selected for positive or negative regulation on the transcription complex due to additive or cooperative interactions between the two DNA-bound factors.
Monoids and groups

This chapter is devoted to algebraic systems of one binary operation. Groups have been used many times before in the text, as permutations, as modules (a commutative group with an exterior ring multiplication), and elsewhere, but here we organize the systems of one binary operation into one chapter and give some additional specialized results. The most general algebraic system we consider in this chapter is the monoid, a set with one associative binary operation. Some special monoids discussed are unitary monoids, cancellative monoids, and groups. We discuss subsystems, quotient systems, morphisms, and the fundamental morphism theorem. In Sections 9.4 and 9.5 we study more specialized results available for groups alone. We study cyclic groups and connect the order of an element with this concept. Several topics such as center, normalizer, conjugacy classes are all organized around inner automorphisms (φ a (x) = a-xa). We then apply these results to answer some questions about elements of prime order. We offer some standard theorems relating direct products and Cartesian products of groups. We define simple groups and solvable groups. We give an inductive proof of the fundamental theory of Abelian groups which is subsumed in Chapter 10 by the direct sum resolution of a finitely generated module.
A multi-GHz phase detector with auto-zeroing scheme for self-calibrated quadrature generation

Closed loop based quadrature generation systems depend highly on the accuracy of the phase detector. However the phase detector accuracy is susceptible to device mismatch. We present an implementation of a phase detector in SiGe BiCMOS technology and also a simple scheme for auto-zeroing of phase detector for reducing the effects of the device mismatch in phase detector and error amplifier(EA). This scheme does not require any reference signal and hence can be easily implemented at minimal overhead. Significant improvement in performance is observed for device mismatch.
Layout with circular and other non-linear constraints using procrustes projection

Recent work on constrained graph layout has involved projection of simple two-variable linear equality and inequality constraints in the context of majorization or gradient-projection based optimization. While useful classes of containment, alignment and rectangular non-overlap constraints could be built using this framework, a severe limitation was that the layout used an axis-separation approach such that all constraints had to be axis aligned. In this paper we use techniques from Procrustes Analysis to extend the gradient-projection approach to useful types of non-linear constraints. The constraints require subgraphs to be locally fixed into various geometries—such as circular cycles or local layout obtained by a combinatorial algorithm (e.g. orthogonal or layered-directed)—but then allow these sub-graph geometries to be integrated into a larger layout through translation, rotation and scaling.
Plate-based assays for light-regulated gene expression systems.

Abstract Light sensing proteins can be used to control living cells with exquisite precision. We have recently constructed a set of bacterial light sensors and used them to pattern gene expression across lawns of Escherichia coli with images of green and red light. The sensors can be expressed in a single cell and controlled independently by applying different light wavelengths. Both sensors also demonstrate continuous input–output behavior, where the magnitude of gene expression is proportional to the intensity of light applied. This combination of features allows complex patterns of gene expression to be programmed across an otherwise homogeneous cell population. The red light sensor has also been connected to a cell–cell communication system and several genetic logic circuits in order to program the bacterial lawn to behave as a distributed computer that performs the image-processing task of edge detection. Here, we will describe protocols for working with these systems in the laboratory.
Update on porcine circovirus and postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS)

Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) is a recently emerged disease of nursery and grower pigs associated with type 2 porcine circovirus (PCV2) infection. A proposed case definition of PMWS requires that a pig/group of pigs have all of the following: 1) clinical signs characterized by wasting/failure to thrive, with or without dyspnea or icterus; 2) histologic lesions characterized by depletion of lymphoid tissues and/or lymphohistiocytic to granulomatous inflammation in any organ, typically lungs and/or lymphoid tissues; and 3) PCV2 within characteristic lesions. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization applied to formalin-fixed tissues are the preferred methods for demonstrating PCV2 antigen or genome, respectively, within PMWS lesions. Since available evidence indicates that PCV2 infection is much more common than PMWS, demonstrating PCV2 exposure via serology or infection via isolation or PCR without localizing PCV2 within characteristic lesions cannot constitute a diagnosis of PMWS. To date, consistent experimental reproduction of severe PMWS has only been accomplished via PCV2-parvovirus or PCV2-PRRSV co-infection. Effective control of PMWS will require an understanding of the viral and nonviral cofactors that enable PCV2, an apparently ubiquitous and generally nonpathogenic agent, to induce PMWS.
Little Pitchers Use Their Big Ears: Preschoolers Solve Problems by Listening to Others Ask Questions

