cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Photoreceptor-Based Biomarkers in AOSLO Retinal Imaging

Improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying inherited retinal degenerations has created the possibility of developing much needed treatments for these relentless, blinding diseases. However, standard clinical indicators of retinal health (such as visual acuity and visual field sensitivity) are insensitive measures of photoreceptor survival. In many retinal degenerations, significant photoreceptor loss must occur before measurable differences in visual function are observed. Thus, there is a recognized need for more sensitive outcome measures to assess therapeutic efficacy as numerous clinical trials are getting underway. Adaptive optics (AO) retinal imaging techniques correct for the monochromatic aberrations of the eye and can be used to provide nearly diffraction-limited images of the retina. Many groups routinely are using AO imaging tools to obtain in vivo images of the rod and cone photoreceptor mosaic, and it now is possible to monitor photoreceptor structure over time with single cell resolution. Highlighting recent work using AO scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO) across a range of patient populations, we review the development of photoreceptor-based metrics (e.g., density/geometry, reflectivity, and size) as candidate biomarkers. Going forward, there is a need for further development of automated tools and normative databases, with the latter facilitating the comparison of data sets across research groups and devices. Ongoing and future clinical trials for inherited retinal diseases will benefit from the improved resolution and sensitivity that multimodal AO retinal imaging affords to evaluate safety and efficacy of emerging therapies.
Cost-effectiveness of Testing and Treatment for Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Residents Born Outside the United States With and Without Medical Comorbidities in a Simulation Model.

Importance Testing for and treating latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is among the main strategies to achieve TB elimination in the United States. The best approach to testing among non-US born residents, particularly those with comorbid conditions, is uncertain. Objective To estimate health outcomes, costs, and cost-effectiveness of LTBI testing and treatment among non-US born residents with and without medical comorbidities. Design, Setting, and Participants Decision analytic tree and Markov cohort simulation model among non-US born residents with no comorbidities, with diabetes, with HIV infection, or with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) using a health care sector perspective with 3% annual discounting. Strategies compared included no testing, tuberculin skin test (TST), interferon gamma release assay (IGRA), confirm positive (initial TST, IGRA only for TST-positive results; both tests positive indicates LTBI), and confirm negative (initial IGRA, then TST for IGRA-negative; any test positive indicates LTBI). All strategies were coupled to treatment with 3 months of self-administered rifapentine and isoniazid. Main Outcomes and Measures Number needed to test and treat to prevent 1 case of TB reactivation, discounted quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), discounted lifetime medical costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). Results Improving health outcomes increased costs, with choice of test dependent on willingness to pay. Strategies ranked by ascending costs and benefits: no testing, confirm positive, TST, IGRA, and confirm negative. The ICERs varied by non–US born patient risk group: patients with no comorbidities, IGRA was likely cost-effective at $83 000/QALY; patients with diabetes, both confirm positive ($53 000/QALY) and IGRA ($120 000/QALY) were likely cost-effective; patients with HIV, confirm negative was clearly preferred ($63 000/QALY); and patients with ESRD, no testing was cost-effective. Increased LTBI prevalence and reduced return for TST reading improved IGRA’s relative performance. In 10 000 probabilistic simulations among non-US born patients with no comorbidities, with diabetes, and with HIV, some form of testing was virtually always cost-effective. These simulations highlight the uncertainty of test choice for non-US born patients with no comorbidities and non-US born patients with diabetes, but strategies including IGRA were preferred in over 60% of simulations for all non–US born populations except those with ESRD. Conclusions and Relevance Testing for and treating LTBI among non-US born residents with and without selected comorbidities is likely cost-effective except among those with ESRD in whom competing risks of death limit benefits. Strategies including IGRA fell below a $100 000/QALY willingness-to-pay threshold for non-US born patients with no comorbidities, patients with diabetes, and patients with HIV.
Monitoring of Metabolic Adverse Effects Associated With Atypical Antipsychotics Use in an Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic.

Background:Atypical antipsychotics are associated with metabolic complications that contribute to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Current evidence reveal suboptimal adherence to the comple...
Estimating shallow soil available water supply for Douglas-fir forests of the coastal Pacific Northwest: climate change impacts

Douglas-fir forests of the coastal Pacific Northwest experience yearly summer droughts. However, the variation in shallow soil available water supply throughout the region is not well understood nor is the effect of future climate change. Soil moisture sensors were installed in sixty Douglas-fir plantation forests over six years. Stands were grouped by physiographic regions to describe differences in climate and available water supply. Monthly available water supply (MAWS) (0-0.5 m) was calculated as the average daily available moisture content. MAWS was modeled using monthly climate variables, and the equation was then used to predict the change in MAWS due to mild, moderate, and severe climate change predictions. Regional monthly air temperature and precipitation were strongly predictive of MAWS. Mild to severe climate change are predicted to decrease yearly available water supply by 8 to 19%, while summer available water supply will decrease from 25% to 72%. The greatest decreases due to climate change...
Ranking composite Cancer Burden Indices for geographic regions: point and interval estimates

