cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using the Robson 10-Group Classification System to Compare Cesarean Birth Utilization Between US Centers With and Without Midwives.

INTRODUCTION The Robson 10-group classification system stratifies cesarean birth rates using maternal characteristics. Our aim was to compare cesarean birth utilization in US centers with and without midwifery care using the Robson classification. METHODS We used National Institute of Child and Human Development Consortium on Safe Labor data from 2002 to 2008. Births to women in centers with interprofessional care that included midwives (n = 48,857) were compared with births in non-interprofessional centers (n = 47,935). To compare cesarean utilization, births were classified into the Robson categories. Cesarean birth rates within each category and the contribution to the overall rate were calculated. Maternal demographics, labor and birth outcomes, and neonatal outcomes were described. Logistic regression was used to adjust for maternal comorbidities. RESULTS Women were less likely to have a cesarean birth (26.1% vs 33.5%, P < .001) in centers with interprofessional care. Nulliparous women with singleton, cephalic, term fetuses (category 2) were less likely to have labor induced (11.1% vs 23.4%, P < .001), and women with a prior uterine scar (category 5) had lower cesarean birth rates (73.8% vs 85.1%, P < .001) in centers with midwives. In centers without midwives, nulliparous women with singleton, cephalic, term fetuses with induction of labor (category 2a) were less likely to have a cesarean birth compared with those in interprofessional care centers in unadjusted comparison (30.3% vs 35.8%, P < .001), but this was reversed after adjustment for maternal comorbidities (adjusted odds ratio, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.12-1.32; P < .001). Cesarean birth rates among women at risk for complications (eg, breech) were similar between groups. DISCUSSION Interprofessional care teams were associated with lower rates of labor induction and overall cesarean utilization as well as higher rates of vaginal birth after cesarean. There was consistency in cesarean rates among women with higher risk for complications.
A hit dog will holler: challenging Szetela’s claim of epistemological insiderism

Adam Szetela defends critiques of the Black Lives Matter movement by claiming epistemological insiderism as an oppressive agent that dissuades democratic exchange and emancipatory scholarship. As a...
Chapter 5 – Components

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the various configurations called components that play an important role in the design of the universal computer-constructor. The main purpose of the permanent one-way lock is to obtain one-way paths. The component, permanent two-way lock, permits the first signal to pass through it in one direction or the other. Thereafter, the path is permanently blocked to all types of signals. The periodic emitter converts a single input signal 07 into copies that are emitted indefinitely with a fixed frequency. The signal transformer provides a means of converting the signal, whatever its type, to 07, thus ensures that the gate will be operated. A crossover for two unidirectional paths does not permit signals to cross one another concurrently. The crossover for one bidirectional and one unidirectional path makes use of two crossovers of the type. The echo discriminator converts the echo signal from its original form into a more useful form. It also produces the echo receipt signal whenever an echo is received, regardless of its type.
Hybridization gap in the heavy-fermion compound UP d 2 A l 3 via quasiparticle scattering spectroscopy

We present results from point-contact spectroscopy of the antiferromagnetic heavy-fermion superconductor $\mathrm{UP}{\mathrm{d}}_{2}\mathrm{A}{\mathrm{l}}_{3}$: Conductance spectra are taken from single crystals with two major surface orientations as a function of temperature and magnetic field and analyzed using a theory of cotunneling into an Anderson lattice. Spectroscopic signatures are clearly identified, including the distinct asymmetric double-peak structure arising from the opening of a hybridization gap when a coherent heavy-Fermi liquid is formed. Both the hybridization gap, found to be $7.2\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}0.3\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\mathrm{meV}$ at 4 K, and the conductance enhancement above a flat background decrease upon increasing temperature. While the hybridization gap is extrapolated to remain finite up to \ensuremath{\sim}28 K, close to the temperature around which the magnetic susceptibility displays a broad peak, the conductance enhancement vanishes at \ensuremath{\sim}18 K, slightly above the antiferromagnetic transition temperature $({T}_{\mathrm{N}}\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\approx}\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}14\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K})$. This rapid decrease of the conductance enhancement is understood as a consequence of the junction drifting away from the ballistic regime due to increased scattering off magnons associated with the localized U $5f$ electrons. This shows that while the hybridization gap opening is not directly associated with the antiferromagnetic ordering, its visibility in the conductance is greatly affected by the temperature-dependent magnetic excitations. Our findings are not only consistent with the $5f$ dual-nature picture in the literature but also shed new light on the interplay between the itinerant and localized electrons in $\mathrm{UP}{\mathrm{d}}_{2}\mathrm{A}{\mathrm{l}}_{3}$.
Doing More With Less: Pragmatic Implementation of Vancomycin Area-Under-the-Curve (AUC) Monitoring.