Children ask questions and learn from the responses they receive; however, little is known about how children learn from listening to others ask questions. Five experiments examined preschoolers’ (N = 179) ability to solve simple problems using information gathered from listening to question-and-answer exchanges between 2 parties present in the same room. Overall, the ability to efficiently use information gathered from overheard exchanges improved between ages 3 and 5. Critically, however, across ages children solved the majority of problems correctly, suggesting preschoolers are capable of learning from others’ questions. Moreover, children learned from others’ questions without explicit instruction and when engaged in another activity. Implications for the development of problem-solving skills are discussed.
Dynamic roles of p53-mediated metabolic activities in ROS-induced stress responses

The p53 tumor suppressor is a multifaceted polypeptide that impedes tumorigenesis by regulating a diverse array of cellular processes. Triggered by a wide variety of stress stimuli, p53 transcriptionally regulates genes involved in the canonical tumor suppression pathways of apoptosis, cell-cycle arrest, and senescence. We recently discovered a novel mechanism whereby p53 inhibits cystine uptake through repression of the SLC7A11 gene to mediate ferroptosis. Importantly, this p53-SLC7A11 axis is preserved in the p53(3KR) mutant, and contributes to its ability to suppress tumorigenesis in the absence of the classical tumor suppression mechanisms. Here, we report that wild type p53 can induce both apoptosis and ferroptosis upon reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced stress. Furthermore, we demonstrate that p53's functional N-terminal domain is required for its capacity to regulate oxidative stress responses and ferroptosis. Notably, activated p53 dynamically modulates intracellular ROS, causing an initial reduction and a subsequent increase of ROS levels. Taken together, these data implicate ferroptosis as an additional component of the cell death program induced by wild type p53 in human cancer cells, and reveal a complex and dynamic role of p53 in oxidative stress responses.
Consistency of posterior distributions for neural networks

In this paper we show that the posterior distribution for feedforward neural networks is asymptotically consistent. This paper extends earlier results on universal approximation properties of neural networks to the Bayesian setting. The proof of consistency embeds the problem in a density estimation problem, then uses bounds on the bracketing entropy to show that the posterior is consistent over Hellinger neighborhoods. It then relates this result back to the regression setting. We show consistency in both the setting of the number of hidden nodes growing with the sample size, and in the case where the number of hidden nodes is treated as a parameter. Thus we provide a theoretical justification for using neural networks for nonparametric regression in a Bayesian framework.
Low-cost matrix development for an Oxide-Oxide composite

Continuous oxide fiber/oxide matrix composites are attractive for use as high temperature structural materials because they can combine composite properties with long-term oxidative stability. The development of a matrix for such a composite and prevention of matrix-fiber coating interaction is described here. The goal use temperature of this composite is 1100°C to 1200°C. The composite is being developed by the M C Consortium comprising 3M, Rockwell International, and SRI International. The composite consists of an alumina-based woven-tow fiber preform, coated with lanthanum phosphate (monazite) to promote fiber debonding and pullout, in an oxide matrix derived from a preceramic-polymer slurry filled with active and inert powders. This approach to the matrix enables conventional polymer matrix composite technology to be used in composite part fabrication. Only one infiltration of the matrix is required, a critical factor in keeping the cost low.
Iron deficiency stress effects on total iron in various leaves and nutrient solution pH in sorghum and beans

Abstract Total iron (Fe) concentrations in upper (newly developing), middle, and lower leaves of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] and dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) plants grown with and without Fe were determined for each of the 25 or 27 days plants were grown in treatment nutrient solutions. Lower and middle leaves of sorghum had higher Fe concentrations than upper leaves, but upper, middle, and lower leaves of bean had relatively uniform Fe concentrations. Daily fluctuations of Fe were noted in each group of leaves. Changes in nutrient solution pH were not related to the alleviation of Fe deficiency stress in sorghum, but pH changes appeared to be related to Fe deficiency stress in beans. Iron did not appear to be remobilized from lower to upper leaves in sorghum, but some alleviation of Fe deficiency was noted in beans even though nutrient solutions received no Fe. Rapid increases of Fe accumulation in all leaves were noted in both sorghum and bean when plants received Fe after being in an Fe d...
On the correlation between the water diffusion coefficient and oxygen tension in RIF-1 tumors.