To develop a composite Cancer Burden Index and produce 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as measures of uncertainties for the index. The Kentucky Cancer Registry has developed a cancer burden Rank Sum Index (RSI) to guide statewide comprehensive cancer control activities. However, lack of interval estimates for RSI limits its applications. RSI also weights individual measures with little inherent variability equally as ones with large variability. To address these issues, a Modified Sum Index (MSI) was developed to take into account of magnitudes of observed values. A simulation approach was used to generate individual and simultaneous 95% CIs for the rank MSI. An uncertainty measure was also calculated. At the Area Development Districts (ADDs) level, the ranks of the RSI and the MSI were almost identical, while larger variation was found at the county level. The widths of the CIs at the ADD level were considerably shorter than those at the county level. The measures developed for estimating composite cancer burden indices and the simulated CIs provide valuable information to guide cancer prevention and control effort. Caution should be taken when interpreting ranks from small population geographic units where the CIs for the ranks overlap considerably.
Engineering Heterodimeric Kinesins through Genetic Incorporation of Noncanonical Amino Acids.

Kinesins are commonly homodimers with two identical heavy chains (protomers) and play indispensable roles in many intracellular processes. Engineered heterodimeric kinesins with two distinct protomers are important tools for dissecting coordination and regulation of naturally occurring kinesin homodimers. Here, we report a chemical-biology-based approach that generates kinesin heterodimers by combining genetic incorporation of reactive noncanonical amino acids and small-molecule-based cross-linking. We verified using yeast kinesin-8/Kip3 as a model system that our method yields kinesin heterodimers of desired properties without introducing unintended motility disruption. To demonstrate the utility of our method, we engineered a crippled Kip3 heterodimer that contains both a wild-type-like protomer and a catalytically inactive one, and our results revealed that the resulting heterodimer moves on the microtubule with a significant reduction in velocity but not processivity. Due to its versatility, we expect...
Not all M&As are alike--and that matters.

Despite all that's been written about mergers and acquisitions, even the experts know surprisingly little about them. The author recently headed up a year-long study sponsored by Harvard Business School on the subject of MA to roll up competitors in geographically fragmented industries; to extend into new products and markets; as a substitute for RD and to exploit eroding industry boundaries by inventing an industry. The different strategic intents present distinct integration challenges. For instance, if you acquire a company because your industry has excess capacity, you have to determine which plants to shut down and which people to let go. If, on the other hand, you buy a company because it has developed an important technology, your challenge is to keep the acquisition's best engineers from jumping ship. These scenarios require the acquiring company to engage in nearly opposite managerial behaviors. The author explores each type of M&A--its strategic intent and the integration challenges created by that intent. He underscores the importance of the acquiring company's assessment of the acquired group's culture. Depending on the type of M&A, approaches to the culture in place must vary, as will the level to which culture interferes with integration. He draws from the experiences of such companies as Cisco, Viacom, and BancOne to exemplify the different kinds of M&As.
Leveraging Quality in Managed Care: Moving Advocates Back into the Box

This article is written as a companion piece to the article, "Public Interest Lawyers and New Governance: Avocating for Health Care" by Professor Louise Trubek. The article first examines the core theme of health care quality, and reviews the key strategies in adddressing quality issues, namely structure, process, outcome and consumerism. The piece juxtaposes the quality efforts with the current realities of patient safety and medical errors, and calls into question the viability of past quality initiatives. It is pointed that while quality efforts may have resulted in certain successes, there is a clear need for renewed advocacy in this area, including local alliances recommended by the Institute of Medicine and the model of community advocacy, suggested in the piece by Professor Trubek. The article explores, in a critical fashion, the Trubek analysis of health care governance, which is characterized by movements, "outward", "downward" and "outside the regulatory box". The author notes that while the movements noted by Trubek are real, they maybe not be so novel or deliberate as is suggested. For example, this article views health care federalism, the movement downward, as a reflection of a void in federal policy, a process of deliberate delegation, and a means by which state governors have tapped into national funding. The piece concludes with a recognition that advocay efforts will have to be increased, if areas such as quality, are to remain priorities in the post September 11th world. The article supports the Trubek model, but calls for advocay efforts to continue at federal levels, and at points of interface between federal and state government. While certain decisions in health care policy have drifted downward, this piece argues that health care policy at the local level is still in many ways a creature of policies forged at higher levels of government, a lesson advocates should not ignore.
Who’s on Top? Gender Differences in Risk-Taking Produce Unequal Outcomes for High-Ability Women and Men:

Research shows that men are more likely to take risks than women, but there is scant evidence that this produces gender inequality. To address this gap, I analyzed engineering exam scores that used...
The degree of postpartum metabolic challenge in dairy cows is associated with peripheral blood mononuclear cell transcriptome changes of the innate immune system.

