cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intraoperative monitoring: Normative range associated with normal postoperative glottic function

Objectives/Hypothesis Despite increasing use of intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM), there is limited information on normative electrophysiologic electromyographic (EMG) parameters. The objective of this study was to define normative parameters of recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) intraoperative neuromonitoring during thyroid surgery associated with normal postoperative vocal cord function. Study Design Prospective data collection in a tertiary care center. Methods Quantitative analysis of evoked waveform amplitude and threshold was performed on 125 patients with 167 nerves at risk. Values were displayed as a mean with 5th percentile and 95th percentiles (5th–95th). Postoperative vocal cord function in all patients was documented. Results All patients had normal postoperative laryngeal function (group I–normal) except for two patients who had postoperative transient vocal cord paralysis (group II–abnormal/outlier). The final amplitude between 247 and 3607 μV at the end of dissection/end of surgery was associated in all group I patients with a normal postoperative neural function. Final intraoperative amplitude measures for group II averaged just 97.5 μV, significantly different than our normative ranges obtained for group I, and fell outside of the group I 5% to 95% percentile range (P = .016). Final amplitude adequately predicted postoperative RLN impaired function immediately after surgery. Conclusions We propose IONM EMG data criteria that predict normal postoperative vocal cord function monitoring and provide information about nerve functioning at the end of the operation, thereby allowing adaptation of the surgical strategy when a bilateral procedure is indicated to avoid bilateral nerve paralysis. Level of Evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 123:3026–3031, 2013
Protein side‐chain modeling with a protein‐dependent optimized rotamer library

Despite years of effort, the problem of predicting the conformations of protein side chains remains a subject of inquiry. This problem has three major issues, namely defining the conformations that a side chain may adopt within a protein, developing a sampling procedure for generating possible side-chain packings, and defining a scoring function that can rank these possible packings. To solve the former of these issues, most procedures rely on a rotamer library derived from databases of known protein structures. We introduce an alternative method that is free of statistics. We begin with a rotamer library that is based only on stereochemical considerations; this rotamer library is then optimized independently for each protein under study. We show that this optimization step restores the diversity of conformations observed in native proteins. We combine this protein-dependent rotamer library (PDRL) method with the self-consistent mean field (SCMF) sampling approach and a physics-based scoring function into a new side-chain prediction method, SCMF-PDRL. Using two large test sets of 831 and 378 proteins, respectively, we show that this new method compares favorably with competing methods such as SCAP, OPUS-Rota, and SCWRL4 for energy-minimized structures.
Implications of the Recursive Representation Problem for Automatic Concept Identifcation in On-line Governmental lnformation

This paper describes ongoing research into the application of unsupervised learning techniques for improving access to governmental information on the Web. Under the auspices of the GovStat Project (http://www.ils.unc.edu/govstat), our goal is to identify a small number of semantically valid and mutually exclusive "concepts" that adequately span the intellectual domain of a web site. While this is a classic instance of the clustering problem [14] the task is complicated by the dual-representational nature of term-document relationships. Since documents are defined in term-space and vice versa, we may approach this as a document-or term-clustering problem. The current study explores the implications of pursuing both term- and document-centered representations. Based on initial work, we argue for a document clustering-based approach. Describing completed research, we suggest that term clustering yields semantically valid categories, but that these categories are not suitably broad. To improve the coverage of the clustering, we describe a process based on document clustering.
Redefining Citizenship in Russia

Putin and Medvedev have created new models of citizenship while reforming the welfare state. The impact of the global financial crisis raises the question of what might happen if the state cannot fulfill its part of the bargain.
The Mortgage in the Russian Federation in Q1 2014

In the 1st quarter of 2014, the total volume of the extended MHL exceeded by 47.43% the volume of loans extended in the 1st quarter of 2013. It is to be noted that within a quarter Rb 334.73bn worth of 198,082 loans was extended. A decrease in the share of the overdue debt on MHL points to continued upgrading of quality of mortgage lending. However, as of April 1, 2014 the total debt on loans with payments overdue for over 180 days increased by 0.11 p.p. as compared to March 1, 2014 and amounted to 1.88%. In 2014, the weighted average rate on MHL in rubles extended from the beginning of the year keeps falling. As of April 1, 2014, it amounted to 12.2%. In March 2014, the weighted average rate on MHL in rubles extended within a month amounted to 12.0%.
Growth of Explanted Eight Day Hamster Embryos in Circulating Medium

THE conditions for culture of Syrian hamsters (Cricetus auratus) in a circulating medium1 have been investigated as a means of facilitating the direct teratological effects of chemical carcinogens. Female virgin (80–120 g) hamsters determined, by inspection, to be in oestrus between 2200 h and 2400 h, were placed in the male's breeding cage. The hamsters were separated the next morning, the first day of pregnancy. Pregnant hamsters were killed by an overdose of ether on day 7, 8 or 9. The uterus was removed aseptically and placed in a Petri dish of sterile Dulbecco's phosphate buffered saline (PBS). The uterus was opened under a stereoscopic microscope, and the embryo with decidua was removed and placed in a second Petri dish containing PBS. The decidua was removed and Reichert's membrane torn with watchmaker's forceps and microdissecting scissors. The isolated embryos with intact foetal membranes were kept in PBS until they were placed in culture vessels. The time from the removal of the uterus to the embryos being placed in culture vessels varied from 45 to 90 min.
THE KINETICS OF PENETRATION : III. EQUATIONS FOR THE EXCHANGE OF IONS