Water diffusion-coefficient mapping was used in conjunction with 19 F inversion-recovery echo-planar imaging (IR-EPI) of a sequestered perfluorocarbon (PFC) emulsion to investigate the spatial correlation between the diffusion coefficient of water and the tissue oxygen tension (p02) in radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF-1) tumors (n = 11). The diffusion-time-dependent apparent diffusion coefficient, D(t), was determined by acquiring diffusion coefficient maps at 20 different diffusion times. Maps at four representative time points in different regions of the D(t) curve were selected for final analysis. An intravenously administered PFC emulsion, perfluoro-15-crown-5-ether, was used to generate the p02 maps. D(t) and pO 2 data were acquired with the animal breathing either air or carbogen (95% 02 - 5% CO 2 ) to investigate the effects of increased tumor pO 2 on D(t). The average increase in tumor pO 2 was 22 torr when the breathing gas was changed from air to carbogen. Correlation plots generated from pixel data for D(t) (air breathing) vs D(t) (carbogen breathing) show little deviation from a slope of unity. Correlation plots of D(t) vs p02 indicate that no correlation is present between these two parameters. This study also confirmed that necrotic tissue was best differentiated from viable tumor tissue based on D(t) maps at long diffusion times.
Pattern Recognition Through Atmospheric Turbulence By Means Of Wiener-Khinchin's Theorem

In this paper, a pattern recognition technique through atmospheric turbulence is discussed. We have shown that there exists no unique relationship between the target and its power spectrum. However, for some finite number of distinguishable targets, it may be possible to recognize the targets by means of the Wiener-Khinchin's theorem. The fundamental advantage of this pattern recognition technique is the elimation of the phase distortion due to the atmospheric turbulence. However, this phase elimination also results in a loss of phase information of the target. Nevertheless, if the atmospheric turbulence is strong, this pattern recognition technique by means of Wiener-Khinchin's theorem may be more advantageous than the direct imaging method, since the phase variation will not do much good for the image formation.
Circadian rhythms and bright light: Recommendations for shift work

Abstract This paper starts with a brief review of the basic principles of human circadian rhythms relevant to understanding the problem of shift work. It then presents a more detailed critical review of the recent bright light literature, with an emphasis on methodological shortcomings, alternative interpretations, and areas that need further research. Evidence is presented which suggests that either a light-dark cycle (which includes bright light) or a sleep-wake schedule can act as a zeitgeber for human circadian rhythms. Current human phase response curves to bright light are reviewed. Light-work-sleep schedules are presented which have been designed to eliminate the physiologically based harmful consequences of shift work. These schedules include both bright light and sleep-wake schedule zeitgebers. Other practical applications of bright light treatment are mentioned.
Stimulus properties of ring-methyl amphetamine analogs.

Abstract There are three possible ring-substituted methyl amphetamines (or tolylaminopropanes; TAPs): oTAP, mTAP and pTAP. These agents are positional isomers of methamphetamine. Although all three isomers have been previously reported to possess amphetamine-like character, few studies have examined all three agents in comparison with (+)amphetamine. Using rats trained to discriminate 1 mg/kg of (+)amphetamine from saline under a variable-interval 15-sec schedule of reinforcement, tests of stimulus generalization were conducted with the three positional isomers. Only oTAP (ED50 dose=4.1 mg/kg) completely substituted for (+)amphetamine. mTAP and pTAP resulted only in partial (ca. 50% amphetamine-appropriate responding) generalization. It is concluded that oTAP is capable of producing amphetamine-like stimulus effects and that it is approximately one-tenth as potent as (+)amphetamine; however, because the partial generalization produced by mTAP and pTAP was followed by disruption of behavior at slightly higher doses, it cannot be reliably stated that these latter two isomers lack amphetamine-like character.
Paying attention to the people work when planning educational programs for adults