Abstract Dairy cows undergo a nutrient deficit immediately postpartum when lactational demands exceed nutrient intake. This occurs concurrently to an increased challenge due to bacterial and viral infections, yet ability for pathogen clearance is reduced despite a heightened and often host-damaging inflammatory response. We hypothesized that nutrient stress is associated with differences in the immune cell transcriptome. Our objective was therefore to investigate differentially expressed pathways (DEP) by RNA-seq in peripheral blood mononuclear cells harvested 3 weeks before and 1 week after calving from Holstein cows in low (L, n = 3) or high (H, n = 3) postpartum metabolic stress situations. Metabolic stress was defined by differences in circulating concentrations of glucose, fatty acids, and ketones postpartum. Cows in group H showed several upregulated DEP in relation to myeloid cell function and inflammatory response, as well as downregulation of the Th2 pathway. Principal components analysis showed that the transcriptome of group H postpartum samples was most different from all other samples. Differences in DE genes were noted even prepartum albeit fewer DE genes were identified and myeloid cell pathways in group H were generally downregulated at this time compared with group L. Samples within group L showed little difference between the two time points. We conclude that the metabolic phenotype of cows allowed us to identify differences in immune-regulatory pathways and that myeloid immune cells could play a dominant role in identifying these metabolically-associated differences that were demonstrated among a mixed mononuclear cell population.
Stochastic Transmission Impedance Control for Enhanced Wind Energy Integration

In recent years, renewable energy supply in the U.S. has increased dramatically, among which wind energy has experienced the largest growth. Since the grid is not designed to handle high levels of intermittent generation, involuntary wind curtailment has been implemented commonly in many regional transmission organizations. Transmission congestion is one of the main barriers, which avoids full delivery of the produced wind energy. An obvious but extremely costly solution to this problem is building new transmission lines. Alternatively, transfer capability over the existing transmission system can be enhanced using variable-impedance flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices. This paper proposes a two-stage stochastic optimization model for integrating FACTS into power system operation for a system with high levels of wind penetration. The first stage identifies an optimal base dispatch, while the second stage finds the optimal deployment of FACTS flexibilities and operational reserves for each wind scenario. Using this model, the paper studies the impacts of FACTS operation on wind energy integration. The simulation studies on an RTS-96 system verify the effectiveness of the proposed method in reducing the operation cost as well as wind curtailment. The proposed model is also computationally-efficient, as a linear FACTS model is employed.
Where ThermoMesh meets ThermoNet: A machine learning based sensor for heat source localization and peak temperature estimation

Abstract In this paper, we propose a new thermal sensor (ThermoMesh) for experimental heat source localization and peak temperature estimation (HSL&PTE) enabled by Machine Learning algorithms (ThermoNet). The mathematical model of the ThermoMesh sensor is first derived and experimentally validated. Its use for HSL&PTE of a single heat source is then numerically demonstrated with location accuracy of 99% and RMS temperature error of 1.2%. Complementing existing thermal imaging techniques based on radiative heat transfer, the ThermoMesh plus ThermoNet framework sheds new light on high-speed high-resolution heat source sensing via conductive heat transfer.
That Hamilton Woman (1941)

Cavell presents a comparative analysis of the characterizations and events depicted in Alexander Korda’s That Hamilton Woman (1941) and the true story of the adulterous love affair between Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton. The purpose of the film as propaganda, designed to encourage American intervention in Britain’s war against Nazi Germany, used the heroic efforts of Nelson’s fight against Napoleonic France to present a political argument against isolationism. Korda’s links to the British government and Churchill’s influence on the film suggest a deliberate effort to disguise propaganda with Hollywood glamour and a love story to avoid the wrath of isolationist factions in the US Senate and the American First Committee.
A Short Proof for the Number of Permutations Containing Pattern 321 Exactly Once

We give a short proof for J. Noonan's result on the number of permutations containing pattern 321 exactly once.
Surface topography, mineralogy, and Pb isotope survey of wheel weights and solder: Source of metal contaminants of roadways and water systems

