cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pathophysiology of gastrointestinal mucosal permeability.

. The intestinal mucosa is composed of multiple barriers to the lumen-to-blood transport of solutes, including the unstirred water and mucous layers, the apical and basolateral cell membranes of the epithelial cell, the paracellular junctions, the interstitial matrix, and the capillary and lymphatic endothelia. The epithelial barrier appears effectively to restrict the movement of solutes with a radius as low as 3 A, yet it also permits limited permeation by molecules as large as albumin (36 A radius). There is evidence to suggest that the restrictive properties of the gastrointestinal mucosa are significantly altered under various physiological and pathological conditions, and measurement of plasma (or luminal) clearances of water-soluble molecules has proved to be a popular method for studying intestinal permeability. The aim of this review is to discuss the concept of the plasma clearance method, methodological aspects of the technique, factors that influence plasma-to-lumen clearance measurements (e.g. solute size, blood flow, and permeability of the epithelial cell barrier), and advantages and disadvantages of the clearance method. Finally, application of the clearance technique to the study of ischaemia/reperfusion-, ethanol-, and FMLP-induced mucosal injury will be described.
Distribution of the sum of independent generalized logarithmic series variables

Jain and Gupta (1973) have given a generalized logarithmic series distribution which, for β = 1, reduces to the logarithmic series distribution. In this note we obtain the distribution of the sum of independent generalized logarithmic series variables. This distribution conforms, in a special case, to the First-type Stirling distribution (Patil and Wani, 1965) and would be useful in estimation theory.
Opto-Acoustic Transducers for Potentially Sensitive Ultrasonic Imaging

The most inherently sensitive type of ultrasonic system for real-time imaging is one that operates in a manner similar to that of a scanning electron-beam microscope. In the acoustic system, an ultrasonic beam is focused at a plane within an object. The focal spot is rapidly scanned in a raster pattern over this plane and the transmitted (or scattered) sound energy is collected by a piezo-electric receiver. The receiver output is displayed on a synchronously-scanned television monitor, yielding a visual image of the spatial pattern of acoustic opacity (or reflectivity) in the object plane. This paper describes an embodiment of this type of system for operation at megahertz frequencies in which the key element is an opto-acoustic transducer (OAT) whose function is to convert an impinging optical intensity pattern into a corresponding spatial pattern of generated acoustic amplitude. An incident optical pattern can be formed and scanned by optical equipment, which will generate, scan and focus a corresponding acoustic beam. This approach does not require the use of high-density transducer arrays with individualized electronics or acoustic lenses and therefore, inherently possesses the potential advan-tages of simplicity and versatility over existing or other proposed scanning-focused beam systems.
Maine woodland owner perceptions of long rotation woody biomass harvesting and bioenergy

Abstract Predicting and understanding timber supply is a central component to the viability of the wood-based bioenergy industry. Available timber supply from private woodland owners is difficult to estimate because complex behavioral theory informs the owner's decision to harvest. The decision-making environment consists of exogenous market factors, internal cognitive processes, and social interactions. This study seeks to understand the cognitive factors influencing the decision to harvest timber for bioenergy markets. Specifically, we seek an understanding of how private woodland owner values contribute to their attitudes and willingness to harvest biomass from their land. Thirty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with private woodland owners (PWOs) who had previously harvested timber (n = 26), had never harvested timber (n = 6), and had harvested timber for woody biomass markets (n = 9). Results indicate some PWOs expressed a willingness to supply timber for biomass (63%), most held anthropocentric values (81%), and all expressed unfamiliarity with biomass markets. Many PWOs had concerns about biomass harvesting, including nutrient removal, economic efficiency, and impact on statewide harvesting levels. These results help provide insight to available timber supply for the bioenergy industry and potential educational opportunities for better informing landowners.
Examining quality of contraceptive services for adolescents in Oregon's family planning program

Abstract Objective To assess the quality of care provided to adolescents (10–19 years old) compared to women (aged 20–25 years) who accessed services in Oregon's Contraceptive Care (CCare) program. Study Design We analyzed data routinely collected using the Clinic Visit Record form from women aged 25 years and younger who visited CCare clinics between January 1, 2004, and October 31, 2010. Modern methods were characterized into three tiers: Tier 1 is the intrauterine device, implant and sterilization; Tier 2, hormonal methods; and Tier 3, all barrier methods. Nonmodern methods included no method, withdrawal and natural family planning. We used multivariable logistic regression models to examine the effect of age on three indicators of quality of contraceptive care: transitioning from a nonmodern to a modern method, transitioning from Tier 3 methods to Tier 1 or Tier 2 methods, and initiation of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). We then produced predicted probabilities to facilitate data interpretation. Results Adolescents accounted for 344,856 (41%) of the 848,221 clinic visits occurring in CCare among women under age 25. Compared with women (ages 20–25 years), young and older adolescents had decreased odds of LARC initiation [odds ratio (OR) 0.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.16–0.35) and OR 0.44 (95% CI 0.38–0.52), respectively]. However, compared with women, both young and older adolescents had increased odds of leaving with any contraceptive method [OR 1.8 95% (CI 1.26–2.59) and OR 1.42 (95% CI 1.21–1.66)]. Among clients presenting with no method of contraception at the beginning of the visit, 78.7% of young adolescents (95% CI 73.84–83.03) compared with 81.44% (95% CI 77.02–85.52) of older adolescents, and 76.63% (95% CI 69.90–80.75) of young women left with a modern method, controlling for other covariates. Conclusion Although adolescents served by CCare are more likely to initiate contraception, they are less likely to receive LARC than women aged 20–25 years. Implication Efforts are needed to ensure that adolescents have access to highly effective reversible contraception.
TCR signal quantity and quality in CD4+ T cell differentiation