Equations are given for a variety of cases when ions of the same sign are exchanged between the interior of a living cell and the external solution.
The Oric High-Resolution Spectrograph Facility

The installation of a broad-range spectrograph system at ORIC has now been completed. The system consists of a beam analyzing magnet, two triplet quadrupole magnets, and the spectrograph magnet. These magnets are operated as a compound system to obtain optimum energy resolution. The quadrupole pair gives the system a unique flexibility in matching the properties of the beam preparation and the spectrograph magnets. Preliminary results of the operation of the system show the importance of this compound operation with obtained resolutions approaching 1 part in 2000.
The effect of interstitial impurities on the annealing of neutron-irradiated vanadium

Abstract Annealing of neutron-irradiated vanadium was investigated in the temperature range 100–300°C using internal friction and resistivity measurements. The results indicate that the resistivity annealing stage at about 185°C is due to the migration of interstitial oxygen and carbon to radiation-produced defects, possibly small dislocation loops. This conclusion is based on the following evidence: 1. (1) The magnitude of the resistivity annealing stage was larger for vanadium with higher oxygen and carbon contents. 2. (2) The Snoek internal friction peak due to oxygen and carbon decreased upon post-irradiation annealing at 185°C by an amount consistent with the observed resistivity decrease. 3. (3) The resistivity decreased during post-irradiation annealing to below the pre-irradiation value. 4. (4) The activation energy for the resistivity annealing, 1.2 ± 0.1 eV, is the same as the activation energies for oxygen and carbon migration, 1.26 and 1.18 eV, respectively.
Synchrotron X-ray Diffraction Investigation of the Anomalous Behavior of Ice During Freezing of Aqueous Systems

Simple aqueous systems, i.e., phosphate-glycine buffers and pure water, were studied at subambient temperatures by X-ray difractometry using a high-intensity synchrotron radiation source at the Advanced Photon Source of Argonne National Laboratory. Complex X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, with two or more poorly resolved peaks in place of each of the four diagnostic peaks of hexagonal ice, 100, 002, 101, and 102, referred as "splitting", were observed in the majority of cases. The splitting of up to 0.05 A (d-spacing) was detected for 100, 002, and 101 peaks, whereas 102 peak was less affected. Deformation of the lattice of hexagonal ice, probably due to local stress created on the ice/ice or ice/container interface during water-to-ice transformation, is proposed as a possible mechanism for the observed splitting of XRD peaks. Using molecular modeling, it was estimated that the observed shifts in the peak positions are equivalent to applying a hydrostatic pressure of 2-3 kbars. The splitting can be used to quantify stresses during freezing, which could improve our understanding of the role of water-to-ice transformation on the destabilization of proteins and other biological systems.
Derivation of a quark-confinement equation in the Hamiltonian formalism of gauge field theories

Using the Hamiltonian formalism of gauge field theories I derive a quark-confining wave equation for a gauge-invariant amplitude describing a system of a quark and an antiquark connected by a linear electric flux. I obtain an exact potential in the form of the Brillouin-Wigner series, which I make finite and well defined by introducing a finite radius to the tube of the electric flux as a dynamical parameter, to be determined from the stability of the solution. The potential is shown to vanish at the origin and become linear at a large distance. The confinement solution is compared with the normal positronium solution to the wave equation with the Coulomb potential, and the latter is shown the stabler of the two for $\frac{g_{r}^{}{}_{}{}^{2}}{4\ensuremath{\pi}}l2$ where ${g}_{r}$ is the renormalized coupling constant. For $\frac{g_{r}^{}{}_{}{}^{2}}{4\ensuremath{\pi}}g2$, the confinement solution is the only possible one. Essential differences between Abelian and non-Abelian gauge fields are pointed out. A possibility of ${g}_{r}$ being replaced by ${g}_{\mathrm{eff}}$ in the sense of asymptotic freedom is pointed out also.
Gender Bias in the 1990s

Nearly thirty years after Congress passed the Equal Pay Act, job and salary discrimination against women continues to flourish (Nelson‐Horchler, 1991). This is surprising since women are not only a slight majority in the overall population, but also comprise over one‐half of the work force (Job promotions, 1987). Statistics show that women comprise a majority of college students, 69% of white collar workers, 7% of the miners, 6% of the Secret Service, and .5% of the fire‐fighters (Job promotions, 1987). Additionally, within the last ten years, the numbers of self‐employed women have increased 75% in comparison to men's 12% increase (Job promotions, 1987).
The Second Generation of the California Urban Futures Model. Part 1: Model Logic and Theory:

In this paper we explore the theory and logic behind the development of the second generation of the California urban futures model, a site-specific urban growth and simulation model. The second-ge...
An O(n) algorithm for discrete n-point convex approximation with applications to continuous case