Abstract Wheel weights and solders are among the most important anthropogenic lead sources in modern society. Characterization of size, shape, and stages of degradation of wheel weights and solders by scanning electron microscopy provides fundamental knowledge toward better understanding of processes related to abrasion, dissolution, and transfer of metallic lead to the surface environment. Our studies of wheel weights identified partially abraded and chemically corroded textures, with coatings of reconstituted Pb particles, including litharge (PbO) and/or plattnerite (PbO2), in a matrix of soil components, mainly clays, feldspars, silica, and iron-oxides. Pb oxide particles abraded from wheel weights have a major component of Pb isotope analysis (by TIMS and HR-ICPMS) provides a way to identify the main lead exposure pathways if wide differences in isotopic ratios exist among possible local sources. Lead isotopic ratios for wheel weights from the U.S. plot along narrow arrays in plots of 206Pb/207Pb (~1.130–1.230) vs. 208Pb/207Pb (~2.410–2.470). The apparent trend in the 208Pb/207Pb and 206Pb/207Pb plot implicates a lead source from central U.S. from Mississippi Valley-type deposits, and a less radiogenic endmember which may link to an international lead source, such as from deposits of China. Wheel weights and corresponding leachates are analytically indistinguishable. Degradation of wheel weight particles will influence the Pb isotopic composition of local surface and groundwater regardless of whether the contribution is from solid particles, derived from grain erosion, or from dissolved Pb. The legacy of past and current uses of lead metal in manufactured products will continue to be of global concern for the foreseeable future because Pb-rich products, such as wheel weights and solders, remain commercially available through both primary and secondary global markets.
Effective study design for comparative functional genomics.

Comparative studies struggle with the challenge of balancing technical properties with the requirement of obtaining samples from multiple species. Guidelines are needed to minimize the effect of confounders and increase the robustness of the inference. We argue for the paramount importance of extensive record keeping and reporting. Comparative studies struggle to balance technical properties with the need to obtain samples from multiple species. The authors argue for extensive record keeping and reporting of metadata to minimize the effect of confounders and increase the robustness of inferences from these studies.
Cutting edge: ST8Sia6-generated α-2,8-disialic acids mitigate hyperglycemia in multiple low-dose streptozotocin-induced diabetes

The immune system contains a series of checks and balances that maintain tolerance and prevent autoimmunity. Sialic acid-binding Ig-type lectins (Siglecs) are cell surface receptors found on immune cells and inhibit inflammation by recruiting protein tyrosine phosphatases to ITIMs. Islet-resident macrophages express Siglec-E, and Siglec-E expression decreases on islet-resident macrophages as insulitis progresses in the NOD mouse. The sialyltransferase ST8Sia6 generates α-2,8-disialic acids that are ligands for Siglec-E in vivo. We hypothesized that engaging Siglec-E through ST8Sia6-generated ligands may inhibit the development of immune-mediated diabetes. Constitutive overexpression of ST8Sia6 in pancreatic β cells mitigated hyperglycemia in the multiple low-dose streptozotocin model of diabetes, demonstrating that engagement of this immune receptor facilitates tolerance in the setting of inflammation and autoimmune disease.
Building organizational resilience through strategic internal communication and organization–employee relationships

This study explores the impacts of internal strategic communication and relationship management with employees for organizational resilience in effective internal crisis communication, thereby fill...
Non-Selective Thoracic Computed Tomography in Trauma Patients Results in Injury Severity Score Inflation.

INTRODUCTION Extensive research relying on Injury Severity Scores (ISS) reports a mortality benefit from routine non-selective thoracic CTs (an integral part of pan-computed tomography (pan-CT)s). Recent research suggests this mortality benefit may be artifact. We hypothesized that the use of pan-CTs inflates ISS categorization in patients, artificially affecting admission rates and apparent mortality benefit. METHODS Eight hundred and eleven patients were identified with an ISS >15 with significant findings in the chest area. Patient charts were reviewed and scores were adjusted to exclude only occult injuries that did not affect treatment plan. Pearson chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression were used to compare adjusted cases vs non-adjusted cases. RESULTS After adjusting for inflation, 388 (47.8%) patients remained in the same ISS category, 378 (46.6%) were reclassified into 1 lower ISS category, and 45 (5.6%) patients were reclassified into 2 lower ISS categories. Patients reclassified by 1 category had a lower rate of mortality (P < 0.001), lower median total hospital LOS (P < .001), ICU days (P < .001), and ventilator days (P = 0.008), compared to those that remained in the same ISS category. CONCLUSION Injury Severity Score inflation artificially increases survival rate, perpetuating the increased use of pan-CTs. This artifact has been propagated by outdated mortality prediction calculation methods. Thus, prospective evaluations of algorithms for more selective CT scanning are warranted.
Codifying Criminal Codes: Do Modern Codes Have It Right?