The adaptive immune system protects its host from a myriad of pathogens. This ability stems from a vast set of lymphocytes, each with a different antigen receptor, a small number of which will bind to antigens derived from a given pathogen. Although the cells within any antigen-specific population appear to be relatively homogenous before antigenic encounter, recent work on T cells indicates that individual cells within the population differentiate in very different ways after exposure to the antigen. We focus here on studies of CD4+ T cells and review evidence indicating that variable differentiation of effector cells from single naive cells is caused by both cell-extrinsic stochastic factors and cell-intrinsic factors related to T cell antigen receptor (TCR) signal quantity and quality.
A simple high resolution pulse shape discriminator

Abstract A pulse shape discrimination syste the following characteristicsm high nultiparticle resolution ( M ≈3), wide dynamic range (1 E n 50kHz), built-in calibration, minimum weight (
Challenges and Recommendations for Advancing the State-of-the-Science of Quality of Life Assessment in Symptom Management Trials

Major findings are presented from a workshop on Quality of Life Assessment in Cancer Symptom Management Trials, sponsored by the National Cancer Institute. Data-driven research reports focused on 3 topics, 1) the rationale and utility of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) assessment, 2) conceptual models, and 3) measurement and design issues. Recommendations for including HRQOL assessment cited the potential value of: capturing additional treatment effects (eg, fatigue + depression); describing the patient experience; predicting patient prognosis; identifying potential adverse effects; observing interactions among symptoms; calculating quality adjusted survival and cost-effectiveness; and generating new hypotheses. Recommendations for developing more fully developed conceptual models focused on maintaining clear distinctions among symptoms, function, summary measures of HRQOL, and global HRQOL assessments; identifying symptom clusters; pursuing hypotheses about whether clustering is better explained as symptom-related or as patient-related (genetic predispositions); and gaining a better understanding of the dynamic and reciprocal influences of symptoms on each other. With respect to measurement and design issues, because different HRQOL measures cover different domains with various degrees of sensitivity, there is a need to select measures that are carefully tailored to the study's hypotheses. Finally, there is a growing appreciation that trials must be powered to test for effects on secondary endpoints.
Issue Publics, Mass Publics, and Agenda Setting: Environmentalism and Economics in Presidential Elections

In this study we assess whether the two major political parties and their presidential candidates played any role in mobilizing public support for environmentalism, as compared with economic issues. Our empirical analysis is based on (1) content analysis of the party platforms, (2) content analysis of campaign rhetoric, and (3) identification of ‘attentive’ publics in the electorate. Over the period 1972–92 no fewer than 12% of respondents mentioned economics but no more than 3.9% mentioned purely environmental concerns. We conclude that the environmental policy agenda did not originate from two-party electoral competition.
Effective responses: Protestants, Catholics and the provision of health care in the post-war Kivus

In extremely weak states, why are some civil society organisations better at providing health care than others? The case of health-care provision in the Kivu provinces of the eastern DRC provides a useful context in which to examine this question. Faced with the negative effects of more than 15 years of conflict, civil society organisations are the only institutions capable of providing social services. This article uses a series of case studies of local, faith-based health-care providers to argue that a number of historical, demographic and institutional factors cause some groups to develop stronger social capital networks than others. This in turn affects the degree of effectiveness that an organisation will have in providing social services in the state's absence. In doing so, they effectively substitute for the state in its role as a provider and regulator of public goods. [Reponses efficaces : les Protestants, les Catholiques et la prevention des soins sanitaires dans le Kivu d'apres-guerre]. Dans le...
Production of a thermostable vero cell-adapted rinderpest vaccine

The method of vaccine virus production, chemical stabilization, and lyophilization of a thermostable Vero cell-adapted rinderpest vaccine is presented. The production method results in a vaccine which can be used in the field without refrigeration for up to 30 d.
Sample size and power: What Is enough?