Experienced adult and continuing education program planners know that they must pay attention to the “people work” of practice. This chapter describes planning practice as a social activity in which planners negotiate interests; it asks how planners manage the political and ethical dimensions of their practice.
A technology for reduction of CO2 emissions from the transportation sector

Abstract By sequestering byproduct carbon and replacing petroleum fuels with biomass-derived methanol, the Hydrocarb process can nullify the net effect of CO2 emissions from motor vehicles. This paper gives a preliminary assessment of the process which indicates that substantially more fuel energy could be produced--and at lower cost--than other current options for mitigating CO2 from mobile sources. The incremental cost of eliminating net CO2 emissions is estimated at $0.05 per gallon (3.78 liters) of gasoline displaced by methanol. About 80 percent reduction should be achievable at no incremental cost.
Comparing responses to the energy problem in four countries: A synthesis

Abstract This paper examines the effects of increased energy prices in four countries—Japan, Brazil, Hungary, and the United States—that are heavily dependent on foreign sources of energy. A general discussion of the difficulty of designing effective energy policy is followed by a comparison of the particular institutional responses in each of the four countries. Emphasis is placed on the problems raised by the future uncertainty of imported energy supplies and long-term prices. The response to these problems consists of policies directed toward better control of external sources of supply, expanded productive capacity, and more centralized decision making in the energy sector.
Operation bandwidth of forward stimulated Brillouin scattering in silicon Brillouin active membrane waveguides

We studied the operation bandwidth of forward SBS with the optical waveguide width in Brillouin-active-membrane waveguides. Narrow waveguide width yields Brillouin features over wide frequency range, but waveguides with broad width induce less nonlinear absorption.
Effects of proteins on phospholipid vesicle aggregation and lipid vesicle-monolayer interactions

Abstract The effects of proteins on divalent cation-induced phospholipid vesicle aggregation and phospholipid vesicle-monolayer membrane interactions (fusion) were examined. Glycophorin (from human erythrocytes) suppressed the membrane interactions more than N-2 protein (from human brain myelin) when these proteins were incorporated into acidic phospholipid vesicle membranes. The threshold concentrations of divalent cations which induced vesicle aggregation were increased by protein incorporation, and the rate of vesicle aggregation was reduced. A similar inhibitory effect by the proteins, incorporated into lipid vesicle membranes, was observed for Ca 2+ -induced lipid vesicle-monolayer interactions. However, when these proteins were incorporated only in the acidic phospholipid monolayers, the interaction (fusion) of the lipid vesicle-monolayer membranes, induced by divalent cations, was not appreciably altered by the presence of the proteins. In contrast to these two proteins, the presence of synexin in the solution did enhance the Ca 2+ -induced aggregation of phosphatidylserine vesicles, but did not seem to affect the degree of Ca 2+ -induced fusion between phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine (1:1) and phosphatidylserine vesicles and monolayer membranes.
Renormalization-group analysis and simulational studies of groove instability in surface growth

Abstract The existence of groove instability in linear and nonlinear models of surface growth with diffusion is discussed using renormalization group analysis and computer simulation studies. We present the results of the simulation of a surface growth model with diffusion in which the diffusion of atoms on the surface is controlled by the Hamiltonian of an unrestricted solid-on-solid model. We discuss the dynamic scaling behavior of our model as well as its instability to groove formation. As a more analytical approach to the problem of groove formation, we present a renormalization group analysis in one dimension of a nonlinear Langevin equation for surface growth with diffusion. By eliminating the fast degrees of freedom for the order parameter defined to be the local slope of the surface height, the resulting equation of motion for the coarse-grained order parameter is found to be unstable towards transition to a broken symmetry state consistent with the existence of a grooved phase.
The relationship between anthropometric measurements and the bony pelvis in African American and European American women.