Many jurisdictions in this part of the world and elsewhere are contemplating or are in the midst of criminal code reform. I want to talk today about the most basic decisions that face those criminal code reformers: How should a criminal code be structured? Which liability rules should be codified? What kinds of information should be taken into account in formulating a code's provisions? What ought to be the primary purposes and drafting principles of a code? My general plan has two parts: first, to look briefly at the trends in codification during the past thirty years and to draw from this some lessons on the most useful reform approaches; and, second, to suggest other kinds of reforms, and approaches to reform, that are not reflected in existing codes but ought to be.
Women's Strategies and Tactics

This chapter delineates sexual strategies and tactics used by men to attract women. It shows that some sexual strategies and tactics are shared by the two sexes while others differ in style or magnitude. In species with a single male, harem-type mating system, a significant body size dimorphism as well as significant dimorphism of the canine teeth—the major weapon of male–male combat—can be found. In species with a multi male social system in which several males copulate with each estrus female, both the body size dimorphism and canine size dimorphism are intermediate between those of monogamous and harem polygyny species. The seminal vesicles, which produce the fluid that enhances sperm viability and, in many species, forms the postcopulatory vaginal plug, are also much larger in species in which females mate with more than one male. There can be many tactics through which men can attract the attention of potential sex partners like practicing good hygiene, increasing eye contact, and dressing nicely. According to a study, the men who rated highest on “romantic popularity” were those who were physically attractive, outgoing, confident, trendsetters, funny, satisfied, and independent. Men and women draw upon a wide variety of strategies and tactics that contribute to sex differences in physique, physiology, psychology, and behavior. Men and women are the most complicated species on the planet. It should not be surprising, therefore, to find out that our sexual interactions and mating systems are extraordinarily variable and facultative.
Non‐Collagen Proteins in Bone

The non-collagen proteins of bone are a complex set of molecules that arise from local or exogenous sources. Because bone mineral is an excellent adsorbent, many circulatory and/or cell surface proteins bind to bone, where they may have immediate or subsequent effects. These include the alpha 2-HS-glycoprotein from blood and the potent growth factors TGF-beta, PDGF, IGF-1, FGF-a and -b, and IL-1, derived from both bone and non-bone cells. Furthermore, bone cell membrane proteins such as alkaline phosphatase may be cleaved from the cell surface and entrapped in the bone matrix. Bone is enriched in a variety of enzymes and their inhibitors by similar adsorption processes. Even osteocalcin, a bone cell product, is adsorbed to bone via mineral-binding (Gla) groups. The bone sialoproteins (BSP-I or osteopontin and BSP-II) also bind to the mineral via acidic groups. Because of this phenomenon it is difficult to distinguish whether a given protein's presence in bone is advantageous or merely fortuitous. The bone matrix proper consists of type I collagen and other osteoblast products such as osteonectin (a phosphorylated glycoprotein) and small proteoglycans (PG-I and/or PG-II) which are incorporated into bone collagen fibrils. These proteins may have additional roles in tissue morphogenesis and/or differentiation.
An Investigation of Fiber Geometry in Card Webs

A study was made of a set of parameters which, in an average or statistical sense, would validly describe the fiber geometry of a textile card web. In addition, this work included the development of methods for the measurement of these parameters, the standardization of test procedures, and the collection and use of web samples for measurements. All chosen parameters were measured on the same web at three different strain levels, thus providing an intuitive check on the significance of the measured parameters
A new self-assembled peroxisomal vesicle required for efficient resealing of the plasma membrane

A new self-assembled peroxisomal vesicle required for efficient resealing of the plasma membrane
The Academic Entrepreneur: A Biographical Sketch of Ian C. MacMillan's Contributions to Establishing the Field of Entrepreneurship

Ian C. MacMillan, originally from Africa, is a seminal figure in forging the contours of the present-day field of entrepreneurship. He was the first to empirically explore topics such as venture capital decision making; entrepreneurial networks; cultural influences on entrepreneurial behavior; and many issues in corporate venturing. Through the creation of vibrant, global, scholarly networks, the founding of the Journal of Business Venturing, his dedication to training and mentoring the next generation of scholars, and establishing the first large-scale systematic global data collection in the field, Mac has made an irreplaceable contribution to the well-established field that entrepreneurship has become. He and his students have been acknowledged as having made significant breakthroughs in our understanding of entrepreneurial phenomena, recognized by a burgeoning number of awards and testaments to scholarly recognition. He argues that the challenge for future researchers will be to tackle big, messy problems that do not lend themselves to the popular methodologies employed by academia today. Copyright © 2014 Strategic Management Society.
Intersection of Interferon and Hypoxia Signal Transduction Pathways in Nitric Oxide-induced Tumor Apoptosis