Universal area-under-the-curve (AUC) guided vancomycin therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is resource-intensive, cost-prohibitive, and presents a paradigm shift that leaves institutions with the qua...
Time-lapse camera studies of sea-disposed chemical munitions in Hawaii

Abstract The interactions between fauna and sea-disposed munitions provide important evidence regarding whether munitions constituents affect the health of the ocean environment and its inhabitants. To date few studies of these interactions have been conducted at deep-water disposal sites; typically observations of fauna in the vicinity of sea-disposed munitions are limited to the few minutes or hours required to collect physical samples at a specific location. During the 2012 Hawaii Undersea Military Munitions Assessment (HUMMA) field program we deployed two deep-sea time-lapse camera systems with the objectives of cataloging the diversity of fauna visiting sea-disposed chemical munitions and observing faunal behavior and physiology. Over the 1- and 3-day deployments we recorded 28 different species of fishes, crustaceans, mollusks, cnidarians, and echinoderms at the two sites. Both cameras captured the previously undocumented behavior of brisingid sea stars repositioning themselves along chemical munitions casings. Despite the fact that brisingid sea stars are able to move, for the duration of both time-lapse experiments they remained on chemical munitions casings. We interpret this result to indicate that the advantages of residing on a hard substrate slightly elevated above the seafloor outweigh the effects of chemical munitions constituents for brisingid sea stars. One type of physiological anomaly observed on several arms of the brisingid sea stars at the time-lapse sites led to the collection and examination of six specimens. As reported by Mah (2015. Deep Sea Res. II, 2015, XX–XX), these physiological features are the result of parasitic crustaceans and are not caused by chemical munitions constituents.
QCD analysis of double parton scattering: Spin and color correlations, interference effects, and evolution

We derive a factorization formula for the double Drell-Yan cross section in terms of double parton distribution functions (dPDFs). Diparton flavor, spin and color correlations and parton-exchange interference terms contribute, even for unpolarized beams. Soft radiation effects are nontrivial for the color correlation and interference contributions and are described by nonperturbative soft functions. We provide a field-theoretic definition of the quark dPDFs and study some of their basic properties, including discrete symmetries and their interpretation in a nonrelativistic quark model. We calculate the renormalization group evolution of the quark dPDFs and of the soft functions. The evolution receives contributions from both ultraviolet and rapidity divergences. We find that color correlation and interference effects are Sudakov suppressed, greatly reducing the number of dPDFs needed to describe double parton scattering at high-energy experiments.
Yeast glutathione reductase. Steady-state kinetic studies of its transhydrogenase activity.

Abstract Yeast glutathione reductase catalyzes a pyridine nucleotide transhydrogenase reaction using either NADPH or NADH as the electron donor and thionicotinamideadenine dinucleotide phosphate as the electron acceptor. Competitive substrate inhibition of the transhydrogenase reaction by NADPH (Ki = 11 μM) is observed when NADPH is the electron donor. Competitive substrate inhibition by thionicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate (Ki = 58 μM) is observed with NADH as the electron donor. The turnover numbers of the two transhydrogenase reactions are similar and are equal to about 1% of the turnover number for the NADPH-dependent reduction of oxidized glutathione catalyzed by the enzyme. The transhydrogenase kinetics are analyzed in terms of a pingpong mechanism. It is concluded that the substrate inhibition results from formation of abortive complexes of NADPH with the reduced form of the enzyme and of thionicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate with the oxidized form of the enzyme. With NADPH as the electron donor, the apparent Michaelis constant for thionicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate is sensitive to the ionic composition of the assay medium. The data are interpreted to support the existence of a general pyridine nucleotide-binding site at the active site of the enzyme and separate from the binding site for oxidized glutathione.
Whispers on the Color Line: Rumor and Race in America

Reviewed Medium: book Authors: Gary Alan Fine and mp; Patricia A. Turner Year: 2001 Pages: ix + 260 Publisher: University of California Press Prices: $27.50
How Non-Banks Increased the Supply of Bank Loans: Evidence from Institutional Term Loans

There is considerable evidence that the growth of non-bank institutional investors, primarily collateralized loan obligations, in the market for bank loans provided a significant increase in the supply of credit. Firms accessing the market for institutional term loans invested more in capital expenditures and working capital than otherwise similar firms. Since institutional investors have concentrated in lending to borrowers with speculative-grade debt ratings, the borrower's credit rating provides a natural instrument to show that borrowing from a non-bank has had a causal impact on firm investment. Institutional term loans have permitted borrowers to increase their leverage and strengthen their balance sheets by lengthening the maturity of their debt, further confirming that non-bank investors have increased the supply of credit. In response to the supply shock, there has been considerable growth in number of firms with speculative-grade ratings, driven primarily by firms acquiring new ratings to gain access to the institutional market. This result suggests that banks no longer have a comparative advantage in funding senior, secured debt that requires extensive monitoring of covenants. However, commercial banks remain the unique provider of revolving lines of credit, suggesting that banks comparative advantage rests in the provision of liquidity in the form of lines of credit.
Evaluación de la prueba de ELISA para anticuerposcontra el antígeno micobacterial P-90en el diagnóstico de tuberculosis

Resumen es: OBJETIVO: Determinar la sensibilidad y especificidad del diagnostico serologico mediante ladeteccion de IgA especifica para tuberculosis (TB). DISENO: Es...
Characterization of lipoprotein particles isolated from the Golgi apparatus of rat liver