Abstract A basic understanding of statistical methodology is essential, both for designing quality research projects and for evaluating the medical literature. This article deals with the basic principles involved in sample size calculations and shows the concepts and factors that determine sample sizes for comparing means, proportions, and time-to-event measures. Special topics are also discussed including adjustments to sample size calculation and post hoc analyses of power.
Rapid gravimetric determination of Si in rice straw

Abstract The Si content of rice straw is used as a measure of the Si status of rice plants, the growth and grain production of which are reduced when plant Si is low. Straw Si often is determined gravimetrically following digestion of plant tissue. A new, rapid gravimetric procedure has been developed for determining Si in rice straw. The straw is oxidized, washed free of various components, and SiO2is developed and weighed in fritted glass Gooche crucibles. The rapid method reduces the analysis time, reduces glassware requirements, and eliminates analyte transfers.
Entrepreneurship and state economic growth

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to test whether entrepreneurship is a significant factor in explaining economic growth at the state level.Design/methodology/approach – This paper, unlike previous work, uses the Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity (KIEA) as the measure of entrepreneurial activity. Based on standard growth regressions using real per capita gross state product, real per capita personal income and employment growth, we test for the independent role that entrepreneurial activity may have on state economic growth.Findings – We find that an increase in the level of entrepreneurial activity is robustly associated with an increase in economic growth. Such findings reinforce calls for policy changes at the state level that promote more productive entrepreneurship.Research limitations/implications – These conclusions are tentative. The findings are based on the growth of the 50 states over a relatively short period. A longer data set would be preferable, if data were available. Moreove...
Design for CD correction strategy using a resist shrink method via UV irradiation for defect-free photomask

As the specification for photomask becomes tighter, it is strongly demanded for achieving precise CD MTT (critical dimension mean to target) and enhanced defect controllability in photomask fabrication. First of all, it is necessary that reducing the factors of CD MTT error and introducing the reliable method to correct CD error for accurate CD requirement of attenuated PSM (phase shift mask). From this point of view, one of CD correction methods which consist of Cr CD measurement step after resist strip (strip inspection CD: SI CD) and additional corrective Cr dry etch step was developed. Previous SI CD correction process resulted in accurate CD control within the range of CD MTT. However it was not appropriate for defect control due to additional resist processes for selective protection of Cr pattern during CD correction process. In this study, the method for achieving precise CD MTT by correcting CD error without any resist process is investigated. It is not suitable for the CD correction process to control CD MTT precisely that Cr etched resist (etch inspection CD: EI CD) is very vulnerable to E-beam scanning during CD measurement. Otherwise, photoresist after Cr etch selectively shrinks via UV irradiation under ozone (O3) condition, which drives a reduction of CD MTT error as a result of accurate CD measurement (UV-irradiation inspection CD: UI CD). Moreover, it is not necessary any resist process for Cr protection due to UV irradiated resist as enough for a etch barrier. It is a strong advantage of novel CD correction method. This strategy solves the problems such as both CD measurement error on the EI CD correction method and defects originated from resist process on the SI CD correction method at once. For the successful incorporation of UI CD correction method, several items related with CD should be evaluated: accuracy and repeatability of CD measurement under UI CD, control of CD MTT and CD uniformity, additional corrective etch bias for UI CD, independence of corrective Cr etch process from UV irradiated resist, isolated-dense CD difference,.. etc. In this paper, strategy of design for the progressive CD correction method for defect-free photomask and process details will be discussed.
Mission-oriented research for light machinery.

The time of intelligent machines is upon us. But the United States is not actively pursuing this rich field of technological development. This is evidenced by the U.S. trade deficit of $9 billion in this market in 1977. The synergistic approach of Japan, Germany, Russia, and other countries to research, development, and demonstration among government, academic, and industrial groups is paying big dividends in vital U.S. markets. This article outlines a specific solution in terms of a U.S. national research policy for light machinery and robotics.
The use of associated surfactant media for the synthesis of fine particles: Preparation of iron oxides

Abstract Precipitation of iron oxide in a lyotropic liquid crystal medium is compared to that in homogeneous solution. Results indicate that the aqueous layers of the lamellar phase influence both the nucleation and particle growth stages of particle formation. The formation of β-FeOOH occurs in the temperature range 60–90°C. Particle sizes in the range 1–100 nm, depending on the heating times, with needle like morphology are formed.
159 Health and School Performance: Longitudinal Findings From Project Healthy Pathways