Activated macrophages play a central role in antitumor immunity. However, the stimuli that activate macrophages to kill tumor cells are not completely understood. Because the center of solid tumors can be hypoxic, we hypothesized that hypoxia may be an important signal in activating macrophages to kill tumor cells. Hypoxia stimulates IFN-primed macrophages to express the inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2) and to synthesize nitric oxide (NO). We show that this synergy between IFN and hypoxia is mediated by the direct interaction of the hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) and IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1), which are both required for the hypoxic transcription of NOS2. This interaction between HIF-1 and IRF-1 may explain the mechanism by which macrophages infiltrating into tumors are activated to express NOS2 and to produce NO, a mediator of tumor apoptosis.
High Energy Proton Irradiation Induced Pinning Centers in Bi-2212 and Bi-2223 Superconductors

Bi-2212 single crystals and Bi-2223/Ag-sheathed tapes were irradiated with high energy protons. TEM images reveal the production of randomly oriented (splayed) columnar defects with an amorphous core of {approximately}10 nm diameter caused by the fissioning of Bi nuclei. The critical current density J{sub c} and irreversibility line both substantially increased with the proton dose for both crystals and tapes, especially for the magnetic field parallel to the c axis. An irradiated tape had a J{sub c} value {approximately}100 times greater than that of an unirradiated one at 1 T and 75 K.
The logic of communication graphs

In 1992, Moss and Parikh studied a bimodal logic of knowledge and effort called Topologic. In this current paper, Topologic is extended to the case of many agents who are assumed to have some private information at the outset, but may refine their information by acquiring information possessed by other agents, possibly via yet other agents. Let us assume that the agents are connected by a communication graph. In the communication graph, an edge from agent i to agent j means that agent i can directly receive information from agent j. Agent i can then refine its own information by learning information that j has, including information acquired by j from another agent, k. We introduce a multi-agent modal logic with knowledge modalities and a modality representing communication among agents. We show that the validities of Topologic remain valid and that the communication graph is completely determined by the validities of the resulting logic. Applications of our logic to current political dilemmas are obvious.
Controlled Alloying of CSM Roofing Membranes with Thermoplastic Resins

Single-ply roofing membranes based on CSM have been effective in commercial installation for over twenty years. Selective blending of thermoplastic resins, CPE (CM) and EVA, into a standard CSM formulation have been performed to evaluate the effect on calendering, accelerated aging and seaming ability. The effect of these resins on other physical properties are also characterized. Further, care must also be exercised during formulating to prevent the loss of toughness at roof top temperatures and the loss of flammability ratings. Compounding consideration will also be reviewed.
The Gender Divide in Russian Politics

Abstract In this article, we revisit the question of the gender divide in Russian politics. The starting point of our analysis is the observed gender differences in voting in the 1995 parliamentary elections. The article is devoted to an evaluation of the reasons for the observed differences in party support. We document the fact that women, on average, believe more strongly than men that women should play an equal role in running the state. In addition, women are significantly more likely than men to reject the notion that women would stay home if given the choice. These attitudes are significantly related to party choice in the 1995 parliamentary election in Russia. The probability of voting for the political party titled Women of Russia is not only related to a strict demographic gender division, but also to the level of adherence to a “women's equality” identity dimension.
Platelets at the interface of thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer

Although once primarily recognized for its roles in hemostasis and thrombosis, the platelet has been increasingly recognized as a multipurpose cell. Indeed, circulating platelets have the ability to influence a wide range of seemingly unrelated pathophysiologic events. Here, we highlight some of the notable observations that link platelets to inflammation, reinforcing the platelet’s origin from a lower vertebrate cell type with both hemostatic and immunologic roles. In addition, we consider the relevance of platelets in cancer biology by focusing on the hallmarks of cancer and the ways platelets can influence multistep development of tumors. Beyond its traditional role in hemostasis and thrombosis, the platelet’s involvement in the interplay between hemostasis, thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer is likely complex, yet extremely important in each disease process. The existence of animal models of platelet dysfunction and currently used antiplatelet therapies provide a framework for understanding mechanistic insights into a wide range of pathophysiologic events. Thus, the basic scientist studying platelet function can think beyond the traditional hemostasis and thrombosis paradigms, while the practicing hematologist must appreciate platelet relevance in a wide range of disease processes.
Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in patients receiving immunosuppressive drugs for dermatological diseases.