The bony pelvis anatomy is highly variable. This study aims to examine the relationship between anthropometric measurements and the size of the adult female bony pelvis. Three-dimensional points of all pertinent landmarks of 96 adult female bony pelvises were obtained and the true conjugate, interspinous distance, intertuberous distance, and pelvic inlet and outlet areas were calculated. The relationship between these measurements and height and multiple anthropometric measurements were evaluated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r). Multiple anthropometric measurements were significantly correlated with the true conjugate and pelvic inlet and outlet areas, but not with the interspinous or intertuberous widths. Height had a greater correlation with pelvic areas than any other anthropometric measure considered, even after controlling for race. There were no significant differences in pelvic areas between races. Height and other anthropometric measurements were significantly correlated with the true conjugate and pelvic inlet and outlet areas.
Cobalt-59 nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of Unsymmetrical cobalt(III) complexes

The Cobalt-59 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra of aqueous solutions of the ions, CoIII(NH3)5X (X = Oh2, OH−, NO2−, F−, Cl−, Br−, and I−) and CoIII(CN)5X (X = Oh2, Oh−, Br−, and I−), have been obtained at 14.45 MHz and 32°C. The 59Co nucleus in the complexes having X = Cl, Br, and I, are more shielded than predicted by the linear correlation that has been established for complexes of CoIII with oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen donors: 59Co chemical shift vs. the reciprocal of the energy of the first « d-d» electronic transition. The deviation of the 59Co shifts from the linear correlation is consistent with a reduction of the second order paramagnetism of CoIII resulting from the delocalization of the cobalt 3d electrons to the ligands, Cl−, Br−, and I−. The line widths of the NMR signals are discussed briefly in terms of the electric field gradient at the CoIII nucleus in theunsymmetrical complexes.
Analytical Approach to Steam Turbine Heat Transfer in a Combined Cycle Power Plant

Combined cycle units have become very popular in recent years as a source of power generation. Such units have a gas turbine as the topping cycle and a steam turbine as the bottoming cycle and can reach combined cycle efficiencies as high as 60%. The exhaust from the gas turbine is passed through a heat exchanger in which steam is generated for the steam turbine. This combined arrangement makes it less polluting as well. An important element of a combined cycle power plant is the steam turbine, which is the subject of this paper. Improvements to the design of advanced steam turbines require an improved understanding of the heat transfer within the various components of the unit. Physics-based ANSYS models for typical GE high pressure and intermediate pressure units have been developed. Components such as the rotor, diaphragm, and shells have been analyzed. The boundary conditions were derived from full-load, steady state flow analyses, steam turbine performance code outputs and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses to develop normalized (non-dimensional) local flow conditions, with the normalizing parameters based on key cycle parameters. These normalized local flow conditions and cycle parameters were then used to define local transient boundary temperatures and heat transfer coefficients for input to the thermal ANSYS models. Transient analyses of components were performed. The results were compared with temperature measurements taken during the complete cycle of an operational steam turbine to validate and improve the methodology, and were applied to structural models of the components to predict their thermal growth and the net impact on the clearance between the rotor and diaphragms and other secondary flow paths in the steam turbine, including the packing seals. This paper will focus on the thermal modeling of a typical steam turbine. It will discuss the process used (summarized above) and the basic equations employed in the analyses. Results will be compared with shell temperature measurements obtained during the start up of a steam turbine in the field. Implications of the thermal results on power systems operation will be discussed. Plans for future improvements will be presented.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Coordination Chemistry of the Nanocluster [HxPMo12O40⊂H4Mo72Fe30(O2CMe)15O254(H2O)98]

The ligand exchange chemistry for the iron-molybdenum nanocluster [H2PMo12O40⊂H4Mo72Fe30(O2CMe)15O254(H2O)98-x(EtOH)x], {Mo72Fe30(Mo12P)}-EtOH, with 3,5-lutidene, 3-butylpyridine, octanol, octanoic acid, 1-hexadecanethiol, tetraethylene glycol, and dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid is reported. The structure of {Mo72Fe30(Mo12P)} is preserved throughout the reaction and TGA analysis indicates between 5 and 15 ligands could be attached per {Mo72Fe30(Mo12P)}. AFM height measurements increase with increased ligand length; however, the apparent particle diameter appears to be smaller than expected as the ligands increase in size consistent with the adopting a non-extended conformation in a similar manner to that observed for self-assembled monolayers.
What is process window

Process window is a collection of values of process parameters that allow circuit to be manufactured and to operate under desired specifications. For instance, lithographic process window is typically defined as the set of {focus, exposure} points to control critical dimension (CD) variation to within 10%. One simple way visualizing it is using a Focus-Exposure Matrix (FEM) curve which plots exposure vs. defocus for a given linewidth tolerance. Maximal inscribed rectangle in this plot then represents the process window [1]. Of course, metrics can go beyond linewidth (e.g., sidewall angle) as can process variables (e.g., overlay, temperature). Furthermore, the overall process window for a design will be intersection or overlap of process windows for all different layout patterns existing in the design (e.g., isolated vs. dense lines) [2].
Proximal tendon-prosthesis junction for active tendon implants of the hand: a biomechanical comparison of 2 techniques.