Background/aim: Although the connections between health and school performance are well accepted, data on the specific mechanisms that account for this relationship is remarkably scant. The aim of this study was to characterize the longitudinal associations between child health and academic achievement among 4th-8th graders followed for 3 years in 3 school districts in the USA. Design/Methods: Project Healthy Pathways, an NIH-funded study, enrolled 2,091 4th-6th grade students (90% with complete data) and used a cohort sequential design to monitor changes over 3 years in their health, as reported by children (ACASI) and parents (mailed questionnaires), and their performance on standardized achievement tests and annual grade point averages. Results: Both the quantity and pattern of children's health significantly predicted achievementtest scores and grade point average. Although health declined for many children during entry into adolescence, about 20% experienced large decrements in health. These children were more likely girls, had low self worth, and experienced early puberty. Significant positive predictors of school performance were good nutrition habits, good coping, adequate levels of sleep, and feeling connected with adults, and negative predictors included feelings of stress, physical discomfort, being a bully victim, having a special healthcare need, and being overweight. Conclusions: In this longitudinal study, characteristic patterns of child health predicted future academic achievement. These findings suggest that health promotion efforts provided to children in elementary school may have beneficial effects on academic performance in adolescence.
Improving maternal mental health after a child's diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder: results from a randomized clinical trial.

Importance The prevalence of psychological distress among mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) suggests a need for interventions that address parental mental health during the critical period after the child’s autism diagnosis when parents are learning to navigate the complex system of autism services. Objective To investigate whether a brief cognitive behavioral intervention, problem-solving education (PSE), decreases parenting stress and maternal depressive symptoms during the period immediately following a child’s diagnosis of ASD. Design, Setting, and Participants A randomized clinical trial compared 6 sessions of PSE with usual care. Settings included an autism clinic and 6 community-based early intervention programs that primarily serve low-income families. Participants were mothers of 122 young children (mean age, 34 months) who recently received a diagnosis of ASD. Among mothers assessed for eligibility, 17.0% declined participation. We report outcomes after 3 months of follow-up (immediate postdiagnosis period). Interventions Problem-solving education is a brief, cognitive intervention delivered in six 30-minute individualized sessions by existing staff (early intervention programs) or research staff without formal mental health training (autism clinic). Main Outcomes and Measures Primary outcomes were parental stress and maternal depressive symptoms. Results Fifty-nine mothers were randomized to receive PSE and 63 to receive usual care. The follow-up rate was 91.0%. Most intervention mothers (78.0%) received the full PSE course. At the 3-month follow-up assessment, PSE mothers were significantly less likely than those serving as controls to have clinically significant parental stress (3.8% vs 29.3%; adjusted relative risk [aRR], 0.17; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.65). For depressive symptoms, the risk reduction in clinically significant symptoms did not reach statistical significance (5.7% vs 22.4%; aRR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.10 to 1.08); however, the reduction in mean depressive symptoms was statistically significant (Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology score, 4.6 with PSE vs 6.9 with usual care; adjusted mean difference, −1.67; 95% CI, −3.17 to −0.18). Conclusions and Relevance The positive effects of PSE in reducing parenting stress and depressive symptoms during the critical postdiagnosis period, when parents are asked to navigate a complex service delivery system, suggest that it may have a place in clinical practice. Further work will monitor these families for a total of 9 months to determine the trajectory of outcomes. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT01021384
New Dimensions of Professional/Organizational Relationships

L'A. porte son attention sur les evolutions qui ont affecte les relations professionnelles et organisationnelles. Il presente un certain nombre d'etudes menees sur ce theme. Il presente celle de J. R. Mitrano qui a analyse l'impact des facteurs organisationnels sur le travail du personnel d'un hopital specialise dans la pediatrie. Il evoque les travaux de B. Zajac et L. B. Stearns qui se sont efforces de mettre en lumiere les facteurs qui ont provoque le declin de certains secteurs industriels aux Etats-Unis. Il examine enfin les recherches d'A. L. Oliver sur les interactions entre facteurs organisationnels et facteurs professionnels. Il montre comment cette derniere met en exergue la notion de confiance
Justice as an Emotion Disposition

In this tribute to the work of Robert Solomon, I address a topic that occupied him frequently in the last 20 years of his life, and about which he wrote a book and several articles: the relation(s) between the emotions and justice as a personal virtue. I hope to clarify Solomon’s views using three distinctions that seem implicit in his writings, among (1) justice as general virtue and justice as a particular virtue, (2) objective justice and justice as a virtue, and (3) an emotion and a passion. Using these three distinctions and a fourfold schema of emotional objects that seems implied by the foregoing discussion, I argue that an account of emotions like Solomon’s, which construes emotions as in crucial ways like judgments, contains resources for grasping in some detail how particular emotions are related to the virtue of justice. Among these emotions, I pay special attention to compassion.
I Could Live other Places, but This is Where I Want to Be: Support for Natural Helper Initiatives

Charlotte REACH 2010 is an example of a multi-level intervention with the goal of reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. Structured within a socio-ecological framework, lay health advi...
Three-dimensional reconstruction of human coronary and peripheral arteries from images recorded during two-dimensional intravascular ultrasound examination.