In recent years, Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) has been increasingly reported in patients without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The increased occurrence of PCP in non-HIV-immunocompromised subjects has been attributed to several factors: use of stronger immunosuppressive regimens, higher awareness of PCP, advanced diagnostic technology and nosocomial spread of P. carinii. Appearance of PCP subsequent to the use of immunosuppressive drugs has been noticed in many inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and ulcerative colitis. Dermatologists frequently use immunomodulating agents, but the occurrence of PCP in patients receiving immunosuppressive drugs for skin diseases is largely unknown. We report four cases where PCP appeared following the use of immunosuppressive drugs primarily for cutaneous diseases, namely pemphigus, cutaneous necrotizing vasculitis (two cases) and Behcet's syndrome. These cases were identified in a computerized database study (1979-95) to evaluate the occurrence of PCP among immunocompromised hosts without HIV infection.
Photorefractive beam splitter for free-space optical interconnections

A photorefractive beam splitter (PRBS) is introduced as an alternative to a polarizing beam splitter (PBS) for coupling optical power into reflective modulators in a free-space optical interconnection system. The PRBS uses a single diffraction grating recorded in a photorefractive material to redirect the incident laser light into the first diffraction order and onto the modulators. Reflected interconnection light not matching the Bragg angle criteria transmits uncoupled through the beam splitter. Experimental results show that the PRBS provides better, more uniform transmission for off-axis beams than the currently used PBS.
Agostic Interaction in the Methylidene Metal Dihydride Complexes H2MCH2 (M = Y, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ru, Th, or U)

Multiconfigurational quantum chemical methods (complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF)/second-order perturbation theory (CASPT2)) have been used to study the agostic interaction between the metal atom and H(C) in the methylidene metal dihydride complexes H2MCH2, where M is a second row transition metal or the actinide atoms Th or U. The geometry of some of these complexes is highly irregular due to the formation of a three center bond CH center dot center dot center dot M, where the electrons in the CH bond are delocalized onto empty or half empty orbitals of d- or f-type on the metal. No agostic interaction is expected when M = Y, where only a single bond with methylene can be formed, or when M = Ru, because of the lack of empty electron accepting metal valence orbitals. The largest agostic interaction is found in the Zr and U complexes.
Self-phase Modulation in Quadratically Nonlinear Media

Abstract We discuss self-phase modulations and related transverse effects accompanying interaction of a light beam with a second harmonic radiation generated by it. Some experimental observations are explained by a simple perturbative approach. Numerical simulations provide a further insight into the nature of transverse self-effects in quadratically nonlinear media. An effective x (3)-like behaviour of dispersive quadratically nonlinear media is discussed. Such feature may lead to important consequences for measurements of the x (3) tensor in complex nonlinear media.
Seed-Specific Expression of a Lysine-Rich Protein Gene, GhLRP, from Cotton Significantly Increases the Lysine Content in Maize Seeds

Maize seed storage proteins are a major source of human and livestock consumption. However, these proteins have poor nutritional value, because they are deficient in lysine and tryptophan. Much research has been done to elevate the lysine content by reducing zein content or regulating the activities of key enzymes in lysine metabolism. Using the naturally lysine-rich protein genes, sb401 and SBgLR, from potato, we previously increased the lysine and protein contents of maize seeds. Here, we examined another natural lysine-rich protein gene, GhLRP, from cotton, which increased the lysine content of transgenic maize seeds at levels varying from 16.2% to 65.0% relative to the wild-type. The total protein content was not distinctly different, except in the six transgenic lines. The lipid and starch levels did not differ substantially in Gossypium hirsutum L. lysine-rich protein (GhLRP) transgenic kernels when compared to wild-type. The agronomic characteristics of all the transgenic maize were also normal. GhLRP is a high-lysine protein candidate gene for increasing the lysine content of maize. This study provided a valuable model system for improving maize lysine content.
THE DYNAMICS OF LONG WAVES IN A BAROCLINIC WESTERLY CURRENT

Abstract Previous studies of the long-wave perturbations of the free atmosphere have been based on mathematical models which either fail to take properly into account the continuous vertical shear in the zonal current or else neglect the variations of the vertical component of the earth's angular velocity. The present treatment attempts to supply both these elements and thereby to lead to a solution more nearly in accord with the observed behavior of the atmosphere. By eliminating from consideration at the outset the meteorologically unimportant acoustic and shearing-gravitational oscillations, the perturbation equations are reduced to a system whose solution is readily obtained. Exact stability criteria are deduced, and it is shown that the instability increases with shear, lapse rate, and latitude, and decreases with wave length. Application of the criteria to the seasonal averages of zonal wind suggests that the westerlies of middle latitudes are a seat of constant dynamic instability. The unstable wav...
Substituent effects on the efficiency and regioselectivity of tetraarylethylene photocyclization

Abstract The photochemistry of tetraphenylethylene and seven para substituted derivatives has been investigated. All compounds underwent photocyclization in the presence of iodine to produce substituted 9,10-diphenylphenanthrenes. Two substituent effects were observed. The para substituents decrease the quantum yields for electrocyclization and simultaneously activate the substituted rings in a regiochemical sense. Thus cyclization involving the substituted ring always predominates. These results are discussed in terms of shifts in the position of the excited state funnel along the reaction coordinate and stabilization of the transition state for the cyclization reaction.
ECH system developments including the design of an intelligent fault processor on the DIII-D tokamak