It has been proposed that particles within tubules and vesicles of the Golgi apparatus of liver cells are precursors of very low density lipoproteins in blood plasma. To characterize these particles we isolated a cell fraction rich in Golgi apparatus and associated particles from rat liver in quantities sufficient for analysis. Particles freed from the membranes of the Golgi apparatus and floated at d = 1.006 were studied by chemical analysis, immunodiffusion, and paper electrophoresis. The lipid composition of the Golgi particles was similar to that of very low density lipoproteins from the same rats. The protein content was about 10% of dry weight for both the Golgi particles and plasma very low density lipoproteins. The Golgi particles formed lines of identity with plasma very low density lipoproteins during immunodiffusion against antiserum to plasma very low density lipoproteins. On paper electrophoresis, however, many Golgi particles remained near the origin, with only a few migrating to the pre-beta position. It was concluded that the lipoproteins in the Golgi apparatus are the precursors of plasma very low density lipoproteins.
Cytotoxicity, cytocompatibility, cell‐labeling efficiency, and in vitro cellular magnetic resonance imaging of gadolinium‐catalyzed single‐walled carbon nanotubes

Cell tracking by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an emerging technique that typically requires the use of MRI contrast agents (CAs). A MRI CA for cellular imaging should label cells efficiently at potentially safe concentrations, have high relaxivity, and not affect the cellular machinery. In this article, we report the cytotoxicity, cytocompatibility, and cell labeling efficiency in NIH/3T3 fibroblasts of novel, single-walled carbon nanotubes synthesized using gadolinium nanoparticles as catalysts (Gd-SWCNTs). Cells incubated with the Gd-SWCNT showed a dose- (50-100 µg/mL nanotube concentration) and time- (12-48 h) dependent decrease in viability. 30% cell death was observed for cells incubated with Gd-SWCNTs at the maximum dose of 100 µg/mL for 48 h. Cells incubated with the Gd-SWCNTs at concentrations between 1-10 μg/mL for 48 h showed no change in viability or proliferation compared to untreated controls. Additionally, at these potentially safe concentrations, up to 48 h, the cells showed no phosphatidyl serine externalization (pre-apoptotic condition), caspase-3 activity (point of no return for apoptosis), genetic damage, or changes in their division cycle. Localization of Gd-SWCNTs within the cells was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Raman microscopy, and these results show 100% cell labeling efficiency. Elemental analysis also indicates significant uptake of Gd-SWCNTs by the cells (10(8) -10(9) Gd(3+) ions per cell). Finally, T1 -weighted MRI at 3 T of Gd-SWCNT-labelled cells show up to a four-fold increase in MR signal intensities as compared to untreated cells. These results indicate that Gd-SWCNTs label cells efficiently at potentially safe concentrations, and enhance MRI contrast without any structural damage to the cells.
Bounded diameter minimum spanning trees and related problems

We consider the problem of finding a minimum diameter spanning tree (MDST) of a set of n points in the Euclidean plane. The diameter of a spanning tree is the maximum distance between any two points in the tree. We give a characterization of an MDST and present a t(n3 time algorithm for solving the problem. We also show that for a weighted undirected graph, the problem of determining if a spanning tree with total weight and diameter upper bounded, respectively, by two given parameters C and D exists is N P-complete. The geometrical minimum diameter Steiner tree problem, in which new points are allowed to be part of the spanning tree, is shown to be solvable in O(n) time.
Self-recognition and the right prefrontal cortex

Abstract Although the anatomical and functional substrates subserving face recognition have been subject to extensive investigation, the underpinnings of self-face recognition are not well understood. Given the evidence that own-face recognition has been demonstrated by a select number of species, it is intriguing to speculate whether self-face recognition is accomplished via a ‘self-network' or simply a ‘face-network' within the brain. Furthermore, the relationship of self-recognition to other self-processes, such as self-evaluation and autobiographical retrieval, are not clearly defined. However, data from fMRI, ERPs and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as well as from split-brain studies and patients with focal lesions, indicate that the prefrontal cortex, with possible right hemisphere lateralization, may be a preferential component in self-recognition. Studies using these methods, as well as PET, have indicated that the self-processes of self-evaluation and autobiographical memory preferentially engage networks within the right fronto-temporal region. Although it is highly improbable that there is a ‘self-recognition' or ‘self' center, it appears that there may be a bias for the processing of ‘self' within the right prefrontal cortex.
CD uniformity improvement of sub 60nm contact hole using model based OPC

Generally, rule based optical proximity correction (OPC) together with conventional illumination is used for contact layers, because it is simple to handle and processing times are short. As the design rule is getting smaller, it becomes more difficult to accurately control critical dimension (CD) variation because of influence by nearby contact holes pattern. Especially, random contact hole shows greater amount of CD difference between X and Y direction compared to array contact holes. Several resolution enhancement techniques (RET) were used to resolve this kind of problem, but didn't meet the overall expectations. In this paper, we will present the results for novel contact hole model-based OPC for sub 60nm memory device. First, model calibration method will be proposed for contact holes pattern, which utilizes two thousands of real contact holes pattern to improve model accuracy in full chip. Second, verification method will be proposed to check weak points on full chip using model based verification. Finally, method for further enhancing CD variation within 5nm for model based OPC will be discussed using Die-to-Database Verification.
Thiorphan, tiopronin, and related analogs as substrates and inhibitors of peptidylglycine α‐amidating monooxygenase (PAM)