BACKGROUNDIntravascular ultrasound provides high-resolution images of vascular lumen, plaque, and subjacent structures in the vessel wall; current instrumentation, however, limits the operator to viewing a single, tomographic, two-dimensional image at any one time. Comparative analysis of serial two-dimensional images requires repeated review of the video playback recorded during the two-dimensional examination, followed by a "mind's eye" type of imagined reconstruction.METHODS AND RESULTSComputer-based, automated three-dimensional reconstruction was used to generate a tangible format with which to assess and compare a "stacked" series of two-dimensional images. Three-dimensional representations were prepared from sequential images obtained during intravascular ultrasound examination in 52 patients, 50 of whom were studied before and/or after percutaneous revascularization. Conventional two-dimensional ultrasound images were acquired by means of a systematic, timed pullback of the ultrasound catheter thro...
Effectiveness of Writing Groups in Nursing Homes

We examine the effect of participation in an 8-week writing group in six nursing homes. Pretest and posttest assessments of cognitive and affective functional status were administered to 62 participants and 54 control subjects. We asked writing-group participants about previous writing experience and perceived ability to convey feelings, ideas, life experiences, and memories to others. Weekly assessments were conducted on eight group process measures. Findings suggest that participation in writing groups may reduce depression, particularly among residents with higher cognitive ability and greater depression. Significantly more participants than control subjects report an ability to relate feelings and ideas to other residents and staff. Improvement in group process measures is greatest for cognitively impaired participants and those with high physical function scores. There is considerable improvement in residents for whom writing-group participation frequently is considered inappropriate: those without writing experience, the depressed, and the cognitively impaired.
Decreased adrenal androgen sensitivity to ACTH during aging

During the human aging process, basal plasma levels of cortisol and aldosterone demonstrate little change, while concentrations of adrenal androgens (AA) such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS), and androstenedione (A) decrease dramatically in men and women. There is no age-related change in ACTH concentrations to explain this observation. In this study, ACTH (cosyntropin, alpha1-24 corticotropin) stimulation tests were performed on elderly subjects and controls to test the hypothesis that analogous to the aging testicular. Leydig cell, AA-producing cells of the aging adrenal gland may become less sensitive to physiological levels of ACTH, but still retain their sensitivity to elevated ACTH levels. Results showed that in the elderly subjects, basal levels and ACTH-stimulatability of cortisol and aldosterone were unchanged. In agreement with earlier studies, basal levels of AA were found to be decreased in the elderly. However, ACTH stimulation demonstrated impaired reserve in DHA and A, and a total lack of stimulatability of DHAS. These findings could be explained by an age-related loss of adrenal enzymes or cell populations which produce AA, a loss or decrease in a subpopulation of ACTH receptors specific for AA production, or loss of a pituitary factor necessary for AA secretion.
EGFR plays a pivotal role in the regulation of polyamine dependent apoptosis In intestinal epithelial cells

Abstract Intracellular polyamine synthesis is regulated by the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), and its inhibition by α-difluromethylornithine (DFMO), confers resistance to apoptosis. We have previously shown that DFMO leads to the inhibition of de novo polyamine synthesis, which in turn rapidly activates Src, STAT3 and NF-κB via integrin β3 in intestinal epithelial cells. One mechanism to explain these effects involves the activation of upstream growth factor receptors, such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We therefore hypothesized that EGFR phosphorylation regulates the early response to polyamine depletion. DFMO increased EGFR phosphorylation on tyrosine residues 1173 (pY1173) and 845 (pY845) within 5 min. Phosphorylation declined after 10 min and was prevented by the addition of exogenous putrescine to DFMO containing medium. Phosphorylation of EGFR was concomitant with the activation of ERK1/2. Pretreatment with either DFMO or EGF for 1 h protected cells from TNF-α/CHX-induced apoptosis. Exogenous addition of polyamines prevented the protective effect of DFMO. In addition, inhibition of integrin β3 activity (with RGDS), Src activity (with PP2), or EGFR kinase activity (with AG1478), increased basal apoptosis and prevented protection conferred by either DFMO or EGF. Polyamine depletion failed to protect B82L fibroblasts lacking the EGFR (PRN) and PRN cells expressing either a kinase dead EGFR (K721A) or an EGFR (Y845F) mutant lacking the Src phosphorylation site. Conversely, expression of WT-EGFR (WT) restored the protective effect of polyamine depletion. Fibronectin activated the EGFR, Src, ERKs and protected cells from apoptosis. Taken together, our data indicate an essential role of EGFR kinase activity in MEK/ERK-mediated protection, which synergizes with integrin β3 leading to Src-mediated protective responses in polyamine depleted cells.
A first in nuclear waste storage: Back to granite