Purpose To study the biomechanical characteristics (percent stretch, stiffness, and ultimate load) of 2 tendon-prosthesis techniques used to connect the proximal tendon stump to silicone active tendon implants used in reconstruction of flexor tendons. Methods We evaluated percent stretch following cyclic loading and at failure, stiffness during load to failure, and ultimate load of 16 tendon-prosthesis junctions using cadaveric canine flexor digitorum profundus tendons to re-create 2 junction techniques: the tendon loop (TL) and the polyester weave (PW). Results The TL junction showed greater percent stretch at a static load of 2 N, following 500 cycles of loading between 2 N and 50 N, and at peak load. The PW junction displayed greater stiffness from 50 to 150 N during load to failure. Both junctions failed at a mean ultimate load greater than 220 N. Conclusions The described proximal junction techniques for active tendon implants were strong enough to resist early active motion in the immediate postoperative period without significant elongation. The PW technique displayed greater stiffness and ultimate load compared with the TL. Clinical relevance Data on tendon-prosthesis characteristics of these 2 methods may aid the surgeon in choosing which junction technique to use, during surgical tensioning decisions, and in considering activity protocols after surgery. These data may also serve as a baseline for further investigations regarding active tendon implants.
Basic Biological Sciences Long-term Effects of Surgical Desalivation upon Taste Acuity, Fluid Intake, and Taste Buds in the Rat

Taste bud structure and taste preferences in intact and desalivated animals were evaluated to ascertain whether there was a structure-function relationship. Thirty-three totally desalivated rats and 30 sham-operated controls were tested between 95 and 110 d after surgery with a 48-hour two-bottle preference paradigm; they were then sacrificed, and the tongue epithelium and circumvallate papillae taste buds were examined histologically. Desalivated rats manifested significantly increased preferences for normally avoided solutions. Histological study of the dorsal tongue epithelium revealed increased keratosis. There were qualitative changes in the taste buds of the circumvallate papillae with some taste buds appearing shrunken and disorganized.
The long-term effects of childhood maltreatment experiences on subsequent illicit drug use and drug-related problems in young adulthood.

Abstract Objectives The objective of this study was to examine the associations between (a) childhood maltreatment (i.e., physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect) and subsequent illicit drug use and (b) childhood maltreatment and drug-related problems in young adulthood. Methods Wave 1 and Wave 3 public-use data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were used. Logistic regressions, controlling for adolescent drug use and other important family and peer contextual processes, were estimated to determine the associations between (a) childhood maltreatment experiences and subsequent illicit drug use and (b) childhood maltreatment and drug-related problems in young adulthood. Results Among the participants, 31.9% reported some form of childhood maltreatment. Childhood physical abuse was associated with a 37% (OR = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.80) increase in illicit drug use during the 30 days prior to the Wave 3 survey, a 48% (OR = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.16, 1.89) increase in illicit drug use during the year prior to the Wave 3 survey, and a 96% (OR = 1.96; 95% CI = 1.40, 2.76) increase in drug-related problems in young adulthood. The latter two associations persisted even after controlling for illicit drug use in adolescence. Neglect among females was associated with a higher likelihood of past year illicit drug use in young adulthood (OR = 1.31; 95% CI = 1.002, 1.71). However, this association was not significant once the effect of illicit drug use in adolescence was statistically controlled for. Conclusions The present findings suggest that childhood maltreatment is related to subsequent illicit drug use and drug-related problems in young adulthood and that some of these associations differ by gender. Implications for preventive intervention are discussed.
Combined cytosine deaminase expression, 5-fluorocytosine exposure, and radiotherapy increases cytotoxicity to cholangiocarcinoma cells.