Abstract Peptidyglycine α-amidating monooxygenase is a copper- and zinc-dependent, bifunctional enzyme that catalyzes the cleavage of glycine-extended peptides or N-acylglycines to the corresponding amides and glyoxylate. This reaction is a key step in the biosynthesis of bioactive α-amidated peptides and, perhaps, the primary fatty acids amides also. Two clinically useful N-acylglycines are thiorphan and tiopronin, each with a thiol moiety attached to the acyl group. We report here that thiorphan and tiopronin are substrates for PAM, exhibiting relatively low KM,app and VMAX,app values. The low VMAX,app values result, most likely, from a decrease in active PAM · 2Cu(II) as the enzyme competes ineffectively with thiorphan and tiopronin for free copper.
Computer simulation studies of water states in perfluoro polyether reverse micelles: Effects of changing the counterion

We performed molecular dynamics computer simulations to study the effect of counterions on the structural and dynamical properties of water pool enclosed by a reverse micelle containing ionic surfa...
Creating Successful Teams

Understanding teamwork and group behaviors is crucial for organizational success in today's environment. Intense competition, rampant unpredictability, and a constant need for innovation have incre...
Hydrogen storage in rapidly solidified and crystallized Mg–Ni-(Y,La)–Pd alloys

Abstract Amorphous-crystalline composite ribbons of quaternary Mg–Ni–(Y,La)–Pd alloys are produced via rapidly solidification and used as precursors for creating nanocrystalline hydrogen storage materials. The resulting materials demonstrate relatively high hydrogen capacity of around 4.5 mass% H and excellent absorption/desorption kinetics at 573 K. Additionally, the alloys demonstrate reversible hydrogen storage at 473 K. A composition of Mg 85 Ni 10 Y 2.5 Pd 2.5 fully absorbs and desorbs 4.6 mass% H in 90 min. The cyclability of the quaternary alloys demonstrates good stability, with little loss in maximum capacity through 8–10 cycles. This has been attributed to the improved stability of the nanocrystalline structure attained via the Y and La additions. Thermodynamically, the enthalpy of the hydrogen absorption reaction is reduced by 5 kJ/mol in the quaternary alloys, compared to Mg-MgH 2 ; while the entropy of reaction is also reduced.
Testing for Climate Change: An Application of the Two-Phase Regression Model

Abstract A statistical test for detecting a change in the behavior of an annual temperature series is presented. The test is based on the two-phase regression model. By trading the hypothesized time of change as an unknown parameter, the approach allows an inference to be made about the time of change. The approach also avoids a serious problem, called data-dredging, that can arise in testing for change occurring at a specified time. The test is applied to a series of Southern Hemisphere temperatures, and the hypothesis of no change cannot be rejected.
Comparative analysis and geological significance of kerogen isolated using open-system (palynological) versus chemically and volumetrically conservative closed-system methods

Abstract Characterization of kerogen, the insoluble organic fraction of sedimentary rocks, is of key importance in investigations of the geochemistry of ancient depositional systems, paleo climates, basin thermal history, and petroleum generation systematics. Furthermore, exploitation of organic-rich oil shales as unconventional petroleum resources requires understanding of the physical chemistry of the kerogen conversion reactions and the coking behavior. These issues can be effectively addressed only if pure, representative kerogen is obtained from the rock matrix using chemically and volumetrically conservative methods that preclude losses, alteration, or fractionation of the organic matter. Isolation of representative and pure kerogen concentrates from the rock matrix is difficult. Many methods have been used over the years with various degrees of success. Most are based on traditional palynological processing approaches in open systems that commonly yield fractionated products, generally contaminated with pyrite and insoluble neo-fluorides. A few are based on complex sealed-system procedures that purport to conserve the entire kerogen with no fractionation, no alteration and no contamination. This study focuses on a comparative analysis of kerogens isolated with the conventional open-system approach (HCl/HF/heavy liquid separation) and kerogens concentrated with a fully automated, conservative, closed-system method (HCl/HF/CrCl 2 ) under an inert N 2 atmosphere. Source-rock samples of various richness, kerogen types, ages, depositional environments, lithologies and thermal histories were selected for kerogen isolation using the two approaches. Kerogen recovery efficiency, progress of the processes and quality of the isolated kerogens were monitored via mass balance calculations, organic elemental analysis and X-ray diffraction analysis. The inherent inadequacy in the open-system approach for geochemical research and the improved features of the chemically and volumetrically conservative method are documented.
Dynamic scaling for 2D superconductors in zero magnetic field