Abstract Given a bounded real function ƒ defined on a closed bounded real interval I, the problem is to find a convex function g so as to minimize the supremum of ¦f(t) − g(t)¦ for all t in I, over the class of all convex functions on I. The usual approach is to consider a discrete version of the problem on a grid of (n + 1) points in I, apply a conventional linear program to obtain an optimal solution, and let the grid size go to zero. This paper presents an alternative algorithm of complexity O(n), which is based on the concept of the greatest convex minorant of a function, for computation of a special “maximal” optimal solution to the discrete problem. It establishes the rate of convergence of this optimal solution to a solution of the original problem as the grid size goes to zero. It presents an alternative efficient linear program that generates the maximal optimal solution to the discrete problem. It also gives an O(n) algorithm for the discrete n-point monotone approximation problem.
Adult testicular torsion

A case of testicular torsion is described in a sixty-four-year-old man. Although unusual in this age group, the diagnosis of testicular torsion should be considered in older patients presenting with unilateral testicular pain. Early recognition and surgical intervention may reverse testicular ischemia and avert unnecessary orchiectomy.
A quark model for nuclear matter and the coulomb sum rule

Abstract The quark correlation function, g(r), of nuclear matter is calculated in a simple model with many of the essential composite features of nucleons. From g the Coulomb sum rule is calculated and found not to go to unity because there is substantial overlap of momentum scales describing NN correlations and nucleon substructure.
A goodness of pit test for censored data

The treatment of censored data problems has been restricted almost exclusively to estimation of parameters. In this paper a goodness of fit test is presented for a completely specified distribution in which the single sample is censored at the kth ordered statistic (k < n), commonly known as Type II censored sample (David, 1970) , The technique is an extension of the Hartley and Pfaffenberger (1972) criterion, The approximate distribution of the test statistic is obtained via Pearson's Type VI and Type IV curves.
Integral sorption in rubbery polymers

Simple equations are derived that describe integral sorption and desorption experiments under conditions where moving boundary effects in polymer films and spheres can be large because of high solvent concentrations. General conclusions are formulated about the nature of sorption and desorption experiments for both rectangular and spherical geometries.
Small choices can enhance balance learning.

The present study examined whether the learning of exercise routines would be enhanced by giving participants an incidental choice (i.e., exercise order). Two groups of participants were asked to perform three balance exercises. After watching a demonstration of each exercise, a choice group was allowed to choose the order of exercises, while yoked control group participants performed them in the same order as their choice group counterparts. To assess learning, a retention test was conducted 1 day later. The choice group had a significantly smaller number of errors (i.e., contacting the ground with the free leg to regain balance) than the control group. This finding indicates that performers’ need for autonomy can be supported by giving them small choices – which in turn can positively affect the learning of balance exercises.
The rhetoric of citation systems—Part II: Competing epistemic values in citation

(1999). The rhetoric of citation systems—Part II: Competing epistemic values in citation. Rhetoric Review: Vol. 17, No. 2, pp. 219-245.
Does intra-abdominal fluid increase the resting energy expenditure?

In patients with intra-abdominal fluid collection, caloric needs are based on an estimated dry weight. This is done because intra-abdominal fluids has been assumed to be metabolically inactive. One recent study of patients with slowly resolving ascites suggested otherwise. In our study, the effect of intra-abdominal fluid on the resting energy expenditure (REE) and apparent lean body mass was determined in 10 stable patients requiring peritoneal dialysis. For each subject, in both the empty and full state, we measured REE by indirect calorimetry, and body composition by the bioelectric impedance method. In the full state, the Vco2 was significantly increased (210 ± 11 versus 197 ± 9 mL/min, P < 0.02) compared with the empty state. This caused an increase in the calculated resting energy expenditure (1531 ± 88 kcal/d empty versus 1593 ± 94 kcal/d full, P < 0.05). The magnitude of increase in REE was similar to the expected calories derived from glucose absorbed out of the dialysate. Estimates of body fat, lean body mass, and total water also were not affected by the intra-abdominal fluid. We conclude that intra-abdominal fluid will not affect the measured REE and hence may be considered to the metabolically inactive.
Identifying the Oligomerization State of DegP in the Absence and Presence of Substrate

Bacterial outer membrane proteins (OMPs) are synthesized in the cytoplasm, cross the inner membrane, and are then transported across the periplasm before folding into the outer membrane. Similar pathways are present in both mitochondria and chloroplasts. While unfolded outer membrane proteins (uOMPs) are prone to aggregation, they are able to avoid this off pathway reaction with the help of periplasmic chaperones and proteases. The primary protease that interacts with uOMPs is DegP. DegP is a member of the high temperature requirement A (HTRA) protease family and has been implicated in both the Cpx and σE stress response pathways. DegP sequesters and degrades uOMPS when they accumulate in the periplasm. It has been suggested that DegP functions by transitioning from an inactive hexameric state to an active cage-like oligomeric state of either 12 or 24 subunits when substrate is present. In order to further investigate the relationship between the oligomeric state of DegP and the presence of substrate, we performed sedimentation velocity experiments with and without various uOMPs. This allows us to identify the oligomeric populations of DegP at biological concentrations. Results suggest that DegP has significant populations of multiple oligomeric states even in the absence of substrate. This work contributes to our understanding of OMP biogenesis by identifying the nature of uOMP interactions with an important pathway component.
Phase II study of liposomal annamycin in the treatment of doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer

Liposomal annamycin (L-AN) has shown antitumor activity in preclinical studies. It may selectively target tumors and bypass MDR-1 resistance. A total of 13 women with doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer were treated on this phase II study. The median number of prior chemotherapy regimens was two, and six patients had two or more organ sites of involvement. L-AN was administered at 190–250 mg/m2 as an i.v. infusion over 1–2 h every 3 weeks. No responses were observed. Of the 13 patients, 12 had clear deterioration and new tumor growth after one or two courses. The 13th patient had prolonged grade 2 thrombocytopenia after one course, and was taken off study when the lung metastases increased 62 days after treatment. L-AN at this dose and on this schedule had no detectable antitumor activity in patients with doxorubicin-resistant metastatic breast cancer.
Initial experience with complex laparoscopic biliary surgery in children: biliary atresia and choledochal cyst

Abstract Background Laparoscopic approaches are possible for many pediatric surgical diseases, including complex biliary disorders. The authors describe their early experience with laparoscopic procedures for biliary atresia and choledochal cysts. Methods A retrospective review was performed with Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval of children undergoing laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy (n = 2) or laparoscopic excision of a choledochal cyst with Roux-en-y biliary reconstruction (n = 3). The authors report the operative technique for these procedures and present their initial results. Results All procedures were performed with 4 to 5 trocars using 3- and 5-mm ports. Excision of the fibrous biliary remnant (biliary atresia) or of the cyst (choledochal cysts) was performed laparoscopically in all cases. The Roux-en-y limb was created through a 1-cm extension of the umbilical port site. Laparoscopic biliary reconstruction was performed successfully in 4 of 5 patients. In one child, the proximal extent of the choledochal cyst was at the bifurcation of the hepatic duct, and the biliary reconstruction was performed via an open incision with separate anastomoses of the right and left ducts. The gallbladder was used as a handle for retraction of the liver for portal visualization, as in a cholecystectomy, and was resected at the end of the procedure. All children with choledochal cysts have normal bilirubin values. One of 2 children who underwent laparoscopic Kasai has a normal postoperative bilirubin level, whereas the other child did not drain bile and underwent a successful liver transplantation. Mean length of surgery was 338 minutes; mean length of stay was 5.5 days. There were no significant postoperative complications. Cosmesis was excellent in all cases. Conclusions Laparoscopic approaches for children with biliary atresia and choledochal cysts are possible. Excellent visualization of the portal structures can be achieved laparoscopically with adequate retraction of the liver. Further follow-up is needed to determine broader application.
Strategic Sourcing: An Empirical Investigation of the Concept and Its Practices in U.S. Manufacturing Firms

SUMMARY The purpose of this study is to enhance understanding of strategic sourcing and to discuss the challenges in adopting strategic sourcing. First, a literature review is undertaken to identify the key, characterizing elements of strategic sourcing. This is followed by an analysis of the relationships between different elements of strategic sourcing using data from 140 U.S. manufacturing companies. Results indicate that strategic sourcing is based on the status of the purchasing function within the firm, the level of internal coordination of purchasing with other functions within the firm, information sharing with key suppliers and development of key suppliers.
Economic analysis of the marketing of plantain: a case study of uhunmwode and ovia north east local government areas of edo state, Nigeria

This study concentrated on economic analysis of the marketing of plantain in Uhunmwode and Ovia North East Local Government Areas of Edo State. Six markets, made up of three from each local governmnet were selected because of their high population of plantain marketers and their approximate equal sizes. Data were collected with a well structured questionnaire administered to sixty randomly selected plantain marketers from the six markets . Personal interview, observation method and weighing of plantain were also carried out. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, deviation, correlation coefficient and t- test. The results revealed that differences exist in the price of plantain in the selected markets due to transportation cost, storage cost, initial purchase price of the plantain, bruising/spoilage, off-season scarcity and inadequate market information. Keywords: Economics analysis, plantain marketing, Uhunmwode and Ovia North East, Edo State.
Electroconvulsive therapy in general hospital psychiatry: A focus on new indications and technologies

Abstract This paper documents the recent dramatic shift towards the delivery of psychiatric services in the general hospital setting and outlines the increasing number of special indications for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). These include: delusional depressions; depressions which are not responsive to antidepressants; affective illness in geriatric populations, depression, mania or schizophrenia in patients who cannot tolerate medication side effects, and drug-refractory Parkinson's disease. Such technological advances as nondominant unilateral placement of electrodes, brief pulse electrical stimulation, and simultaneous ictal monitoring of EEG and EKG have increased the safety while reducing the side effects of the procedure. In that comparative studies show ECT to have safety and efficacy superior to antidepressant agents in the treatment of severe depressive illness, the author encourages physicians to consider this treatment which is becoming increasingly available through our general hospital services.
Cantilever Beam Stress Measurements During Ion Irradiation