Abstract Cholangiocarcinoma is a malignancy that is resistant to current therapy. We applied the toxin gene therapy strategy of cytosine deaminase conversion of the nontoxic prodrug 5-fluorocytosine to 5-fluorouracil combined with radiotherapy to cholangiocarcinoma. The transduction efficiency of SK-ChA-1 cholangiocarcinoma cells was determined by fluorescence-activated cell-sorting analysis following infection with recombinant adenovirus AdCMVLacZ, which encodes the gene for β-galactosidase. To evaluate cytosine deaminase—mediated conversion of 5-fluorocytosine to 5-fluorouracil and subsequent cytotoxicity, SK-ChA-1 cells were infected with the recombinant adenovirus AdCMVCD, which encodes cytosine deaminase, and exposed to 5-fluorocytosine for 6 to 8 days. Additive cytotoxicity of radiation therapy was evaluated by cobalt-60 exposure following AdCMVCD infection and 5-fluorocytosine treatment. SK-ChA-1 cells were transduced (98.4%) by AdCMVLacZ at 100 plaque-forming units per cell. Following infection with AdCMVCD and exposure to 5 to 100 μg/ml of 5-fluorocytosine, 20% to 64% of SK-ChA-1 cells were killed. A combination of radiation and cytosine deaminase/5-fluorocytosine therapy resulted in enhanced cell killing (83.5% to 91.5%). Cholangiocarcinoma cells were transduced by recombinant adenoviral vectors and were killed by cytosine deaminase—mediated production of 5-fluorouracil. Enhanced cytotoxicity was seen with the addition of external beam radiation. These results provide a foundation for multimodality therapy for human cholangiocarcinoma that combines gene therapy technology with radiation therapy.
A new approximation method to evaluate thermal contrast

Abstract A new approximate approach is developed to evaluate the thermal contrast detected by a thermal detector or a quantum detector for a focal plane radiation-detecting instrument. Simple formulas for the detected thermal contrast are obtained. Two terms are included in the thermal contrast. The first term is based on the derivative of emissivity with respect to temperature. The second term is based on the temperature-dependent emissivity. The results can give a more straightforward relationship of these two terms than the previous methods. It is more useful in practical applications than the previous results. The relative error between the current approximation and the previous method is also assessed. It is found that the error will be less than 1% when λT
Uniqueness of embeddings of certain induced modules

A theorem of D.-N. Verma on the uniqueness of embeddings of certain algebraically induced modules is generalized from the case of Borel subalgebras of semisimple Lie algebras to the case of arbitrary parabolic subalgebras.
An Unconstrained Dual Approach to Solving Karmarkar-Type Linear Programs Using Conventional Barrier Functions

This paper proposes an unconstrained dual approach and an efficient algorithm for solving Karmarkar-type linear programming problems. Conventional barrier functions are incorporated as a perturbation term in the derivation of the associated duality theory. An optimal solution of the original linear program can be obtained by solving a sequence of unconstrained concave programs, or be approximated by solving one such dual program with a sufficiently small perturbation parameter. A globally convergent curved-search algorithm with a quadratic rate of convergence is designed for this purpose. Based on our testing results, we find that the computational procedure is very efficient and can be a viable approach for solving linear programming problems.
Intraoperative radioisotope sentinel lymph node mapping in non-small cell lung cancer.

excluded. Forty-five patients had NSCLC completely resected. Mean time from injection of the radionucleide to identification of sentinel nodes was 63 minutes (range 23 to 170). Thirty-seven patients (82%) had a SN identified; 12 (32%) had metastatic disease. 35 of the 37 SNs (94%) were classified as true positive with no metastases found in other intrathoracic lymph nodes without concurrent SN involvement. Two inaccurately identified SNs were encountered (5%). SNs were mediastinal (N2) in 8 patients (22%). Conclusions. Intraoperative SN mapping with Tc-99 is an accurate way to identify the first site of potential nodal metastases of NSCLC. This method may improve the precision of pathologic staging and limit the need for mediastinal node dissection in selected patients.
Science and Values: Addressing Practical Issues in Developmental Psychology

This article describes a group exercise to help students understand how science can and cannot be used to resolve questions of practical importance in developmental psychology. Students with similar value preferences work together on a project that requires them to compile research and theory covered during the term. They then compare their work to that of groups with different value preferences. The exercise seems to promote a better appreciation of the contributions and limitations of empirical data and theory for answering practical questions.