Abstract Zero-field current–voltage ( I–V ) characteristics of a thin (`two-dimensional') Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8+ δ crystal are reported and analyzed in two ways. The `conventional' approach yields ambiguous results while the dynamical scaling analysis of Fisher and Huse offers new insights into the Kosterlitz–Thouless–Berezinskii transition. The scaling theory predicts that the universal jump of the I–V exponent α should be between z +1 and 1. We obtain a value of z ≃5.6 for the dynamical critical exponent, which is corroborated by data from other two-dimensional superconductors. A simple dynamical model is presented to account for the results.
Individual differences in susceptibility to visual backward masking

This study investigated the reliability of individual differences in susceptibility to visual backward masking. Seventeen college students were assigned “maskability” measures derived from data collected two days apart. Depending on the measures used, the rank order correlation between the two sets of measures varied from.79 to.92, indicating highly reliable individual differences.
Studying Subunit Cooperativity by Counting Hydrolyzed ATP on Single Chaperonin Nanomachines in Solution

Single chaperonin proteins are trapped by an Anti-Brownian Electrokinetic trap and hydrolyzed Cy3-ATP counted using stepwise photobleaching. Unlike ensemble averaging the observed ATP number distributions depart from the standard cooperativity models
STUDIES ON THE INHIBITORY HORMONE OF THE TESTES IV. EFFECT ON THE PITUITARY, THYROID AND ADRENAL GLANDS OF THE ADULT MALE RAT1

THE PREPARATION of an extract, of bull testes, which produces inhibitory effects on the gross and microscopic appearance of the sex organs of adult male rats has been described (1, 2). In this paper we will consider the effect of this extract on the weight and microscopic appearance of the pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands of the adult male rat. The data reported herein were derived from the pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands of the series of rats we reported on previously (1, 2). The weights of the glands and the bodyorgan values were obtained in the same manner as reported in the former papers except that each bodyorgan value was divided by 100 in order to facilitate the reading of the tables. The tissues were fixed in formalin Zenker solution and embedded in paraffin. The thyroid and adrenal sections were cut at 10 micra and stained with hematoxyiin-eosin.
THEORIES OF ETHNIC SOCIAL DISTANCE: COMPARATIVE EMPIRICAL TESTS FOR THREE DISTINCT ETHNIC GROUPS

Social science theories of ethnic division and antipathy are tested empirically using survey and zip code data for representative samples of whites, African Americans, and Mexican Americans in Texas. Ordered logistic regression tests estimate the effects of theoretically relevant variables on probabilities of racial and ethnic out-group social distance. Competing social science theories of ethnic and racial social distance are tested for multiple groups. Statistical support is found for group attachment/identity theories and realistic group conflict theories in explaining variance in out-group social closeness. The socioeconomic theory was not found to be an important predictor of out-group social closeness.
Testing of Intrinsic Sorptivity for Liquid Infiltration into Initially Dry, Miller- Similar Silica Sands

The sorptivity ( S ) of a porous medium quantifies the effect of capillarity and surface forces on liquid infiltration. For infiltration into initially dry soil, S is dependent on three system attributes: the infiltrating liquid properties, the soil properties, and the maximum liquid content behind the infiltration front, θm. Through the use of scaling analyses, a singular, dimensionless value of intrinsic sorptivity ( S *) and an accompanying dimensionless Boltzmann transformation (Φ*) were previously derived that are independent of these system attributes for Miller-similar materials. The existence of S * for different infiltrating liquid properties alone were tested by performing a series of experiments that examined the infiltration of either water or the aliphatic oil Soltrol 220 into an initially dry silica sand. This study extended that work to include testing of intrinsic sorptivity for different values of θm and different Miller-similar soils. A series of 57 experiments examined the infiltration of water or Soltrol 220 into two Miller-similar dry silica sands across a range of θm values. The results of these experiments, together with the previous ones, support the existence of S * for the experimental conditions investigated. A singular value of S * can be used to estimate sorptivity values for Miller-similar media for a range of conditions. Likewise, Φ* can be used to generate a similarity profile for normalized liquid content in Miller-similar media for different liquid types and θm values.
Gene therapy progress and prospects : Viral trafficking during infection

The intracellular steps involved in viral infection, namely cytoplasmic trafficking and nuclear import, are critical events in the viral life cycle that have lagged behind other areas of viral research. This review examines recent advances in our understanding of these steps for viruses commonly employed as viral gene delivery vectors. Steps governing the cytoplasmic trafficking and nuclear import of Herpes Simplex virus, Human Immunodeficiency virus and Adenovirus are reviewed in this article.
A visualization system for multithreaded programming

Almost all modern operating systems, from Windows to Unix, support multithreaded programming. To make sure our students can lead the trend of computer science in the foreseeable future, we need to introduce them to this important technology. However, we have found through experience in teaching multithreaded programming that the paradigm shift from sequential to multithreaded causes students significant problems, such as (1) multithreaded program development requires a new mindset, (2) multithreaded program behavior is dynamic, making debugging very difficult, and (3) proper synchronization is more difficult than anticipated [10, 11]. Moreover, detecting race conditions and deadlocks is more easily said than done.
Intrinsic defects in multiferroic BiFeO 3 and their effect on magnetism