Abstract A new generation fault processor is in development which is intended to increase fault handling flexibility and reduce the number of incomplete DIII-D shots due to gyrotron faults. The processor, which is based upon a field programmable gate array device, will analyze signals for aberrant operation and ramp down high voltage to try to avoid hard faults. The processor will then attempt to ramp back up to an attainable operating point. The new generation fault processor will be developed during an expansion of the electron cyclotron heating (ECH) areas that will include the installation of a depressed collector gyrotron and associated equipment. Existing systems will also be upgraded. Testing of real-time control of the ECH launcher poloidal drives by the DIII-D plasma control system will be completed. The ECH control system software will be upgraded for increased scalability and to increase operator productivity. Resources permitting, all systems will receive an extra layer of interlocks for the filament and magnet power supplies, added shielding for the tank electronics, programmable filament boost shape for long pulses, and electronics upgrades for the installation of the advanced fault processor.
Residential patterns of parents and their married children in contemporary China: A life course approach

This paper examines the residential pattern of parents and their married children in contemporary China. Using the China Health and Nutrition Survey (1991, 1993, 1997), the analysis shows that the residential pattern of parents and their married children is not a static phenomenon, but changes over the life span. The analysis provides evidence that parental residence often responds to changed circumstances over the life course, adjusting to the need of married children as well as that of their parents. It is found that childcare needs, death of one parent, and health status of parents all play important roles in transitions in parental residence.
On bandwidth reservation for optimal resource utilization in high-performance networks

Many high-performance networks support both advance and immediate bandwidth reservations, the former reserving bandwidth ahead of time in a future time slot to provide guaranteed bandwidth, while the latter allocating bandwidth upon availability in the next immediate time slot. As a result, an ongoing data transfer task based on an immediate reservation may be preempted by the activation of an advance reservation due to the lack of bandwidth. We propose a bandwidth reservation solution to optimize network resource utilization by exploring the interactions between advance and immediate reservations. This solution integrates two major interrelated components: (i) We design a scheduling algorithm based on rigorous statistical analysis of reservation dynamics to route incoming advance reservations with minimal impact on immediate reservations. (ii) We design a preemption scheme to minimize the actual number of immediate reservations that must be preempted at runtime due to insufficient bandwidth. The performance superiority of the proposed bandwidth reservation solution is illustrated by extensive simulations in comparison with existing methods.
Experimental Structure Factor Curves of Montmorillonites

Diffraction from oriented flakes of four montmorillonites that had been treated with an excess of four glycols was obtained. Peak areas for the 00l diffraction from each of the treated clays were plotted against sin θ/λ.
Use of aligned fibers to enhance the performance of dielectric elastomer inchworm robots

Inchworm based on the voltage actuation of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are amongst the simplest types of robots. We demonstrate a proof-of-concept inchworm robot that incorporates a few aligned fibers to suppress undesirable actuator bulging and more effectively convert the bending of a dielectric elastomer unimorph to forward motion. Finite element modeling confirms the role of the fibers in suppressing bulging but also shows that a threshold actuation voltage is required to convert the unimorph bending to forward motion of the inchworm. Based on the modeling results for unimorphs having different fiber spacing a simple inchworm is constructed and locomotion is demonstrated for actuation above the threshold voltage. Although not optimized, the inchworm illustrates the importance of using selectively positioned stiffening fibers as well as elastomers having lower viscoelastic losses.
Research schools and new directions in the historiography of science.

Conclusions, notamment terminologiques des differents articles parus dans ce numero de la revue consacre aux differentes ecoles de recherche a travers le monde
New relativistic high-temperature Bose-Einstein condensation.

We discuss the properties of an ideal relativistic gas of events possessing Bose-Einstein statistics. We find that the mass spectrum of such a system is bounded by $\ensuremath{\mu}l~ml~2\frac{M}{{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{K}}$, where $\ensuremath{\mu}$ is the usual chemical potential, $M$ is an intrinsic dimensional scale parameter for the motion of an event in space time, and ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{K}$ is an additional mass potential of the ensemble. For the system including both particles and antiparticles, with a nonzero chemical potential $\ensuremath{\mu}$, the mass spectrum is shown to be bounded by $|\ensuremath{\mu}|l~ml~2\frac{M}{{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{K}}$, and a special type of high-temperature Bose-Einstein condensation can occur. We study this Bose-Einstein condensation, and show that it corresponds to a phase transition from the sector of continuous relativistic mass distributions to a sector in which the boson mass distribution becomes sharp at a definite mass $\frac{M}{{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{K}}$. This phenomenon provides a mechanism for the mass distribution of the particles to be sharp at some definite value.