In-situ stress measurements on single crystal MgO and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} have been performed during ion irradiation. A cantilevered beam sample arrangement was used, with the stress in the implanted layer determined form the deflection of the sample as measured by the change in capacitance between the free end of the sample and a reference electrode. Point defect concentrations are obtained by dividing the volume strain by the defect relaxation volume, with saturation values of 0.8 to 1.2% obtained for 1.0 MeV Ne, Ar and Kr irradiations. Defect production is sublinear with dose, with an efficiency of less than 25% compared to Kinchin-Pease predictions. Ionization induced annealing is evaluated with 1.0 MeV He and 1.0 MeV H irradiations following heavy ion irradiation.
Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revised

The Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) is a 90-item self-report symptom inventory developed by Leonard R. Derogatis in the mid-1970s to measure psychological symptoms and psychological distress. It is designed to be appropriate for use with individuals from the community, as well as individuals with either medical or psychiatric conditions. The SCL-90-R assesses psychological distress in terms of nine primary symptom dimensions and three summary scores termed global scores. The principal symptom dimensions are labeled Somatization (SOM), Obsessive-Compulsive (OBS), Interpersonal Sensitivity (INT), Depression (DEP), Anxiety (ANX), Hostility (HOS), Phobic Anxiety (PHOB), Paranoid Ideation (PAR), and Psychoticism (PSY). The global measures are referred to as the Global Severity Index (GSI), the Positive Symptom Distress Index (PSDI), and the Positive Symptom Total (PST). Keywords: assessment; diagnostic methods; self-reports; testing
Review of superior vena cava resection in the management of benign disease and pulmonary or mediastinal malignancies.

Background Obstruction of the superior vena cava (SVC) by tumor or benign disease implies unreconstructable disease and poor outcome. We analyzed the operative results, graft patency, and survival in patients undergoing SVC resection and reconstruction for benign disease and pulmonary or mediastinal malignancy. Methods Patients undergoing SVC resection from 1997 to 2007 for surgical management of benign and invasive neoplasms were retrospectively reviewed. Results We identified 19 patients requiring SVC resection. Malignant disease was resected in 17: lung cancer in 9 and mediastinal malignancy in 8. Two patients (10%) with benign processes required reconstruction for chronic SVC syndrome. Ringed Gore-Tex conduit (W. L. Gore and Associates, Flagstaff, AZ) was used for 12 reconstructions (63%) of the SVC, and 7 patients underwent primary closure or autologous pericardial patch repair. Preoperative chemoradiotherapy was administered to 9 patients (53%). There was one perioperative death (5%). Major postoperative morbidities included atrial fibrillation in 5, stroke in 2, respiratory failure in 3, myocardial infarction in 1, and Horner syndrome in 1. Median survival for the entire cohort was 45.5 months (range, 0.2 to 147 months), with a mean follow-up of 45.8 months. Five-year survival probability was 30% for patients with resected lung cancer and 56% for patients with resected anterior mediastinal malignancies. Conclusions Resection and reconstruction may be safely performed in selected patients for benign and malignant obstruction or infiltration of the SVC. Survival and intermediate-term patency after tubular grafting of the SVC are acceptable.
Combined interferon alf a and doxorubicin in the treatment of advanced cervical cancer

Interferon alfa and doxorubicin have been shown to have synergistic effects when tested in vitro with cells derived from cervical cancers. A clinical trial was designed, testing interferon alfa plus doxorubicin in patients with advanced or recurrent cervical cancers. Twenty-one patients were given interferon alfa,10 million units per square meter intramuscularly and 10 million units per square meter intravenously over a 30-minute infusion period. One hour later 20 mg/M 2 doxorubicin was given intravenously slowly over a 2-hour period. Treatments were repeated once weekly for 3 weeks. Initial response evaluation was done at week 5, and treatment was continued on an every-other-week schedule for patients showing favorable responses or stable disease. Bone marrow, hepatic, and renal toxicities were minimal. Fever and malaise were the major sources of toxicity. Of the 17 evaluable patients, six had clinical partial responses. Two of the responders have enjoyed more than 5 years' survival. This regimen is well tolerated and does have efficacy in some patients with advanced cervical cancers.
Electron trapping in non-crystalline Ta- and Hf-Aluminates for gate dielectric applications in aggressively scaled silicon devices

Abstract The physical and electrical properties of non-crystalline Ta- and Hf-alumiunates, (Ta 2 O 5 ) x (Al 2 O 3 ) 1− x and (HfO 2 ) x (Al 2 O 3 ) 1− x , respectively, were studied. As-deposited films were homogeneous and pseudo-binary in character with increased thermal stability with respect to the respective end-member oxides. Capacitance–voltage and current density–voltage data as a function of temperature demonstrate that the Ta and Hf d-states of the alloys act as localized electron traps, and are at an energy approximately equal to the conduction band offset of Ta 2 O 5 and HfO 2 with respect to Si. This work correlates the studies of Ta- and Hf-aluminates to develop a qualitative conduction band energy level scheme for the two alloys where the interfacial electrical properties are dominated by electron traps of the respective transition metal atoms, and/or or network defects associated with the alloy.
Quantifying Adaptation to Contact Lenses: Two Case Histories