We investigate the energetics of the intrinsic defects in bulk multiferroic BiFeO3 and explore their implication for magnetization using a first-principles approach based on density functional theory. We find that the dominant defects in oxidizing (oxygen-rich) conditions are Bi and Fe vacancies and in reducing (oxygen-poor) conditions are O and Bi vacancies. The calculated carrier concentration shows that the BiFeO3 grown in oxidizing conditions has p-type conductivity. The conductivity decreases with oxygen partial pressure, and the material becomes insulating with a tendency for n-type conductivity. We find that the Bi and Fe vacancies produce a magnetic moment of ∼1μB and 5μB per vacancy, respectively, for p-type BiFeO3 and none for insulating BiFeO3 .O vacancies do not introduce any moment for both p-type and insulating BiFeO3. Calculated magnetic moments due to intrinsic defects are consistent with those reported experimentally for bulk BiFeO3.
Management Historians and Business Historians: Differing Perceptions of Pioneer Contributors

At the 1974 meeting of the Academy of Management, it was proposed that the Academy's Management History Division find some appropriate ways to honor outstanding individuals who had contributed the ...
On the existence of franchise contracts and some of their implications

Abstract We characterize the franchising problem as a contractual agreement between a principal and multiple agents. The contract contains a revenue-sharing rule, the level of national expenditures by the franchisor and the number of units to be enfranchised. The franchisor offers the contract to a group of potential agents whose attitudes toward risk and effort differ. The revenue of a franchise unit is determined by decisions of both parties as well as a random perturbation. Under certain conditions, we establish the existence and uniqueness of an expected utility maximizing franchise contract with the property that the royalty payment to the franchisor never exceeds one-half the revenue. We provide an explanation for the use of a common contract and argue that, in reality, it is non-linear. We show that this common, non-linear contract attracts agents deemed desirable by the franchisor.
Predictors of panic attacks in adolescents.

ABSTRACT Objective To identify risk factors for onset of panic attacks in adolescents, a prospective cohort design was used to evaluate the following risk factors: negative affectivity, female sex, anxiety sensitivity, and childhood separation anxiety disorder. These risk factors were also evaluated for predicting onset of major depression to test their specificity. Method The sample consisted of 2,365 high school students assessed over a 4-year period. Assessments included self-report questionnaires and structured clinical interviews. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate risk. Results Consistent with previous studies, prior major depression predicted onset of panic attacks and a history of panic attacks predicted onset of major depression. After adjusting for the effects of prior major depression, negative affectivity and anxiety sensitivity, but not female sex or childhood separation anxiety disorder, predicted onset of 4-symptom panic attacks. However, female sex and negative affectivity but not anxiety sensitivity or childhood separation anxiety disorder predicted onset of major depression after adjustment for the effects of prior panic attacks. Conclusion Negative affectivity appears to be a nonspecific risk factor for panic attacks and major depression, whereas anxiety sensitivity appears to be a specific factor that increases the risk for 4-symptom panic attacks in adolescents.
High voltage subnanosecond breakdown

Present-day ultra-wideband radiation sources produce Megavolt pulses at hundreds of picosecond (ps) risetimes. Empirical data on the breakdown characteristics for dielectric media at these short time lengths and high voltages are either extremely limited or nonexistent. In support of the design of these ultra-wideband sources, we are investigating the breakdown characteristics, at these voltages and time lengths, of several liquids and high-pressure gases. These include air, N/sub 2/, H/sub 2/, SF/sub 6/, and transformer oil. Gap voltages attained were over 700 kV and gas pressures were over 150 atm (15 MPa). Breakdown times achieved were on the order of 600 ps. Electric field strengths observed for given breakdown times were higher than predicted by other investigators. An empirical fit is presented for the data obtained.
Abstract 1516: Melanocyte activation by UVR-induced calprotectin.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Melanoma is the most common cause of skin cancer death, although it accounts for only 5% of all skin cancers. Epidemiologic and clinical observations have shown that the ultraviolet (UVR) component of sunlight is the most important etiologic factor in melanoma; however, the precise mechanisms by which UVR drives melanomagenesis are unknown. Mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have been identified in melanomas, but most of these are not the UVR signature mutations found in non-melanoma skin cancers. This suggests an indirect role for UVR in melanomagenesis, likely as a tumor promoter. UVR is a potent inducer of keratinocyte-derived paracrine and melanocyte/melanoma cell-derived autocrine factors that profoundly affect melanocyte/melanoma cell gene expression and behavior. Many of these mediators are also potent proinflammatory signals that create an inflammatory environment with additional effects on untransformed and transformed melanocytes. We have identified calprotectin, a secreted heterodimer of S100A8 and A9, as one of these mediators. UVR exposure induces S100A8 and A9 transcription in and calprotectin release from human keratinocytes and melanocytes. Human melanocytes and melanoma cells constitutively express TLR4, one of the receptors for calprotectin. Treatment of human melanocytes and melanoma cells with exogenous calprotectin enhances their proliferation, migration, and invasiveness. UVR-induced calprotectin secretion by melanocytes/melanoma cells and surrounding keratinocytes activates melanocytes/melanoma cells and may thus promote melanomagenesis. Citation Format: Kristine von Maltzan, Stephanie H. Shirley, Donna F. Kusewitt. Melanocyte activation by UVR-induced calprotectin. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1516. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1516
Efficient and unbiased modifications of the QUEST threshold method: Theory, simulations, experimental evaluation and practical implementation