For the first time, storage of nuclear waste in the form of spent fuel elements and electric heat simulators from a commercial nuclear reactor will soon be tested in a deep granite repository, according to the Department of Energy. The fundamental principles to be followed for storage of spent reactor fuel from nuclear electric generators are in a preliminary state of understanding (EOS, 61, 513–514, 1980). The guidelines at this state include sealing of the waste materials inside hermetically welded stainless steel containers and canisters. A deep storage well, located north of Las Vegas at the Department of Energy's Nevada test site, was drilled out of a thick formation of granitic rock. The stainless steel canisters will be placed into drilled access holes in the floor of a tunnel in the granite, at a depth of approximately 430 km from the surface.
Quality of Life of Adolescents With Perceived Disabilities

Objective To compare the self-perceived quality of life (QoL) of adolescents with and without disabilities. Method A school-based survey was conducted with 2,801 7th to 12th grade students in a rural area of the United States. The Youth Quality of Life Instrument-Surveillance Module and the Youth Quality of Life Group-Disability Screener were completed. Results Twenty-one percent of all students surveyed reported having one or more physical, emotional, or learning disabilities. Adolescents with disabilities reported lower QoL than adolescent without disabilities. However, self-rated health, depressive symptoms, and contextual variables were significant covariates in the relationship between disability and QoL. Conclusions These findings suggest channels to improve the QoL of adolescents with disabilities. Specifically, reducing social and environmental barriers to promote inclusion of adolescents with disabilities in school, family, and community activities is one practical avenue for reducing disparities in QoL.
Conceptualization and Measurement of Criminal Thinking Initial Validation of the Criminogenic Thinking Profile

This article describes two studies concerning the development of a new measure of criminal thinking, the CriminogenicThinking Profile (CTP), influenced by the construct of psychopathy, and traditional models of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). An experimental item pool based on verbalizations from offenders served as the pilot version of the instrument. Principal components analysis of the items resulted in a 62-item, eight-factor scale that was internally consistent. In terms of content, six of the resulting factors were conceptually related to psychopathy, one to CBT, and one to neutralization theory. The factor structure and internal reliability was supported by a subsequent confirmatory factor analysis. Initial support for the CTP’s convergent validity was indicated by its positive correlations with psychopathy and personality disorders associated with criminal, aggressive, and impulsive behaviors. The CTP’s divergent validity was supported by its inverse correlations with indices of healthy person...
Experiences with formal specification of fault-tolerant file systems

Fault-tolerant, replicated file systems are a crucial component of todaypsilas data centers. Despite their huge complexity, these systems are typically specified only in brief prose, which makes them difficult to reason about or verify. This paper describes the authorspsila experience using formal methods to improve our understanding of and confidence in the behavior of replicated file systems. We wrote formal specifications for three real-world fault-tolerant file systems and used them to: (1) expose design similarities and differences; (2) clarify and mechanically verify consistency properties; and (3) evaluate design alternatives. Our experience showed that formal specifications for these systems were easy to produce, useful for a deep understanding of system functions, and valuable for system comparison.
Epigenetic Mechanisms in Heart Failure Pathogenesis

Although neurohormonal antagonist and device therapies have improved outcomes in patients with systolic heart failure (HF), residual morbidity and mortality remain high.1,2 Novel HF therapeutic approaches thus remain an unmet clinical need of pressing urgency. Such approaches depend, in turn, on keener understanding of the molecular pathways underlying HF pathogenesis. Although a number of novel myocardial signaling effectors have been implicated as drivers of HF pathogenesis,1,3 translating these findings into human therapies has remained extremely challenging. Gene expression profiling studies in animal HF models4 and in human failing hearts5 consistently demonstrate aberrant gene control in HF. The term epigenetics—a fusion of epigenesis and genetics—was coined ≥50 years ago to describe the process of cell fate commitment during development.6 Today, the epigenome denotes the totality of sequence-independent processes that modulate cell-state–specific gene expression (eg, post-translational histone or DNA modifications and noncoding RNA/protein complex interactions with chromatin).7–10 The epigenome may differ between cell types, drive local formation of higher order chromatin structures, modulate transcription factor (TF) access to DNA, and preserve memory of past transcriptional activities.10 This review focuses on the chromatin-specific epigenetic regulatory mechanisms that may inform novel therapeutic targets in HF. We specifically highlight examples of chromatin remodeling, biochemical modifications to histones, and integrated features of chromatin-dependent signal transduction that are pertinent to cardiac biology. Other epigenetic pathways in HF, including miRNAs, have been extensively reviewed elsewhere.11,12 Eukaryotic cell identity or more broadly, cellular state, is largely governed by precise spatiotemporal coordination of gene expression.9 Pathological transformation from a normal to a diseased cardiomyocyte (eg, hypertrophied and hypocontractile) represents a cell state transition driven by defined transcriptional events. Dynamic interplay among …
Teaching Spiritual Synchronicity in a Business Leadership Class