In the course of previous investigations, chloride concentration has been shown to be an eetive indicator of both hypotonic (reflex tear) and hypertonic (aberrant blink) tear shifts with contact lens presence. Described here are case histories which illustrate two diagnostic applications of this technique.
Prewatering and haloperidol have similar effects on rats' response rate and duration

Haloperidol (0.1 mg/kg) and 5-min prewatering were given to 12 rats on three occasions each to determine effects on fixed ratio 15 (FR 15) responding for water. Compared to baseline, both treatments significantly reduced rate (prewatering slightly more) and both significantly increased duration. Though similar, drug and prewatering effects showed enough differences to suggest that there are both anhedonic and motoric deficit components to haloperidol's effects on rats' lever-pressing behavior for water.
Synthesis and structural characterization of tris(phenolate)amine complexes of antimony derived from

The antimony aryloxide compound [κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb may be readily obtained via the reaction of Sb(OEt)3 with tris(3,5-di-t -butyl-2-hydroxybenzyl)amine, N(CH2ArBu2tOH)3.[κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb forms the adduct [κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb(OSMe2) upon treatment with Me2SO, and comparison of the molecular structure of [κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb(OSMe2) with that of [κ4-N(o-C6H4O)3]Sb(OSMe2) demonstrates that the Sb–OSMe2 bond length in the former complex is significantly longer than that in the latter. This observation indicates that the [κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3] ligand engenders a less Lewis acidic antimony center than does [κ4-N(o–C6H4O)3][κ4-N(o–C6H4O)3]. [κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb exhibits diverse reactivity. For example, treatment of [κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb with AcOH cleaves one of the Sb–O bonds to give [κ3-N(CH2ArBu2tO)2(CH2ArBu2tOH)]Sb(κ1-O2CMe), Br2 undergoes oxidative addition to give N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]SbBr2, while Me3NO · 2H2O yields the oxo and hydroxo complexes {[κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb(μ-O)}2, [κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]Sb(OH)2, and {[κ4-N(CH2ArBu2tO)3]SbVO}4{Sb4IIIO6}.
Oral histories in meteoritics and planetary science: VII. Alastair G. W. Cameron

— In this interview, Alastair Cameron recounts how he started his career as a nuclear physicist but taught himself astrophysics after he read a paper that required an astrophysical explanation for the presence of technetium in red giant stars. Subsequently, as new analytical data became available, he periodically updated the Suess-Urey tables of elemental abundances to enhance the value of the systematic approach they provided to understanding individual processes of nucleosysthesis. Since many of these new data were based on analyses of carbonacous chondrites, he taught himself meteoritics. In recent decades, Cameron has focused his research interests on problems such as the provenance of certain components of meteorites (calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions, FUN (fractionated and unknown nuclear) anomalous inclusions, amoeboid olivine aggregates, and presolar grains) that he believes to have formed in the supernova envelope prior to formation of the solar nebula, the origin of chondrules in the primitive solar nebula, and the origins of the solar system and of the Earth-Moon system. To investigate these subjects he has pioneered the use of advanced computer technology to make lengthy calculations of nucleosysthesis in complicated networks. After teaching courses and advising graduate students at several research institutes and colleges, Cameron served as a Professor of Astronomy at Harvard University from 1973 to 1997 when he was appointed to the Donald H. Menzel Research Professorship of Astrophysics. In 1994, The Meteoritical Society honored him with the Leonard Medal at its meeting in Prague, the Czech Republic.
Sexuality and the dual‐earner couple, part II: Beyond the baby years

This article reports results from two data sets testing predictions that a couple's sexual relationship suffers if the wife is employed, particularly if she is employed full time or high full time. A multiple‐theory framework was used, fusing the scarcity hypothesis, the enhancement hypothesis, and identity theory. The last suggests that an important individual difference variable, spouse role salience, should be related to a couples sexual functioning. In Study 1, data from the National Health and Social Life Survey were analyzed, focusing on 1,744 married persons. No significant differences in sexuality were found between women employed part, full, or high full time, nor between men employed full or high full time. In Study 2, data from the Wisconsin Maternity Leave and Health project were analyzed, focusing on 261 couples when they had a 4.5‐year‐old child. There were no differences between homemakers and women employed part, full, or high full time for several measures of sexual functioning. Neither w...
A Characterization and Optimization Study of Gamble II as an X-Ray Bremsstrahlung Source

The adverse effects of radiation on solid state devices are strongly spectrum dependent. It is thus essential that the radiation spectrum from flash x-ray sources be available when they are used as facilities for testing electronic components. This paper describes a preliminary study in which previously developed computer codes were used to calculate the radiation spectrum produced by NRL's Gamble II pulsed power generator. To determine how well the calculated spectrum matched the experimental one, doses in CaF2-Mn TLD's were computed for the dosimeters placed behind various thicknesses of Cu and Pb filters and compared with the experimentally measured doses. Using a diode model that was consistent with presently understood electron beam behavior, a spectrum was generated which predicted TLD doses to within about 15% of the experimentally measured values.
Synthesis of the transfer function of 2-terminal pair networks