QUEST [Watson and Pelli, Perception and Psychophysics, 13, 113-120 (1983)] is an efficient method of measuring thresholds which is based on three steps: (1) Specification of prior knowledge and assumptions, including an initial probability density function (p.d.f.) of threshold (i.e. relative probability of different thresholds in the population). (2) A method for choosing the stimulus intensity of any trial. (3) A method for choosing the final threshold estimate. QUEST introduced a Bayesian framework for combining prior knowledge with the results of previous trials to calculate a current p.d.f.; this is then used to implement Steps 2 and 3. While maintaining this Bayesian approach, this paper evaluates whether modifications of the QUEST method (particularly Step 2, but also Steps 1 and 3) can lead to greater precision and reduced bias. Four variations of the QUEST method (differing in Step 2) were evaluated by computer simulations. In addition to the standard method of setting the stimulus intensity to the mode of the current p.d.f. of threshold, the alternatives of using the mean and the median were evaluated. In the fourth variation--the Minimum Variance Method--the next stimulus intensity is chosen to minimize the expected variance at the end of the next trial. An exact enumeration technique with up to 20 trials was used for both yes-no and two-alternative forced-choice (2AFC) experiments. In all cases, using the mean (here called ZEST) provided better precision than using the median which in turn was better than using the mode. The Minimum Variance Method provided slightly better precision than ZEST. The usual threshold criterion--based on the "ideal sweat factor"--may not provide optimum precision; efficiency can generally be improved by optimizing the threshold criterion. We therefore recommend either using ZEST with the optimum threshold criterion or the more complex Minimum Variance Method. A distinction is made between "measurement bias", which is derived from the mean of repeated threshold estimates for a single real threshold, and "interpretation bias", which is derived from the mean of real thresholds yielding a single threshold estimate. If their assumptions are correct, the current methods have no interpretation bias, but they do have measurement bias. Interpretation bias caused by errors in the assumptions used by ZEST is evaluated. The precisions and merits of yes-no and 2AFC techniques are compared.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Differential refraction in planetary atmospheres with linear scale height gradients

Abstract The theory of differential refraction in an isothermal atmosphere is reviewed, and is then extended to the case of an atmosphere with a linear gradient of scale height caused solely by temperature changes. It is found that the scale height derived on the assumption of an isothermal atmosphere should be multiplied by a factor of (1 + 32G), where G = ϖH/ϖz, to obtain the scale height for the case of a linear gradient. Corrections to the derived pressured and reduced thickness are also given, and applications to the occultations of σ Arietis by Jupiter and of Regulus by Venus are briefly discussed.
Learning to Teach Online: Promoting Success through Professional Development

ABSTRACT The study reported in this paper examined the types of professional-development activities, support systems, and organizational structures necessary for community college faculty to make transitions from traditional teaching to Web-based teaching. Results indicate that (a) instructional change can by initiated through sustained professional development; (b) change is more meaningful and effective when it occurs in context over a sustained period of time; (c) faculty can embrace innovations when supported by knowledgeable professionals and their peers; and (d) students welcome the use of Web-based components in course work. The implications for practice may be useful to those wishing to increase faculty's online instructional competence.
Moon—An albite depleted giant Skaergaard?

The chemical composition of 2188 terrestrial igneous rocks ranging from ultrabasic to granitic composition was analyzed statistically using the method of factor analysis (principal components). The resultant first and second factors were: $$\begin{gathered} {\text{ }}F_1 = 0.933{\text{ Na}}_{\text{2}} {\text{O + 0}}{\text{.143 SiO}}_{\text{2}} + 0.206{\text{ K}}_{\text{2}} {\text{O}} - 0.346{\text{ CaO}} - 0.263{\text{ MgO}} - \hfill \\ .203{\text{ FeO}} \pm \cdot \cdot \cdot \hfill \\ {\text{ }}F_2 = 0.979{\text{ Al}}_{\text{2}} {\text{O}}_{\text{3}} - 0.269{\text{ MgO}} - 0.151{\text{ SiO}}_{\text{2}} - 0.112{\text{ FeO}} \pm \cdot \cdot \cdot \hfill \\ \end{gathered} $$ where oxides are in weight percent. A plot of the first factor against the second results in a useful igneous variation diagram. When the compositions of the 2188 terrestrial rocks and 604 lunar rocks are plotted on this diagram, the two groups of rocks are clearly separated within an albite-anorthite-forsterite-fayalite-quartz polygon. None of the terrestrial differentiation trends are significant for lunar rocks. The major difference in the chemistry of lunar and terrestrial rocks lies in the former being albite poor. Removal of most of the albite from the compositions of terrestrial layered intrusives such as the Skaergaard results in an excellent match between the compositions of the two groups of rocks. Albite subtracted compositions of Skaergaard rocks in particular cover the entire range of chemical variation in the lunar rocks. The statistical results prompt us to speculate further on the similarity of the moon and Skaergaard. We note that the average composition of the moon (Wanke et al., 1974) is similar to the albite subtracted composition of the Skaergaard magma. The lunar crust and a significant part of the lunar interior may match the albite subtracted and somewhat Mg enriched Skaergaard magma.
Program abstraction and instantiation