Business leaders and business workers are increasingly interested in bringing their whole selves to work, including the spiritual. Students, as prospective leaders, need to understand issues of reasonable accommodation, religious holidays, display of religious objects, religious practices at work, and so forth. Students may also benefit from considering their own spiritual practices. The business curriculum should prepare future leaders to address these concerns. This article (a) describes the evidence for spirituality at work, (b) defines spiritual synchronicity and the implications for work, and (c) describes the integration of these factors into a business-leadership course at a public university.
Theory and Applications of Gaussian Quadrature Methods

Gaussian quadrature is a powerful technique for numerical integration that falls under the broad category of spectral methods. The purpose of this work is to provide an introduction to the theory and practice of Gaussian quadrature. We study the approximation theory of trigonometric and orthogonal polynomials and related functions and examine the analytical framework of Gaussian quadrature. We discuss Gaussian quadrature for bandlimited functions, a topic inspired by some recent developments in the analysis of prolate spheroidal wave functions. Algorithms for the computation of the quadrature nodes and weights are described. Several applications of Gaussian quadrature are given, ranging from the evaluation of special functions to pseudospectral methods for solving differential equations. Software realization of select algorithms is provided. Table of Contents: Introduction / Approximating with Polynomials and Related Functions / Gaussian Quadrature / Applications / Links to Mathematical Software
How wood evolves: a new synthesis

Recent advances in wood physiology, molecular phylogeny, and ultrastructure (chiefly scanning electron microscopy, SEM), as well as important new knowledge in traditional fields, provide the basis ...
Revelry and riot in Archaic Megara: democratic disorder or ritual reversal?

Plutarch (probably following Aristotle's lost Constitution of the Megarians) associates several episodes of riotous behaviour with the existence of a radical democracy in Archaic Megara (Moralia 295c-d, 304e-t). Modem historians, in turn, have accepted that Megara was ruled by a democracy in the mid sixth century BC. I suggest that this conclusion is unjustified because the connection between riotous behaviour and democracy in Plutarch is based on fourth-century anti-democratic political thought. I propose instead that anecdotes describing the insolent behaviour of the poor towards the rich are better interpreted in terms of customary ritual s of social inversion and transgression. Drawing on comparative examples from the ancient world and early modem Europe, I show that popular revelry involving role reversal and transgression of social norms was an important locus for the negotiation of relations between elites and masses. I argue that such rituals provided temporary release from the constraints of the social hierarchy, and served to articulate symbolically the obligation of the powerful to protect the weak. The comparative examples show that such rituals were usually non-revolutionary, but could turn violent in times of rapid social and economic change. I argue that the violent episodes reported by Plutarch reflect the escalation of ritual revelry into real protest and riot in response to the breakdown of traditional relations of reciprocity between rich and poor in Archaic Megara. I suggest that elites in Archaic Megara successfully warded off more far-reaching rebellion and political reform by enacting new measures for the economic relief of the poor (e.g. the return of interest legislation). In conclusion, I address the broader historical question of why subordinate groups use ritual forms to express discontent.
QoS Support in ARINC 664 P8 Data Networks: ATN Applications Over TCP/IP Ground-to-Ground Subnetworks ∗

Aeronautical Telecommunication Network (ATN) has been developed by International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to integrate air-ground and ground-ground data communications for aeronautical applications into a single network serving air traffic control and aeronautical operational communications. The current ICAO ATN model specifies a standalone network with its own protocols, which requires building an expensive separate network for air-ground and ground-ground communications. However, the cost of building ATN can be reduced if it can use existing networks wherever possible, such as the Internet.ARINC 664 Part 8 committee has been developing an approach for inter-operation of ATN applications over the commercial TCP/IP networks. To carry time critical information required for aeronautical applications,ATN provides different Quality of Services (QoS) to applications. Although the current Internet does not provide QoS, Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) developed the Differentiated Services (DiffServ) network to provide differential QoS to users of next generation data networks. The objective of this paper is to investigate the possibility and conduct a proof-of-concept evaluation of providing QoS to ATN applications over the DiffServ network in the next generation Internet. Our results show that the QoS requirements ofATN applications for ground-to-ground communications can be successfully satisfied when ATN is run over a DiffServ backbone.
Pathophysiology of phenylketonuria