The open-circuit transfer function ?(p) of the 2-terminal pair network, defined as the ratio of the output voltage to the input voltage, must be regular in the right-half p plane. Poles of ?(p) on the imaginary p axis, if any, must be simple with residues having zero real part. These conditions are sufficient to realize ?(p) to within a constant factor by a symmetrical lattice network. If, in addition, ?(p) has no zeros in the right-half plane, then ? may be realized to within a constant factor by a ladder network. If ?(p) is further restricted by the condition 0<?<1 whenever ? is real in the right-half plane, then ? may be realized completely by an L network. An algorithm for factoring the product of two positive real functions is given also.
Thickness swelling and density variation in aspen flakeboards

This paper reports the relationship between thickness swelling and density in labmade aspen flakeboards. The boards were manufactured with several levels of initial mat moisture content and urea resin content. Weight increase and thickness swelling at 12 locations on each board were recorded under specified environmental conditions over a period of 71 days. Each board was then cut into 12 specimens, each containing one of the 12 locations at its center, and density was calculated. No definite relationship was found between thickness swelling and density among the 12 specimens of each board. Our results suggest that high initial moisture content and high resin content can decrease thickness swelling. Variations in mat pressure and core temperature during the press cycle and weight increase at 80 percent relative humidity are discussed.
Science and the Urban University

The potential for science to contribute to economic and civic life is of particular importance to urban centers with economic decline. For urban universities, the ability to adapt to changing needs and seize new opportunities has become vital. These universities must take the lead in curricular revision, research emphasizing the application of knowledge, arrangements with private economic enterprises, and public service to improve science and mathematics training in the schools.
A Generalized Production Frontier Approach for Estimating Determinants of Inefficiency in U.S. Dairy Farms

This article investigates farm-level efficiency of U.S. dairy farmers by estimating their technical and allocative efficiency. Technical inefficiency is assumed to be composed of a deterministic component that is a function of some farm-specific characteristics and a random component. By doing this we extend the stochastic frontier methodology in which determinants of technicial inefficiency are explicitly introduced in the model. Given the inputs, variations in efficiency of farms are then explained by both deterministic and random components of technical inefficiency. The empirical results indicate that (a) levels of education of the farmer are important factors determining technical inefficiency and (b) large farms are more efficient (technically) than small and medium-sized farms. Both technical and allocative inefficiency are found to decrease with increase in the level of education of the farmer.
Radiosurgery Facilitates Resection of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations and Reduces Surgical Morbidity

OBJECTIVE Stereotactic radiosurgery makes brain arteriovenous malformations (AVM) more manageable during their microsurgical resection. To better characterize these effects, we compared results of microsurgical resection of radiated (RS) and nonradiated (RS) AVMs to demonstrate that previous radiosurgery facilitates surgery and decreases operative morbidity. METHODS From our series of 344 patients who underwent AVM resections at the University of California, San Francisco (1997-2007), 21 RS patients were matched with 21 RS patients based on pretreatment clinical and AVM characteristics. Matching was blinded to outcomes, which were assessed with the modified Rankin Scale. RESULTS Mean AVM volume was reduced by 78% (P < 0.01), and Spetzler-Martin grades were reduced in 52% of RS patients (P < 0.001). Preoperative embolization was used less in RS than in RS patients (P < 0.001). Mean operative time (P < 0.01), blood loss (P < 0.05), and length of hospital stay (P < 0.05) were lower in the RS group. Surgical morbidity was 14% higher in RS patients, and they demonstrated significant worsening in modified Rankin Scale scores after surgery, whereas RS patients did not (P < 0.01). RS patients deteriorated between AVM diagnosis and surgery owing to hemorrhages during the latency period (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Previous radiosurgery facilitates AVM microsurgery and decreases operative morbidity. Radiosurgery is recommended for unruptured AVMs that are not favorable for microsurgical resection. Microsurgical resection is recommended for radiated AVMs that are not completely obliterated after the 3-year latency period but are altered favorably for surgery, even in asymptomatic patients. Prompt resection of persistent AVMs should be considered to avoid the risk of postlatency hemorrhage and to optimize patient outcomes.
Plasma Ignition and Combustion of JA2 Propellant