Our goal is to develop formal methods for abstracting a given set of programs into a program schema and for instantiating a given schema to satisfy concrete specifications. Abstraction and instantiation are two important phases in software development which allow programmers to apply knowledge learned in the solutions of past problems when faced with new situations. For example, from two programs using a linear (or binary) search technique, an abstract schema can be derived that embodies the shared idea and that can be instantiated to solve similar new problems. Along similar lines, the development and application of program transformations are considered.We suggest the formulation of analogies as a basic tool in program abstraction. An analogy is first sought between the specifications of the given programs; this yields an abstract specification that may be instantiated to any of the given concrete specifications. The analogy is then used as a basis for transforming the existing programs into an abstract schema that represents the embedded technique, with the invariant assertions and correctness proofs of the given programs helping to verify and complete the analogy. A given concrete specification of a new problem may then be compared with the abstract specification of the schema to suggest an instantiation of the schema that yields a correct program.
Block copolypeptides. 1. Synthesis and solid state conformational studies

Triblock copolypeptides of gamma-benzyl L-glutamate (G) and L-leucine or L-valine of high molecular weight have been prepared. The solubilites and solution conformation were determined and compared with random copolymers of similar composition as well as the appropriate homopolypeptides. Characterization of the secondary structure in the solid state was undertaken as part of an investigation into the solid state properties of this new class of materials. Infrared and solid state measurements indicate that the G and L-leucine blocks assume an alpha-helical conformation and L-valine blocks a beta-sheet structure. Polarized infrared measurements showed the chain axis in oriented films to be parallel to the orientation direction. Further solid state characterization of the tertiary structure and mechanical properties of the block copolypeptides will be reported in succeeding papers.
Arrestin2 modulates androgen receptor activation

Androgen receptor (AR) has a pivotal role in the growth and survival of prostate cancer (PCa). Arrestin2 (Arr2) is a ubiquitous scaffolding/adaptor protein first characterized as a regulator of G protein-coupled receptor signaling. In this study, we report that Arr2 additionally functions as a positive regulator of AR expression and function in PCa cells. Expression level of Arr2 correlates with that of AR, and knockdown of Arr2 inhibits the expression of AR and its effectors prostate-specific antigen, transmembrane protease serine 2, FK506-binding protein 51 and fatty acid synthase. Mechanistically, the knockdown of Arr2 attenuates the binding of AR to androgen response elements and consequently decreases transcription of AR-regulated genes. The inhibition of AR by Arr2 knockdown occurs in both androgen-dependent and castration-resistant PCa (CRPC) cells, although the effect is more prominent in CRPC. Arr2 knockdown inhibits the in vitro CRPC cell proliferation, prostasphere growth and invasion, as well as the in vivo prostate tumor formation, local invasion and distant metastasis. These results illustrate a new role for Arr2 in the expression and activation of AR and its potential relevance as a target for therapeutic intervention and monitoring of disease progression.
An Interpretation of Pauli’s Exclusion Principle

I. Pauli’s exclusion principle can be understood as an instance of the subjectivity of our knowledge. We are built out of only a particular world constructed according to one of the non-combining patterns possible under the laws of quantum mechanics. Therefore we are capable of having sense perceptions of only that world. II. Dirac’stheory of the proton shows why Pauli’s principle governs the world.
Distribution of waist-to-hip ratio, other indices of body fat distribution and obesity and associations with HDL cholesterol in children and young adults aged 4-19 years: The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

BACKGROUND: Little data has been published on the association of indices of body fat distribution and HDL cholesterol (HDL), a risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity, in representative samples of total populations of children and adolescents including blacks and Hispanics. OBJECTIVE: To describe the distribution of waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) in US children and adolescents and to assess the association with HDL. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey of a large national sample, the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. PARTICIPANTS: People aged 4–19 y. MEASUREMENTS: Body circumferences, skinfold thickness, body mass index (BMI), and serum total and HDL cholesterol concentrations. RESULTS: Mean WHR varied consistently with age, gender, and ethnic group. Levels were highest in Mexican Americans. WHR showed significant negative associations with HDL cholesterol concentration and positive associations with the ratio of total serum cholesterol to HDL in pre- and postpubertal girls independent of age and BMI. However, associations were often not as strong as those with BMI. Other indices of body fat distribution were not superior to WHR. CONCLUSION: Further research is needed on the association of WHR, other indices of body fat distribution and HDL measured in childhood with subsequent risk of atherosclerosis.