The brain is the organ primarily affected by elevated phenylalanine (Phe) in the disease phenylketonuria (PKU). The hallmark neuropathology of both the untreated and treated PKU brains is hypomyelination or demyelination or both. Because cognitive deficits are present in untreated and treated individuals, the link between the observed neuropathology and cognitive deficits is important to ascertain. Two current models of the molecular events underlying the cognitive deficits are presented. The first model is based on the hypothesis that cognitive deficits in individuals with PKU result from a deficiency of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Decreased levels of tyrosine in the PKU brain are believed to cause the low levels of dopamine. The possible connections between reduced dopamine levels and the observed myelin deficits are presented. However, as discussed, the link between the two remains elusive. The second model is based on the hypothesis that the primary insult to the PKU brain is loss of myelin and that this secondarily leads to neuronal dysfunction. The function of myelin is reviewed, including evidence showing that myelin and the axon communicate with one another to form a functional unit. Because the ability of the axon to conduct action potentials at normal speed is compromised when myelin is not formed or is lost, the latter model has the capacity to account for both abnormalities and cognitive deficits. Current studies characterizing the neuropathology of the recently developed genetic mouse model for PKU, the PAHenu2 mouse, are reviewed. Preliminary evidence is summarized that indicates that Phe specifically inhibits cholesterol metabolism in the oligodendrocyte, the cell that forms myelin in the brain. Finally, areas of future, high-priority research are outlined. MRDD Research Reviews 1999; 5:104–112. Published 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
MANAGING MILITARY URANIUM AND PLUTONIUM IN THE UNITED STATES AND THE FORMER SOVIET UNION

Effective approaches to the management of plutonium and highly enriched uranium (HEU)—the essential ingredients of nuclear weapons—are fundamental to controlling nuclear proliferation and providing the basis for deep, transparent, and irreversible reductions in nuclear weapons stockpiles. The collapse of the Soviet Union and the ongoing dismantlement of tens of thousands of nuclear weapons are creating unprecedented stresses on the systems for managing these materials, as well as unprecedented opportunities for cooperation to improve these systems. In this article, we summarize the technical background to this situation, and the current and prospective security challenges posed by military stockpiles of these materials in the United States and Russia. We then review the programs in place to address these challenges, the progress of these programs to date, and the work remaining to be done, in five areas: (a) preventing theft and smuggling of nuclear warheads and fissile materials; (b) building a regime of monitored reductions in nuclear warhead and fissile material stockpiles; (c) ending further production of excess fissile materials; ( d ) reducing stockpiles of excess fissile materials; and (e) avoiding economic collapse in the nuclear cities where substantial fractions of these materials and their guardians reside.
A spatial model of school district open enrollment choice

Abstract We provide an analysis of the determinants of adoption of inter-district open enrollment policies by school districts in Ohio. Legislation passed in 1997 allows Ohio's school districts to adopt one of the following open enrollment options: 1) prohibit enrollment of students from any other school district in the state (no open enrollment), 2) permit enrollment of students from adjacent school districts, or 3) permit enrollment of students from any school district in the state. We employ a recently developed spatial autoregressive lag multinomial logit model to examine the determinants of adoption of each open enrollment alternative. Among the most influential factors are school districts' demographic characteristics, financial factors, and competitive environment. More importantly, the results show evidence of strategic interaction, with a positive correlation in policy choice between neighboring school districts of about 0.4.
Todd Williams: Finance in the Middle (a)

A finance manager at a large pharmaceutical company is on loan to a new new subsidiary, leading to an ambiguous reporting structure. When an executive three levels above him wants information his temporary supervisor has deemed confidential, his career appears to hang on what he does next. Developed for use in an MBA organizational behavior course, this case would work well in an executive education class on organizational design, career development, or leadership. While the events and people are real, the names of participants and the company are fictional.
Confidentiality and the physician-patient relationship -- ethical reflections from a surgical waiting room

The physician-patient relationship is the primary focus of ethics in medicine. It is both a personal and a professional relationship that is founded on trust, confidence, dignity and mutual respect. Trust is the bridge to the physician-patient relationship, and the burden is on the physician not only to expect the patient's trust but also to build a solid foundation upon which the patient can place his or her trust. Great strides have been made by physicians in refining the physician-patient relationship especially in understanding and respecting the patients' right of self-determination regarding medical decision-making and protecting their rights of privacy and confidentiality. However, further refinements are needed on both sides regarding this relationship. Breaches of confidentiality are occurring in places like surgical waiting rooms and as a result, the physician-patient relationship is being damaged. This article identifies some legitimate concerns and offers some concrete solutions so that the physician-patient relationship can be further refined and the virtues and rights that support it can be reinforced.
Renal concentrating ability in pyridoxine deficiency.

SummaryPyridoxine deficiency was induced in rats by feeding a diet deficient in pyridoxine. Control rats were pair-fed to the intake of the experimental group. Pyridoxine deficiency was demonstrated in the experimental group by increased xanthurenic acid excretion following a tryptophane load and by development of hypertension. Renal concentrating ability, measured as maximum urinary osmolality following dehydration and vasopressin administration, was impaired in both pyridoxine deficient and control rats. Since both groups were protein depleted as a result of the pair-feeding, urea was given to both groups and renal concentrating ability remeasured. The control group now had normal concentrating ability, whereas the maximum urinary osmolality of the pyridoxine deficient rats was significantly reduced. These results suggest that pyridoxine or some aspect of its metabolism is essential for normal renal concentrating ability.