Experiments were performed to investigate the effects of various parameters on plasma-driven ignition and combustion of a double-base propellant under closed-chamber conditions. The parameters varied include input electrical energy, nozzle length and inner diameter, nozzle exit to propellant distance, as well as propellant sample thickness. Chamber pressure was measured to determine the ignition delay and to deduce the regression rate. High-speed images of the plasma jets and combustion event were also recorded. At low plasma energies, rapid, plasma-driven burning occurred, but self-sustained burning was not achieved. With moderate plasma energies, combustion of the propellant exhibited a two-stage burning behavior: one stage of plasma-driven rapid burning that occurred during the plasma pulse and a second stage of slower self-sustained burning that occurred with a clear delay after the first stage. When plasma energy was increased further, the two-stage behavior became less distinct and eventually disappeared, leaving only one stage of burning. Nozzle length and diameter affected the ignition and combustion characteristics as a result of energy losses from the plasma as it flows through the nozzle. The propellant burning behavior is also affected by both nozzle-sample distance and sample thickness. High-speed images revealed vigorous motion of gases in the closed chamber, which was induced by the plasma jet. Also, the images showed what appeared to be JA2 fragments; this observation was confirmed by recovery of fragmented propellant after some of the tests.
A re-view of cognitive mediators in learned helplessness

The findings of Oakes and Curtis (1982), Tennen, Drum, Gillen, and Stanton (1982), and Tennen, Gillen, and Drum (1982) provide a challenge to learned helplessness theory's focus on cognitive mediators of the helplessness phenomenon. In response to these findings, Alloy (1982) argues that these studies do not challenge helplessness theory because they do not measure expected control and because they confuse necessary and sufficient causes of learned helplessness. Silver, Wortman, and Klos (1982) contend that these studies provide an inadequate test of the model because subjects are confronted with experiences which are unlike those in their natural environment. The present article argues that by Alloy's (1982) criteria, an adequate test of the learned helplessness model has not yet been conducted. Previous studies which measured expected control have not supported the model's predictions. Moreover, if perceived response-outcome independence is a sufficient, but not a necessary cause of learned helplessness, the model loses much of its heuristic value. In response to the argument that these studies lack ecological validity, this article clarifies the distinction between experimental realism and mundane realism. While real-world studies have discovered intriguing relations between perceptions of control, attributions, and coping with illness or victimization, they have not tested predictions of the learned helplessness model.
Type a behavior pattern and compulsive personality: Toward a psychodynamicbehavioral integration

Abstract The present review outlines conceptual and empirically-based similarities between Type A Behavior Pattern (TABP) and Compulsive Personality (CP), a correspondence that suggests avenues for further theoretical development and research. Both clinical description and empirical data indicate that TABP and CP are defined by the same cluster of traits. Furthermore, both have been conceptualized as an attempt to gain and maintain a sense of control. These similarities suggest that TABP may be a subtype of CP (i. e., “compulsive achievement”). Implications of this psychodynamic-behavioral integration for the etiology and treatment of TABP are explored.
Detecting gene expression in buccal mucosa in subjects with asthma versus subjects without asthma

Background Differences in mRNA expression for inflammatory markers have been observed between subjects with asthma vs. controls and in relation to corticosteroid response. However, these studies utilized methods (e.g., bronchoscopy) that are too invasive to be used routinely in children and in the clinic. The primary purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of obtaining RNA of adequate quantity and quality from buccal mucosa of children and adults for gene expression studies. Secondly, this study aimed to determine whether gene expression patterns in buccal mucosa are similar to those that have been observed in respiratory epithelium. Methods We enrolled 94 subjects with and without asthma between 5 and 54 years of age. Relative gene expression in buccal mucosa was determined with quantitative RT-PCR for the following genes: CCL2, EDN1, FKBP5, IL8, IFNAR2, NFKB1, RELA, SERPINB2, DENND1B, HRH1, ICAM1, ORMDL3, NR3C1, CLCA1, CRHR1, MUC5B, FCER2, POSTN, GAPDH, PPIA. Results mRNA Expression of the following genes was detected in buccal mucosa: CCL2, EDN1, FKBP5, IL8, IFNAR2, NFKB1, RELA, SERPINB2, DENND1B, HRH1, ICAM1, ORMDL3, NR3C1, GAPDH, PPIA. HRH1 was differentially expressed in adults with asthma vs. controls (p = 0.04), and EDN1 was differentially expressed in children with asthma vs. controls 12–18 years old (p = 0.03). A similar trend for HRH1 was observed in children 12–18 years old. Conclusions Buccal mucosa sampling is a reliable method for detecting changes in gene expression in patients with asthma. This non-invasive technique may serve as a valuable tool for diagnosing asthma and evaluating therapeutic response.
Immunocytochemically defined astroglia from fetal, newborn and young adult rats express β-adrenergic receptors in vitro

Autoradiography of radioligand binding was used to assess the expression of beta-adrenergic receptors (beta-AR) by immunocytochemically identified astroglia cultured from the cerebral cortices of rats 16 days in gestation through 28 days postnatal (DPN). Polygonal astroglia isolated from animals at each age examined were found to exhibit large numbers of beta-AR. In contrast, only low levels of beta-AR could be detected on process-bearing astroglia and fibroblasts. Quantitative analysis showed that there was an increase in the density of beta-AR on polygonal astroglia between 16 days in gestation and 1 DPN. This increase in beta-AR receptor density was present whether the cells were grown for long periods of time in culture (8-22 days) or for short periods of time in culture (1-5 days). The results also suggest that differences in the level of receptor expression between cells grown in short-term and long-term culture may be due in part to culture methodology.